The new 500HO high output engine from CFMoto.

The new 2016 CFMoto ZForce 500 which uses the new high output engine.

CFMoto recently announced two new trail side-by-sides for 2016, the ZForce 500HO Trail and the ZForce 800 Trail. The ZForce 500HO Trail is powered by their new 500HO high output engine. The single-cylinder, four-valve overhead cam, liquid-cooled engine features BOSCH electronic fuel injection for instant starts, crisp throttle response and improved fuel economy. The new engine delivers 15 percent more power and 10 percent more torque than the 600 engine it replaces. The two new trail friendly models will be available at dealers in mid-January. The 2016 lineup will also feature new Sumitomo electrical connectors to improve performance in wet conditions and more durable front differentials as part of an effort to improve the overall durability of CFMoto’s side-by-sides. The MSRP for the ZForce 500HO Trail is $8,799 and for the ZForce 800 Trail it’s $9,999. Learn more:  Powersportsbusiness.com

Comment:  While the press release notes the vehicles being 50″ wide, on a couple of dealer websites I checked have the vehicles are listed as being 52″ wide. Nevertheless, this introduction is an indication that no segment in the side-by-side market is escaping increased competition. While the 50″ trail riding segment has largely been the battleground of major brands such as Polaris and Arctic Cat, the entrance of a value brand such as CFMoto indicates both the sales potential of the segment and the determination of companies to grab a piece of the pie.