[Hansel]

In case there are any perspective buyers out there searching the inter webs for the hard to find details on the CFMoto Z8, I thought I'd share my thoughts on EPS, versus the standard EX.

I intended to buy my Z8 with EPS, but they didn't have one built and I didn't feel like waiting the few days they said it would take...  Anyway, I want to report that my EX really doesn't seem to need it.  Other than needing a little more effort when turning the wheel at a stop or near stopped condition, the only other times I've noticed that I don't have EPS is when in 4wd and 4w diff lock.  In 4wd, its not hard to turn, just more noticeable that it takes some effort.  In 4w diff lock, its kind of a chore.  That being said, I've never really needed the diff lock, just playing around to see what if felt like.  Overall, I would have to say that if you have ridden a RZR 800/900 with EPS, then the EX is just slightly more effort than that.  Point is, at least in my opinion, this bike doesn't seem to NEED EPS, but if you like the lighter touch, then it might be worth it to you.

[emersonsc]

In case there are any perspective buyers out there searching the inter webs for the hard to find details on the CFMoto Z8, I thought I'd share my thoughts on EPS, versus the standard EX.

I intended to buy my Z8 with EPS, but they didn't have one built and I didn't feel like waiting the few days they said it would take...  Anyway, I want to report that my EX really doesn't seem to need it.  Other than needing a little more effort when turning the wheel at a stop or near stopped condition, the only other times I've noticed that I don't have EPS is when in 4wd and 4w diff lock.  In 4wd, its not hard to turn, just more noticeable that it takes some effort.  In 4w diff lock, its kind of a chore.  That being said, I've never really needed the diff lock, just playing around to see what if felt like.  Overall, I would have to say that if you have ridden a RZR 800/900 with EPS, then the EX is just slightly more effort than that.  Point is, at least in my opinion, this bike doesn't seem to NEED EPS, but if you like the lighter touch, then it might be worth it to you.

Thats pretty much what I tell my customers, especially if I know they are trying to save some money or keep their payments down. EPS is nice, it makes driving them easier, but its not a necessity. The EPS is most useful in low speed conditions, especially when 4x4/diff lock is being used.

[Bpraim]

EPS is a little deceiving in the name. People think it just helps turn the wheels.
One of the biggest things EPS  helps is bumps steer.
Have you ever driven a vehicle without power steering? Did you feel everything you ran over?
Lets say you are cruising down the trail and snag a rock , fallen tree or a stump. And the steering wheel is ripped from your hands maybe even taking part of your thumb with it.
EPS will assist in stopping this.
I have one of the earlier Z8 non eps. It was great to drive but true off-road was a chore not a pleasure.
I installed a aftermarket eps unit and have never looked bad.
But I will agree road and lite trail riding you will never miss it.

[Nighthawk]

I have to agree with the above post.
It's very good for controlling bump steer. Do you need it? Absolutely not, but on a cold winter day those heated seats in the car and remote electric start are awesome too.
I have driven both, I actually test drove an ex non eps before ordering mine with eps.
The non eps one drove fine and wasn't hard to turn outside of very slow speed and diff lock as noted above.
I choose to go ahead and order the ex eps because I wanted it, didn't need it, but also got it for bump steer reasons when the little 4'9" girlfriend is driving it.
I couldn't be happier and do not regret it having driven both. But if your trying to save money it's not an absolute must have.