Be it adventure bikes, sport bikes, or heavyweight tourers, CFMoto has an extensive lineup of motorcycles. What has been missing, though, are cruisers, and given their popularity, it’s only fair the Chinese giant whipped up one. Enter the CFMoto 450CL-C–the company’s first cruiser motorcycle that sets eyes on the 400-500cc segment.
Though there are plenty of exciting bits here, it’s worth noting Kawasaki also entered this very space not long ago. That makes the Eliminator the biggest problem for CFMoto, which is why we're pitting them against each other. And for your reference, we’re considering the US-spec Eliminator 450 in this comparison, not the Japan-spec Eliminator 400. Let’s dive in!
CFMoto 450CL-C vs Kawasaki Eliminator - Performance
The Kawasaki Eliminator and CFMoto 450CL-C have many similarities in the performance department. Both have twin-cylinder engines (with little cubic capacity difference), six-speed transmissions, and identical compression ratios. Another similarity is liquid cooling. But dive a little deeper and some stark differences come to light.
The Eliminator Should Offer More Performance Than The 450CL-C
Though Kawasaki hasn’t revealed the Eliminator’s output, we do know the Japanese version (with its smaller 399cc mill) has 47 horsepower on offer. That itself is considerably more than the CFMoto, so it’s safe to assume the US-spec model will only have an even bigger advantage. The difference comes down in terms of outright torque, but it’s still an advantage to Team Green. Likewise, the Kawasaki weighs 13 pounds less than its rival.
The 450CL-C Offers More Tractability Than The Eliminator
But it’s not all hunky-dory for Kawasaki. You see, the CL-C might boast less power, but all of its output kicks in considerably earlier. We know the Japanese Eliminator produces its power at 10,000 RPM and torque at 8,000 RPM, which should also be the case with the US-spec model. These are much higher than the CL-C’s power band, so the latter should offer more tractability while commuting. Bonus points to CFMoto for the belt-drive—a key trait for cruiser motorcycles.
| Specification | CFMoto 450CL-C | Kawasaki Eliminator |
| Engine | 449cc, twin-cylinder engine | 451cc, twin-cylinder engine |
| Horsepower | 40.2 horsepower (at 8,000 RPM) | NA |
| Torque | 31 pound-feet (at 6,250 RPM) | 31.7 pound-feet (RPM NA) |
| Transmission | Six-speed | Six-speed |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Weight | 399 pounds | 386 pounds |
CFMoto 450CL-C vs Kawasaki Eliminator - Underpinnings And Dimensions
Kawasaki’s 400cc lineup focuses on nailing the basics, and the Eliminator is no exception. It checks all the crucial boxes but lacks pizazz. On the flip side, CFMoto focuses on modern componentry to promise a more premium experience. And the difference in approach results in some notable differences.
The 450CL-C Has More Modern Suspension Than The Eliminator
The 450CL-C employs upside-down forks and monoshock, whereas the Kawasaki has simple telescopic forks and twin shocks. Now, we’re all for simplicity, but there’s no denying that the CL-C prevails here. It also has a bigger front disc.
The 450CL-C Will Be Easier To Live With Than The Eliminator
Another place where the CL-C lands a punch is in the dimensions. It has a considerably lower seat height and shorter wheelbase to make your life easier, none of which comes at the cost of ground clearance. The Kawasaki does claw back a few points with its extra tank capacity, though.
Specification | CFMoto 450CL-C | Kawasaki Eliminator |
Chassis | Steel tube | Steel trellis |
Front suspension | 37 mm USD forks | 41 mm telescopic forks |
Rear suspension | Monoshock | Twin shock absorbers |
Wheel size (F/R) | 16/16-inch alloys | 18/16-inch alloys |
Front brake | 320 mm single disc | 310 mm single disc |
Rear brake | 220 mm single disc | 220 mm single disc |
Ground clearance | 6.3 inches (160 mm) | 5.9 inches (150 mm) |
Seat height | 27.2 inches (690 mm) | 28.7 inches (735 mm) |
Tank capacity | 3.17 gallons | 3.4 gallons |
CFMoto 450CL-C vs Kawasaki Eliminator - Features
Just like the underpinnings, the CL-C takes the cake in terms of features. Yes, the Eliminator is the most advanced sub-500cc twin in Kawasaki’s lineup, but CFMoto beats it fair and square. You can refer to the table below to see exactly what is missing from the Japanese cruiser.
| Feature | CFMoto 450CL-C | Kawasaki Eliminator |
| Digital instrument cluster | Yes (TFT) | Yes (LCD) |
| Smartphone connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| Turn-by-turn navigation | Yes | No |
| USB port | Yes | No |
| Traction control | Yes | No |
| Integrated tail lamp | Yes | No |
| ABS | Standard (dual-channel) | Optional |
CFMoto 450CL-C vs Kawasaki Eliminator - Verdict
So who wins here? Well, it all comes down to your preferences. If you cherish service networks, outright power, and simplicity, you should go and get yourself a Kawasaki Eliminator. Alternatively, if you want a more modern package and are happy to experiment with new brands, there’s no denying the 450CL-C is one tasty prospect. After all, it beats the Eliminator everywhere besides the performance. You will have to bite your time, though, as CFMoto USA is yet to launch its cruiser in America. That should happen sometime next year.