Here is an initial sneak peek at the 2024 Arctic Cat snowmobile line-up. I’ll continue updating you with more specific tech/spec data for each segment, so stay tuned! The Arctic Cat’s Spring Ordering Period commences on March 7. -Kale
DETAILS ON THE BRAND-NEW CATALYST PLATFORM
The High-Performance Trail, Crossover, and Mountain models within the CATALYST range display four main shared traits:
- CATALYST PLATFORM – The CATALYST is the most robust, lightweight, and ridged platform in the snowmobile industry. With a low center of gravity, it represents the most rider-responsive platform in this industry. Constructed around the C-TEC2 engine’s laydown design, the front structure is a one-piece build made from ultra-high-strength steel, which is lighter and far stronger than competitors are. The seamless one-piece chassis eliminates unnecessary weight, ensuring enduring rigidity. This design, coupled with a one-piece aluminum tunnel, is lightweight, robust, and easy to maintain.
- ADVANTAGES OF THE C-TEC2 LAYDOWN ENGINE – Arctic Cat keeps an industry lead with their C-TEC2 laydown engine design. This powerful 599cc C-TEC2 engine boasts Electronic Fuel Injection and tops the 125 HP class. It maintains a low center of gravity, provides outstanding power-to-weight benefits in the CATALYST platform, all while being sturdy yet lightweight.
- ADAPT DRIVE AND DRIVEN CLUTCHES – The ADAPT CVT system is one of Arctic Cat’s most efficient and high-performance drive and driven clutches. The compact and lightweight structure has an advanced idler system that keeps constant belt deflection across the RPM range. This results in reduced wear and optimal throttle response throughout the belt’s life.
- ARCTIC CAT BELT DRIVE – The novel Belt Drive system is a shift from the traditional Arctic Cat chaincase. Still, the advantages outweigh any uncertainties. The removal of the chaincase’s rotating mass and weight allows the 600cc C-TEC2 engine to power up faster, delivers improved throttle response, instantaneous acceleration, and more efficient horsepower transfer to the snow. The Belt Drive also removes the need to check and replace oil levels within a chaincase. Once the belt tension is adjusted, the new belt drive requires virtually no maintenance.
CATALYST ATACH ACCESSORY MOUNTING SYSTEM
The ATACH accessory mounting system by Arctic Cat revolutionizes how riders customize their snowmobiles. Attach or detach lockable accessories swiftly using the points in all CATALYST models’ rear tunnels. Riders have the option to carry two ATACH accessories such as Lite, Mid, Large, High Country pack sizes, Saddlebags, Fuel Caddy, and even two-up passenger seats.
Arctic Cat Reveals Powerful 858cc Engine and Garmin Gauge for 2025
Arctic Cat has recently unveiled its cutting-edge 858cc engine, primarily designed for its Catalyst chassis, at the Hay Days event. Manufactured at the company’s St. Cloud, Minnesota facility, the twin-cylinder two-stroke engine is a long-awaited addition to the Catalyst series. The engine’s design and mounting specifics grant riders maximum utilization of the lightweight chassis known for its centered masses.
The Highlights
The 858cc engine will be integrated into trail, crossover, and mountain sled models of the Catalyst chassis. However, consumers will have to wait until the 2025 models to enjoy this innovation. In addition to the engine, Arctic Cat introduced a new high-tech gauge named the Arctic Cat G8 Powered by Garmin, offering on-screen mapping, phone connectivity, group ride features, and more. Previously, these features were missing from Arctic Cat models.
Upon releasing its new Catalyst chassis platform at the 2022 Hay Days, Arctic Cat promised the development of a larger displacement two-stroke. This new 858cc engine sits 3/8 of an inch lower in the chassis than the 600cc model due to a new crankcase with built-in engine mounts. The reed cage has been moved 12mm closer to the cylinders, resulting in improved airflow and accommodating the centerline steering system, a crucial feature of the Catalyst design.
The Arctic Cat Reeds
The new 858 engine will employ VForce reeds positioned closer to the cylinders for enhanced airflow and to manage space limitations. Other innovations include a new variable exhaust system dictated by a servo taking commands from the sled’s ECM. Troy Halvorson, Arctic Cat’s director of snowmobile product strategy, states that this allows for complete tunability in terms of performance and emissions. Despite withholding exact horsepower figures, Cat officials reiterate their promise of an 11 percent performance increase across the powerband.
The Upgraded Garmin Touch-Screen
The Arctic Cat G8 Powered by Garmin fills the gap in high-tech touch-screen displays, connectivity, and utility for the brand. Halvorson expresses Arctic Cat’s enthusiasm for this collaboration with Garmin, a leader in GPS technology. The gauge is designed to work with Arctic Cat’s CAN bus system, offering riders an easy overview of the snowmobile’s details. Additional functionalities include on-screen trail maps, route planning, and cell phone connectivity.
