🕙 Mon–Fri 10 AM – 6 PM · Sat by appointment · Sun closed💬 Hablamos español  ·  📞 (619) 486-6622  ·  📍 1062 N 2nd Street, El Cajon
Blog · ATVs

Which CFMOTO ATV Size Is Right for You?

October 12, 2026 · 3 min read · CFMOTO of El Cajon

The CFORCE lineup runs from a nimble 400 all the way up to the 963cc CFORCE 1000 Overland. That’s a big range, and the right one depends on who’s riding, where, and what you need it to do. Bigger isn’t automatically better. Here’s how we help San Diego riders pick.

Every CFORCE starts well equipped

Before we get into sizes, one thing worth knowing: every CFORCE comes with power steering, a winch and alloy wheels as standard equipment. You’re not choosing a bigger model just to get those. You’re choosing for power, size and seating.

The lineup, small to large

CFORCE 400

The smallest and lightest of the full-size CFORCE models. A good fit for smaller adults, lighter-duty chores, and riders who want something easy to handle on tight trails. It’s also less intimidating for a first ATV.

CFORCE 500 / 520

The all-rounder. More power than the 400 without the size of the big bores. If you’re splitting time between trail rides and property work, this is where a lot of riders land. One of our customers picked up a CFORCE 500 in camo and hasn’t looked back.

CFORCE 600 and 600 Touring

A step up in power for bigger riders, more hauling and steeper terrain. The Touring version adds a factory passenger seat.

CFORCE 800 / 850 Touring

Big-bore power with two-up seating from the factory. For riders who carry a passenger regularly, tow, or ride a lot of hills, this is a serious machine.

CFORCE 1000 Overland

The top of the line, with a 963cc engine. For experienced riders who want maximum power for long days, heavy work and big terrain.

How to choose

  • Your size and experience. A smaller or newer rider is usually happier on a 400 or 500 they can handle confidently than on a 1000 that handles them.
  • Your terrain. Tight trails reward a lighter machine. Big hills, sand and long climbs reward more engine.
  • Your work. If you tow, plow, or haul regularly, lean toward the larger models. Ask us for the current towing and rack ratings on the model you’re considering.
  • Your passenger. Never put a passenger on a single-seat ATV. If you want to ride two-up, buy a Touring model built for it.

Touring models: built for two

A single-seat ATV is designed for one rider. The rider has to shift their weight to steer and balance it, and a passenger on the rack makes that dangerous. CFMOTO’s Touring models (600 Touring and 800/850 Touring) come with a factory passenger seat and are designed to carry two. If you plan to ride with a partner or older kid behind you, that’s the right choice.

Your first ATV

If this is your first ATV, start smaller than you think you need. Most first-time riders do best on a 400 or 500. Take a hands-on training course. The ATV Safety Institute runs RiderCourses, and they’re worth the time. Always wear a helmet, eye protection, gloves, boots and long sleeves and pants.

In California, ATVs used off-highway need OHV registration. That’s included in our take-home pricing, so the price you see on the CFORCE page is what you pay.

A word about kids and ATVs

This matters. Full-size ATVs are not for children. Follow the age recommendation on the warning label of every machine. The industry and the Consumer Product Safety Commission are clear that adult-size ATVs are not for riders under 16. Kids should ride only age-appropriate youth models, with adult supervision, full protective gear and proper training. If you’re shopping for a younger rider, talk to us first and we’ll help you do it safely.

Gear and setup

Plan to budget for a good helmet and gear, and think about racks, a storage box or a plow if you’ll be working the machine. We stock genuine CFMOTO parts and accessories and install them here in El Cajon.

Sit on a few

The best way to pick a size is to sit on them back to back. Come by 1062 N 2nd Street in El Cajon, Monday through Friday 10 to 6, or call (619) 486-6622. We’ll show you what’s on the floor and match you to the right CFORCE, not the biggest one.

Quick answers

What size CFMOTO ATV should a beginner get?
Most first-time adult riders do best on a CFORCE 400 or 500. They’re lighter and easier to handle, and every CFORCE comes with power steering, a winch and alloy wheels.
Can I carry a passenger on a CFMOTO ATV?
Only on a Touring model, such as the CFORCE 600 Touring or 800/850 Touring, which has a factory passenger seat. Never carry a passenger on a single-seat ATV.
Can kids ride a full-size CFORCE?
No. Adult-size ATVs are not for riders under 16. Follow the age label on every machine, and keep kids on age-appropriate youth models with supervision, gear and training.
Questions about this? Call or text (619) 486-6622, stop by 1062 N 2nd Street in El Cajon, or send us a note. ¿En español? Josear Carrasco, (619) 663-9341.
Keep reading

More from the blog

All articles →
📞 Call🏍 InventoryGet a Quote