2014 Arctic Cat ZR 7000 Limited : A balanced cat!

We had the chance to visit located at 189, chemin des Poirier, Montmagny. Opened in 2003 in St-Jean-Port-Joli, this dealership has been moved in 2008 in a large and modern site located in Montmagny. Besides Arctic Cat recreational products (snowmobile and ATV), they also offer Polaris recreational products and snowmobile rental services.

We received a warm welcome from the owners, Mr Gilles Hudon and his son Guillaume. Two brand new 2014 snowmobiles were handed to us for our trail test on this December 27th 2013. We rode from Montmagny to Tourville, the «Heart of Côte-du-Sud» in the MRC de L’Islet. Here are our three pilots’ impressions after over 100 km on FCMQ trails, in respect of snowmobiling regulations such as speed limits.

The following elements have been evaluated :

riding, ergonomics, track noise
aesthetics, finish quality
engine, noise, fumes

Modification

For our tests, we used the demo snowmobile; its odometer indicated less than 200 km. No modification had been brought.

Riding

The riding position on the Arctic Cat ZR 7000 Limited is excellent for the legs; since you can adjust the handlebar according to your size, it is also excellent for your back. Our test machine was equipped with a high windshield on which both mirrors were mounted. Same as the ZR 9000, we all liked this one-piece molded windshield that really protects the upper body against wind. The lower body is protected adequately against wind by the cab. All controls are located on the left handle (brake). The thumb and hand warmer controls offer 2 heat levels that are very efficient. The multifunction digital gauge is really up-to-date with two displays for speed, rpm, clock, odometer, coolant temperature, exhaust temperature, intake air temperature, voltage and finally fuel level. Add to all this the lighted words ARCTIC CAT at the bottom of the gauge and you have a very classy equipment.

As it is equipped with the same chassis and suspensions than its older sister the ZR 9000, the ZR 7000 offers the same advantages in comfort and riding stability. We think that the ZR 7000 is different by its balance when we consider the combination of the engine, the clutch, the suspension and the riding stability. Even without any ski correctors, we did not experience any darting despite the various trail conditions we met. This snowmobile really makes the pilot happy to ride on trails, thanks to Arctic Cat competent engineers. The 129 in. Ripsaw track with 1.25 in. studs is less noisy on hard-packed surfaces than the track of the ZR 9000. This is probably due to the adjustment of the track.

Aesthetics

The brand new design of this ZR 7000 Limited is quite a success. The black graphics nicely match the white color. The ZR 7000 is equipped with a rear storage bag and a goggle holder under the handlebar. A wide variety of Arctic Cat accessories can be added if you want to customize your ZR 7000. One of our test pilots particularly appreciated the high quality heated seat.

Engine

The ZR 7000 Limited is equipped with a Yamaha triple 4-stroke engine of 1049 cc that develops 137 hp. Thanks to the electronic fuel injection system, the throttle responds quickly. As you know, following an agreement between both manufacturers, this is a Yamaha proven engine and this is why Arctic Cat chose it for their new model.

Conclusion

We have been impressed by the 2014 Arctic Cat ZR 7000 Limited with its balance and parcitularly its stability on trail. This is one of the best 2014 Sport-Touring snowmobile of the industry. We call this arctic cat the «Balanced Cat»

SledMagazine.com is sincerely grateful to

189, chemin des Poirier, Montmagny (Qc) G5V 4L2
Toll free : 1-877-948-1919 Local : 418-248-1919 Fax.: 418-248-2288
www.pro-arctic.ca

Thanks to Kimpex for their appreciated collaboration during these tests.
www.kimpex.ca

Effectively, our test pilots wear Kimpex clothing and accessories. During these tests, we had the muffs with window and we greatly appreciated it. One of our test pilots even rode without any gloves.