CFMOTO launched their first 450SR back in 2023. Fast forward to 2025 and the game has changed, with the brand upping the ante in the form of a new S variant. It features enhanced safety and performance in a learner approved package.
There is no doubting that this sports bike is indeed a very good looking bit of kit. It’s exactly the type of machine that is going to attract budding young enthusiasts to the world of motorcycles. Its sharp pricing ($9,590 ride away) only services to enhance that.
There are nice styling touches everywhere, including an upgraded front winglet and fairing design, for improved cooling and rider comfort. The standard LED headlights look sharp and modern, and add substance to the 450SR S styling package.
Sharing its parallel twin 449.5cc engine with other 450 siblings in the model line-up, including the 450NK and 450MT, it produces a reasonable 34.5kW and 39.3Nm. Although those numbers suggest modest performance, it fares well against rivals.
That’s helped by the fact it tips the scales at 179kg in full running order. Fuel delivery is spot on too, unlike some of its larger capacity siblings, ensuring the 450SR S provides smooth, useable power.
Utilising a 270-degree crank ensures a throaty soundtrack from the new underslung exhaust. Performance has been further enhanced with a new quick shifter for seamless clutch-less upshifts, allowing riders to maximise acceleration at full throttle.
At this stage there is still no bi-directional capability with that, meaning you miss out on support for downshifts. It would require the introduction of a ride-by-wire throttle system, which would add to the cost, but we’re hoping this tech makes it onto future generations.
Handling hits the mark, with the bike feeling balanced and obedient, which is perfect for learner riders in particular. The 37mm inverted fork is adjustable and help the 450SR S turn sharply at the front end.
At the rear, there’s some available preload adjustment from the multi-link central rear shock and new single-sided swingarm. As a package they work well soaking up bumps and the normal pot holes with a minimum of fuss.
The 2025 450SR S now features Bosch traction control, enhancing stability and rider confidence by preventing rear wheel slip across varying road conditions. Braking is provided by a single floating 320mm disc up front.
Despite having a 4-piston Brembo M40 calliper and Bosch ABS it really wants for a twin disc braking system. The current setup is sufficient, but it won’t blow you away. A trip to Sydney Motorsport Park only served to exaggerate this fact, unfortunately.
The rear brake is more than capable though, with a twin piston single 240mm disc being an upgrade over the 220mm verstion that features on the 450SR. We were impressed with the CST Adreno (Maxxis) tyres that were fitted standard.
They worked well, both at the track and on the road. All rider information is presented via a 5.0-inch TFT display that’s bright and easy to read. It’s here you’ll find a shift indicator for perfectly timed gear changes.
The CFMOTO T-BOX system and Ride app also work on the 2025 450SR S, providing smartphone connectivity, Bluetooth and navigation. It also provides track timing, ride stats, remote vehicle status, and a fuel indicator.
The ability to conduct over-the-air software updates and set up a virtual electric fence to alert you of bike movement or theft, is excellent. Previously a segment owned by Yamaha’s R3 and KTM’s RC390, new players like the CFMOTO and Aprilia RS457 are making in-roads.
So to is Kawasaki’s revised Ninja 500, but on bang-for-buck, it’s truly hard to go past the 450SR S. With good build quality and an abundance of tech, along with a sub-10K price tag, this bike is sure to find a legion of fans.
You can find out more from the CFMOTO website (where you’ll also find details of the limited run ASPAR Edition), or by talking to your local dealership. The 2025 450SR S is backed by a 3-year warranty and available in Nebula White or Jet Black.
Our test bike was provided by CFMOTO Australia for independent review purposes.
