Arctic Cat has been busy this past winter-times three.
Cat unveiled three new mid-size ATV models: the XC450i 4x4, 425 4x4 and 350 4x4. Each model has a host of features targeted for those riders who are looking for everything but the big horsepower.
Here's a look at each new model, from the biggest to the smallest engine displacement.
The all-new 2011 XC450i 4x4 is a new entrant into a category Arctic Cat likes to call Crossover. This growing segment is for consumers who demand the capabilities of 4WD, but also want a sport-inspired ATV without the premium price (MSRP $6,699).
Powered by the smooth consistency of the potent 443cc, SOHC, liquid-cooled, single- cylinder, the XC has the ultimate mid-range performance via Electronic Fuel Injection that tunes the engine for any temperature, elevation and humidity no matter what the riding condition.
Dominating the trails is effortless via the ultra-tough, featherweight chassis featuring A-arm fully independent rear suspension (FIS) and double A-arm front, with 5-way preload adjustable shocks and 7 inches of suspension travel. The 5-way preload shocks allow the rider to set the spring preload (five rear positions, five front positions) for not only individual riding styles but a variety of terrain and even loads. The XC450i has 10 inches of ground clearance.
A rear-mounted sway bar keeps the rear of the XC450i planted during aggressive cornering while ground clearance is an industry-leading 10 inches so any performance trail rider can tackle gnarly terrain with confidence. Just in case you come across some unforeseen object on the trail that could cause some damage to the underside, a durable, full-length plastic skid plate is there for added protection.
An electronic 2WD/4WD switch on the right hand control makes going in/out of 4WD an easy process while the sport-inspired painted bodywork provides ample mud protection and is available in metallic black.
Standard equipment includes 12-inch cast aluminum wheels, a 2-inch "automotive style" receiver hitch with a 1,050-lb. towing capacity, digital instrument pod and Start-In-Gear capability. The vehicle sits on Maxxis 23x8-12 front and 23x10-12 rear tires.
Next is the all-new 425 4x4, which fits into one of the best-selling segments of the ATV industry and comes with a price tag of $5,999.
The newly styled 425 bodywork is an upgrade that calls attention to the sculpted fenders, headlights and grille-still narrow enough to maneuver through the tight woods, while protecting you from mud and water spray. Integrated full length plastic floorboards enhance sure-footed traction. The seat is low for increased comfort and rider control, while the handlebars aid in steering precision and comfortable ergonomics.
Designed for easy starting along with a smooth, consistent power delivery, the 450 H1 engine has a potent 443cc, SOHC, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder with a wide torque curve via Electronic Fuel Injection that tunes the engine for any temperature, elevation and humidity no matter what the riding condition. And, Cat claims, this is the only machine in its class to offer a low and high range Duramatic Automatic transmission with dynamic engine braking.
The ultra-tough chassis (close to 100 lbs. lighter than full-size Arctic Cat ATVs) is featherweight with A-arm fully independent rear suspension (FIS) and double A-arm front, with preload adjustable shocks and 7 inches of suspension travel. Ground clearance is 10 inches which, coupled with 25-inch front and rear Kenda tires on 12-inch rims, gives riders the confidence to tackle any terrain. The Kenda tires were specifically for the 425.
Standard equipment includes an enlarged front rack to complement the new bodywork and the rear SpeedRack offers dozens of accessory attachment options. A 2-inch "automotive style" receiver hitch, digital instrument pod and Start-In-Gear capability complete the package.
And finally, there is Cat's new 350 4x4. With the introduction of the all-new 2011 350 4x4, Arctic Cat expects to own one of the best-selling segments in the industry. At $5,499, the 350 is the best value 4x4 in the Arctic Cat lineup, but retains more full-size features than its competitors.
The newly styled bodywork is an obvious upgrade that calls attention to the 350's sculpted fenders, headlights and grille-still narrow enough to maneuver through the tight woods, while protecting the rider from mud and water spray. Like the 425 4x4, the 350 has integrated full-length plastic floorboards to enhance sure-footed traction while the seat is low for increased comfort and rider control.
The heart of the 350 is powered by the overachieving single-cylinder, air/oil cooled 366cc four-stroke that resided in the popular 2010 366 SE.
The ultra-tough chassis is featherweight (close to 100 lbs. lighter than Cat's full-size chassis) with dual A-arm fully independent rear suspension (FIS) and double A-arm front, with preload adjustable shocks and 7 inches of suspension travel. Ground clearance is 10 inches and the vehicle rides on 24-inch front and rear Kenda tires on 12-inch rims.
Standard equipment includes an enlarged front rack to complement the new bodywork and the rear SpeedRack offers dozens of accessory attachment options. A 2-inch "automotive style" receiver hitch, digital instrument pod and Start-In-Gear capability complete the package.
For more information, log on to www.arcticcat.com.
