Had my 500 zforce out for the first time in the rain last weekend and when I got it out today I checked the oil and removed the plug at the bottom of the air box and was very surprised at the amount of water that drained out . We were out almost all day in the rain but with no water crossings or deep water holes . I run with a half windshield so I do get a fair bit of water in my face but even still I could not believe how much water came out . I guess that is all the more reason to do the snorkel kit I was thinking about  for a winter project                   

[2015 Z Force 800 53/Trail EPS]

How much water would you say? Where do they have the air intake on the 500s?

I would guess maybe 3oz and the intake is between the seats facing forward

[2015 Z Force 800 53/Trail EPS]

Pretty good amount. Think it got sucked-in through the intake?

I thought the opening for the duct faces the rear

On the zforce it faces forward and that is the only place that I could think it could get in

You could try an air filter prefilter over the top of it. It will shed off a bit of water and keep some of the dust out.

On the zforce it faces forward and that is the only place that I could think it could get in

On my Z600 it faces toward the rear not sure why they would change it on the 500's I could see a lot of water getting in it that way.