Overview
Anyone running recreational trail routes or light off-road adventures will find the 2020 CFMOTO ZFORCE 800 Trail to be a suited choice for its intended purpose. As a sport utility vehicle designed primarily for recreational use, it blends nimbleness with enough power to navigate diverse terrains. With its mid-sized footprint and balanced dimensions, it offers a manageable size for riders who want agility without sacrificing comfort or stability.
The ZFORCE 800 Trail features a liquid-cooled V Twin engine with 800cc displacement, delivering a smooth and responsive power band suited for trail riding, light work, or casual exploration. Its fuel-injected system ensures consistent performance across various temperatures and conditions, while the CVT transmission provides seamless power delivery without requiring manual gear changes. The selectable 4X2 and 4X4 driveline options give riders control over traction, making it adaptable to changing trail conditions or slight inclines.
Designed with riders who value a dynamic yet manageable experience, the trail-oriented suspension setup stands out. The independent double A-arm suspension at both ends, with 6.3 inches of front travel and 7.8 inches at the rear, allows for absorbing bumps and uneven terrain while maintaining stability. The chassis measures 9.42 inches in length and 9 inches in width, with an 80-inch wheelbase and 11.2 inches of ground clearance, emphasizing a balance between maneuverability and the ability to handle rougher trails. Notably, the ZFORCE 800 Trail aims to appeal to weekend warriors and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a purpose-built, yet affordable, off-road vehicle in a segment that values both performance and user-friendly operation.
Performance & Powertrain
Pull up the throttle and you’re met with a 800 cc V twin engine that balances power output and tractability. The 800 cc displacement places this engine within the upper middle range for sport utility vehicles in its class, offering enough torque and horsepower to handle varied terrains without feeling overly aggressive or underwhelming. The liquid cooling system ensures consistent temperatures during extended off-road use or high-revving scenarios, preventing heat buildup that could impair performance or reduce engine longevity.
The fuel injection system contributes to precise throttle response and stable idling, particularly useful when navigating technical trail sections or steep inclines. Unlike carbureted systems, fuel injection adapts quickly to changing elevation and load, providing smoother acceleration and better fuel economy during long rides. Power delivery tends to be linear thanks to the engine’s design, making it suitable for tasks from quick dune crossings to trail riding where control and responsiveness are key.
The transmission choices include a continuously variable transmission, which eliminates the need for manual gear shifts and allows for smooth, uninterrupted acceleration. The CVT system’s belt and pulley setup is optimized for quick response and durability, translating engine torque efficiently to the wheels. The selectable 4X2 or 4X4 driveline options give the operator control over traction, especially useful when shifting from high-speed cruising to low-speed technical terrain. Engaging four-wheel drive improves grip on loose surfaces, while switching back to two-wheel drive can conserve energy and reduce drivetrain wear during easier sections.
Suspension & Handling
If you’re planning to tackle a mix of trail riding, hardpack, or light work tasks, you’ll want to know that the ZFORCE 800 Trail features independent double A-arm suspension on both the front and rear. The front suspension offers 6.3 inches of travel, while the rear provides a more generous 7.8 inches. This configuration allows the vehicle to absorb impacts from uneven terrain more effectively, maintaining stability and rider comfort during off-road excursions. The increased rear travel helps mitigate jarring over larger obstacles, reducing rider fatigue and improving control on rough sections.
Braking is managed through hydraulic disc systems on both the front and rear. Hydraulic discs deliver consistent, strong stopping power with minimal pedal effort, which becomes crucial when descending steep inclines or navigating technical terrain. The disc brakes also provide reliable fade resistance during prolonged use, essential for both trail riding and work applications involving frequent stops. Their design ensures positive modulation, giving the rider precise control over deceleration as terrain demands.
The tires chosen for this model are 26 x 9 – 14 at the front and 26 x 11 – 14 at the rear. These sizes are selected to balance grip and stability across varied surfaces. The front tires are narrower, enhancing maneuverability on tighter trails and hardpack, while the wider rears improve traction during acceleration and when climbing loose or uneven terrain. The 14-inch wheels allow for sufficient sidewall height to cushion impacts and provide a comfortable ride, even over rocky or rutted surfaces. the combination of suspension travel, brake capacity, and tire sizing aims to deliver predictable handling and control across a broad spectrum of off-road conditions.
Dimensions & Ergonomics
If you’re planning to load this vehicle into a standard pickup bed, you’ll want to know that its length measures 9.42 feet, making it manageable for most trucks with a bed length around 8 feet. The width of 9 inches provides a narrow profile that enhances maneuverability in tight trails without sacrificing much stability. With a height of 70 inches, the vehicle remains accessible for riders of average and taller stature while maintaining a relatively low center of gravity for stability.
- Wheelbase measures 80 inches, contributing to stability at speed and in rough terrain.
- Ground clearance of 11.2 inches allows for crossing moderate obstacles without scraping.
- Dry weight is 1,228 pounds, which is typical for a sport utility side-by-side, balancing durability and ease of handling.
- Seat height is designed to accommodate a wide range of rider heights, promoting comfort and control for shorter and taller operators.
- Fuel capacity of 7.1 gallons extends potential range, reducing the need for frequent refueling on longer outings.
The vehicle’s overall size and weight distribution prioritize stability and rider comfort, offering enough ground clearance for trail riding while keeping the dimensions manageable for transportation and storage. Its ergonomic considerations, including seat height and cargo capacity, support longer rides with increased comfort, making it suitable for a variety of rider sizes and terrains.
Notable Features
What stands out here is the inclusion of a liquid-cooled V Twin engine that balances power delivery with temperature management, providing better durability during extended off-road use. This engine configuration offers a smoother power curve compared to single-cylinder alternatives, which can result in improved ride quality and handling in varied terrain conditions.
- Selectable drive modes between 4X2 and 4X4, allowing operators to adapt to different off-road challenges without switching components physically
- Fuel injection system that maintains consistent throttle response and efficiency across temperature ranges
- Enhanced cargo capacity with integrated racks designed for practical hauling in outdoor and work scenarios
- Design features aimed at reducing driver fatigue, including ergonomic seating and adjustable steering
Compared to base models, this ZFORCE 800 Trail offers a combination of engine sophistication and convenience features that cater to both recreational riders seeking comfort and enthusiasts wanting more control over their performance settings. These elements contribute to a more refined, adaptable experience that elevates the utility and enjoyment of this sport UTV.
Pricing & Value
The interesting choice CFMOTO made was pricing the ZFORCE 800 Trail at $10,999, positioning it around the mid-range for sport utility vehicles in its segment. This price places it slightly above entry-level models but below more premium offerings, reflecting its blend of performance features and practical design elements.
In the context of CFMOTO’s lineup, the ZFORCE 800 Trail occupies a trim level that aims to balance affordability with capability. It generally sits above models with smaller engines or fewer amenities, but below top-tier variants that include enhanced suspension, additional electronics, or luxury touches. Moving up to a higher trim usually involves a significant jump in price, often exceeding $13,000, which adds features like upgraded wheels, tires, or advanced driver assist systems. Conversely, stepping down to sub-$10,000 options often compromises on engine size or off-road capability.
Assessing whether this machine offers good value depends on how well it matches the needs of its target audience. The ZFORCE 800 Trail’s engine, suspension, and build quality are designed to handle demanding trail riding, making it attractive for enthusiasts who want a purpose-built machine without paying top dollar. At its price point, it appears fairly priced considering the segment’s market norms, offering a competitive mix of performance and features. It stands out as a sensible option for buyers seeking a mid-priced sport UTV that balances ruggedness with affordability.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning to explore off-road trails and demand a machine that balances performance with affordability, you’ll want to know that the CFMOTO ZFORCE 800 Trail offers a compelling package in this segment. Its 799cc twin-cylinder engine delivers a notable punch in the mid-range, making it suitable for intermediate riders who want more than just basic recreation but aren’t necessarily chasing extreme competitive features.
This machine’s most defining feature is its focus on handling and stability in rugged conditions. The chassis and suspension geometry are tuned for trail riding, providing control over uneven terrain without sacrificing comfort. The placement of key components and chassis design emphasizes maneuverability, which is critical for navigating tight, rocky, or wooded environments. However, it does lean on softer suspension settings that prioritize comfort over aggressive jumps or high-speed stability, which could be a limiting factor for users seeking more extreme performance.
Who should look elsewhere? Riders expecting a machine for heavy-duty work, high-speed desert racing, or serious rock crawling may find the ZFORCE 800 Trail lacks the necessary power, chassis rigidity, or suspension articulation. Also, those who prioritize a fully enclosed cab or a more refined ride quality with extensive comfort features might prefer higher-end models designed for long-distance or all-day excursions.
For trail riders aiming for an engaging, manageable, and affordable sport UTV that emphasizes handling and trail control, the CFMOTO ZFORCE 800 Trail stands out as a strong option. Its tailored approach to off-road navigation makes it a sound choice for enthusiasts who want a machine that responds well to technical terrain without the complexity or cost of more specialized vehicles.
Tech specs
Engine
Transmission
Suspension
Brakes
Tires
Dimensions
Tags and taxonomy
Compatible parts for the 2020 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
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