CFMOTO entered the 2016 model year with a substantially revised off-road lineup led by a new 500 HO engine, upgraded CVTech clutching and two 50-inch-wide ZFORCE Trail side-by-sides. The changes expanded CFMOTO’s presence in both the utility and recreational markets while giving riders more options for width-restricted trails.
2016 CFMOTO Lineup Highlights
- New 500 HO single-cylinder engine
- New ZFORCE 500 HO Trail and ZFORCE 800 Trail
- New CFORCE 400 ATV
- CVTech drive and driven clutching on several models
- Improved electrical connectors and front differentials
New CFMOTO 500 HO Engine
The biggest mechanical development for 2016 was CFMOTO’s new 500 HO engine. The liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine used a four-valve overhead-cam design and Bosch electronic fuel injection.
CFMOTO said the 500 HO produced 15 percent more power and 10 percent more torque than the 600cc engine it replaced. Despite its smaller displacement, the company positioned the new engine as a stronger, more responsive and more reliable powerplant for both work and recreational use.
The 495cc engine was rated at 38 horsepower and 32 lb-ft of torque. It powered models that included the 2016 UFORCE 500 utility side-by-side and ZFORCE 500 HO sport side-by-side.
CVTech Clutching and Engine Braking
Models equipped with the 500 HO engine also received CVTech drive and driven clutching. The revised continuously variable transmission was designed to provide smoother shifting, improved durability and longer belt life.
Integrated engine braking helped provide additional control when descending steep grades. CFMOTO also used CVTech clutching in the new CFORCE 400 ATV.
2016 CFMOTO ZFORCE Trail Models
CFMOTO expanded its sport side-by-side lineup with the ZFORCE 500 HO Trail and ZFORCE 800 Trail. Both machines were built to fit within a 50-inch width limit, opening access to many public trails that excluded wider sport UTVs.
| 2016 Model | Engine | Width | Primary Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| ZFORCE 500 HO Trail | 495cc single-cylinder | 50 inches | Affordable recreational trail riding |
| ZFORCE 800 Trail | 800cc V-twin | 50 inches | Higher-performance trail riding |
The two Trail models were scheduled to reach CFMOTO dealerships by mid-January 2016. The ZFORCE 800 Trail proved to have considerably more staying power than a typical model-year release. CFMOTO continued developing the narrow sport UTV over the following decade, and it remains part of the company’s modern lineup. See our complete overview of the 2027 CFMOTO ZFORCE 800 Trail EPS.
New CFORCE 400 ATV
The 2016 lineup also introduced the CFORCE 400. The ATV combined a new 400cc engine and chassis with independent front and rear suspension, CVTech clutching, front and rear cargo racks and integrated rear storage.
CFMOTO announced a starting MSRP of $4,499, excluding destination charges and dealer preparation. The price reflected the company’s strategy of including equipment that was frequently optional on competing machines.
Durability Improvements
CFMOTO made several less-visible changes across the 2016 lineup. New Sumitomo electrical connectors were intended to provide better protection against water and other trail contaminants, while revised front differentials addressed durability.
These updates were particularly important as CFMOTO worked to expand its U.S. dealer network and establish greater confidence in its ATVs and side-by-sides.
Why the 2016 CFMOTO Lineup Was Important
The 2016 model year helped establish several product directions that remained important to CFMOTO. The UFORCE 500 gave the company a value-oriented utility model, while the 50-inch ZFORCE machines made the brand relevant to riders using narrow forest and public trail systems.
The ZFORCE 800 Trail would become one of CFMOTO’s longest-running sport side-by-sides. Its continued development illustrates how the company progressed from a value-focused alternative into a major participant in the North American UTV market.
For newer utility models, see our CFMOTO UFORCE lineup guide. Additional news, reviews and model information can be found in the UTV Guide CFMOTO section.
About CFMOTO
Founded in 1989, CFMOTO manufactures motorcycles, ATVs, side-by-sides and powersports engines. The company operates its U.S. business from Minnesota and sells its off-road vehicles through a nationwide dealer network.
Current model information is available from CFMOTO USA.
