What better way to usher in autumn than with an Arctic Cat? It’s the ideal winter recreation machine, whether you go for a classic Prowler or the latest Wildcat Sport.
In the mood for a new kind of big cat? The latest Wildcat is 60 inches wide, just over 110 inches long, and is squarely between the Wildcat 1000 and Wildcat Trail in size. Perfect for the Utah terrain (or just about anywhere!), it can navigate narrower trails and has already been tested by UTV experts at Paunsaugunt, which mimics Bryce Canyon’s terrain.
Our region can boast snow throughout the spring, making some trails completely inaccessible at times, and it can get cold too, but these are no match for the Wildcat. With 100 percent aluminum doors, axles more than five inches longer than other Cats’, and A-Arms, it was built to withstand the toughest of jobs. However, it still has the same engine, cab and plastic that you’re used to in other Arctic Cat models.
Nothing Purrs Like a Cat
The latest sports model is agile and lightweight, but has an impressive 60-horsepower engine, featuring a 700 cc parallel-twin design. The Wildcat weighs 150 pounds less than the RZR S 900, but the power-to-weight comparison nearly the same. Clutching is easy, especially at slower speeds, which is a necessity when many people ride their Cats. If you’re into crawling, the Wildcat is up for the challenge, and the clutch is more than capable of keeping up.
Another obstacle to check off the list is clearance issues. The front arms have a slight arch, allowing you to navigate the rockiest of paths. This model comes from the factory with standard 26-inch tires, which are big enough for many, but it’s a breeze to add bigger ones (30-inch tires are a favorite for many winter riders).
However, if you go the customized route, many Cat lovers are going with roll cages/bars and an optimized windshield for maneuvering in the snow and sleet.
Good Kitties
There’s slightly more weight in the rear, but the Wildcat’s semi-balanced load of the makes it responsive even at high speeds and corners. Low seats mean a lower center of gravity, which gives riders more control. However, the Wildcat’s standard seats are only ideal for those 6 feet and under — any taller, and you may want to upgrade to PRP seats for a little more legroom and support.
Winter is just around the (perhaps sharp) corner, and if you’ve been thinking about a winter UTV ride, the Wildcat is it. However, every model in this UTV maker’s lineup is sure to get the snowball rolling into a fun-filled riding season. Connect with UTV Windshields and Accessories today for all your Arctic Cat accessory needs.
