CFMoto 450NK coming for 2024 By Ben Purvis
CFMoto's 450SR is already an impressive achievement for the Chinese brand - packing an entirely new, 270-degree, 449 cc parallel twin into an inspiring sports bike - and now it's spawning a naked roadster derivative that's likely to be an even bigger success.
Called the 450NK to fit with CFMoto's normal naming policy, the bike has been type-approved in China, America and Europe already, suggesting its launch is imminent. It offers identical performance to the 450SR, with 50 hp at 9,500 rpm for the US and Chinese-spec models, and an A2-licence-legal 47 hp at 10,000 rpm in Europe.
Where it really shines compared to Japanese competition, notably the Kawasaki Z400 that it largely matches in terms of power and weight, is the equipment level. The CFMoto has upside-down forks where the Kawasaki's are conventional. The Chinese bike uses radial Brembo four-piston brakes on 320 mm discs where the Z400 has axial two-pot calipers and smaller, 310 mm discs. The 450NK has a colour TFT dash where the Kawasaki rival uses an old-fashioned LCD, and despite all this, it's likely to undercut the Japanese bike on price.
The steel frame and cast alloy swingarm are carryover parts from the 450SR, as is the seat and rear bodywork, but the fuel tank is redesigned for the naked bike and the nose is new, with a look to match the larger, KTM-powered 800NK that's recently been unveiled. Unusual touches include the scoop-like upper surface to the front fender, which is mimicked by the V-shaped headlight arrangement.
Compared to the 450SR, the 450NK's bars are higher and wider, and the footpegs are lower and further forward to give a more upright, comfortable riding position. While the 450SR grabs attention with its styling and race-rep looks, the 450NK is likely to be a more appealing everyday option, and as such could well outsell the bike it's based on.
