Overview
What stands out here is the 2018 CFMOTO ZFORCE 800 Trail’s focus on delivering a sporty yet practical experience for recreational riders who want a machine that can handle both trail riding and light utility tasks. Built as a sport utility vehicle, it blends aggressive styling with an emphasis on agility and rider control. The liquid-cooled V Twin engine with 800cc displacement provides a punchy power delivery, making it suited for those who want more excitement than a basic utility side-by-side can offer.
This machine is designed for riders who enjoy exploring dirt trails, forest paths, or gravel roads, but still want the ability to handle some light work around farms or properties. Its character leans toward spirited riding with its independent double A-arm suspension at both ends, which helps absorb bumps and maintain stability on uneven surfaces. The CVT transmission with selectable 4X2 or 4X4 drive modes ensures you can adapt to different terrains without fuss, giving a balance of ease of use and control.
At $10,799, the ZFORCE 800 Trail positions itself as an attractive option for those who want a full-featured sport UTV without paying premium prices. It has a manageable size, with dimensions that favor maneuverability, and a ground clearance of 11.2 inches for tackling off-road obstacles. While it doesn’t aim to match high-end models in luxury or refinement, it offers a compelling mix of power, handling, and value, making it a notable choice within its segment for riders who prioritize fun and practicality in one package.
Performance & Powertrain
At 800cc, the engine in the 2018 CFMOTO ZFORCE 800 Trail delivers a significant boost in power for a sport UTV in its class, especially when compared to many 600cc competitors. This V Twin setup produces a smooth delivery of torque across a wide RPM range, making it suited for trail riding, climbing steep inclines, or carrying heavier loads. The liquid cooling system ensures the engine stays within optimal temperature limits during extended rides, reducing the risk of overheating on tough days out.
The fuel-injected system improves throttle response and helps maintain consistent power, regardless of altitude or temperature changes. This setup means you can expect reliable starts and smooth acceleration without needing to constantly adjust the throttle. The 800cc displacement gives the ZFORCE 800 Trail enough grunt to handle aggressive riding while remaining efficient enough for longer excursions without excessive fuel consumption.
The transmission features a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which provides seamless acceleration without the need for clutching or shifting gears. This setup keeps the ride smooth whether you’re cruising on flat terrain or tackling uneven trails. The drivetrain includes selectable 4X2 or 4X4 modes, giving you flexibility to switch between two-wheel drive for light trail work or four-wheel drive for rougher terrain, enhancing control and traction as needed. the powertrain in this machine balances power with ease of use, making it a strong choice for riders looking for a purpose-built, manageable sport side-by-side.
Suspension & Handling
If you’re planning to tackle a variety of terrains, you’ll want to know how the ZFORCE 800 Trail manages uneven surfaces and different trail conditions. It features independent double A-arm suspension at both ends, which provides more wheel travel and better shock absorption compared to simpler setups. The front suspension handles roughly 9 inches of travel, while the rear offers about 8 inches. This amount of travel helps absorb impacts on rocky or root-filled trails, making rides smoother and more controlled. On hard-packed trails or pavement, these suspension characteristics keep the ride stable and responsive, but on rougher terrain, you’ll appreciate the extra comfort and traction.
The braking system utilizes dual hydraulic disc brakes at both the front and rear. This setup delivers strong stopping power and good modulation, especially important when you’re descending steep grades or navigating technical sections. Hydraulic discs are less prone to fade under repeated use compared to drum brakes, so they’ll hold up well during longer rides. The size of the brakes matches the overall weight and performance of the vehicle, giving you confidence whether you’re slowing down on tight turns or coming to a quick stop in a pinch.
The tire size on the ZFORCE 800 Trail is 26 inches in diameter with a width of 9 inches up front and 11 inches in the rear. These tires strike a good balance for trail riding, providing enough grip on dirt, mud, and loose gravel without sacrificing stability on hard surfaces. The tread pattern offers enough bite for loose terrain while remaining predictable on compacted ground. If you’re planning to use the vehicle mainly on well-maintained trails or for light work, these tires will serve you well. However, if you frequently encounter deep mud or sand, you might consider swapping to tires with more aggressive tread patterns for better traction.”
Dimensions & Ergonomics
If you’re planning to load this machine into a standard truck bed, you’ll want to know that it measures just under 9.5 feet long and 9 feet wide. Its compact length makes it easier to transport and maneuver in tighter spaces, while the width provides a stable footprint for off-road stability without feeling unwieldy. The 70-inch height offers enough clearance for comfortable seating and standing access without risking top-heavy tipping on uneven terrain.
The wheelbase stretches out to 80 inches, which helps with stability and smooth handling at higher speeds or on rough trails. Ground clearance is set at 11.2 inches, allowing the ZFORCE 800 Trail to clear rocks and roots without scraping, yet not so high that it feels disconnected from the terrain. The machine’s dry weight comes in around 1,228 pounds, so it’s manageable for most mid-sized trucks and doesn’t feel overly heavy or bulky during loading and unloading.
Seat height is a key consideration for longer rides or for riders with shorter legs. On this model, the seat height is designed to accommodate a wide range of riders, providing enough elevation for visibility while still being accessible for those with shorter stature. Ergonomically, the placement of controls and the seat design promote comfort during extended use, and the overall size offers enough room for larger riders without feeling cramped or wide for smaller ones. Fuel capacity and cargo space are also well-matched to typical trail adventures, making this machine suitable for day trips or short excursions.
Notable Features
What stands out here is the emphasis on user-friendly technology and added convenience features that improve the riding experience without pushing the price too high. CFMOTO has packed this model with specific touches aimed at making trail riding more accessible and enjoyable, especially for those who want more than just basic performance.
- Electric power steering adds comfort and reduces fatigue during long rides.
- Built-in storage compartments provide convenient places to stow gear and essentials.
- Adjustable seat height and ergonomic design improve rider comfort across different sizes.
- High-mounted LED headlights enhance visibility in low-light conditions.
- Heavy-duty bumpers and skid plates come standard for added protection on rough terrain.
This model stands out from base competitors by integrating more comfort and convenience features directly into the design, making it a good choice for trail riders who want a machine that’s practical and easy to handle. While it doesn’t feature advanced tech like digital dashboards or GPS integration, its focus on rider-friendly details offers real value in everyday use and longer adventures alike.
Pricing & Value
What stands out here is the $10,799 starting price for the 2018 CFMOTO ZFORCE 800 Trail, positioning it within the mid-range segment of sport utility vehicles. This price targets riders who want a well-equipped machine without stepping into the premium or high-performance territory that can double or triple the cost. For this kind of cash, buyers expect a machine that offers a good balance of features, performance, and durability for trail riding or light utility work without feeling like they’re overpaying.
In CFMOTO’s lineup, the ZFORCE 800 Trail fits as a step above entry-level models, which often come with pared-down features and less horsepower. It sits below the top-tier ZFORCE 1000 models, which tend to include more advanced technology and higher horsepower numbers. The Trail version emphasizes comfort and trail readiness, with a focus on ride quality and utility, making it a sensible choice for buyers who want more than just a recreational toy but don’t need the full-blown, high-cost performance machines.
At this price point, the ZFORCE 800 Trail offers worthwhile value for riders seeking a machine that can handle trail riding, light hauling, and some outdoor work. It’s fairly priced compared to competitors in the same class, especially when considering the inclusion of features like independent suspension and a 60-horsepower engine, which are typical of machines costing more. It’s not a bargain bin buy, but it delivers enough for the money to make it a reasonable investment for those looking for dependable mid-range sport utility performance.
In terms of resale and long-term value, CFMOTO has been building a reputation for offering machines that hold their value better than some lesser-known brands. If you keep up with maintenance and use the machine as intended, the ZFORCE 800 Trail should serve well without feeling like an overextension of your budget. For riders who want a machine that balances performance, features, and price without paying a premium, this model makes a compelling case.
Final Thoughts
What stands out here is the CFMOTO ZFORCE 800 Trail’s combination of a powerful 79.3 horsepower engine and its approachable price point, making it an attractive option for those who want serious performance without breaking the bank.
This machine is designed for recreational riders who enjoy trail riding and want a machine that can handle rougher terrain with ease. Its sporty nature and responsive handling make it suitable for riders who are confident on more challenging routes but don’t necessarily need the high-end features found on premium side-by-sides. If your focus is on heavy utility work or hauling, however, you’ll find better options elsewhere that prioritize load capacity and durability over speed and agility.
The defining quality of the ZFORCE 800 Trail is its nimbleness and quick handling, which really stands out in tight, twisty trails. It feels more like a sport ATV with the ability to carve through trails than a heavy-duty utility machine. This makes it a fun choice for riders who value agility and quick reflexes in their side-by-side rather than raw torque or cargo capacity.
If you’re looking for a sport-oriented machine that can handle trail rides with quickness and agility at a competitive price, the CFMOTO ZFORCE 800 Trail should be on your short list. For riders needing a machine more focused on utility or long-distance hauling, explore other options with larger cargo areas and more rugged construction.
Tech specs
Engine
Transmission
Suspension
Brakes
Tires
Dimensions
Tags and taxonomy
Compatible parts for the 2018 CFMOTO ZFORCE 800 Trail
Selected from this machine's own specification, not a generic list. Check any of it against the table above.
- ClassSport UTV
- DriveSelectable 4X2 / 4X4
- Front tire26x9-14
- Dry weight1228 lb
- Tires26x9-14Front tire size fitted from the factoryShop on Amazon
- Roof and windshieldWeather protectionShop on Amazon
- Winch and mountSynthetic and steel line kitsShop on Amazon
- BatteryReplacement and AGM upgradesShop on Amazon
- Oil and filter kit800ccFull service kitsShop on Amazon
- Loading ramps2000 lbRated above the 1228 lb dry weightShop on Amazon
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.