End of Season Review of the 2017 Arctic-Cat XF9000 Cross Country Limited 137
End of Season Review of the 2017 Arctic-Cat XF9000 Cross Country Limited 137
It is with a heavy heart that we had to return our Arctic-Cat XF9000 Cross Country Limited 137 after a wonderful 2017 season. After riding in all kinds of trails and conditions, we can now share our observations with you. When I first looked at the data sheet, without having tried the snowmobile yet, I asked myself how could we use a snowmobile this powerful with a 137”x15” track, a 1.75 high aggressive profile and firm front and rear suspensions. The high handlebar and central support tied to the handlebar imply some kind of off-trail abilities. After a few outings, we can say that it is possible to venture into fresh snow, but it is better not to throw yourself into sections that are too tight and technical. Its weight disadvantages it. Another area where the weight is also an issue for this XF9000 is in winding portions of trails or wooded areas. Left/right transitions are physical and can be felt at the end of the day. A lighter 2-stroke engine would be more efficient in these conditions. As for comfort during tourist rides, this Arctic Cat snowmobile is not at its best either. The suspensions are quite firm when driving alone and the driver gets tired quicker than with a XF 9000 CROSSTREK for example.
Elevated Handlebar with Central Support
With two people and a Seat Jack auxiliary seat, the rear springs need to be changed. Even when it is adjusted to its firmest, the suspension easily hits the bottom. Also, due to the extra weight at the rear, the skis’ grip does not turn properly with the factory’s settings. My first try at adjusting the front suspension, and put some bite back, was not conclusive. It was not because the adjustments did not change anything about the driving, but more so because the provided tool was not robust enough. Any attempt to unblock the tightening ring on the front spring only made the tool bend with the slightest effort. Maybe the manoeuvre would have been easier inside a heated garage…
Tightening ring difficult to turn with provided tool
After a few rides with the original suspension settings, I finally decided to bring a sturdier tool to modify the beast’s performance. Ski pressure was not sufficient, and when driving solo, the firm rear suspension needed correcting. I first started with the front spring to add a bit more pressure, especially with two people riding. It was a real breakthrough, and a few adjustments made a significant difference. Instead of having imprecise driving with a sway and lack of grip with the passenger, the XF9000 rode like on rails. Crossing paths with another snowmobiler would now generate more cold sweats by fear of crossing skis. The front grip also came back.
The difference in the snowmobile’s performance after the adjustments is so striking that they even highlight the importance of adjusting your snowmobile to your type of driving and weight. I also suggest you make small adjustments throughout the day depending on the varying conditions to enjoy your ride fully.
Arctic Cat XF 9000 ready to tackle the trails with a partner
The XF 9000’s personality reveals itself more and more as the kilometers go by. The engine is so smooth that you get the impression it is not powerful. It is only when performing a comparison in controlled terrain that you can see the difference. It is simply THE most powerful engine in the industry for 2017. Even though its heaviness can be felt in wooded terrain and tight trails, all you need a straight stretch to put things back into perspective… This snowmobile excels when the engine has the ability to express itself to its fullest. This machine is incredible in fast sections whether its freshly packed trails or even when conditions have degraded. The firm suspensions, which can even be too firm in certain conditions, are perfect for pushing it in 1 to 2 ft. bumps. As long as the area is not too technical, it has an amazing ability to cross obstacles without slowing down is breathtaking. We can hit the bumps and let the suspension work its magic. The other aspect that improves bump absorption is the length of the track you choose. A short 129” track is more agile in tight sections, but it comes at the expense of overall comfort in the bumps. Too long a track adds additional weight and is a little less manageable. Choosing a 137” track is best suited for this type usage.
A small anecdote, coming back home after a solo ride, I had to cross one of my ditches after a snowfall. What was meant to be, was meant to be… The front of the snowmobile plunged downwards instead of crossing the obstacle. My first thought was that I would not be able to get myself out of this unfortunate situation alone. I was about to make my way to the house and ask for help, but lucky for me, I thought to myself, let's see what this track is really capable of. By slightly pressing the accelerator, I started to see some movement at the front which was moving upwards… A few seconds later, the snowmobile was back in a horizontal position and ready to go home! I was very impressed with the track’s traction.
The other advantage of the track is, of course, its traction during acceleration, but mostly when breaking. This snowmobile is very fast, so it is very satisfying to see that it can also break quickly. Its Race Radial hydraulic master cylinder brake is easy to adjust and has the power it takes to slow the beast down.
One of the reasons why this snowmobile breaks so well: Camoplast Back Country 137 x 15 x 1.75 Snowmobile Tracks
When it comes to comfort, even though this is not a snowmobile built explicitly for tourism, it is still very good. The most important is the driving position, which for a 6-ft. guy is ideal. The handlebar sits in the hands really well, the seat and footrests spacing allows for the knees to not be overly bent. On top of it all, the seat, which is incredibly comfortable, is also heated. The pilot’s position on the snowmobile is quite high so adding a taller windshield, as we had on our trial version, is recommended especially for people who are more prone to be cold.
Finally, I would like to quickly go through the list of advantages and improvements of this Arctic Cat XF9000 Cross Country.
Advantages:
Engine power and smoothness
Bump absorption ability in aggressive driving
Track traction in acceleration and breaking
Ability to perform moderate off-trail riding
Higher windshield wind protection
Driving position
Heated seat comfort
Aggressive look
No belt breakage
Aspect to improve:
Slightly heavy especially when pushing the snowmobile
Driving precision in technical sections
More knee control in sustained breaking
Rear snow guard breaks easily when reversing
Sturdier tools provided with original kit
Wind protection with the original low windshield
Heating elements all the way to the front of the seat.
