The year 2022 marks a new turning point for the Thief River Falls-based manufacturer. Its passage into its sixth decade was preceded by a series of events that forged Arctic Cat’s rich history. However, this next step didn’t go as they planned.
Delivery delays
Like all manufacturing organizations, Arctic Cat has been affected. Executives confess that they experienced delivery delays in January 2022 compared to the previous year at this time. However, they have redoubled their efforts to address the challenges they have faced over the past year.
“Supply chain continues to be an issue for all manufacturers, and we are taking an approach to ensure we can meet our current commitments to customers,” said Heidi McNary, senior vice president and general manager, Powersports for Textron Specialized Vehicles Inc. “Our goal is to put our customers first by delivering our current models, and also offering them 2023 snowmobiles that give them more options and new products for their different riding styles.”
Arctic Cat is also aware that the year that celebrated its 60th anniversary did not live up to its expectations and more importantly, its loyal customer base. It’s not in its philosophy to ship incomplete vehicles and all its will was deployed to deliver in the shortest time possible.
For this year, the spring ordering period, named Snowmageddon, will start on April 19th and end on May 3rd. These dates may seem late to you, and you are absolutely right. Arctic Cat has assured us that it is making every effort in advance to deliver the latest 2022 models. Arctic Cat also expects to have a limited number of 2023 snowmobiles available in season.
Out of concern for its customers, it prefers to make sure it will have all the necessary components for the coming year before promising snowmobiles to its dealers.
A reminder of the technologies that set it apart
- CVT ADAPT clutch: Introduced on its full-size snowmobiles for 2022, it provides greater performance and serviceability. With its lighter weight and narrower design, it provides constant tension to maximize performance, minimize wear and extend belt life. This ADAPT clutch also provides lower inertia, more instantaneous response for consistent performance.
- ATAC Suspension: At the touch of a button, you can select 3 presets: soft, medium and firm to get exactly the ride you need in less than half a second. It allows for pre-programming to switch between 2 drivers to optimize performance for different riding conditions and styles. The ATAC suspension also automatically adjusts the shock calibration when reversing for better maneuverability in the snow.
- ALPHA ONE Monorail: The single-rail rear suspension offers more handling than any other mountain snowmobile. It makes transitioning and weight transfer easier than ever. Its unique design combined with track traction has taken Arctic Cat to a new level.
What’s New for 2023
For the new year, Arctic Cat is offering three new models to add to its existing lineup.
ZR 6000 R-XC
This snowmobile will be a delight for those who love bumpy trails. It’s similar to the 2022 ZR Limited, but what sets it apart is its 129-inch track for a sportier ride. It’s equipped with the R-XC rear suspension for rough terrain absorption and responsiveness that will make you appreciate this cross-country snowmobile.
It uses the 600 C-TEC2 engine. This 599cc engine with dual-expansion fuel injection (DFI) is Arctic Cat’s first clean-technology 2-stroke engine with an unmatched 125 horsepower performance level.
Features include an electronic oil pump controlled by an engine management module. It has a battery-free electronic fuel injection system, an exhaust gas temperature sensor and a detonation sensor. Lightweight and extremely strong design, it also has engine reverse technology.
We know very well that weight is a factor for some, the ZR 6000 R-XC will be available in manual or electric start.
This snowmobile uses one of the most versatile chassis in the industry. The ProCross platform is the perfect choice for this snowmobile that will provide a guaranteed thrill.
BLAST 4000 M LIMITED
This snowmobile will be a limited edition. With the success of the 7/8 size snowmobiles compared to the full size ones, the BLASTs have generated a lot of interest since their introduction. Its 400 cc 65 HP engine is ideal for beginners.
This new 2023 model is a mountain version with its “M” designation. It is equipped with the unique ALPHA ONE rail for better handling in the powder. The FOX FLOAT series shocks will be used to maximize performance during off-trail maneuvers. This is definitely a huge difference compared to the standard BLAST M. This LIMITED model will have an adjustable ski distance of 35.5 to 37.5 inches.
The designers listened to the recommendations and came up with a new, lighter seat for this mountain snowmobile. Of course, new distinctive graphics will demonstrate its unique character. This will be a very coveted snowmobile and you’ll need to order it early to ensure you own one.
RIOT 9000
For 2023, a new member of the RIOT series is on the horizon. A true Arctic Cat 50/50 snowmobile, it will come with a more powerful engine to go farther and faster without any constraints.
In short, it’s pretty much the same RIOT 8000 we know, but the designers decided to add the C-TEC 4,998 cc turbocharged engine. This is the same engine that powers the THUNDERCAT and redefines the word power for a snowmobile. It offers unbeatable performance and instant power in the 200 HP class.
Moreover, this RIOT 9000 will be equipped with power steering. It will provide a more comfortable ride, will help greatly to attack the curves with more confidence and will reduce the fatigue factor during long rides.
In addition, it will be available with ARS II front suspension in combination with the revolutionary ATAC suspension that can be adjusted on the fly with a simple thumb action on the left handle for electronic adjustment.
Meanwhile, in the youth snowmobile category
What might go unnoticed by some, but is part of Arctic Cat’s new offerings for 2023, the ZR 120 and ZR 200 youth snowmobiles will have new graphics with a black hood.
Arctic Cat listened to our recommendation!
There was one aspect that bothered us greatly on the BLAST series snowmobiles: the heated grips and thumb had only the on/off function until last year. We felt that these snowmobiles did not reflect the expectations of the riders, because in On mode, the grips were almost unbearably hot after a while and we had to turn them off and on several times during a ride.
For 2023, they have taken a “small step” forward, as from now on, we will be entitled to the High/Low function to keep our hands warm on these machines. However, would we have expected a wider range of gradation? Definitely!
In summary…
Trail and crossover enthusiasts will now have more options for matching engine packages and suspensions on the ZR and RIOT models at no extra cost to the colors. Engine packages include 6000 and 8000 engines for ZR models, 9000 for Thundercat and 8000 and 9000 for RIOT and EPS as standard equipment on all RIOT 9000 models. Suspension packages include FOX QS3 shocks or Arctic Cat’s revolutionary ATAC adjustable on the fly suspension system.
For mountain enthusiasts, the Mountain Cat ALPHA ONE will have three track lengths available, electric or manual start, and will feature ATAC suspension. The Hardcore will have the same track lengths and starting options with FOX QS3 shocks.
In conclusion, we have to be honest about one thing, the new year will not go down in history at Arctic Cat. However, we are aware that this manufacturer is playing it safe and does not want to relive what it has experienced over the past few months. There are imponderables that they cannot control and Arctic Cat is acting responsibly by not promising vehicles that they will not be able to deliver.
However, we have to admit that they are offering us some great new products, and among them, the RIOT 9000 is, in my opinion, without a doubt, the most exciting snowmobile for 2023 from this manufacturer. All you have to do now is visit your local dealer to reserve your own model for next season.
