Two Middleweights, One Big Decision
The mid-size adventure segment has never been more competitive, and two bikes fighting hard for your attention right now are the Yamaha 660Z — Yamaha's rebranded and evolved take on the legendary Ténéré 700 platform — and the CFMoto 450MT, the Chinese manufacturer's bold push into genuine adventure-touring territory. On paper, these two bikes share a similar ethos: lightweight, approachable, and capable of handling both weekend tarmac blasts and dirt track exploration. But ride them back to back and you'll quickly discover they're very different machines with very different personalities.
Whether you're a seasoned adventure rider looking for a nimble second bike or a newer rider ready to step up to something more serious, this comparison will help you understand exactly what each motorcycle brings to the table.
Engine and Performance
The Yamaha 660Z is powered by a 689cc parallel-twin engine — a powerplant with a proven track record in the Ténéré 700 — tuned here for a broader spread of usable torque and a claimed output in the region of 72 horsepower. It's a characterful engine with a satisfying thump, strong mid-range punch, and enough top-end grunt to feel genuinely exciting on open roads. Crossplane-inspired firing intervals give it a distinctive sound and feel that sets it apart from the sea of generic parallel-twins.
The CFMoto 450MT, meanwhile, is built around a 449cc parallel-twin sourced from CFMoto's partnership with Yamaha — yes, there's irony there — producing approximately 44 horsepower. It's a smooth, rev-happy unit that encourages you to work it hard, and while the numbers look modest on paper, the 450MT's light kerb weight means the performance-to-weight ratio is surprisingly respectable. On the road, it feels peppy and confidence-inspiring rather than breathtaking, which suits newer riders perfectly.
Verdict on engines: the 660Z wins outright on raw performance, but the 450MT's accessible power delivery makes it an excellent choice for riders who want to grow into a machine without feeling overwhelmed.
Chassis, Handling, and Off-Road Capability
The 660Z builds on the legendary Ténéré 700 chassis — a steel frame with long-travel suspension front and rear, wide handlebars, and geometry tuned for confidence in both on- and off-road environments. Suspension travel is generous at around 210mm front and rear, and the KYB units are well-damped straight from the factory. The 21-inch front wheel and 18-inch rear are standard adventure fitment, and fitted with dual-sport rubber the 660Z feels genuinely at home on loose gravel, forest tracks, and rutted trails.
The CFMoto 450MT also runs a 21/18-inch wheel combo and wire-spoked wheels as standard — a notable inclusion at this price point. Suspension is handled by a 43mm USD fork up front and a linkage-assisted monoshock at the rear, with travel figures that are comparable to more expensive machines. The frame is a steel trellis design that keeps weight low and centralised. On dirt roads and light trails the 450MT is impressively capable, tracking faithfully and soaking up bumps with confidence. It's not a hardcore enduro tool, but as a go-anywhere tourer it performs well above expectations.
Both bikes are light enough to pick up if you drop them — a crucial real-world consideration for adventure riders. The 660Z tips the scales at around 204kg wet, while the 450MT is lighter still at approximately 185kg. That weight advantage gives the CFMoto a nimbleness that's especially noticeable on tight trails and technical terrain.
Technology and Features
Yamaha 660Z
- 5-inch TFT colour display with smartphone connectivity
- Multiple riding modes (Road, Rain, Off-Road, Uneven Terrain)
- Cornering ABS and traction control with off-road disengagement
- Up/down quickshifter (model-dependent)
- LED lighting throughout
- Cruise control on select variants
CFMoto 450MT
- 5-inch TFT colour display with Bluetooth connectivity
- Multiple riding modes (Road, Sport, Rain, Off-Road)
- Cornering ABS and switchable traction control
- LED lighting throughout
- USB-C charging port as standard
- Heated grips on some market variants
The technology gap between these two bikes is smaller than you might expect given their price difference. CFMoto has clearly invested heavily in making the 450MT feel premium, and in many markets it arrives with features that even the 660Z charges extra for. That said, Yamaha's electronics suite is more refined and the riding modes on the 660Z feel better calibrated for real-world conditions, particularly when things get muddy.
Comfort and Ergonomics
The Yamaha 660Z is designed with longer journeys in mind. The seat is well-padded, the wind protection from the adjustable screen is effective, and the upright riding position puts minimal strain on your back over distance. Taller riders will particularly appreciate the spacious cockpit. Seat height is around 875mm, which may challenge shorter riders but is manageable for average-height riders with a little seat customisation.
The CFMoto 450MT is marginally more accommodating to a wider range of rider heights, with a seat height of approximately 830mm and a slimmer waist that allows most riders to get a foot down with confidence. Comfort over long distances is good, though the seat firmness may require an aftermarket upgrade for serious touring. The handlebars are wide and well-positioned, giving excellent leverage both on and off road.
Value and Pricing
This is where the conversation gets very interesting. The CFMoto 450MT retails at a price point that is significantly lower than the Yamaha 660Z — in many markets by a margin of $2,000 to $4,000 AUD or equivalent. For that saving you're giving up engine displacement, brand prestige, and some refinement, but you're gaining a genuinely capable machine that punches well above its price bracket.
The Yamaha 660Z commands its premium through superior engine character, more polished electronics, a stronger dealer network, and the peace of mind that comes with decades of reliability data. For riders who can stretch their budget, it justifies the extra outlay. For riders who want maximum adventure bike per dollar spent, the CFMoto 450MT is a genuinely compelling proposition.
Who Should Buy Which?
Choose the Yamaha 660Z if you're an experienced rider who wants a capable, character-rich adventure machine with proven reliability, strong resale value, and the confidence of a major manufacturer behind you. It's the better tool for serious off-road work and long-distance touring.
Choose the CFMoto 450MT if you're a newer rider, a budget-conscious enthusiast, or someone who wants a lightweight do-it-all adventure bike without mortgaging the garage. It over-delivers at its price point and will surprise you on the trail.
Final Verdict
Both the Yamaha 660Z and the CFMoto 450MT represent excellent value in their respective price tiers. Yamaha's offering is the more complete and polished machine — it earns its reputation on every trail and highway. But CFMoto's 450MT is proof that the Chinese motorcycle industry has matured dramatically, offering genuine quality and adventure capability at a price that opens the segment to a whole new generation of riders. Whichever you choose, the mid-size adventure world is a richer place for having both of them in it.