The Arctic Cat F-Series machines demonstrate what happens when a sled is given a strong chassis for the suspensions to work under, and how...
The Arctic Cat F-Series machines demonstrate what happens when a sled is given a strong chassis for the suspensions to work under, and how the handling and ride character of a snowmobile can be influenced by placing the rider in a centered position. The Twin Spar chassis found on all F-Series models demonstrated this in 2007, and for 2008 there are really only detail changes that improve upon the 2007’s stellar performance as trail sleds.
There are a large number of Arctic Cat riders who haven’t even tried an F-Series sled, and they really don’t know what they’re missing. Instead of going for a smaller, sleeker appearance like what the Ski-Doos and Yamahas have been chasing, Cat stuck to their guns and reminds us that snowmobiles are ridden in extreme conditions where rider protection remains an important benefit. Where many of the competitive sleds may “look†sleek, that appearance costs you protection from the elements, and are thus very cold to ride at temps much below zero.
Last year, both the standard and Sno Pro models came with the same track (1.0â€) and dual-runners on the skis. This didn’t seem right, and Arctic Cat realized this so they’re going back to a 1.25†track on the Sno Pro models. It’s a new pattern from Camoplast called the “Cobraâ€, which is said to improve loose snow performance off-trail and provide a less positive tail lock than the Ripsaw (the Cobra will be a tad looser on the hardpack). The lightweight Cobra’s new design features rigid fingers connected by cupped sections that scoop the looser surface snow. The aggressive 1.25-inch lug features an additional 0.102-inch cutting edge and “stepped†fingers for improved traction in hard pack snow conditions, bringing the total lug height to 1.352 inches.
We’re not sure if the Sno Pros will also be fitted with a single carbide runner to go with the new track. If they don’t, they should. We’ll be putting them on immediately if they’re not that way out of the box.
In an effort to make the sleds handle more aggressively, the calibration of the front arm has been changed through a progressive front arm coil spring. This adds more ski pressure for more positive handling and less pushing, while retaining a light steering effort. This subtle change is very welcome. It also seems to deliver a plusher ride in the stutter bumps, yet retains composure and control in harsher terrain, something these sleds excel at, despite their added weight.
The Slide Action Rear Suspension is really a work of art for Arctic Cat, as the F-Series sleds will surprise and amaze most trail riders with the ride quality and bump isolation they provide. We would have to declare the 2007 F-Series sleds we logged thousands of miles on as being the best riding sleds of the year when it came to ride comfort. Our test riders would fight over who would get to ride our F6 Sno Pro and F8 when the trails or forest roads were going to be rough that day. We fully expect Arctic Cat to once again have the best riding trail sleds for 2008, as well.
A new sway bar is smaller and lighter, with its mounting points on the a-arms further outboard, coupled to new composite blocks to reduce sticktion. Coming hard into a corner you don’t have an initial amount of body roll then have the sway bar kick in. Now, the sway bar effect is more consistent as there is little, if any, binding in comparison to the 2007s (that could exhibit a slight roll, then when the block would let go of the sway bar, it’d flatten out).
Another handling improvement can be found in the rear suspension, as the limiter strap gets some holes put back in for those who like to vary the strap length for specific handling requirements. While most trail riders will simply add carbide or more aggressive skis to get the handling response they’re after, the ability to vary the limiter strap length is still used by some riders for their unique conditions or preferences.
And in what we consider to be the most noticeable difference is the addition of a truly functional mid-height windshield to the standard models. Last year both the standards and Sno Pros came with a lacking (but go-fast) windshield.
Arctic Cat has recently informed us of additional changes that are being made to the 2008s in comparison to last year’s models. One problem area was with the honeycomb cover on the intake vents. Powder snow would pack into these, making it a bugger to wipe the snow out of them for a clean intake path. For 2008, the high-mounted intakes will resemble those found on the Crossfire and M-Series sleds, a wise change.
For a cosmetic improvement, the lower side panels and the lower portion of the rear tunnel plastic will now be textured instead of the smoother finish of 2007. This should reduce the visible scratching and buffing of the panels in these vulnerable areas.
As is typical from model year to model year, the EFI programming of the F6, F8 and F1000 models has been upgraded with revised fuel mapping that should increase the performance at any elevation. No mention has been made, however, of improvements in fuel economy. The throttle body EFIs run quite well, but they do use slightly more fuel than the four-strokes or the SDI/CFI injection systems used by Ski-Doo and Polaris.
From what we can tell, the F1000s will also be getting some tweaks to the clutching in the form of heavier flyweights, as the four-tower primary has been replaced with a more traditional three-tower primary. That means we’re now back to three flyweights instead of the four used in the 2007s. The F1000s are also coming with a multi-angle 46/40 helix in the secondary, which should quicken the upshift and enhance the acceleration of the big twin. F8s get new gearing as well, now 64/56 for improved top end performance, compared to 62/58 as used in the 2007s.
You’ll also find a new exhaust deflector on all Twin Spar chassis sleds, designed to better direct the spent gasses away from the side panel for less heat damage and soiling.
One minor gripe with the 2007s was the difficulty in getting the clutch guard off. Now this should be easier, as there’s a new 2-pin quick-pull design.
One other issue was with the way we would knock the rear-facing side panel vents out of the side panels with our knees. Quite often we’d find them laying down inside of the side panels, chewed up by the rotating secondary clutch or brake disc. This time around they have an improved locking design with longer tabs so we shouldn’t have to glue them in place any more.
And in the durability department, really aggressive riders were finding they were damaging the rear arm on the 2007s in extreme conditions. Cat’s cross country racers figured this one out, so they came up with a stronger rear arm that proved to work well in the race circuit.
Just like last year, there is a noticeable difference between the standard versions and the Sno Pro models. The faster you ride and the rougher it is, the better the Sno Pros will work in comparison to the standard ones. The standard sleds are excellent at typical trail conditions, and it really takes some hammering on them to need a Sno Pro, but there is a point at which the Sno Pro is going to be the better sled. And likewise, there is a point where the standard sleds are going to be more compliant through the stutter bumps, yet will bottom easier than a Sno Pro. There is no right or wrong here, it is really a matter of matching the calibration to your conditions and riding style. Younger riders typically go Sno Pro, a better fit for standing and rougher riding. Sit down riders and those not standing as much will find the comfort greater on a standard issue. This has held true for many years, and continues. All of these are flatter cornering sleds, more like the ZRs of old.
The 2008 Arctic Cat F-Series machines come in four engine sizes and two suspension packages, ‘standard†and “SnoProâ€. The F5 retails for only $7,399. The F6 goes for $8,699. The F8 will run $9,599, and the F1000 costs a cool $11,249 (gulp!). The F6 Sno Pro sells for $9,499, with the F8 Sno Pro running $10,399 and the top-of-the-line F1000 Sno Pro coming in at $12,099. All of these are offered in black, green or orange. The F8 Sno Pro and F1000 Sno Pro were also offered in a “Nightfire Limited Edition†package during the spring at no extra cost.
FAQs
How much horsepower does a 2008 Arctic Cat f6 LXR have? ›
Arctic Cat claims its middleweight engine is good for 118 hp.
What year did Arctic Cat go to EFI? ›Since introducing its EFI system in 1990, Arctic Cat snowmobiles have become well known for guaranteed second pull starts, smooth idling, light throttle pull and automatic temperature and altitude compensation.
How much horsepower does a Arctic Cat Sno Pro 500 have? ›Since its introduction for model year 2010, the Arctic Cat Sno Pro 500 has been the definition of lightweight fun. Its engine only makes about 85 horsepower, but when placed in Cat's race chassis, engineers make it rev high and engage hard.
Who makes Arctic Cat 2 stroke? ›Arctic Cat became a part of Textron in 2017.
What is the top speed of the Arctic Cat F6? ›We ran this baby hard in our Real World Shoot-Out and it hit a top speed of 98.28 mph, just behind Polaris' Fusion 600 H.O., and ripped off the quarter-mile in 14.15 seconds, second fastest of our four tested 600s. By comparison the F7 hit 103.85 mph and did the quarter in 13.29 seconds.
How much horsepower does a 2008 F6 have? ›FG MKI (2008–2011) FPV released a new FG Falcon-based range in 2008, including F6 models which no longer used the Typhoon and Tornado monikers. The 4.0L Turbo engine has been further enhanced, with power increased to 310 kW (416 hp), and torque to 565 N⋅m (417 ft⋅lbf).
Is Arctic Cat owned by Polaris? ›Polaris Industries was originally founded by David Johnson and brothers Edgar and Alan Heteen. In 1960, Edgar Heteen separated from the company and went on to found Arctic Enterprises, later known as Arctic Cat. Coincidentally, the manufacturer Textron would acquire Polaris in 1968 and later Arctic Cat in 2017.
What year did Arctic Cat stop using Suzuki engines? ›Cloud, Minn., after the 2014 model year. Currently, Suzuki supplies all engines for Arctic Cat's snowmobiles. Suzuki will continue to supply the company with engine parts to service existing engines after the 2014 model year. Arctic Cat's chairman and chief executive officer, Christopher A.
What year did Arctic Cat go out of business? ›Various boat manufacturers, including Silver Line, Lund and Spirit Marine, were bought to attempt to expand the company. However, Arctic Cat went bankrupt in 1982.
How much horsepower does the Arctic Cat F7 have? ›The Arctic Cat F7 uses a 698cc Suzuki twin with an output of 140 hp.
What is the fastest snowmobile Arctic Cat? ›
2024 Arctic Cat ZR 9000 Thundercat ATAC ES EPS • $21,999
With the fastest, fiercest snowmobile on the planet, you'll be untouchable. The ZR® Thundercat is the ultimate ride for the speed demon in your family.
LEGENDARY POWER. With a Thundercat, there's no settling for second best. You need the biggest, most powerful engine on the trail: the 9000-Series C-TEC4™ turbocharged powerhouse. With this much power, no other snowmobile will even come close.
Is Arctic Cat better than Polaris? ›Is Arctic Cat Better Than Polaris? Polaris is more reliable as a brand and normally offers sleds of higher quality than Arctic Cat. Polaris also has a wider range of vehicles to choose from. So, in our humble opinion, Polaris wins this one.
Do Arctic Cats have Yamaha engines? ›To date the Yamaha/Cat connection works. Arctic Cat supplies an existing platform. Yamaha supplies the power. Both companies manage their own differentiation.
What year did Arctic Cat have Suzuki engines? ›Suzuki and Arctic Cat have partnered since 1976, when Suzuki displaced Kawasaki as Cat's engine supplier.
How much HP does a Arctic Cat F6 have? ›A 3D ignition, exhaust pipe sensor and Arctic Power Valve technology improve power and reduce emissions. Arctic Cat claims its middleweight engine is good for 118 hp.
What was the fastest snowmobile? ›The world's fastest production snowmobile currently goes to the Ski-Doo MXZ X 800R E-TEC, reaching speeds up to 120 mph!
How fast is a F7 Arctic Cat? ›It hit 103.85 mph and nabbed the second best quarter-mile time at 13.29 seconds.
How much HP does a 2004 Arctic Cat f6 have? ›| Identification | |
|---|---|
| Cylinders | 2 |
| Engine Stroke | 2-Stroke |
| Horsepower (bhp/kW) | 118 / 88.1 |
| Cooling | Liquid |
How much horsepower does a 2004 f7 have? ›
| Identification | |
|---|---|
| Engine Stroke | 2-Stroke |
| Horsepower (bhp/kW) | 140 / 104.5 |
| Cooling | Liquid |
| Valve Configuration | Reed Valve |
In 1982, the company went bankrupt. Luckily, Hetteen had founded a new company known as Arctco and was able to continue the production of Arctic Enterprises' snowmobiles only two years later.
Is Arctic Cat a good brand? ›As expected of a Powersports brand, Arctic Cat has reliable handling and off-road capabilities. When properly aligned, their ATVs are remarkably sturdy and agile, even though they use different suspensions for various ATVs.
Where is Arctic Cat made? ›Today, the bulk of our manufacturing happens at our facility in Thief River Falls, MN, with trails in our backyard and the mountains just a day's drive away. Our vehicles explore the world, but they all start with American workers and an American work ethic.
What year Arctic Cats have Diamond Drive? ›The wizards from Arctic Cat had a simple idea – create a lighter more efficient drive train for the transmission of power from belt to track. After much R&D, Arctic in 2004 released the now famous Diamond Drive on the venerable ZR 900.
Who owns Arctic Cat? › Why did cat stop making highway engines? ›
They stopped manufacturing on-highway engines in 2010, making the SDP engine the last C15 and the last class-eight truck engine they built. So, instead, they decided to focus on their successful off-highway applications where they saw more money.
Did Arctic Cat get sued? ›Arctic Cat infringed on BRP's 'pyramidal frame' from REV line of Ski-Doos. Bombardier Recreational Products, the maker of Ski-Doo brand snowmobiles, has been awarded $2.8 million in damages by a Federal Court judge after suing rival Arctic Cat over a patent infringement.
Did Arctic Cat use Kawasaki engines? ›Cat never used a liquid Kawasaki engine in their consumer sleds.
Did tracker buy out Arctic Cat? ›Is Tracker Off Road really just Arctic Cat? No. Tracker Off Road is designed, engineered and manufactured as a stand-alone and separate brand.
What year did Arctic Cat make the F7? ›
2003-2006 Arctic Cat Firecat F7 Performance Products & Parts | Speedwerx Inc.
How much horsepower does the Arctic Cat F1000 have? ›The F1000 Sno Pro is powered by the 170 hp, laydown engine with dual, 50mm throttle bodies.
What's high mileage for a snowmobile? ›Generally speaking, a snowmobile with over 8,000 is considered high mileage, 4,000-8,000 miles is considered medium and anything under 3,000 miles is considered low mileage.
What is the most powerful 2-stroke snowmobile engine? ›Rotax 850 E-TEC Turbo R with Water Injection
The most powerful factory-built 2-stroke snowmobile widens the gap on the competition. Heart pounding power, response and mind bending acceleration in your hands.
The 2023 M 8000 snowmobiles are the lightest and most capable mountain snowmobiles Arctic Cat makes. The playful nature of the ALPHA-ONE single beam rear suspension is their signature cornerstone backed by a powerful C-TEC2 engine and a variety of track lengths and lug height options.
What is the most reliable snowmobile? ›- Bombardier Recreational Products. Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP) is a Quebec-based snowmobile manufacturer. ...
- Polaris. ...
- Yamaha. ...
- Arctic Cat. ...
- Yamaha Sidewinder X-TX SE 146. ...
- Ski-Doo Expedition Xtreme 850 E-TEC. ...
- Polaris 850 Switchback Assault 144. ...
- Arctic Cat M 8000 Mountain Cat Alpha One.
ENGINE: Hirth, 793 cc, 70 h.p. 1 of only 178 built with the Hirth 793 cc.
Which brand sells the most snowmobiles? ›Polaris claims that it gained market share in North America, gaining its highest total in 13 years and winning back its Number One snowmobile sales position in the mountain segment. An analysis of the snowmobile market indicates that Ski-Doo as well as Polaris has increased market share since model year 2010.
Are 4 stroke snowmobiles more reliable? ›Snowmobiles used to rely solely on 2-stroke engines, but since the 2000s, 4-stroke engines have become more common. 4-strokes are more reliable, practical, and durable, however there have been recent developments in the production of 2-strokes.
What motors are in Arctic Cats? ›In short, it is a 794cc twin-cylinder engine that generates around 160hp. This engine has also proven to be a good and reliable performance engine. The 800 C-TEC2 is used extensively in the Arctic Cat snowmobile fleet. It can be found in all the snowmobile families except, of course, the Blast and children's models.
What engine is in a Arctic Cat side by side? ›
The vehicle is powered by an 812cc EFI three-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine.
Who makes Textron engines? ›Textron Aviation
Beechcraft Corporation is an American manufacturer of general aviation and military aircraft, ranging from light, single-engined aircraft to twin-engined turboprop transports and military trainers.
With all of the products the Honda company has made, not many realize they did make this snowmobile in 1973. At least 200 were made.
Did Suzuki make engines for Arctic Cat? ›PART 3: Arctic Cat's Suzuki Case Reed 800cc TBI Twin
This throttle body–injected twin was a staple on Arctic Cat's engine menu for almost 15 years. The engine's hallmark was unquestionably its bulletproof reliability.
A 3D ignition, exhaust pipe sensor and Arctic Power Valve technology improve power and reduce emissions. Arctic Cat claims its middleweight engine is good for 118 hp.
How much horsepower does a 2007 Arctic Cat f8 LXR have? ›This 794cc engine is new for 2007. This engine, which makes 145 hp, has 26 percent more torque and uses 11 percent less fuel than the 700 engine it replaces. A twin spark plug-head increases the spark energy for a more complete burn while producing efficient combustion at low- and mid-rpm ranges.
How much hp does the Arctic Cat ZR 6000 have? ›ZR 6000 – Is powered by the 125-Class horsepower of Arctic Cat's C-TEC2 599cc twin-cylinder two-stroke engine, delivering instant throttle response and the convenience of push-button engine reverse and electric start.
How much hp does a Arctic Cat F7 have? ›The Arctic Cat F7 uses a 698cc Suzuki twin with an output of 140 hp.
What year did the Arctic Cat F6 come out? ›| Arctic Cat Model | Years | Pitch |
|---|---|---|
| Arctic Cat Firecat F5 F6 & F7 (all except Sno Pro) | 2005 To 2006 | 2.52 |
| Arctic Cat Firecat Sno Pro (all) | 2005 To 2006 | 2.52 |
| Arctic Cat Firecat (all except EXT) | 2004 To 2004 | 2.52 |
| Arctic Cat Firecat (all) | 2003 To 2003 | 2.52 |
How much horsepower does a 2008 Arctic Cat z1 have? ›
The 1056cc twin engine is powerful, rated at 125 hp.
How much hp does a Arctic Cat m8000 have? ›The wait is over! The all-new 8000 Series C-TEC2 794cc engine with Dual-Stage Injection (DSI) delivers increased performance and rideability in the 160-hp class.
How much horsepower does a Arctic Cat f5 have? ›| Identification | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Horizontal In-line |
| Cylinders | 2 |
| Engine Stroke | 2-Stroke |
| Horsepower (bhp/kW) | 105 / 78.4 |
ENGINE: Hirth, 793 cc, 70 h.p.
How much hp does a Arctic Cat 1000 have? ›RACE-WORTHY POWER
Equipped with a class-leading 998cc, three cylinder, 4-stroke EFI engine producing 130HP, the Arctic Cat Wildcat XX is built to push the limits.
90 plus Horsepower, V-Twin, SOHC, liquid-cooled, 951cc, Electronic Fuel Injection built for massive torque and the utmost of acceleration.
How much horsepower does a 2023 Arctic Cat m8000 have? ›The C-TEC2 794cc twin-cylinder engine, delivers clean responsive performance with leading fuel economy, 165-class horsepower, push-button engine reverse and choice of manual, or electric starting.