- CFMOTO 449cc 270° parallel twin delivers smooth, tractable LAMS-compliant performance with real-world usability.
- Fully adjustable KYB suspension and 21/18in spoked wheels give genuine off-road credibility.
- Strong value proposition with generous equipment and long-range touring ability.
Alan Cathcart rides the new Moto Morini Alltrhike (pronounced “All-Trike”) 450, a 270° parallel twin, LAMS adventure bike with adjustable KYB suspension and serious value appeal.
BMW’s forthcoming entry-level F450 GS, largely developed and built by TVS in India, is certain to attract global attention later this year with its promise of affordable dual-purpose capability. But historic Italian marque Moto Morini has quietly beaten the German giant to market by some margin. Since the intriguingly named Alltrhike 450 has been arriving in Kiwi dealerships since the end of 2025, marking Morini’s first modern smaller-capacity off-road model.
As with all current Morini models, the Alltrhike was designed and engineered in Italy but is manufactured in China under the ownership of Zhongneng Vehicle Group (ZVG). CEO Alberto Monni is keen to stress that development took place entirely at Morini’s 4,400m² headquarters in Trivolzio, near Pavia, south of Milan.
Since its acquisition just over six years ago, Morini’s revival has centred on a range of 650/700cc parallel twins sourced from nearby CFMOTO. The X-Cape 650 alone has sold more than 18,000 units globally in four years. Production has now commenced in China of the 129bhp X-Cape 1200, reviving Morini’s historic 87° V-twin configuration in Euro 5+ compliant form.
Now comes the 2026 Alltrhike 450, powered by another CFMOTO engine – the same compact 449cc liquid-cooled parallel twin found in the 450SR sportbike and, more pertinently, the 450MT adventure model.
Engine: Small Capacity, Big Character
In Morini tune, the 449cc eight-valve twin produces a claimed 48bhp (35kW) at 8,500rpm and 42Nm at 6,500rpm, placing it squarely within LAMS licence limits. Bore and stroke measure 72 x 55.2mm, with an 11.5:1 compression ratio, forged pistons and split conrods riding on a plain-bearing crankshaft.
Unlike many smaller twins that use a 180° crankshaft, this engine adopts a 270° crank, giving it a firing interval comparable to a 90° V-twin. The result is improved traction off-road and a distinctive exhaust note that sounds remarkably like a scaled-down Ducati twin — a contradiction in terms, perhaps, but a pleasing one.
Twin gear-driven counterbalancers eliminate virtually all unwanted vibration up to the hard 11,000rpm rev limiter. Bosch engine management handles fuelling duties, and CFMOTO claims over 4,000 hours of durability testing at sustained high revs. The Alltrhike carries a three-year unlimited mileage warranty.
Chassis & Running Gear
The engine sits within a duplex steel frame paired with an aluminium swingarm, giving a 1,525mm wheelbase. Suspension is by KYB: a 41mm USD fork offering 208mm of travel, adjustable for preload and damping, and a rear monoshock delivering 190mm via linkage, adjustable for preload and rebound.
Wire-spoked wheels measure 21 inches front and 18 inches rear, shod with CST dual-purpose tyres — a clear signal of genuine off-road intent. Ground clearance is 215mm.
Braking is handled by a single 320mm front disc with four-piston caliper and a 255mm rear disc. Bosch dual-channel ABS is standard and can be switched off at the rear in off-road mode. Dry weight is claimed at 190kg, paired with an 18.5-litre fuel tank that promises useful touring range.
Equipment levels are impressive for the class. Standard specification includes LED lighting, twin projector headlights, handguards, adjustable brake and clutch levers, switchable traction control and a 5-inch TFT dash with Bluetooth connectivity and integrated navigation via smartphone app.
What’s in a Name?
Before riding, I asked Alberto Monni about the unusual name.
The intention, he explained, was to create a non-generic title reflecting the bike’s purpose — something akin to Audi’s “Allroad.” Italian language constraints and trademark registrations limited options, so the company coined “Alltrhike,” combining notions of “all-rounder” and “hike.”
In the United States, however, the model is known as the Vettore, meaning vector — arguably clearer and easier to pronounce.
Still, as Juliet told Romeo, “That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” So what matters is how it rides.
Ergonomics & First Impressions
Styling is subjective, but Morini’s five-person design team has produced a machine that looks purposeful without being bulky. The 840mm seat is well padded and narrow at the front, allowing a 180cm rider such as myself to place both feet on the ground with ease.
The riding position is upright and natural, aided by a wide handlebar offering good leverage. The footrests, however, felt slightly high relative to the seat, bending my knees more than ideal during extended road use.
Wind protection from the narrow adjustable screen is adequate rather than generous. At motorway speeds my helmet and shoulders remained exposed. A broader, height-adjustable option would enhance touring comfort.
On the Road
The engine fires instantly and settles into a smooth 1,300rpm idle. Vibration is virtually absent throughout the rev range, even near the limiter.
The clutch action is exceptionally light, making urban riding effortless. The motor pulls cleanly from 2,000rpm with minimal clutch slip and builds progressively from 4,000rpm to the 11,000rpm redline. While 42Nm is hardly overwhelming, it is entirely sufficient for spirited backroad riding.
Fuelling is particularly impressive. Throttle response is smooth and predictable, with none of the abruptness that sometimes afflicts budget-oriented machines. At 100km/h in top gear the engine turns a relaxed 5,800rpm, and cruising at 120km/h is comfortable and stress-free.
The gearbox on my test machine felt slightly stiff, likely due to limited mileage, but shifts were positive.
Handling & Off-Road Performance
Despite its 190kg dry weight — marginally heavier than some rivals — the Alltrhike carries its mass well and feels slim between the knees. Standing on the pegs off-road feels natural, aided by removable footrest rubbers.
On winding hillside roads through the vineyards of the Oltrepò Pavese, the Morini steered predictably and held its line with confidence. The 21-inch front wheel delivered reassuring grip, while the KYB fork absorbed broken tarmac effectively.
Suspension settings were well judged, offering good feedback without excessive softness. The ability to adjust both ends meaningfully at this price is a notable advantage.
Off-road, the Alltrhike proved manageable and confidence-inspiring. The smooth throttle response and 270° firing order aid traction on loose surfaces, while switchable ABS enhances control. With some suspension fine-tuning, it would doubtless perform even better on rougher terrain.
Braking
The one significant shortcoming was braking feel. While outright stopping power from the single 320mm disc was adequate for a machine of this weight, the initial bite was muted, and feedback limited. Considerable lever pressure was required during harder stops.
The rear brake, by contrast, was responsive — perhaps explaining the generous 255mm disc size. Pad compound selection may be the issue rather than hardware specification.
Verdict
Despite its unusual name, the Moto Morini Alltrhike 450 is very much the right bike at the right time for the resurgent Italian brand.
It combines accessible performance, quality suspension, genuine off-road capability and impressive equipment levels in a competitively priced package. The engine is smooth, flexible and characterful; the chassis capable and adjustable; the overall riding experience thoroughly satisfying.
After a full day in the saddle, it was difficult not to come away impressed.
Anyone seeking a well-equipped, entry-level adventure machine would be well advised to test ride the Alltrhike 450 before making a purchase decision.
Be prepared to be pleasantly surprised.
For more info head to: www.motomorini.co.nz
Alternative Option
For those riders wanting an affordable Adv machine but don't want to follow the CFMoto crowd, the Moto Morini is a genuine alternative. At $9,990 + ORC, it's seriously affordable considering the level of spec. And thanks to the Italian design, it even looks good. This could well be the machine to bring Moto Morini into the mainstream!Moto Morini Alltrhike 450 Gallery
Moto Morini Alltrhike 450 FAQ
Is the Moto Morini Alltrhike 450 LAMS compliant?
Yes. It produces 48bhp (35kW), making it suitable for LAMS licence holders.
What engine does the Alltrhike 450 use?
It uses a 449cc liquid-cooled parallel twin with a 270° crankshaft, sourced from CFMOTO.
Is the Moto Morini Alltrhike 450 good off-road?
Yes. With 21/18-inch spoked wheels, 208mm front travel and switchable ABS, it has genuine off-road capability.
How much does the Moto Morini Alltrhike 450 weigh?
The claimed dry weight is 190kg.
Who are its main competitors?
Key competitors include the CFMOTO 450MT, Royal Enfield Himalayan 450, KTM 390 Adventure and BMW F450 GS.
SUMMARY
The Moto Morini Alltrhike 450 is a 449cc LAMS-compliant adventure motorcycle powered by a 270-degree parallel twin engine sourced from CFMOTO. Designed in Italy and manufactured in China, it features fully adjustable KYB suspension, 21-inch front and 18-inch rear spoked wheels, Bosch ABS with off-road mode, traction control, and an 18.5-litre fuel tank. Alan Cathcart’s test highlights its smooth engine performance, strong real-world usability, and competitive positioning against rivals like the CFMOTO 450MT and Royal Enfield Himalayan 450.
