CFMOTO CFORCE 520 EPS review: is this budget-friendly ATV the ultimate hunting workhorse?

Budget-friendly quad with serious off-road ability

With high-end spec and a mid-range price, the CFORCE 520 EPS could be the ideal solution for hunters, stalkers and shoot managers looking to cover rough terrain without breaking the bank. After 250km of rigorous hill work, Shooting Times contributor Paul Austin found it to be a surprisingly capable hunting machine.

Why choose a quad over a UTV?

We’ve tested both the premium electric Polaris Ranger EV and the affordable CFMOTO UFORCE 600 UTV. But if you’re on a tighter budget, a quad bike like the CFORCE 520 offers similar off-road benefits with fewer upfront costs.

• More agile than a UTV

• Easy to tow and store

• Affordable entry point

Hunters will appreciate the access it provides, especially when weather and terrain make even a Land Rover Defender look tame.

Carrying kit and rifles securely on a quad

A quad lacks enclosed storage, so transporting firearms requires some thought. Here’s what worked:

Vorn backpack

• Instant rifle access via ripcord release

• Comfortable riding position – higher and less intrusive than drag bags

• Leaves nothing behind if you dismount for a stalk

Drag bag

• Easily straps to front or rear racks

• Great for transport, but slow to access rifle

Plano 54in hard case

• Mounts securely with ratchet straps

• Doubles as a shooting platform

• Time-consuming to remove – semi-permanent

Practicality and performance in the field

Despite being an entry-level model, the CFORCE 520 EPS is impressively well-specced:

• Towbar, winch, diff-locks and EPS all standard

• Front and rear racks

• LED lights and crisp 5in dash

• Bluetooth, twin USBs and 12V socket

During a 250km test, the CFORCE 520 handled everything thrown at it – steep slopes, boggy ground and deer extraction with a sled in tow.

Fuel consumption and quirks

MPG reality check

While the manufacturer quotes 24–25mpg, Paul averaged closer to 18mpg in steep hill country. Flat farmland users may see better results.

Braking system

Unlike some brands, CFMOTO uses the left lever for rear brakes only, with the foot pedal controlling all four wheels. Riders switching from Can-Am or Yamaha may need time to adjust.

Transmission lever ergonomics

Tall riders (6ft+) may knock knees against the moulded casing on steep descents. Not a dealbreaker, but worth noting.

Optional extras worth considering

• Heated grips

• Rear cargo box

• Front cargo tray

• Bumper protection (highly recommended for hill country)

• Limit removal (40mph cap can be lifted by dealer for private land use)

How it compares to the competition

Honda and Yamaha offer exceptional reliability, but the CFMOTO delivers unbeatable value on spec alone.

Technical specs at a glance

• Engine: 495cc liquid-cooled single, 34hp / 39Nm

• Transmission: CVTech CVT, high/low range, 2WD/4WD, diff lock

• Suspension: Dual A-arm, 26% more travel

• Brakes: Hydraulic discs all round

• Ground clearance: 254mm

• Tow capacity: 612kg (tested to 802kg)

• Winch capacity: 1,134kg

• Weight: 345kg dry

• Turning circle: 5.6m

• Dash: 5in LCD, Bluetooth, USBs, 12V

Final thoughts: Is the CFORCE 520 EPS a hunter’s quad?

If you’re running a shoot, managing stalking ground or need an affordable ATV that doesn’t skimp on spec, the CFORCE 520 EPS delivers.

It might not carry the same badge prestige as Honda or Yamaha, and resale may be a consideration, but in terms of features per pound, it’s one of the strongest options available for gamekeeping and hunting professionals.

Where to buy the CFORCE 520 EPS

Price: £5,999.17 + VAT + OTR
Supplier: P.J. Evans, Oswestry
Website: quadbikesalesandservice.co.uk
Phone: 01691 610377

CFMOTO UK info:
cfmoto.co.uk
Tel: 01507 523 900
Email: customer.services@quadzillaltd.com