2014 Rode Reports: Comments After Riding The New Arctic Cats

March 21, 2013 By John Prusak

We had a chance to test out sleds from all four manufacturers at the recently completed 2014 Rode Reports. Below, you’ll find photos and comments on four new 2014 Arctic Cat snowmobiles.

ZR 6000 El Tigre — The ZR 6000 El Tigre was perhaps the most anticipated model at Rode Reports. Cat’s own 600-class two-stroke makes a claimed 123 horsepower, according to Cat. At Rode Reports, it felt strong off the bottom but didn’t seem completely dialed in for the altitude in the midrange. Considering Cat doesn’t have this new engine in a mountain chassis for 2014, we weren’t too surprised to find out that the altitude tuning didn’t feel finished.

ZR 7000 LTD — Another much anticipated ride was the ZR 7000 lineup, featuring Yamaha’s 1049cc triple in the ProCross chassis. In either Arctic Cat or Yamaha skin, the engine formerly found only in the FX chassis Nytro machines felt significantly more trailable in Cat’s ProCross chassis.

M 8000 Sno Pro — Arctic Cat M8000 models — featuring the traditional Suzuki 800-class twin — lost 20 pounds over the previous year, thanks to the use of more aluminum, a shorter heat exchanger, smaller hardware, a smaller seat and other changes. We could feel the difference in the field — the Cat was a bit more agile for 2014.

Arctic Cat Cross Tour — Arctic Cat expanded its XF Cross Tour line to include a 7000 (1049cc Suzuki four-stroke), and 8000 (794cc Suzuki two-stroke) and a 9000 Turbo (1100cc Suzuki four-stroke twin). We had a 2013 Cross Tour as a demo model this season, and really enjoyed its versatility.

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