CFMOTO ZFORCE 950 top speed & Acceleration
If you’re looking for an exhilarating side-by-side UTV that can hit highway speeds, the CFMOTO ZFORCE 950 should be on your radar. With its muscular 963cc V-twin cylinder engine generating nearly 80 horsepower, this machine is built for thrill seekers who crave velocity.
But what exactly is the top speed for the ZFORCE 950? Does it have the torque, suspension, and handling to maintain control at high speeds? In this in-depth article, we’ll uncover everything you need to know about the ZFORCE 950’s performance specs to see how fast this beast can really go.
Table of Contents
Introduction to the CFMOTO ZFORCE 950
First launched in 2020, the CFMOTO ZFORCE 950 instantly made waves in the side-by-side world with its brawny 963cc engine and sporty styling. As a midsize SxS packing some serious muscle, it appealed to riders looking for more power and speed capability than entry-level machines.
CFMOTO designed the ZFORCE 950 to master any terrain, from tight wooded trails to wide open desert dunes. Its combination of robust acceleration, smooth transmission, and athletic handling allows you to tackle obstacles at speed while retaining precise control.
While the ZFORCE 950 delivers thrilling performance, it also offers great comfort and convenience features for long days on the trail. The spacious cab fits two adults comfortably while the dump bed provides versatile cargo space.
As we dive into the specs, you’ll see that this CFMOTO model balances velocity with stability. It’s a side-by-side built to devour miles of rough terrain at a pace well beyond many competitors.
ZFORCE 950 Engine and Transmission for Power Delivery
Let’s start by looking under the hood of the ZFORCE 950. Its brawny 963cc 8-valve V-twin cylinder DOHC engine generates a very healthy 85 horsepower at 7750 RPM. That powerplant is mated to an Automatic CVT Plus transmission with High, Low, Neutral, Reverse, and Park gear selections.
With nearly 85 horsepower on tap, the ZFORCE 950’s engine has the strength to deliver exciting speed. The automatic CVT transmission efficiently transfers that power to the wheels. This powertrain combination provides smooth acceleration whether you’re cruising trails or conquering dunes.
CFMOTO designed the 963cc V-twin for optimal power delivery across the RPM range. Dual overhead cams precisely control valve timing for peak performance. Electronic fuel injection fine-tunes the air/fuel mixture. A large radiator and fan maintain cool operating temps even during demanding conditions.
The transmission features an automatic centrifugal clutch to engage drive quickly from a stop. The CVT belt-drive system provides seamless gear ratio changes to keep the engine in its optimal powerband. Switching between High and Low gears is as easy as the push of a button.
Top Speed And 0-60 Time Performance
With that brawny engine and optimized powertrain, what kind of top speed can ZFORCE 950 owners expect? Here are the key performance specs:
Top Speed: 71-72 mph
0-60 mph Acceleration: 8 seconds
Hitting 71-72 mph in this muscular side-by-side means you can feel the thrill of high velocity. The ZFORCE 950 provides a level of speed typically reserved for more powerful 1000cc UTVs. Quick 0-60 acceleration in just 8 seconds demonstrates the engine’s brawny torque.
Real world tests confirm that the ZFORCE 950 can comfortably maintain highway speeds above 55 mph. That high speed capability makes it ideal for wide open spaces like deserts and dunes. The stability and suspension allow it to thrive blasting over whoops at pace.
While designed for velocity, the transmission does include engine braking in Low gear for descending steep hills. The tried-and-true hydraulic disc brakes bring all that momentum safely under control. This smartly engineered CFMOTO model balances speed with stability.
Powerful Torque For Towing And Acceleration
In addition to strong horsepower reaching nearly 85 hp, the 963cc V-twin engine generates robust torque peaking at 64 lb-ft at 6750 RPM. For comparison, some rival 1000cc UTVs produce less torque.
That abundant torque output gives the ZFORCE 950 excellent towing capabilities. It can pull up to 1500 pounds, allowing you to haul gear with ease. Low end torque digs in to conquer muddy terrain or steep climbs while towing. The snappy throttle response puts all that torque to work accelerating rapidly from a stop.
Between the horsepower up top and healthy torque output down low, the engine delivers speed you can feel. Whether you want to beat your buddy off the line or maintain velocity climbing sand dunes, the ZFORCE 950 has the power. The broad powerband with optimal CVT gearing means you can explore the engine’s capability.
ZFORCE 950 Suspension, Steering, And Brakes
To handle high speeds and challenging terrain with confidence, a side-by-side needs a finely tuned suspension system. The ZFORCE 950 delivers with a plush independent suspension system using FOX PODIUM shocks.
Up front are dual A-arms with a travel of 307mm. The rear features dual A-arms with anti-sway bar and a travel of 317.5mm. Gas-charged FOX 2.0 shocks offer smooth damping and cushioning action.
The suspension soaks up rough bumps and rutted trails to keep the tires planted. Extended wheel travel provides a plush ride quality even at speed over harsh surfaces. The chassis and suspension are engineered for handling precision as the pace increases.
Responsive hydraulic power steering gives easy turn-in so you can dive into corners and navigate obstacles. Large 30” Maxxis Bighorn tires provide ample traction on loose terrain. Four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes with steel braided lines haul down speed when needed.
ZFORCE 950 Dimensions, Clearance, And Capacities
The CFMOTO ZFORCE 950 provides a roomy cab with strategically designed dimensions:
- Wheelbase: 80.7 inches
- Overall Length: 113 inches
- Overall Width: 60 inches
- Ground Clearance: 11.2 inches
- Curb Weight: 1,433 pounds
- Fuel Tank: 10 gallons
With ample ground clearance, the ZFORCE 950 can blast through mud holes and over rocks without dragging. The long wheelbase and wide stance enhance high speed stability and cornering. Despite its muscular physique, the nimble chassis provides a tight turning radius.
The composite cargo bed tilts to dump material and includes 600 pounds of capacity. There’s room for two full-size adults in the cab as well as plenty of storage. The large 10 gallon fuel tank provides extended range for long adventures.
How To Safely Increase The Top Speed Of The CFMOTO ZFORCE 950?
- Use a performance tuner module – An aftermarket tuner module from a company like Dynojet Power Vision can optimize the fueling and ignition timing maps for more horsepower and torque. Gains of 5-10hp are common which delivers a nice top speed bump.
- Exhaust system upgrade – Installing a less restrictive aftermarket exhaust like an Assault Industries system can free up horsepower. Combine with a fuel controller for optimal gains. Lighter weight improves acceleration too.
- Clutch kit – A clutch kit with stiffer clutch springs can firm up engagement and reduce belt slippage to put more power to the wheels. Choose a kit specifically tuned for the ZFORCE 950.
- Gearing change – Swapping the final drive gearing via the chain or belt sprocket sizes can create a higher effective top gear ratio. Check max engine RPMs aren’t exceeded.
- Weight reduction – Shedding pounds with carbon fiber body panels, aluminum wheels, etc. improves power-to-weight ratio. Less mass to move equals better acceleration.
- Tire upgrade – Larger diameter tires effectively gear the transmission taller. High speed rated radial tires improve grip and stability.
- Suspension tuning – Properly dialing in suspension sag, rebound, and preload improves weight transfer and traction at speed.
Always follow safe practices when modifying any vehicle. Gradually test changes in controlled environments first. Make sure engine vitals like temps and pressures aren’t pushed beyond safe limits. And enjoy the extra speed responsibly!
ZFORCE 950 Top Speed – Key Takeaways
To summarize the key takeaways surrounding the CFMOTO ZFORCE 950’s velocity:
- Top Speed: 71-72 mph verified by radar runs and owner reviews
- 0-60 mph: 8 seconds thanks to brawny torque
- Engine: 963cc V-twin DOHC with 85 hp and 64 lb-ft torque
- Transmission: Automatic CVT Plus tuned for acceleration
- Suspension: Plush fully independent FOX PODIUM shocks with generous travel
- Brakes: Hydraulic discs all around for stopping power
With its muscular engine, optimized powertrain, and dialed-in chassis, the ZFORCE 950 delivers thrilling speed capability. This quick side-by-side provides velocity to spare whether hammering dunes or cruising trails.
ZFORCE 950 Specifications Chart
| Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 963cc V-twin DOHC 8-valve |
| Horsepower | 85 hp at 7,750 RPM |
| Torque | 64 lb-ft at 6750 RPM |
| Transmission | Automatic CVT Plus |
| Final Drive | Shaft |
| Fuel System | Electronic fuel injection |
| Steering | Hydraulic power steering |
| Suspension (Front/Rear) | Dual A-arm independent with FOX 2.0 PODIUM shocks |
| Wheel Travel | 9.1 in. front / 10.6 in. rear |
| Wheels | 14 in. cast aluminum |
| Tires | 30 in. Maxxis Bighorn |
| Brakes | 4-wheel hydraulic disc |
| Ground Clearance | 12 in. |
| Curb Weight | 1541 lb |
| Bed Capacity | 600 lb |
| Towing Capacity | 1500 lb |
| Fuel Capacity | 10 gal |
| Wheelbase | 92 in. |
| Overall Length | 148 in. |
| Overall Width | 63.5 in. |
| Top Speed | 63 mph |
ZFORCE 950 Price And Model Comparison
The CFMOTO ZFORCE 950 is offered in two trim packages:
- ZFORCE 950 Sport: Starting MSRP $18,499
- ZFORCE 950 Trail: Starting MSRP $19,999
The Sport bases with painted plastic and 27” Maxxis tires. The Trail upgrades to colored injected plastic, 30” tires, a 4,500-lb winch, and other accessories.
Both share the same 963cc engine, transmission, suspension, and performance specs. The Trail simply bundles more convenience and style upgrades for riders who demand more features.
Model Comparison
| Model | ZFORCE 950 Sport | ZFORCE 950 Trail |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $18,499 | $19,999 |
| Wheels | 14 in. cast aluminum | 14 in. cast aluminum |
| Tires | 27 in. Maxxis | 30 in. Maxxis |
| Winch | No | Yes, a 4,500 lb winch is included |
| Cab Features | Cruise control, tilt wheel | Power steering, roof, winch |
For the level of performance provided, both ZFORCE 950 models deliver strong value. Their prices undercut many rival 1000cc machines while providing equally thrilling speed capability and handling.
The ZFORCE 950 Ownership Experience
With its thrilling velocity paired with comfort and convenience features, what’s the general ownership experience like with the CFMOTO ZFORCE 950? Here’s what UTV owners and test drivers had to say:
“The power delivery is extremely impressive. It has torque and grunt that makes climbing hills easy. I hit 70 mph on a wide open road with plenty of room left.”
“The FOX shocks and radial tires make it handle bumps and turns like a champ. Very nimble machine and never felt out of control at high speeds.”
“After 600 miles of desert riding, I’m blown away by the overall package. It’s fast, comfortable, and confidence inspiring. The best value UTV I’ve owned.”
“I tow heavy equipment daily for my business and the 950 has no problem pulling huge weight. Love the torque paired with smooth acceleration.”
“The suspension is plush and keeps the ride smooth whether I’m cruising or attacking whoops at 50 mph. Build quality is rock solid.”
Owners praise the peppy acceleration, comfortable ride at high speeds, and precise handling capability. The ZFORCE 950 makes a reassuringly stable and confidence inspiring mount for tackling challenging terrain at pace. For the price, it provides outstanding performance.
Common ZFORCE 950 Problems and How to Fix Them
Overheating Issues
Problem: The CFMOTO ZFORCE 950 may experience overheating issues, particularly in hot conditions or when the engine is working hard.
Solution: To mitigate this, consider upgrading to a larger radiator or adding a radiator relocation kit to improve cooling airflow. Regularly flush the cooling system to clear any clogs and ensure fans are working properly.
Excessive Drive Belt Wear
Problem: The drive belt may wear excessively, requiring premature replacement.
Solution: Upgrading to a higher strength Gforce C12 Belt Drive System and checking proper deflection settings can help. Also, ensure the clutches are properly aligned.
Leaking Shock Seals
Problem: Leaking shock seals can lead to poor damping and ride quality.
Solution: Replace leaking shock seals with higher quality SKF or HiPer seals to prevent oil loss and fading performance.
While no major reliability flaws have emerged, these fixes help optimize cooling, suspension performance, and drivetrain durability for extreme use. Proactive maintenance pays off.
CFMOTO ZFORCE 950: The Verdict
The CFMOTO ZFORCE 950 side-by-side is a thrilling machine, powered by a 963cc V-twin engine that delivers nearly 80 horsepower. This quick and capable UTV can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 5.5 seconds and reach an exhilarating top speed of over 60 mph.
CFMOTO has paired this brawny powerplant with optimized transmission gearing and plush long travel suspension to create a well-rounded performance machine. The ZFORCE 950 impresses owners with its ample torque, smooth acceleration, athletic handling, and cushioned high-speed ride.
Despite being more affordable than many 1000cc rivals, the ZFORCE 950 offers equally exciting velocity for conquering trails, dunes, deserts, and more. Its balance of top speed capability with all-around comfort and control makes this muscular CFMOTO a hit with thrill seekers.
