CFMoto has set the stage for a three‑model splash in Kathmandu’s two‑wheel market. The company’s official Nepalese dealer, Rishi Trade Center, is gearing up to roll out the line before the month ends. That matters because Nepal’s riders have been waiting for a home‑grown premium offering that blends sport‑bike flair with cruiser comfort. The timing is crucial – the end of February 2026 aligns with the seasonal surge in bike purchases ahead of the summer riding season.
Both the CFMoto 450 CLC Cruiser and CFMoto Babbler share a common chassis and powertrain. The heart of the pair is a 449 cc liquid‑cooled parallel‑twin DOHC that pumps out 40 hp at the crank and 42 Nm of torque. A six‑speed gearbox sits behind the engine, and a slipper clutch smooths downshifts for aggressive riding. Where the two diverge is ergonomics: the Babbler sports a single‑seat layout, while the Cruiser offers a pillion‑ready bench. This changes things for riders who need a passenger‑friendly bike without compromising the aggressive look.
Key hardware under the skin includes a belt drive system – a rarity in this price bracket – and a front 37 mm USD suspension paired with a rear preload monoshock. Braking is handled by a 320 mm front disc and 220 mm rear disc, both linked to a double‑channel ABS unit. Wheels are 16‑inch alloy with a 160 mm ground clearance, giving the bike a poised stance on city streets and twisty roads.
The spec sheet also lists a 12‑liter fuel tank, 181 kg curb weight, a TFT display, side‑stand sensor, traction control and LED lighting. All these features push the motorcycle into the premium segment, even though the price is expected to sit between 12 lakh‑13 lakh NPR. That price point could reshape the market dynamics for mid‑size cruisers in Nepal.
The third model, CFMoto 250 Dual, targets the adventure‑seeker who craves off‑road capability without the bulk of a full‑size dual‑sport. Its 250 cc liquid‑cooled engine complies with Euro 5 emissions, delivering 24.4 PS and 22.5 Nm of torque through a six‑speed gearbox. The bike weighs a mere 154 kg, making it nimble on gravel tracks and forest trails.
Suspension is split between a USD fork up front and a rear monoshock, both tuned for mixed‑terrain use. Wheels are 21‑inch front and 18‑inch rear spoked rims, paired with tires that work on both road and off‑road surfaces. Braking mirrors the larger twins with double‑channel ABS and a slip‑assist clutch for added control on steep descents.
Ground clearance jumps to 245 mm, and the fuel tank holds 13 liters, giving the rider a respectable range between fuel stops. Pricing is expected to hover around 6 lakh NPR, a figure that could make the 250 Dual the most affordable Euro 5 dual‑sport on Nepal’s streets.
When you line the CFMoto 450 CLC Cruiser up against the KTM 390 Duke, the power gap is evident – the Duke pushes about 44 hp, but the CF Moto compensates with a belt drive and a more relaxed riding position. The belt drive reduces maintenance, a factor many commuters appreciate. In the cruiser arena, the Yamaha MT‑03 offers a similar displacement but lacks the double‑channel ABS and the slipper clutch found on the CF models. That matters for safety‑focused riders.
On the dual‑sport front, the Honda CRF250L is a direct competitor to the CFMoto 250 Dual. The Honda produces roughly 23 hp, marginally less than the CF’s 24.4 ps, but the CF’s higher ground clearance and larger fuel tank give it an edge on longer treks. Pricing will be the decisive factor – at 6 lakh NPR, the CF could undercut the Honda’s typical price in Nepal, shaking up the dual‑sport segment.
Both the 450‑series bikes and the 250 Dual are slated for market entry by the end‑February 2026 deadline announced by Rishi Trade Center. Pre‑orders are expected to open a few weeks prior, likely in early February, with the first deliveries rolling out in the last week of the month. The dealer has hinted at a limited‑edition launch event in Kathmandu, which should generate buzz and give early buyers a chance to secure their preferred colour scheme.
The rollout timing aligns with the start of the Nepalese riding season, ensuring that buyers can take advantage of the pleasant weather before the monsoon sets in. This strategic launch window could translate into strong initial sales, especially if the pricing holds within the projected ranges. The market will be watching closely to see whether CF Moto can capture a slice of the premium cruiser and affordable dual‑sport niches.
Q: What are the exact power and torque figures for the 450 CLC Cruiser? A: The bike uses a 449 cc liquid‑cooled DOHC twin that produces 40 hp and 42 Nm of torque.
Q: When will the 250 Dual be available in Nepal? A: Rishi Trade Center plans to have the 250 Dual on showrooms by the end‑February 2026 deadline.
Q: How does the belt drive on the 450 models compare to chain drives? A: Belt drives require less maintenance, run quieter and provide smoother power delivery, which is a premium feature at this price level.
Q: Are both the Cruiser and Babbler equipped with ABS? A: Yes, both models feature double‑channel ABS as standard equipment.
Q: What is the expected price range for the 450‑series bikes? A: Prices are projected between 12 lakh‑13 lakh NPR, depending on trim and optional accessories.
Q: Does the 250 Dual meet Euro 5 emission standards? A: The 250 Dual complies with Euro 5 standards, offering a cleaner, more efficient ride.