The 2025 CFMOTO 450SS is a sporty motorcycle, and its components give it much more than just looks… You’ll find yourself pushing it and enjoying excellent handling and a well-suited engine. 4 Riders Magazine team tested it over nearly 1,000 km, and here are our impressions.
Sporty look and meticulous finish
Visually, the 450SS has plenty of character with its fluid, proportionate lines. Its sharp fairing, dominated by LED headlights with a modern light signature, gives it a look clearly inspired by sports bikes. Its lowered stance and plunging front end reinforce this DNA.
In terms of build quality, we are surprised by the successful assembly given its aggressive price point. A few aerodynamic elements add to the style.
The integration of the 5-inch TFT dashboard with Bluetooth connectivity contributes to the impression of a modern, well-assembled motorcycle. In short, the 450SS has a sleek, sporty look and doesn’t feel like an entry-level model.
A surprising engine
The 2025 CFMOTO 450SS is powered by a 449 cc parallel twin engine. It’s compact, modern, lightweight, and surprisingly responsive. It’s also found in other bikes from the brand, such as the CL-C 450, IBEX 450, and NK 450. In short, this engine has already proven itself on several platforms.
With around 51 horsepower at 9500 rpm, the bike offers sustained acceleration for its class. Moreover, the presence of a twin-cylinder engine is excellent for a small displacement and contributes greatly to the linearity of the power. Smoothness is the order of the day with this engine, which always seems to be working hard. Torque comes in early, peaking at 30 lb-ft. This allows for great acceleration when driving dynamically and aggressively.
The 6-speed transmission is well spaced and the clutch is easy to operate to get the beast going. This engine strikes a good balance with predictable responses, but is capable of entertaining as soon as you pick up the pace. We would have appreciated the presence of driving modes to refine the experience in urban versus sporty driving. That way, we could get even more out of this amazing engine.
Chassis and suspension
After a few turns, it quickly becomes clear that the 450SS is built for fun on winding roads. Its chassis feels light while providing desirable rigidity. This definitely contributes to driving precision.
The inverted front fork provides excellent road feel, and the factory calibration is interesting. You can fine-tune it thanks to numerous adjustments, such as those for the rear shock absorber. They are not fully adjustable, but just enough to remain simple to use. Overall, the suspension does a commendable job and the handling is great for this segment. Although a little firm on rough roads, the suspension shines on smooth asphalt. You get a reassuring feeling of control when riding it.
Riding impressions
The riding position is sporty: leaning forward with relatively high footpegs and low handlebars. Despite this, you quickly get used to it, and the bike inspires confidence if you like a ‘racing’ position.
From the very first few turns of the wheel, the 450SS impresses with its maneuverability and ease of handling. It leans naturally into corners and feels perfectly glued to the road. It excels in quick angle changes and winding sections. Its weight of less than 180 kg definitely has something to do with it.
The suspension keeps the front end very stable, even when accelerating hard out of corners. There is a nice harmony between the rigidity of the chassis and the controlled flexibility of the suspension.
Well-balanced braking
Braking is one of the honorable mentions on the 450SS. The single 320 mm front disc with Brembo 4-piston caliper works wonders… considering there is only one disc. However, there is no lack of power, even enough for aggressive riding. The whole system is assisted by ABS for well-balanced and predictable performance.
The bike remains stable during dynamic riding. The front end dives very little with fairly firm suspension. The brake lever feels progressive, which increases confidence and encourages us to test the bike’s limits. In this respect, the mechanics are perfectly suited. The throaty sound is also a strong point. This exciting sound encourages us to push the 450SS hard, and it responds without hesitation.
For everyday use…
Although the 450SS is clearly designed for sporty riding, it is also well suited for everyday commuting or leisurely rides. The engine is docile, the controls are light, and the bike is not too jerky at low revs, unlike some sports bikes.
However, its more aggressive stance, firm suspension, and hard seat remind us that it is not designed as a sport-touring bike. It is suitable for those who accept this compromise.
Neighbor Marco Guay’s opinion
During this test, I had the opportunity to invite my neighbor, Marco, for a few rides on the 2025 CFMOTO 450SS to get a second opinion. It’s worth mentioning that Marco’s last motorcycle was a Harley-Davidson Street Glide… so this is quite a change. Here are his impressions:
“Well… I’m in love. As soon as you get on it, you’re surprised by how comfortable it is: the seating position is excellent and you immediately feel at ease. Even for a biker who isn’t used to this type of motorcycle. It’s incredibly light and easy to handle, which further enhances the feeling of control.
In terms of performance, despite its modest size, the bike offers plenty of fun both on the open road and in the city. It excels in urban environments: takeoffs, frequent stops, zigzagging between lanes. Everything comes naturally. Obviously, this isn’t a touring bike, and the passenger seat clearly reminds you of that—it’s more of a punishment than a privilege.
As for its looks, it really leaves no one indifferent. I was honked at three times just to get a thumbs up while riding the CFMOTO 450SS. With my tinted visor, I know it wasn’t for my face!
In short, the pleasure this little gem offers far exceeds the asking price. I love it!
Areas for improvement
- Limited comfort in urban use and over long distances (position, firmness, vibrations).
- The passenger seat is minimalist and only suitable for short trips, making it unsuitable for longer journeys.
- We would have liked to see different riding modes to get even more out of the mechanics or achieve a smoother ride in urban mode.
Conclusion
The 2025 CFMOTO 450SS is an interesting proposition for those who want an affordable sports bike given its price. Striking style and surprising power despite its small displacement. Its high-performance components and overall dynamism make it a fun and very competitive machine in its class.
The Riders Magazine team would like to thank CFMOTO Canada for lending us the test bike. For more information, please visit their website or your dealer.
Photo credits: CFMOTO Canada and Vincent B Veilleux
