I was fortunate to try the CFMOTO CFORCE 600 EPS TOURING 2021, especially since I was able to drive it on the beautiful trails of the Gaspé Peninsula and non-federated paths (on public land), perfect conditions for this versatile vehicle.
The CFORCE 600 at First Glance
When I was asked to try this 2020 novelty, I wondered if I would enjoy driving this vehicle. It’s a touring vehicle, so I’m not really the target customer for the CFORCE 600. To my surprise, I had a lot of fun and found many qualities in this vehicle.
As usual, CFMOTO impressively equips its vehicles. That’s what you notice right away, even before you start the CFORCE 600. Depending on what you are looking for, these options can weigh in when you are shopping:
- Side mirrors
- Hand protectors
- Passenger retaining bar
- Trailer connector
- Anti-theft (gear lever lock)
- Dual USB socket
- 12V socket
- Indicators
- Horn
- Winch
The model is available in either one seat or two seats; I had the two-seat version. Unfortunately, I could not test it with a passenger (you could ask Simon and his wife for advice on this).
I also had a soft spot for its modern look with beautiful curves.
The CFORCE 600 Engine
What’s hidden in this CFMOTO is a 4-stroke, single-cylinder 580 CC engine. The 40 HP provide interesting and efficient accelerations. The new 600 offers a noteworthy option between the 500 and 800. There was a void in their product line, and with this model, CFMOTO has succeeded in filling that gap.
I have a sportier driving style, and this vehicle fulfilled my need for adrenaline. Even though it’s a touring machine, its power and acceleration allowed me to have a good time at its helm.
The CFORCE 600 in Action
It’s an easy machine to drive that goes where you ask it to go, and it’s very sturdy. It does not deviate from its path, which is very reassuring. The power steering does the job very well.
This is not the model with the softest suspension. It still performs well on rougher trails, but the suspension is firmer. It’s not unpleasant, I’ve seen worse, but given that the travel is not remarkably high, it’s clear that you can feel it.
I can very well imagine this machine in the hands of a person who works at his cottage but wants to use it for trail rides. The vehicle performs equally well in narrower, uneven areas and on well-maintained trails. For this kind of buyer profile, it is the perfect vehicle. With the two-seat option, it becomes an ideal family vehicle.
The brakes respond well, and so does the engine brake; I took the trouble to test them in important climbs. It’s another reassuring thing, on some vehicles, especially downhill, you feel a little bit like you’re on skis, and if you brake, it’s even worse. Feeling like you don’t control your vehicle when braking is terrifying, fortunately, the CFORCE 600 has good, effective brakes.
One Little Hiccup
One thing that I found quite unpleasant and that I’ve seen on other CFMOTO models is the clutch, which is sometimes problematic, especially if you’re not 100% on a flat surface. Even on a straight surface, changing gears is sometimes a challenge. I hope that CFMOTO will fix this slight inconvenience for future models.
In Brief
I really enjoyed my test drive. I found myself savoring every moment at the controls of the CFORCE 600 EPS TOURING. We have here a complete vehicle that is very pleasant to drive. Its driving position is comfortable, even after several hours.
It is fully equipped and comes with a 5-year, 12-month manufacturer’s limited warranty and 4-year limited powertrain warranty, a big plus when one buys a CFMOTO.
Like all vehicles, it’s not perfect, but its qualities easily take over and make it stand out from the crowd, especially with its value for money. I recommend it to all those who are looking for a vehicle for work as well as for pleasure.
A big thank you to TS performances from Rimouski for this most enjoyable test!
