WHICH TWIN ADVENTURE BIKE IS RIGHT FOR YOU? CHRIS KNOWS!

Test overview

The video compares three 450-class twin-cylinder adventure bikes: the CFMOTO, Kawasaki, and BMW F 450 GS. The reviewer argues that there is no universal “best” bike; the right choice depends on whether a rider prioritizes difficult off-road terrain, road touring, or a balance of both.

All three bikes were fitted with the same Mitas E07 Trail tires for the test. The Kawasaki received a taller 130/80-17 rear tire after its standard-size tire allowed the engine guard to scrape. The bikes also had different protective and accessory parts fitted, so the test was not entirely stock-for-stock.

No numerical ratings or scores were given.

CFMOTO

Strengths

• The reviewer’s pick for serious off-road adventure riding and his overall favorite for his own riding style.
• Best suited to difficult trails among the three, with a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel and tubeless tires. Its wheel sizes also make it easier to fit more dirt-focused tires.
• Narrow between the legs and comfortable for the reviewer to stand and move around on. Its low, narrow seating area also makes it easier to reach the ground.
• Strong, characterful engine with a distinctive, loud exhaust note. The reviewer grew to appreciate it more with time.
• Comfortable on longer road rides, with very little vibration and an adjustable windscreen that provides good wind protection.
• The cheapest of the three and well-equipped. The reviewer highlights its standard handholds and luggage provision, as well as USB charging.
• Its engine impressed the reviewer, and the bike progressed farther than the others on the particularly difficult hill climb.

Weaknesses

• The seat was less comfortable than the Kawasaki’s, and its riding position felt tighter.
• The front end can feel tall and somewhat nervous, giving the reviewer less confidence in the front tire.
• Suspension felt bouncy and less controlled than the Kawasaki’s over rough terrain, especially when using more travel.
• The reviewer thought it was less refined than the BMW, though he preferred its engine character.
• The reviewer fitted additional protection. Marks on the skid plate after the test led him to recommend stronger protection for demanding off-road use.

Kawasaki

Strengths

• The reviewer’s choice for road touring and gravel-road travel.
• Best road-handling feel for the reviewer, with a confident front end, balanced chassis, and lively, playful character on twisty roads.
• Its seat was more comfortable for the reviewer than the CFMOTO’s.
• The engine comes alive when revved, making the bike enjoyable on faster back roads.
• Despite its high-revving character, it kept moving uphill over rough ground and did not stall easily.

Weaknesses

• The engine needs to be worked hard to make traction at low speeds. The reviewer found it harder to get moving without wheelspin in demanding off-road sections.
• Limited ground clearance remains a drawback for rough trails. The taller replacement rear tire helped prevent the engine guard from scraping, but the bike still felt low and wide in rocky terrain.
• Not recommended for hardcore off-roading. Its clutch was burned during the test’s unusually severe, abusive hill-climb attempts; the reviewer stresses that this would not happen in normal riding.
• Low footpegs can touch down during spirited road riding.
• Standard equipment was considered relatively sparse: there is no luggage rack or convenient GPS charging outlet, and the reviewer recommends upgrading the engine protection for rough off-road use.
• Kawasaki’s optional luggage accessories were judged comparatively expensive; the reviewer would consider aftermarket parts instead.

BMW F 450 GS

Strengths

• The most balanced 50/50 road-and-trail choice in the reviewer’s view.
• Small, light, compact, and agile, making it easy to maneuver and recover from tight spots. Its forgiving nature could suit newer off-road riders.
• A fun, smooth, and refined engine: less forceful than the CFMOTO’s, but stronger than the Kawasaki’s in the reviewer’s assessment.
• Enjoyable on twisty roads and fast gravel. The reviewer found the 19-inch front wheel less limiting than its reputation suggests for general adventure riding and trails.
• Traction control helped it make progress in mud even before it was switched off.
• Its compact, playful feel makes it enjoyable on narrow trails and secondary roads.

Weaknesses

• Not the choice for serious enduro, rallying, or the toughest rocky trails.
• The 19-inch alloy front wheel is less suitable for sharp rocks and pothole edges than a spoked wheel. The reviewer recommends considering optional or aftermarket spoked wheels for harder use.
• It offers less wind protection and feels smaller and sportier than the other two. Larger riders may find it cramped and less comfortable over long days.
• The Easy Ride semi-automatic clutch can help prevent stalling, but the reviewer found it harder to judge clutch engagement and distinguish clutch slip from wheelspin. It overheated during the extreme climb, so he stopped rather than risk damage. He personally prefers a conventional clutch for feel and skill development.
• The reviewer also noted the lack of folding levers and said the standard engine protection may need replacing for frequent, serious off-road use. The existing protection’s rubber mounts may be vulnerable over time.
• It lacks the CFMOTO’s ready-made luggage provision, so carrying a larger bag may require an added luggage system.

Overall verdict

• Choose the CFMOTO for the most off-road-focused package, difficult trails, and value. It was also the reviewer’s personal favorite.
• Choose the Kawasaki for road touring, comfort, and confident handling on paved roads and gravel, provided hardcore off-roading is not the priority.
• Choose the BMW for a light, agile middle ground, especially for riders who value easy handling and a forgiving bike over maximum off-road capability or long-distance comfort.

The reviewer’s final preference was the CFMOTO, but he emphasized that the three bikes serve different needs rather than producing one clear winner. The clutch problems occurred during unusually extreme hill-climb testing and should not be taken as a prediction of normal use.

Speakers

• Chris, the main reviewer, supplied the riding impressions, comparisons, and recommendations.
• Cy Hewitt helped ride the bikes and cover mileage; the subtitles do not give a separate detailed verdict from him.
• Ollie is mentioned as the camera operator, not as a reviewer.