CFMoto is in the middle of a PR nightmare, and it's potentially quite justifiable. But the record needs to be set straight for riders here in the USA. Rumors have been going around that CFMoto will begin to charge customers for using its RideSync app, and these rumors started from one of the most divisive motorcycle YouTubers out there: Yammie Noob.
Since Yammie Noob released a podcast stating that CFMoto was about to start charging for the services provided on the RideSync app, like ride analytics, vehicle status monitoring, system scans, and more, he has since released another podcast saying he was mistaken. Essentially, he confused what was happening in Europe with CFMoto's Global Ride app and the RideSync app that's used in the USA.
The confusion has caused such a stir that CFMoto has put out a press release stating, "That’s why we’re glad we can reply that this allegation is FALSE. CFMOTO USA’s app, CFMOTO RideSync® is free to CFMOTO USA owners and CFMOTO USA does not - and has never had - any plans to charge for a subscription, now or in the future. This is not a backpedal or change in policy due to recent press; since the app’s launch, CFMOTO USA has always believed in a free and accessible app as a better way for customers to get most out of their vehicles - just another example of how riders can Experience More with CFMOTO."
So, according to CFMoto, those of you who use the RideSync app in the USA don't have to worry about a subscription service coming your way, and you never will. But let's not forget why this all happened—it essentially is happening in all other regions, just under an app with a different name.
The RideSync app and Global Ride app both work using CFMoto's T-Box, which is basically a dongle that's connected to the motorcycle. In some regions, the T-Box is standard equipment, and in others it's a paid extra. Regardless of whether you paid for a T-Box or it was standard equipment on your motorcycle, it's needed to use the Global Ride app in Europe and other regions, and that app appears to have gotten an overnight subscription.
I reached out to a CFMoto representative for clarification and was told, "I can confirm that prior to August 15, 2025, the CFMOTO Ride App offered free service to CFMOTO T-Box owners. On that date, the app transitioned to a paid subscription that offers different subscription options, with the highest-featured option totaling 44.90 Euro, or $49.90 USD."
This sucks for people who bought a CFMoto thinking that the Global Ride app and all its features were included in the sale, well, because they were, but are now retroactively being put behind a paywall. But it sucks even more for those who paid extra for the T-Box to use the Global Ride app and now have to pay an additional subscription, which didn't exist when they decided to buy the T-Box. Actually, it doesn't just suck, it's absolutely wrong.
Companies are pushing to see how much they can get away with these subscription services. KTM did it with 'Demo Mode' and I think that made some riders less compassionate when its financial troubles were announced. And I think this will hurt the public opinion of CFMoto in much the same way. Because, no, it's not happening to you, but it is to your two-wheeled brothers and sisters around the globe, and that's not OK.
The two apps might have different names, but it's the same story. What we were worried was happening to riders in the US is happening to riders elsewhere, so let us know what you think about that in the comments. To clarify, the subscription payment isn't due overnight, and users of the Global Ride app will have 6-18 months (depending on their activation date) before subscription payment is required.
