After a big year in 2010, with the arrival of the new H.O. 800 and a new mass production snocross model, Arctic Cat remained more quiet in 2011…
What is new in the 2011 Arctic Cat Lineup ?
New Fox Float 2 shock absorber
Among the novelties, there is a new Fox Float 2 air shock absorber. Based on the variable shock absorber technology, it makes the movement faster at the start, with more comfort in small bumps, and becomes more rigid afterward. It still has the advantages of an almost infinite adjustability of the preload, thanks to the pump-adjustable air pressure system.
800 H.O. Engine
In the 2011 specifications, Arctic Cat presents the 800 cc with 160 HP. This is 10 more than last year… There was no technical specification available when I wrote this article… The same features than last year are present : lighter crankshaft, batteryless electronic fuel injection, APV™ exhaust valves that regulate pipe temperature, exhaust pipe temperature sensor and a vibration sensor (Knock sensor). Is it just a more realistic number or did they modify it in order to gain so much power? We will be able to tell you more about it after the trials that our team will run at the 2011 Snow Shoot at West Yellowstone on the first week of March.
Storage bag on all LXR
Standard feature in 2011, all the LXR models with Twin Spar chassis will be delivered with the rear storage bag. It fits the seat equipped with a zipped trunk introduced in 2010. More storage room and a nice finishing.
Crossfire Sno Pro rear suspension
These days, weight reduction is a major issue. Arctic Cat simply transferred the technology used on the 2010 M models, to the 2011 Crossfire Sno Pro. Slim is the key word, no more long spring… They simply used the Fox Float air shock absorber!!! Why not ? This way, there are numerous possible adjustments.
Crossfire 6 and 8 rear suspension
Still with the weight reduction in mind, a more flexible edition of the Sno Pro suspension is used on the Crossfire 600 and 800 cc models. The torsion shock absorber principle replaces the usual coil springs. The Fox Zero Pro shock absorber combined with a coil spring gives more flexibility and more comfort.
Many technologies from past years are renewed in 2011:
4 strokes…
The natural-draft Z1 1056 cc engine is back in 2011, delivering 123 HP at 8 500 RPM, and a torque of 78.2 lbs at 8 000 RPM, which is a good quality/price ratio with a good reliability.
Moteur Z1 de 1056cc à aspiration naturelle
The turbocharger edition is also still standard. With an impressive power of 177 HP at 7 850 RPM, a torque of 121 lbs at 7 300 RPM, the turbo overcharges the engine with a 9 lbs pressure. A constant boost pressure is maintained with a regulation valve and this reduces the lag feeling usually noticed on this type of engine.
Moteur Z1 Turbo-compressé
Will it stay the most powerful in the industry in 2011? To be followed…
IRP seat and handles
The F series keep the 7 settings adjustable seat on a vertical displacement of 2.4 in. and a 3.7 in. back and forth move. Combined with the adjustable handlebar, there are many adjustments that give the right position adjusted to each pilot.
Telescopic handlebar
Back on the M mountain models, this item allows any size of pilot to ride standing up. With 12 possible settings every 3/8 in., everybody is satisfied!
