are easy and the bike never feels intimidating despite its adventure styling. The low centre of gravity gives it a planted, confidenceinspiring feel that newer riders will appreciate, while experienced riders will simply enjoy how predictable it is.
GRAVEL TRAVEL That same low centre of gravity does create a slight compromise once the terrain gets rough. On gravel roads, forestry tracks and firm farm tracks, the bike is genuinely enjoyable. It tracks well, feels stable and inspires confidence. Push into rougher, rockier terrain though, and you begin to notice its road-focused personality- probably not this bike’ s intended terrain design brief, but Kiwis will certainly push it as far as it’ ll go. The non-adjustable KYB upside-down fork does a respectable job soaking up bumps, but riders who spend most of their time tackling technical trails will probably wish for a little more adjustability. Likewise, while the bike carries its weight well, it’ s still an adventure bike rather than a lightweight enduro machine.
That’ s worth remembering before pointing it into terrain better suited to something with knobby tyres and half the weight. The switchable ABS is a welcome inclusion off road and is easily disabled using the button on the left handlebar. It does reset each time the bike is switched off, which is fairly common these days, but it’ s something regular gravel riders will quickly notice.
FITTING IN THE MARKET The obvious comparison is the CFMOTO 450MT, which has been hugely popular since arriving in New Zealand. With a sub- $ 10k price point, the CFMOTO offers fully adjustable suspension, traction control and an 18-inch rear wheel that gives it a slightly stronger off-road focus. The Kawasaki, however, takes a different approach. It offers more power, a smoother parallel twin, Kawasaki’ s long-established dealer network and a 17-inch rear wheel that contributes to its confident road manners. Neither bike is necessarily better than the other. Instead they’ re aimed at riders with
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