In-Depth Review of the CFMOTO 450CL-C: A Modern Cruiser with Classic Appeal

The cruiser motorcycle segment has long been cherished by riders who seek a blend of comfort, style, and performance. Enter the CFMOTO 450CL-C, a contemporary cruiser that harmoniously combines classic aesthetics with modern engineering. Manufactured by Zhejiang CFMOTO Power Co., Ltd., the 450CL-C aims to cater to both seasoned riders and newcomers looking for a reliable and stylish ride. This comprehensive review delves into the various facets of the CFMOTO 450CL-C, providing potential buyers and motorcycle enthusiasts with an in-depth understanding of what this cruiser has to offer.​cfmoto.bg

Introduction to the CFMOTO 450CL-C

The CFMOTO 450CL-C is a cruiser-style motorcycle that seamlessly blends timeless design elements with contemporary features. Priced between ¥23,980 and ¥27,980 RMB (approximately $3,700–$4,300 USD), it offers exceptional value for riders seeking the cruiser experience without breaking the bank. With its elegant design and robust engine, the 450CL-C is poised to make a significant impact in the mid-size cruiser market.​

CFMOTO 450CL-C Specifications

To provide a clear overview of the 450CL-C’s capabilities, here is a detailed specifications table:​

Design and Aesthetics

The CFMOTO 450CL-C exudes a timeless cruiser charm with its elongated body, low seat, and sweeping lines. The teardrop-shaped fuel tank, coupled with a round LED headlight, pays homage to classic cruiser designs while incorporating modern elements. The bike is available in two sophisticated colors: Nebula Black and Bordeaux Red, each adding a distinct personality to the motorcycle. Chrome accents on the exhaust and engine components enhance its premium appearance, making it a head-turner on the streets.​

Engine and Performance

At the heart of the 450CL-C lies a 449cc DOHC twin-cylinder liquid-cooled engine with a 270º crankshaft, delivering a maximum power of 32.5 kW (44 HP) at 9,000 rpm and a peak torque of 42 Nm at 6,250 rpm. This setup ensures a smooth and responsive ride, suitable for both city commuting and highway cruising. The engine’s design focuses on delivering linear power, making acceleration predictable and manageable—a feature particularly beneficial for newer riders. The 450CL-C can reach a top speed of 153 km/h, providing ample performance for various riding scenarios.​Philharmonic Moto

Transmission and Ride Experience

Equipped with a 6-speed wet multi-plate slipper clutch, the 450CL-C offers versatility across different riding conditions. The gear transitions are smooth, and the clutch action is light, reducing rider fatigue during prolonged journeys. The inclusion of a slipper clutch enhances safety by preventing rear-wheel lockup during aggressive downshifting. The belt drive system ensures efficient power transfer to the rear wheel, contributing to the bike’s overall performance and reliability.​cfmoto-motorcycle.eu

Suspension and Braking

The 450CL-C’s suspension system is designed to provide a comfortable and stable ride. The front features a 37 mm Upside Down Telescopic Fork, while the rear is equipped with a Center Aligned Monoshock with preload adjustment, effectively absorbing road imperfections and ensuring a smooth journey. Braking performance is a highlight, with the bike featuring a 320 mm front disc with J.Juan 4-piston radial caliper and a 220 mm rear disc with J.Juan single-piston caliper, both governed by dual-channel Bosch ABS. This advanced braking system offers confident stopping power and enhances safety, particularly in emergency situations or adverse weather conditions.​

Technology and Features

The CFMOTO 450CL-C is equipped with modern technology to enhance the riding experience. The 3.6-inch round TFT display serves as the bike’s central interface, offering clear visibility of speed, gear position, fuel level, trip information, and Bluetooth connectivity. This feature allows riders to sync their smartphones, access music, or manage calls while on the move — a convenience rarely found in this segment.

Additionally, the full LED lighting system adds both form and function, ensuring excellent visibility at night while contributing to the bike’s contemporary styling. From the LED headlamp and taillight to the sleek turn signals, everything on the 450CL-C is designed with safety and style in mind.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Rider comfort is where the CFMOTO 450CL-C truly shines. With a low seat height of 690 mm, it’s accessible to a wide range of riders, including shorter individuals and beginners. The ergonomic handlebar positioning and mid-mounted footpegs allow for a relaxed riding posture, ideal for both city rides and long-distance cruising.

The seat is well-padded and spacious, and the rear seat is comfortably shaped for a passenger. While it’s not a touring motorcycle by design, it can easily be outfitted with accessories like saddlebags or a backrest to make it tour-ready.

Real-World Riding Experience

In urban environments, the CFMOTO 450CL-C is agile and easy to maneuver. Its balanced chassis and lightweight construction (181 kg curb weight) make low-speed control effortless. On open roads, the engine’s linear torque delivery and 6-speed gearbox provide a smooth cruising experience. The suspension setup handles most road imperfections gracefully, ensuring a plush ride over varied surfaces.

What really elevates the experience is the belt drive system, which is not only quieter than a chain drive but also requires less maintenance. This setup makes the 450CL-C a fantastic choice for riders who prefer a clean, smooth ride with minimal upkeep.

Pros and Cons of the CFMOTO 450CL-C

Here’s a breakdown of the key strengths and potential drawbacks of this cruiser:

✅ Pros

• Beautiful cruiser design with modern finishes
• Affordable pricing for its class and features
• Powerful and smooth 449cc engine
• Belt drive for reduced maintenance
• Low seat height perfect for beginners
• Advanced braking system with Bosch ABS
• Bluetooth-enabled TFT screen
• Full LED lighting for safety and style

❌ Cons

• No windshield or touring accessories included by default
• Limited fuel tank capacity at 12 liters may require more frequent stops on long rides
• Unknown warranty and after-sales service details (depending on local distributor)
• Lacks cruise control, which would be nice in longer hauls

Who Should Buy the 450CL-C?

The CFMOTO 450CL-C is aimed at a specific kind of rider:

• 🏍 Beginner or intermediate riders seeking a user-friendly cruiser with modern features
• 🛣 Commuters and weekend riders looking for style and practicality
• 🌄 Touring enthusiasts willing to add aftermarket accessories for longer trips
• 💸 Budget-conscious buyers who still want high-end performance and looks

Its approachable nature, aesthetic appeal, and robust engineering make it ideal for anyone entering the cruiser world or upgrading from a smaller-displacement bike.

Comparison with Competitors

Let’s briefly look at how the 450CL-C stacks up against some of its key rivals in the market:

As you can see, the 450CL-C provides more power and premium features than both the QJMOTOR Flash 250 and Haojue TR300, while still staying competitively priced.

Final Verdict

The CFMOTO 450CL-C is a game-changer in the mid-sized cruiser market. It delivers on multiple fronts — style, performance, technology, and value. Whether you’re new to motorcycling or a seasoned rider looking for a reliable cruiser with modern aesthetics, the 450CL-C makes a compelling case for itself.

With its unique blend of retro charm and technological sophistication, it’s a motorcycle that doesn’t just take you from point A to B — it makes the journey unforgettable.