CFMOTO is taking some ideas straight from the very successful playbook of the Big Four. Just like the Japanese did when they built their companies into powerhouses in the 1970s and 1980s, CFMOTO is launching several bikes based on the same engines, to streamline production. And just like the Japanese did decades back (and are still doing today) CFMOTO is including a small-bore cruiser with hot specs as a foundation of its lineup. For 2024, we have the new 450CL-C coming to the US.

This new cruiser has basically the same engine as the 450SS sportbike (review here) and the just-announced-today Ibex 450. In cruiser clothes, this engine will make 40 hp at 8,000 rpm and 30 lb-ft of torque at 6,250 rpm. Those numbers are slightly lower than the Ibex. Comparing to the competition, the new-for-2024 Kawasaki Eliminator 500 makes more horsepower but less torque. Honda’s Rebel 500 makes more torque and horsepower.

Like the Ibex, the 450CL-C has EFI and ABS supplied by Bosch. Traction control also comes standard, and LED lights. The dash is a traditional-looking round TFT gauge, which connects to your phone via Bluetooth and the CFMOTO Ride App. All the modern features you’ve come to know and expect!

Cast wheels come standard, with 16-inch rims front and rear. There’s a USD fork, but it seems to be non-adjustable; that also applies to the rear monoshock. A 3.2-gallon fuel tank is standard. Seat height is just over 27 inches, very doable even for the shortest riders. And get this: CFMOTO brought back the idea of a belt drive. Once fairly common on small-bore Japanese cruisers, this practical, low-maintenance feature has mostly been restricted to more expensive machines in recent  years. The CL-C has a Gates belt drive, which means almost zero driveline maintenance compared to a chain.

Wheelbase is 58.5 inches, with 28-degree rake. Dry weight is 399 lb.

All in all, it could be an attractive package for a beginner, if pricing is competitive with the Japanese in this category. Stay tuned!