Is CFMOTO 450MT better than Royal Enfield Himalayan 450?

The CFMOTO 450MT and the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 were destined to be close rivals from the start. Both are student-approved 450-class adventure bikes that are similarly specced and were originally priced at exactly the same competitive figure of $8990 for travel.

I have now ridden both. So let’s take a look beyond the spec sheet and try to answer the burning question of which bike is best for you. Watch the video below.

What we like:

• Spritely engine
• Confidence that inspires dirt
• Solid build quality

Room for improvement:

• Sharp throttle response
• Dash can be hard to read

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18Yz1P_69io

2024 CFMOTO 450MT Price and Specs

CFMOTO recently launched its new 450MT adventure bike, initially available from $8990 as a limited-time introductory offer, before settling at $9490.

Interestingly, this pricing structure is remarkably similar to that of the rival Royal Enfield Himalayan 450, which is also currently offered from $8990. Royal Enfield is yet to confirm full-time pricing for the Himalayan 450, though it will likely remain under $10,000.

The CFMOTO 450MT sits below the 650MT and 800MT in the brand’s local adventure bike range, sitting on the same platform that debuted the 450SR sports bike and 450NK naked bike.

This 449cc parallel twin platform that underpins the 450MT generates 32.5kW and 44Nm and is mated to a conventional six-speed gearbox.

The bike rides on 41mm KYB inverted forks that are adjustable for compression and rebound, while the rear sees a KYB monoshock that can be adjusted for preload, compression and rebound. Both ends offer 200mm of travel.

Importantly, the CFMOTO 450MT features spoked wheels measuring 21 and 18 inches front-to-rear, as well as switchable traction control and switchable rear-wheel ABS, befitting its off-road-focused positioning.

Spencer has a keen eye for hard news and makes the most of deadline day. He enjoys riding his motorcycle more than anything and is adamant that Melbourne Bitter is a world-class lager. He also knows how to operate the big thing with office computers. By night, Spencer plays guitar with Melbourne punk outfit LOUTS.