Side-by-side gains popularity
Not long ago the humble quad was the main means of getting around the farm.
If that’s you, the X400 EPS LE from CFMoto might be worth a closer look, given that the ride-away price is $6990+gst, and the distributor will throw in $1000 of accessories.
Dairy News rode one during the holidays.
Based on a 400cc single cylinder, 4-stroke/4-valve motor pushing out a moderate 30hp or so, the lively, fuel-injected motor is coupled with a heavy-duty, Canadian CV Tech transmission that offers low, high, neutral, reverse and park choices. The latter position also combines with a neat mechanical transmission lock, operated by a separate key; this should deter opportunist thieves and keep insurance companies happy.
With its double A-arm suspension at the front and rear, the 400 offers a comfortable ride with a wide, well-upholstered seat combining with rising handlebars, with guards and wide-grippy footplates to create a stable triangle.
Traction is maintained with the choice of 2WD, 4WD and a diff-lock on the front axle to ensure onfarm terrain of all sorts is tackled easily, and the bonus of a factory fitted front winch means you shouldn’t have to phone a friend or walk home.
Progress is nimble in all conditions, with the machine reaching its top speed of 80km/h quickly, helped by the modest dry weight of only 345kg.
Electric power steering allows easy control particularly in tight conditions, and the system still gives good feedback even at higher speeds.
Stopping is by front and rear disc brakes, fed by braided brake lines, while the heavy-duty transmission also imparts a good degree of engine braking when the throttle is released down-hill.
At the rear a handy storage locker sits above the standard 50mm receiver, offering a towing capacity of 350kg, and front and rear carrying racks hold 35 and 70kg respectively.
The accessory package includes a heavy-duty front-end protection/bull-bar fitment that should protect against grumpy animals or immoveable objects.
The standard alloy wheels are fitted with 6-ply mud tyres with an aggressive tread pattern designed to tackle the conditions typically found on livestock farms, particularly in winter.
CFMoto
- Formed in Zhejiang China in 1989
- At least 3000 dealerships worldwide
- Annually produce 800,000 engines and 600,000 vehicles
- 10% of revenue spent on R&D.
