CFMoto U8 and Z8

Switched-on Chinese marque CFMoto’s appetite for releasing new models continues, with the 800cc U8 and Z8 side-by-side vehicles the latest to join the local line-up.

The $13,490 U8 is utility to the core, and standard features include a 26-litre fuel tank, gas-assisted rear tray, roof and windscreen, a 3000lb winch, and tow ball. The transmission has both high-range and low-range gearing and offers a choice of 2WD or 4WD operation. The U8 rides on dual A-arms, independent rear suspension and adjustable hydraulic shocks, and enjoys 280mm of ground clearance.

The engine in the U8 is from the X8 ATV, with the four-valve liquid-cooled V-twin good for 62.5hp (46kW) at 6700rpm and 72Nm at 6000rpm. The U8 joins two other side-by-side utilities: the U5 and U6.

The Bikesales Network attended the media launch of the U8 and Z8 at a 4WD training and proving ground west of Melbourne, and the latter was particularly at home on the creek crossings, mud flats, uneven ground, ruts and steep hills – the ultimate playground for recreational side-by-side vehicles.

Sporting side-by-sides are the equivalent of supermoto bikes on the street: you feel like a superhero from the get-go, as the handling is just so predictable and consistent, there’s agility, they soak up all but the most brutal surface imperfections with authority, and the CVT transmissions make sure they are kept on the boil. And even a hint of understeer is eradicated once the power kicks in. Magic.

For sheer hooliganism, leave the Z8 in 2WD for some classic opposite-lock action, and then pop it in 4WD if the terrain demands more precision. Like the U8, there are high and low-range options, with a diff lock also available in low-range.

The Bikesales Network has driven (or been passenger) in both the 875cc Polaris RZR and the 1000cc Can-Am Commander over the last two years – both also giggle-inducing fun machines.

The National Sales Manager for CFMoto, Alan Collins, revealed to the Bikesales Network that a tilt at the side-by-side class in the Australian Rally Championship is being considered, where the Z8 would be up against the Polaris and Commander. The Z8 could also race in events like the Finke Desert Race and Australasian Safari.

Power would obviously be an issue with the 800cc engine, but Collins confirmed that CFMoto is also developing a 1000cc V-twin which would slot straight into the Z8 chassis. That would spice up the class in one fell swoop.

We plan on putting the Z8 through its paces in a more thorough hitout over coming months, so keep a look out for that one.

The Z8 is the same price as the U8; contact your local CFMoto dealer (www.cfmoto.com.au) for more information.