2014 XF 7000 Sno Pro : pre-ride analysis
Our Arctic Cat trial snowmobile, the 2014 XF 7000 Sno Pro, is among the 19 different crossover models offered by Arctic Cat with the choice between 3 engines (7000, 8000 and 9000) and 4 different tracks.
The XF lineup models are crossover machines; so they perform both on/off trail. No matter your ratio on-trail/off-trail, you will find the perfect setup for you. Our trial machine is equipped with the 15X137X1,25 Ripsaw II track and with its green/white colors and great graphics, it is sure that our model will catch the attention !
Engine
This season, Arctic Cat engines received new names. It may confuse you if you are not familiar with the industry, but finally, I think that this new classification is more logical because the progressive numbers in the name are listed according to the power (hp) instead of the displacement (cc) of the engines. This way, 2-stroke and 4-stroke engines are more accurately classified.
The 5000 refers to the 4-stroke C-TEC4 engine of 1056 cc that produces 125 hp. The 6000 refers to the new 2-stroke C-TEC2 engine of 600 cc that produces 125 hp. The 7000 refers to the new 4-stroke C-TEC4 engine of 1049 cc that produces 135 hp. The 8000 refers to the 2-stroke engine of 800 cc that produces 160 hp. Finally, the 9000 refers to the 4-stroke turbocharged engine of 1056 cc that produces 177 hp.
Our 7000 model is equipped with the 4-stroke C-TEC4 engine that comes from the new partnership between Arctic Cat and Yamaha. Even if it is called new, this 1049 cc 4-stroke triple liquid-cooled engine with EFI has already proved itself. We have seen it on the Yamaha FX Nytro since a few years and it is known for its reliability and performance.
I have already tested this engine and I can’t wait to see its performance in a ProCross chassis. Are we going to see any difference in power, accelerations or fuel economy ?
Chassis and the suspension
The XF Sno Pro model is built on the ProCross chassis. The pilot gets a forward riding position that is very comfortable and efficient.
Our trial model is equipped with the Arctic Race front suspension with Fox Float 3 shocks and sway bar that provides a 10" (25,4 cm) front travel.
The rear suspension is the FasTrack slide-action suspension with Tri-hub rear axle system, adjustable torsion springs and 2" (5,1 cm) dia. rear shocks.
Over the years, we have been used to Arctic Cat Sno Pro models equipped with suspension setups that offer more aggressive and sporty riding. We shall see if it is still the same this season.
Features
Our trial snowmobile is equipped with a full list of standard features such as : electric start, push-button reverse, deluxe digital gauge with altimeter, electric gas gauge, clock, 12v outlet, low-height windshield.
Many features are also optional such as the 2-up seat, heated seat and choice between many heights of windshield. We chose the mid-height windshield, mirrors and a storage bag.
According to what we have read about it, we expect a lot from this snowmobile. Arctic Cat hits strongly by mounting one of the most appreciated 4-stroke engine of the industry in the proven ProCross chassis. I just can’t wait to present my first impressions about this crossover model in my next article.
I would like to thank Arctic Cat who allows your web magazine SledMagazine.com to run this long-term trial and thanks to Arctic Cat Junior Mécanique Plus in Rimouski who prepares and services our trial snowmobile.
Have a great snowmobile season !
