Experience the CFMoto 450CL-C AMT: A Comprehensive Test Ride:Free your left hand, liberate your right foot

I just got a test ride qualification for the new CFMOTO 450CL-C AMT automatic version yesterday. After riding it for a full day, my biggest impression is: this bike is practically tailor-made for "lazy people" and those who "hate dealing with hassle"!

Compared to the previous model, the only addition is the AMT system, along with a new coconut milk white color option (which is indeed a soft and pleasing shade). In terms of configuration, apart from the rear brake disc being upgraded from 220mm to 240mm, everything else remains basically unchanged. Yet, just this small AMT feature has completely transformed the overall riding experience.

Let's start with the core experience of this AMT system. No theories, just direct impressions: in D mode, it acts as your laid-back riding companion. Whether for daily commuting or long-distance touring, its shifting logic is surprisingly intelligent. You can feel a slight quirk when shifting from 1st to 2nd and 2nd to 3rd gear, but the jerk is completely acceptable—like a gentle cough, never uncomfortable. Shifts above 3rd gear are barely noticeable. When downshifting, the transition from 3rd to 2nd and 2nd to 1st is a bit more obvious, yet the tugging sensation is mild, without any abrupt jolt. S sport mode behaves like a rebellious youngster, delaying upshifts and keeping the engine revved higher before changing gears, perfect for occasional spirited riding. However, during rapid downshifting and deceleration, the tug from 3rd to 2nd gear becomes noticeably more pronounced, while 2nd to 1st is slightly better. Overall, S mode is less polished than D mode, and it tends to feel a bit slow to respond during sustained aggressive riding. M manual mode offers full control, with instant gear shifts as the computer directly executes your commands, letting you ride however you want. If the gear and speed are mismatched, it automatically downshifts to protect the engine—ideal for experienced riders seeking handling thrills to let loose occasionally.

What appeals to me most is the "hands-free freedom" brought by AMT. When riding a traditional manual motorcycle, I have to constantly squeeze the clutch with my left hand and control the throttle and brakes with my right hand. In traffic jams or at traffic lights, my hands and feet are as busy as playing a chaotic symphony. But the 450CL-C AMT completely frees up my left hand! During my daily commute, my right hand focuses on the throttle while my left hand stays ready for braking. In case of an emergency, I can squeeze both brakes at the same time, giving me a full sense of security. That calm and unhurried feeling is like soaring straight from the "flustered beginner stage" to the realm of a "composed seasoned rider". People used to say, "You only buy a manual motorcycle because you can’t afford a scooter", but with AMT, I can now confidently choose the styling and handling of a cruiser while enjoying the convenience of a scooter!

So, manual transmission vs automatic transmission—how exactly should you choose? Is driving engagement really that important? My answer is: it depends on your needs, so don’t overthink it! If you’re after ultimate handling fun, enjoy the mechanical feel of clutch and throttle coordination, or consider yourself a tech enthusiast, then manual transmission will always be your true love. But if you’re like me, riding every day for commuting and relaxation, unwilling to drain your energy on complicated operations, and just wanting to enjoy the freedom of the wind on your face, the AMT will definitely win you over. It won’t take away all the joy of riding—Manual mode is always there for you to let loose, while Drive and Sport modes deliver just the right response in different scenarios. Put simply, manual transmission is for “playing with the bike”, and automatic transmission is for “using the bike”. The 450CL-C AMT lets you do both: have fun and ride with ease.