Here we are already at my second season as a long-term trial pilot with the SledMagazine.com Team. This year, I was very lucky to test the new Crossfire 8 Sno Pro Ltd.
The brand Arctic Cat has been known for its famous green colors. This year, a very particular shade is presented. Indeed, all the 2011 limited edition models are painted with the new Sublime Green. Besides I am very pleased to receive a test model with this very distinctive color.
The Crossfire 8 Sno Pro Ltd is equipped with the 800 H.O. engine, which I tested last season on the 2010 F8 LXR. I am very anxious to see these engine performances on the Crossfire chassis and to try the quite different rider position of this hybrid snowmobile.
The Sno Pro Ltd model is more equipped than the regular Sno Pro. Fact is, the Limited Edition offers a huge sport gear bag and the new M Series seat that is higher and more lightweight. This model also offers to choose between two tracks: the Cobra 15 X 14 X 1.5 in. or the Power Claw 15 X 14 X 2.25 in. Personally, I chose the 2.25 in. Power Claw. For sure, it will be interesting to test this track work in powdery snow.
Regarding the suspension, I am very pleased to have the chance to test the Fox Float AirShox for the front suspension; they were outstanding on the M Series of the 2010 model. You can adjust the air pressure with the hand pump given with the snowmobile. On the rear suspension, we find the same shocks to complete the Sno Pro suspension package.
Since the Crossfire has some off-trail performance potential, it is equipped with a telescoping handlebar for a more aggressive riding in such circumstances. The handlebar also has the hand and thumb warmers, reverse switch, Sublime Green hand guards, and optional mirrors.
There is nothing really new on the instrument panel compared with the 2010 model. The digital/analog tachometer comes with a traditional dial speedometer and the digital part gives better look of the speed your going; all this on a enlightened background. Moreover, the Crossfire 8 Sno Pro Ltd is still equipped with the coolant overheat light, the low oil light and the altimeter, same than the M Series.
Many optional features are also offered by Arctic Cat for this model, such as the shorter aluminum brake lever that I will sure add to my sled. There is also a handlebar raising block that forwards the handlebar by 1.5 in., which makes it easier to manoeuvre in off-trail conditions.
To conclude, as you can see, due to its versatility the Crossfire 8 Sno Pro Ltd will please every type of Rider. You are invited to follow this snowmobile and its trials all along the seasons!
