ATV Launch It's Here, CF Moto ATV Quadsales.com.au attended the launch of CF Moto's Australian ATV range.
Nic Wilke
A windy Thursday in the outer Melbourne suburbs saw us arrive at Mojo Motorcycles Headquarters(The Importer) to meet up with the boys from CF Moto Australia .
This progressive motorcycle business has introduced the CF Moto brand for both scooters and motorcycles, and now they've landed the famous CF Moto ATV range to our shores.
Quadsales were invited by CF Moto National Sales Manager, Darren Woodward to come and see these machines first hand. When Darren told us they had only just obtained the first shipment, they weren't exaggerating, they had literally just arrived off the ship.
While the mechanics assembled them direct from the crate, we took a look around, and were surprised to see that everything comes standard.
Of the 4 CF Moto models now on sale, we were only missing the Z6 for testing, the recreational SXS model. This did little to dampen enthusiasm, Darren explained we will be getting an exclusive in the coming weeks.
A quick walk around highlighted that these ATV's really have a suite of features you just cant ignore for the price. Standard winches and towpacks on all models, certainly a selling point for the prospective buyer, especially in the target market for these machines. Farming, recreational users or even a second vehicle purchase, CF Moto are targeting those after a value for money ATV that's jam packed full of features.
Lets take a look at the 3 models as they come directly out of the box (what's included standard).
CF Moto Xlander 500 RRP $6990
 
A rugged performer, the CF Moto Xlander 500 has a list of standard features that would normally be considered as optional extras by many other brands.
Boasting a powerful 500cc liquid cooled engine, the fully automatic machine has plenty of power available. To further enhance versatility, the rider has the ability to electronically select between 2WD/4WD modes, Hi and Low range. The Xlander also has the ability to lock the differential when extra traction is required.
A solid independent rear suspension package helps minimise body roll and ensure a smooth and stable ride. The 19 litre fuel tank gives the Xlander a substantial range, whilst the front and rear racks, rear tow bar and 2500LBS winch are all welcome and practical inclusions.
The Xlander 500 is supported by a two year limited factory warranty and nation-wide dealer network.
Features Include:
- Single cylinder, 4-stroke, 4 valve engine
- 35hp @ 6389rpm
- liquid cooled with Mikuni carburettor
- Selectable 2WD / 4WD modes, L-H-N-R range, with lockable differential
- 12 inch polished alloy wheels with CST tyres
- Aluminium double wishbones
- Independent adjustable front and rear suspension
- Twin front hydraulic disc brakes, single rear hydraulic disc brake
- Padded seat rest
- Front and rear storage racks
- Rear tow pack
- Engine bash plate
- Led instrumental display
- 12V power output
- 2500lbs front winch
CF Moto Xlander 600 RRP $7990
 
 
The Xlander 600 is just like the 500 in size though adds performance through a larger capacity 594 cc engine. The Xlander 600 also boasts premium Bosch Fuel Injection, providing smooth power on tap right across the rev range. And it shows as the Xlander 600 feels smooth and tractable right from the get go. For the extra $1000 over the Xlander 500, the 600 makes sense.
Further additions to the X5 include lightened aluminium wish-bones, hand guards and a trailer power jack port.
Features:
- Single cylinder, 4-stroke, 4 valve engine
- 37hp @ 6300rpm
- Liquid cooled with Bosch Electronic Fuel Injection
- Selectable 2WD / 4WD modes, L-H-N-R range, with lockable differential
- 12 Inch polished alloy wheels with CST tyres
- Aluminium double wishbones
- Independent adjustable front and rear suspension
- Twin front hydraulic disc brakes, single rear hydraulic disc brake
- Hand guards, padded seat rest
- Front and rear storage racks
- Rear tow pack with power jack port
- Engine bash plate
- 12V power output
- 2500lbs front winch
CF Moto Rancher 500 SXS RRP $ 8990
 
 
Work or adventure, the Rancher is your entry level, feature packed SXS. Boasting a powerful 500cc liquid cooled engine, the Rancher has plenty of usable power. To further enhance versatility, the rider also has the ability to electronically select between 2WD & 4WD modes, Hi and Low range and also lock the differential when extra traction is required.
The rigid weatherproof doors, windscreen and roof make a significant difference in prevailing weather conditions, whilst creature comforts such as the MP3 player, radio and electronic tipper, all help to make work fun.
The Rancher 500 is supported by a two year limited factory warranty and nation-wide dealer network.
Features :
- Single cylinder, 4-stroke, 4 valve engine
- 32hp @ 6500rpm
- Liquid cooled with Mikuni carburettor
- Selectable 2WD / 4WD modes, L-H-N-R range, with lockable differential
- Double wishbones
- Independent adjustable front and rear suspension
- Twin front hydraulic disc brakes, single rear hydraulic disc brake
- 12inch alloy wheels with CST tyres
- Radio & MP3 audio system and 12v power output
- Removable rigid weatherproof front windscreen and roof
- Automatically operated rear tip tray
- 2500 LBS Winch
What does Quadsales reckon?
Well, considering these machines were assembled right out of the crate, we were expecting there could be some operational anomalies. A quick pre-delivery, add some fuel, and its all systems go! Surprisingly, there were no problems throughout the day with any mechanical or electrical issues, these quads simply worked right from the start.
We think all 3 models have something to offer, especially the Xlander 600, given the price, its exceptional value for money. The Rancher 500 is a well built utility vehicle, and suitable for many work applications such as golf courses, resorts or around the farm. The Xlander 500 is also a formidable performer, with similar features to the 600 and a retail price of just a touch under 7 grand.
Pros:
Feature rich ATV's. These 3 machines are targeted as an affordable entry level alternative, they also provide a viable option to add a second ATV to your existing fleet. They are all suited to the recreation and farming community. We think that if you take a close look at the quality and features you get for your money, then CF-Moto ATV's are seriously in the game as a contender. They are all backed by a two year limited factory warranty.
The feature that really stood out on all 3 models was the electronic Diff-Lock switch. One click, and the solenoid engages a lock on all wheels, unbelievable traction at the touch of a button. This feature is usually missing in mid-priced ATV's, but the diff-locker gave all 3 models the climbing ability that did amaze us.
Cons:
CF Moto are always going to have to prove themselves, just because of their Chinese heritage. That said, CF Moto Australia are that confident in the product that they have given each model in the range a 2 year limited warranty. The Australian importer, Mojo Motorcycles, is using the reputation that the brand has built on the world stage.
Some of the plastics can be seen to be built to a price but overall the CF Moto range isn't pretending to be anything but a feature packed value for money proposition.
Straight out the box, the gearboxes were a little tight when shifting, but that's to be expected considering they all had no run in time. Once given a few hours work everything started to smooth out.
Conclusion:
As ridden here, the CF Moto range comes as seen. A well thought out package where CF Moto have taken all the good bits and packed them into a well priced package. Its hard to think of any extras you may need to add that will enhance what's already standard.
Given the reputation of the brand across Europe and North America, CF Moto already come with plenty of points on the board. Do the research and its not an overnight sensation, CF Moto have been selling huge numbers of ATV's worldwide. So it all suggests that here in Australia, through a growing dealer network and with suitable importer and factory support, that we shouldn't see CF Moto do the same.
We will have further indepth reviews on each model coming up on Quadsales.com.au so don't forget to check back. Also we cant wait till we take delivery of the Z6 600 in the not too distant future. Stay tuned for that one.
published 14/09/2010 |