The 400-500cc adventure motorcycle segment is more competitive than ever, featuring a mix of single-cylinder and parallel-twin engines. The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450, launched in late 2023, is the longest-standing model in this comparison, followed by the Honda NX500 and the recently updated KTM 390 Adventure. Now, CFMoto is looking to make its mark in the Indian market with the 450MT. Here’s how it stacks up against its key competitors.
Engine and Performance
| Model | Engine | Power | Torque | Gearbox | Power-to-Weight Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CFMoto 450MT | 449cc Parallel Twin, Liquid-Cooled | 42hp @ 8,500rpm | 42Nm @ 6,500rpm | 6-speed | 227.02hp/tonne |
| KTM 390 Adventure | 399cc Single Cylinder, Liquid-Cooled | 46hp @ 8,500rpm | 39Nm @ 6,500rpm | 6-speed | 252.74hp/tonne |
| Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 | 452cc Single Cylinder, Liquid-Cooled | 40hp @ 8,000rpm | 40Nm @ 5,500rpm | 6-speed | 204.08hp/tonne |
| Honda NX500 | 471cc Parallel Twin, Liquid-Cooled | 47.5hp @ 8,600rpm | 43Nm @ 6,500rpm | 6-speed | 242.34hp/tonne |
- The Honda NX500 leads in outright power output, producing 47.5hp.
- The KTM 390 Adventure offers the best power-to-weight ratio due to its lightweight chassis.
- The CFMoto 450MT provides a balance between power and refinement, with its parallel-twin motor promising smoother performance compared to the single-cylinder options.
- The Himalayan 450 has the lowest power figure but compensates with strong torque delivery at lower revs.
Weight and Dimensions
| Model | Seat Height | Ground Clearance | Wheelbase | Fuel Capacity | Kerb Weight |
| CFMoto 450MT | 800mm – 820mm (870mm optional) | 220mm | 1,505mm | 17.5L | 195kg |
| KTM 390 Adventure | 830mm | 237mm | 1,470mm | 14.5L | 182kg |
| Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 | 805mm – 825mm | 230mm | 1,510mm | 17L | 196kg |
| Honda NX500 | 830mm | 181mm | 1,447mm | 17.5L | 196kg |
- The CFMoto 450MT and Himalayan 450 are the only ones offering an adjustable seat height.
- The KTM 390 Adventure is the lightest, enhancing its agility off-road.
- The Honda NX500 is the heaviest but justifies it with a powerful parallel-twin engine and robust build quality.
- The KTM 390 Adventure has the smallest fuel tank, potentially limiting range compared to the others.
Brakes and Suspension
| Model | Front Brakes | Rear Brakes | Suspension (Front/Rear) | Suspension Travel | Wheel Size |
| CFMoto 450MT | 320mm Disc | 240mm Disc | USD Fork / Monoshock | 200mm / 200mm | 21″ Front, 18″ Rear |
| KTM 390 Adventure | 320mm Disc | 240mm Disc | USD Fork / Monoshock | 200mm / 205mm | 21″ Front, 17″ Rear |
| Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 | 330mm Disc | 270mm Disc | USD Fork / Monoshock | 200mm / 200mm | 21″ Front, 17″ Rear |
| Honda NX500 | 296mm Disc | 240mm Disc | USD Fork / Monoshock | NA / NA | 19″ Front, 17″ Rear |
- The Honda NX500 is the only one with a 19/17-inch wheel setup, making it more road-oriented.
- The CFMoto 450MT and KTM 390 Adventure offer tubeless spoked wheels as standard, while Royal Enfield provides them as an optional upgrade.
- The Himalayan 450 has the largest front disc brake, aiding in better stopping power.
- The KTM 390 Adventure boasts the longest rear suspension travel, making it the most capable for off-road terrain.
Pricing
| Model | Price (Ex-showroom) |
| CFMoto 450MT | To be announced (Estimated Rs 3.70 – 4.00 lakh) |
| KTM 390 Adventure | Rs 3.68 lakh |
| Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 | Rs 2.85 – 2.98 lakh |
| Honda NX500 | Rs 5.90 lakh |
- The Himalayan 450 is the most affordable adventure bike in this lineup.
- The KTM 390 Adventure is the priciest single-cylinder option, but the lower-spec 390 Adventure X variant is available at Rs 2.91 lakh.
- The Honda NX500 is significantly more expensive due to its CBU (Completely Built Unit) import status.
- The CFMoto 450MT is expected to be priced between Rs 3.70 lakh and Rs 4.00 lakh, making it a strong contender in terms of value.
Conclusion
The CFMoto 450MT enters a fiercely competitive segment where each motorcycle has its strengths:
- For the best power-to-weight ratio: KTM 390 Adventure is the go-to option.
- For affordability and rugged touring: Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 offers great value.
- For power and refinement: Honda NX500 leads with its smooth parallel-twin engine.
- For a balance of performance, comfort, and features: CFMoto 450MT stands as a compelling alternative, especially if priced competitively.
Ultimately, the choice depends on individual preferences, be it highway touring, off-road adventures, or a blend of both. The arrival of the CFMoto 450MT will undoubtedly shake up the segment, offering riders yet another exciting option in the mid-capacity ADV category.
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