Arctic Cat ZR 8000 Sno Pro 137” 2018—Season Review
For 2018, the big news at Arctic Cat was undoubtedly the introduction of the new 8000 C-TEC2 engine. This new engine was much awaited, especially since the introduction in 2015 of its little brother: the 6000 C-TEC2. The 8000 C-TEC2 is a brand-new engine that uses the same technologies as the 600cc version. We are therefore talking about two-phase injection, a concept that is unique in the industry.
The ZR 8000 Sno Pro is an entry-level model regarding components and accessories. However, as I saw last winter, this does not compromise the pleasure of this snowmobile on the trails.
If we look at the engine specifications, we notice that the C-TEC2 version develops the same power as the old Suzuki engine. However, the performance at low and mid-range is much more impressive. This is where this engine stands out because we use the engine much more in those RPM when we ride a snowmobile. The engine offers a lot of torque and responds quickly when you press the gas.
Other aspects of this engine have significantly been improved such as fuel and oil consumption, making it a much cleaner engine. Also, the engine is easier to start.
Another element that has a significant impact on the performance of the ZR 8000 is the use of the Team Rapid Response II and Rapid Reaction Boss pulley set. These pulleys automatically adjust the belt to ensure optimal performance. The clutch speed has been reduced, allowing much smoother starts while minimizing belt wear.
The motor and pulley combination dramatically increase the performance of the ZR8000 in just about any trail situation.
For the suspension, it’s the Fox ZERO RC shock absorbers at the front. These shock absorbers do not allow any adjustment except for preload using the coil spring. Of course, I would have liked to see QS3 shock absorbers, but it is important to remember that the Sno Pro is a basic model. I was stunned by the behaviour of the front suspension and the Slide-Action suspension at the rear, which in most situations absorbed the bumps very well.
Regarding driving, the ZR range has excelled over the past few years. The ZR 8000 Sno Pro is no exception and remains one of the snowmobiles that has the best driving I have ever driven in a long-term test. The driving is precise both in a straight line and in curves. Both skis stay in good contact with the trail even when riding in a very sporty way. In bumps, the snowmobile remains predictable, and you can feel very well that you are still in control on the snowmobile.
The look of the 2018 ZR8000 2018 has changed significantly from previous versions. Arctic Cat has equipped the snowmobile with new Next-Gen panels that are made of smoother lines and, above all, a much more stylish look. These panels allow quick access to the engine space. The finish and assembly of these panels are much more esthetic than the previous ones.
Finally, the ergonomics of the cockpit is very well designed. The driving position is comfortable even on long trips. The gauges are easy to read and configure. You can choose the information you want to see.
Now we can mention that several small irritants in the handlebar controls have been fixed—for example, the difficult access of the reverse and the heated handles and thumb grips, which now have 2 to 4 adjustment levels.
If you are a snowmobiler who loves to ride the trails in comfort, you should consider the Arctic Cat ZR 8000 Sno Pro when making your next purchase.
The SledMagazine.com team would like to thank Arctic Cat for making this test possible and Garage J.M. Villeneuve d’Amqui, the dealer who did the maintenance throughout the season.
