On paper, CFMoto and KTM are closely tied up. The former builds engines for the latter, while the latter handles distribution for the former in several countries. But that shouldn’t stop them from some healthy competition, right? Well, it seems the Chinese bikemaker certainly believes so. We say this because CFMoto has debuted the 450NK for international markets, just days after KTM took the wraps off the revamped 390 Duke. To jog your memory, the motorcycle first showed face in April (via type-approval documents), followed by an official reveal at the Beijing Motorcycle Show in May. Without further ado, let’s dive in.
The 2024 CFMoto 450NK Has An Aggressive Design
One look at the 450NK and it’ll leave a lasting impression. Credit here goes to the aggressive aesthetic, inspired by the striking 800NK. Up top, there’s an alien-like LED headlight, flanked by angular radiator shrouds. The fuel tank levels up the front half further, with its brawny shrouds that extend to the forks. Meanwhile, the tail end comprises aerodynamic spoilers and a split tail lamp. This, along with the alloy wheels, comes directly from the streetfighter’s faired sibling, the 450SR (or 450SS in America).
Bringing all of it together is likable attention to detail. The rearview mirrors look sleek and premium, whereas the front fender has a distinct shape. You also get a faux carbon finish on the side shrouds, along with two color options–white/black and white/blue. Both come with color-matched rim stickers as well.
The 2024 CFMoto 450NK Drips In Modern Features
Swing a leg, and the 450NK greets you with a likable set of features (as is the case with most CFMoto bikes). The crown jewel is a five-inch TFT instrument cluster, complete with app connectivity features. These include turn-by-turn navigation, theft protection, and geo-fencing, among other bits. As for rider aids, dual-channel ABS, traction control, and a slipper clutch are all standard equipment. Ride modes seem like a miss here, though–especially since the ‘24 390 Duke has three of them.
Meanwhile, once on top, you’d appreciate the accessible 31.3-inch saddle height. Add to this the low, almost mid-set footrests plus single-piece handlebar, and you’re looking at a comfortable yet slightly aggressive riding posture. The hand levers aren’t adjustable, however.
The 2024 CFMoto 450NK Boasts A 449cc, Parallel-Twin Engine
At heart, the 450NK employs a 449cc, twin-cylinder engine with liquid cooling and a 270-degree crankshaft. Thanks to a compression ratio of 11.5:1, you get 46 horsepower (at 10,000 RPM) and 29 pound-feet (at 7,750 RPM), all sent to the wheel via a six-speed transmission. Though these figures are more than the new 390 Duke, Kawasaki Z400, and Yamaha MT-03, things could get better for Americans.
That’s because the above numbers are for markets following Euro-5 emission norms. Since ‘Murica doesn’t, the US-spec 450NK will likely have 50 horsepower. The same discrepancy is also present between the UK-spec 450SR and US-spec 450SS. If so, this would make the NK the most powerful sub-500cc naked here.
Engine aside, the motorcycle is built around a trellis chassis, identical to its faired sibling. 37 mm upside-down forks and monoshock help you glide over bumps, while 320 mm/220 mm disc brakes (clamped by J.Juan calipers) slow you down. Together, the entire package weighs just 363 pounds (curb) that’s on par with the Z but lighter than the new Duke.
The 2024 CFMoto 450NK Could Undercut The Kawasaki Z400 And KTM 390 Duke
As mentioned, CFMoto has already announced the 450NK in international markets. Britain and Europe both have the motorcycle as a ‘2024’ model, which suggests an American launch isn’t too far away. We expect CFMoto’s American division to launch the bike here in the first months of next year, followed by a quick dispatch for deliveries.
What about the price, you ask? Well, you should expect nothing but a competitive MSRP from the Chinese brand. For example, the motorcycle costs £4990 (or ~$6,300) in Britain, around 10 percent less than the 450SR’s price. This makes it £500 less than the 2023 390 Duke and a whopping £800 lower than the Z400. Considering this, the 450NK could cost around the $5,000 mark in America to undercut both its arch-rivals, plus the Honda CB500F. Whereas, the bang-for-buck $4,999 MT-03 will be right in its crosshairs.
So taking all this into context, how excited are you about the 450NK on a scale of 1 to 10? Where 1 means you’d prefer the popular kids and 10 means you’re already ready to put in a deposit. Go, comment below!