2025 CFMOTO CFORCE 1000 Touring Review: Premium Utility ATV for South African Adventures

The 2025 CFMOTO CFORCE 1000 Touring stands out as a premium utility quad bike that's perfectly tuned for South Africa's diverse terrains—from rugged Karoo trails to demanding farm work. With its powerful V-Twin engine, advanced touring features, and robust build quality, this ATV blends high-performance capability with long-haul comfort. Priced competitively against brands like Polaris or Yamaha, the CFORCE 1000 Touring offers exceptional value for serious riders seeking a versatile workhorse that doubles as a trail explorer. In this review, we'll break down its key strengths, potential drawbacks, and why it earns a solid 4.5/5 rating.

Engine and Performance: Raw Power with Refined Delivery

At the heart of the CFORCE 1000 Touring is a beastly 998cc liquid-cooled V-Twin engine, pumping out smooth, torque-rich power through a responsive EFI fuel system. The DOHC setup with 8 valves ensures efficient operation, and the 10.0:1 compression ratio delivers peppy acceleration without the lag common in smaller-displacement quads. Bore and stroke (92mm x 75mm) contribute to its broad powerband, making it ideal for towing heavy loads or climbing steep inclines.

Paired with CFMOTO's pDrive primary CVT transmission (featuring L/H/N/R/P modes), the bike shifts seamlessly between 2WD, 4WD, and locked differential setups. The Visco-Lok limited-slip front diff and hi/low range gearing shine in low-traction scenarios, like muddy riverbeds or sandy dunes. On South African backroads, expect effortless cruising at highway speeds, with the shaft final drive providing low-maintenance reliability over belt-driven competitors. Fuel efficiency hovers around 15-18 km/l in mixed use, thanks to the generous 19.5L tank that supports extended tours without frequent stops.

Suspension and Handling: Confidence on Any Terrain

CFMOTO nailed the balance between plush touring comfort and off-road prowess with this model's arched double A-arm front suspension (248mm travel) and TTI rear setup (260mm travel). The sway bar up front and rear stabilizer minimize body roll during cornering, while the adjustable rear preload lets you dial in for solo rides or cargo hauls. Ground clearance of 305mm easily clears obstacles, and the snorkel air intake keeps things running cool in dusty conditions—a must for our arid landscapes.

Handling feels planted at 431kg dry weight, with a compact 1295mm wheelbase that aids maneuverability in tight spaces. The 26x8-14 front and 26x10-14 rear tubeless tires on 14-inch steel rims grip tenaciously on gravel or loose dirt, and the optional bash plates (front and rear) add peace of mind against rock strikes. It's not the lightest in class, but the responsive DPS steering makes it forgiving for intermediate riders, earning high marks for all-day stability.

Braking and Safety: Robust Stopping Power

Dual 214mm hydraulic disc brakes upfront and a single rear disc provide progressive, fade-resistant stopping—crucial for downhill descents or emergency maneuvers. The full-length skid plate, radiator guard, and standard front bumper enhance durability, while LED lighting (including halogen headlights) ensures visibility during dawn patrols or evening returns. Safety features like the temperature warning light and service reminders via the digital dash promote proactive maintenance, aligning with CFMOTO's 12-month limited warranty.

Comfort and Practicality: Touring-Ready Utility

What sets the Touring variant apart is its focus on rider comfort and utility. The 850mm seat height suits a wide range of statures, with a supportive one-piece vinyl seat that's grippy yet cushioned for hours in the saddle. Storage is generous: front and rear racks, plus wells totaling 9.46L (including fender spots), make it easy to pack tools or gear. A 680kg towing capacity via the rear receiver hitch turns it into a mini tractor for trailers, and the 2.5-gallon storage capacity handles smaller essentials.

The instrumentation is a highlight—digital speedo, trip computer, hour meter, and fuel gauge keep you informed at a glance. Folding foot pegs and ergonomic hand grips reduce fatigue, though we'd love optional heated seats for those crisp Highveld mornings.

Dimensions and Build Quality: Built Tough for SA Conditions

Measuring 2388mm long, 1219mm wide, and 1245mm tall, the CFORCE 1000 Touring is sizable without feeling unwieldy. Its steel frame and plastic body panels shrug off abuse, and the China-sourced manufacturing (under CFMOTO's parent company) delivers consistent quality at a fraction of import premiums. Available in non-metallic colors, it has a clean, utilitarian aesthetic that appeals to practical buyers.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Explosive 998cc V-Twin engine with versatile CVT and 4WD options
• Excellent suspension travel and 305mm ground clearance for rough terrain
• Ample storage, towing capacity, and touring-focused comfort
• Feature-packed dash and LED lighting at a competitive price point
• Reliable shaft drive and snorkel intake for dusty environments

Cons:

• Heavier dry weight (431kg) may challenge lighter riders on technical trails
• No front preload or rebound adjustability limits fine-tuning
• Vinyl seat, while durable, lacks the premium feel of gel options
• Limited color choices and no brush guard as standard

Verdict: A Top Contender for Utility Enthusiasts

The 2025 CFMOTO CFORCE 1000 Touring is a standout in the utility ATV segment, offering premium power, practicality, and touring chops that punch above its weight—especially for South African riders tackling everything from farm duties to weekend getaways. At around R250,000-R300,000 (depending on dealer), it's a smart buy for those prioritizing performance over flash. If you're upgrading from a mid-range quad, this model's torque and features will impress. Highly recommended for 16+ riders ready for serious adventure—check it out at your local CFMOTO dealer today.