Overview
What stands out here is the 2017 CFMOTO UFORCE 500 HO EPS’s role as a mid-range utility side-by-side designed for work and play. It’s built around a 495cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine with fuel injection, offering enough power for light hauling, trail riding, or farm tasks without guzzling fuel. Its primary audience includes property owners, hunters, farmers, and weekend adventurers who need a machine reliable enough for daily chores but also built to handle rougher terrain on the weekends.
This is a machine that balances comfort and practicality by combining a 72-inch wheelbase, independent double A-arm suspension, and hydraulic disc brakes at both ends. The suspension setup helps it manage uneven ground, whether you’re navigating dirt trails, gravel roads, or uneven farm fields. Its 10.2-inch ground clearance allows it to bump over obstacles without getting hung up, making it suited for rural environments and outdoor work sites.
Target buyers tend to appreciate features like the EPS (Electronic Power Steering), which reduces fatigue during long hours of use, and the CVT transmission with selectable 4X2 or 4X4 drive modes that adapt to various terrain and load conditions. The UFORCE 500 HO EPS isn’t about flash – it’s built to get the job done reliably and comfortably. What makes this model stand out among other utility UTVs in its class is its blend of practicality, ease of use, and the value offered at its price point, making it a worthy option for those who need a workhorse that can also handle weekend adventures.”
Performance & Powertrain
Working a full day on heavy hauling or towing tasks puts the 495cc single-cylinder engine to the test. It produces enough torque to handle moderate loads without feeling sluggish, especially when equipped with fuel injection, which helps deliver consistent power across different conditions. The liquid cooling system ensures that the engine maintains stable temperatures during extended use, reducing risks of overheating on long or steep climbs.
Pull up the throttle and the CVT transmission smoothly transfers power to the wheels, making acceleration predictable whether you’re navigating rough trails or pushing through muddy terrain. The continuously variable setup eliminates gear shifts, providing a quiet, steady power delivery that keeps the machine responsive without abrupt surges. This makes it suited for both work and recreational tasks that require steady pulling power and ease of control.
With a drive system that can switch between 4X2 and 4X4, this UTV gives operators flexibility based on terrain demands. When tackling uneven terrain or loose dirt, engaging four-wheel drive helps keep traction intact while maintaining manageable power output. The engine’s displacement and fuel system are aligned with segment norms, offering a good balance between performance and fuel economy for day-to-day utility work or weekend trail riding.
Suspension & Handling
With 9 inches of suspension travel front and rear, this machine is equipped to handle a variety of trail conditions and rougher terrain without feeling overly jarring. The independent double A-arm setup on both ends provides better wheel articulation and keeps tires in contact with uneven ground, making it easier to maintain control on rocky or root-filled trails. On hard-packed surfaces, this suspension tends to feel firm but responsive, giving confidence when carving turns or cruising at moderate speeds. For work tasks or softer terrain, the travel helps absorb bumps and impacts without transmitting excessive jolts to the driver, which is important for long days in the field or hours of trail riding.
Braking is handled by hydraulic disc systems on both the front and rear, providing strong, predictable stopping power. This setup is suited to moderate downhill sections or quick stops when navigating tight trail corners. Hydraulic discs generally perform better in wet or muddy conditions compared to drum brakes, which means you can rely on consistent braking even in less than ideal weather. The front and rear disc size matches the tire dimensions closely, ensuring balanced braking performance without uneven wear or fade during extended use.
The 14-inch tires mounted on aluminum rims are a good match for the suspension and braking setup. They strike a balance between grip and durability, suitable for a range of terrains from hard-packed dirt and gravel to loose sand and mud. The tire profile offers enough sidewall height to cushion impacts and provide traction, especially on rocky or uneven surfaces. Regular maintenance and proper tire pressure are key to keeping handling predictable over time, but these tires should serve well in both trail riding and utility work scenarios where grip and stability matter most.
Dimensions & Ergonomics
With a length of 9.75 feet and a width of 57.6 inches, this utility UTV fits comfortably in a typical truck bed for transport without taking up unnecessary space. Its wheelbase measures 72 inches, providing a stable platform that offers confidence on rough trails or uneven terrain. The height of 73 inches allows for good ground clearance and enough headroom for most operators, contributing to a balanced ride without feeling cramped or overly tall.
The 10.2-inch ground clearance helps the UTV navigate rocky paths and loose dirt without getting hung up, making it suitable for moderate off-road conditions. The dry weight of 1347 pounds is manageable for loading into a pickup or trailer, but it remains substantial enough to stay planted during aggressive turns or when traversing uneven terrain. Shorter riders may find the seat height of around 34 inches accessible, while taller operators will appreciate the room for movement and visibility from the driver’s seat.
Fuel capacity of 7.1 gallons means fewer stops on a day-long outing or workday, especially with moderate fuel economy. The large enough size and weight distribution contribute to a stable ride while seated, and the ergonomic layout ensures comfort during extended periods of use. the dimensions strike a good balance between maneuverability for work tasks or trail riding and enough size to feel planted and secure in diverse environments.
Notable Features
Anyone running demanding work tasks or tackling rough terrain will appreciate how this model stands out with its added convenience and tech features. Unlike base trims or previous versions, the 2017 UFORCE 500 HO EPS offers a handful of upgrades that improve usability and make it easier to get more done in less time.
- Electric power steering (EPS) reduces driver fatigue during extended hours or tough trail conditions.
- Enhanced cargo bed with tie-down points for more secure hauling of tools, gear, or supplies.
- Additional lighting options, including integrated headlights, improve visibility during early mornings or late evenings.
- Improved instrument cluster with digital readouts for fuel level, speed, and warning indicators, providing real-time info at a glance.
- Standard front and rear steel bumpers boost durability and protection when navigating through brush or obstacles.
While the base model offers the essential features you need for trail riding and light work, these upgrades add tangible value by making the machine easier to operate, more comfortable over long days, and better equipped for practical tasks. These enhancements help set it apart from less-equipped competitors and previous model years, especially at its accessible price point.
Pricing & Value
Most utility UTVs in the $9,000 range come with a reasonable set of features and dependable performance, and the 2017 CFMOTO UFORCE 500 HO EPS fits into this category while offering a few notable advantages. Priced at $8,999, it sits near the upper end of entry-level utility vehicles, aiming to attract buyers who want a machine that can handle work tasks and weekend rides without breaking the bank. For the asking price, it delivers a well-balanced package with power, comfort, and some added convenience features like electric power steering, which improves handling during longer hours on the trail or job site.
At this price point, the UFORCE 500 HO EPS positions itself as a value proposition in the utility segment, especially given the inclusion of features often reserved for slightly pricier models. It doesn’t push the envelope in terms of premium upgrades or high-tech amenities, but it provides a practical, no-nonsense tool for those who need reliable performance. Compared to other UTVs at this level, CFMOTO’s price makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers looking for a machine that can handle a mix of hauling, trail riding, and light farming chores without requiring additional costly upgrades.
Within CFMOTO’s lineup, this model is considered a mid-tier choice, sitting below the UFORCE 800 and above the more stripped-down models. The UFORCE 500 HO EPS offers a noticeable jump in comfort and usability over base models with minimal extras, but it does not feature the larger engines or premium features found in higher trims. The model below it typically cuts some of the power or convenience options, making it less suited for demanding work or rougher terrain. At this price, the UFORCE 500 HO EPS strikes a balance between affordability and capability, making it a compelling option for those who want a practical machine without paying for unnecessary extras.
In the end, the UFORCE 500 HO EPS is priced fairly for the value it provides. It does not overreach into luxury territory, but it offers enough features and performance for daily use, making it a smart buy for individuals who need a dependable work companion or weekend trail partner without spending significantly more. Its position in the lineup and competitive pricing make it stand out as a worthwhile choice at this segment level, especially when long-term ownership costs and reliability are factored into the equation.
Final Thoughts
What stands out here is the 2017 CFMOTO UFORCE 500 HO EPS offers a practical mix of power and ease of use for those who need a reliable workhorse without breaking the bank. Its 500cc engine provides enough grunt for farm chores, trail work, or hauling materials around the property, while the electric power steering makes handling less fatiguing during long days on uneven terrain.
This machine is best suited for owners who prioritize simple operation and a comfortable ride over high-speed adventures or extreme off-road stunts. The UFORCE 500 HO EPS is designed to handle moderate loads and rougher conditions, but it’s not built for the heavy-duty work of larger commercial units or the high-performance demands of competitive off-road riders. Its price point makes it an attractive choice for small business owners, weekend farmers, or recreational users seeking reliable service without a hefty investment.
The most defining quality of this UTV is its balance between user-friendly features and enough power to get the job done. The inclusion of electronic power steering and an accessible engine size reduces fatigue and simplifies maintenance, which is critical for owners who plan to keep the machine for years. This model won’t excel in extreme conditions or heavy towing, but it handles everyday tasks with consistency and ease. If your needs align with practical utility, this CFMOTO model is a confident recommendation worthy of consideration.
Tech specs
Engine
Transmission
Suspension
Brakes
Tires
Dimensions
Tags and taxonomy
Compatible parts for the 2017 CFMOTO UFORCE 500 HO EPS
Selected from this machine's own specification, not a generic list. Check any of it against the table above.
- ClassUtility UTV
- DriveSelectable 4X2 / 4X4
- Dry weight1347 lb
- Winch and mountSynthetic and steel line kitsShop on Amazon
- Plow kitBlade, mount and push tube. Needs the four wheel drive on this machineShop on Amazon
- TiresTrail, mud and all terrainShop on Amazon
- BatteryReplacement and AGM upgradesShop on Amazon
- Oil and filter kit495ccFull service kitsShop on Amazon
- Loading ramps2000 lbRated above the 1347 lb dry weightShop on Amazon
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