ATVs (all terrain vehicles) were originally built for agricultural use, but they’ve developed since then and are now utilized in a variety of industries, as well as being a popular choice of vehicle for thrill-seekers. ATVs are utilized by select armed troops and are most typically used as recreational vehicles, aside from agriculture.
Youth ATVs, entry-level ATVs, utility quads, sport quads, and high-performance ATVs are available in a range of forms and sizes. The majority of ATVs are four-wheelers, but six-wheelers and eight-wheelers are also available.
ATVs are only legal on the streets in a few states in the USA and in Canada, Australia, and other countries, despite their popularity.
Arctic Cat is a well-known brand in the ATV sector, with its vehicles being used both in industry and by enthusiasts.
Here is everything you need to know about the Arctic Cat brand and whether their vehicles are worth investing in.
Contents
Handling
As one would expect from a Powersports brand, Arctic Cat has solid handling and off-road capabilities. Even though they employ different suspensions for different ATVs, their ATVs are highly durable and agile when properly matched. This makes almost all of their vehicles suitable for agricultural work or off-roading. They are especially good for off-road racing around dirt tracks as the rider is easily able to maneuver the vehicle.
There are a few examples where the handling really shines. For example, in the Alterra 450. Dual A-arms support both the front and rear axles of the Alterra 450. The Alterra 450 is equipped with a standard front bumper, a 443cc single-cylinder engine, and aluminum wheels. Arctic Cat’s new Alterra 600 for 2022 boasts a revamped chassis, fast steering, and an easy 2WD-to-4WD conversion.
Power Steering
Power steering is a crucial component of ATVs, even if some riders disagree with this. After all, handling and power steering go hand in hand. Although skilled drivers may be able to navigate severe or dangerous trails without power steering, rookie riders require it the most as it helps in maneuverability. When going at high speeds, you will want to go round corners quickly, which is where the power steering comes in.
You’ll most certainly be trailing your ATV through difficult terrain, so why not make it more efficient? Power steering improves the vehicle’s performance and maneuverability even at low speeds. Another benefit of having a power steering that enables ATV is that it reduces the amount of energy expended by the rider while on the bike.
The Engines
Surprisingly for such a big brand, Arctic Cat does not make their engines. Rather, they use engines designed and made by other brands. It is expensive to develop a new engine, so many vehicles share engines with different companies; Arctic Cat is no exception. Kawasaki was their first engine supplier, but Suzuki took over in 1975. Suzuki had a significant stake in Arctic Cat.
Yamaha and Arctic Cat forged a relationship in 2012, making Yamaha the company’s primary supplier. Arctic Cat reciprocated by allowing Suzuki to build the Yamaha SRX 120 and other snowmobiles for them. Yamaha’s 123cc four-stroke engine powers the 2014 Arctic Cat range.
All the engines used in the Arctic Cat ATVs are tested and guaranteed to provide your vehicle with as much speed and power as possible.
Diamond Drive
Arctic Cat introduced the diamond drive in 2004, and it is a great feature that now appears on the majority of their vehicles. The diamond drive replaced the chaincase and chains in previous ATV versions.
The diamond drive provides advantages over the chain mechanism, which is still a good system but is a little outdated. The new diamond drive is smoother, performs better, and rotates at a lower rpm, resulting in less trenching. Unlike chain systems, the Arctic Cat diamond drive system also incorporates electrical reverse.
This makes reversing your vehicle a lot easier than it had previously been. The 2009 M8 is perhaps Arctic Cat’s best demonstration of diamond drive technology and is an ATV that we highly recommend.
Fire Issues
We cannot talk about Artic Cat without mentioning the fire issues that have plagued their vehicles. Though they seem to have fixed these issues in their newer models, this is still something you should think about so you can make an informed decision as to whether you want to buy from this brand.
In 2019, Arctic Cat announced a recall for about 20,000 snowmobiles. The F, Jaguar, Jaguar Z1 1100, Z1 1100 Turbo, and Bearcat Z1 XT are all affected models from 2008 and 2009. All of these models seemed to be able to catch fire very easily. The gasoline tank would often be the cause of this, as it would split, enabling fuel to run into the engine and potentially causing a fatal inferno.
Before Arctic Cat announced the recall, there had been over 900 accidents relating to these vehicles, with six being fires. A total of 800 M8000, Norseman X8000, XF8000, and ZR8000 machines were also recalled for the 2019 model year. The cost of these vehicles ranges from $11,000 to $14,500.
Affordable
ATVs can cost upwards of $20,000, which is understandable given their rigorous manufacturing process. Another factor to consider is the market. These aren’t your average cars, yet their owners are willing to pay tens of thousands of dollars for them. The brand and model of an ATV also influence its price.
Fortunately, Arctic Cat produces several fantastic ATVs at an affordable price. The Alterra 300, for example, costs just over $4,000 for a mid-size, lightweight ATV powered by a 270cc liquid-cooled gas engine. With a 90cc engine, adjustable throttle, independent front axle suspension, and a starting price of just over $3,000, the Arctic Cat Alterra 90 is also great value for money.
Very Reliable
Since the fire issue, Arctic Cat has focused on becoming one of the most reliable and safe ATV brands on the market. So far, they have been successful in this, constantly appearing on lists of the safest and most reliable ATV brands.
They usually appear on these lists due to their low weight class and their superior suspension compared to other brands. This is why this brand is very popular with beginner and rookie ATV drivers, as it provides them with a sense of safety and security that just cannot be matched by any other brand.
The Best Arctic Cat Vehicles for 2024
These are some of the best ATVs that Arctic Cat is releasing in their 2024 lineup.
ALTERRA 600
This ATV has been designed with power and comfort in mind. With three models to choose from, pick from this lineup, depending on which one you get, will determine the cost of the vehicle. Each of the three ATVs comes with an all-new 600CC, 45HP engine, though, so you will experience more power than you ever have before.
If you are offroading around the countryside, then you will appreciate the dash-mounted GPS (sold separately but mount kit included). This allows you to easily navigate the outdoors while also letting you play your own music due to the built-in speakers. You can also use this feature to keep track of where your other ATV riding friends are.
The build of these ATVs is extremely durable, as the new and improved chassis has a lower center of gravity, while the vehicles themselves have a ground clearance of about 12.5 inches.
When out and about for a long time, you will probably want to take some supplies with you, or at least have a safe place to store your smaller belongings like your phone and keys. That is why you will love the easy access storage compartment that is accessible from the rider’s seat.
These ATVs are perfect for those who crave a sense of excitement and adventure.
ALTERRA 90
This ATV was designed for children who want to begin their ATV adventures. This ATV features a 90CC engine, which is powerful enough to be fun for the kids but will be slow enough that parents will feel comfortable letting their children ride this vehicle.
This ATV comes with parent-friendly controls for added peace of mind for parents. This adjustable throttle allows parents to put a speed and horsepower limit on the ATV, so they can prevent their child from going too fast too quickly.
This ATV comes with independent front suspension and spring pre-loaded shocks for a steady and sturdy ride, so your child should feel stable when going over rough terrain. There are also dual headlights and taillights for added safety and visibility in low light.
This is the perfect ATV to get for your child who loves the outdoors and wants an adrenaline-filled adventure.
Is Arctic Cat a Good Brand?
Overall, Arctic Cat is a very good brand. They are known to be very safe and reliable and make ATVs that are perfect for beginners and children who want to give this a go.
Even pros in the ATV world will appreciate these vehicles for their power, speed, and stability.
And luckily, they’re affordable. Their Arctic Cat Alterra 300 made it to our best-recommended ATVs under $5,000 list.
