Arctic Cat Bearcat Z1 XT Groomer Special 2012 Review

Arctic Cat Bearcat Z1 XT is a versatile machine among utility snowmobiles, designed for a wide range of tasks. Thanks to innovative American technologies, this device is well adapted to increased loads, and at the same time stands out for its increased comfort in harsh seasons.

The model in question is ideal for meeting the needs of fishermen and hunters, but at the same time, it will be a good purchase for lovers of recreation, entertainment and travel. The Arctic Cat Z1 XT snowmobile has proven itself well on the Russian market, largely due to its universal capabilities, as well as its affordable cost and high functionality.

To develop this snowmobile, American specialists used various advanced solutions that brought this model to a new level compared to its closest competitors. In particular, these technologies dominate the chassis, namely the articulated rear suspension, which can be adjusted to specific road obstacles by switching between different suspension modes, which is a definite plus.

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As for the front suspension, its main feature is the company's AWS VII technology, and the front suspension itself is based on A-arms. This solution made it possible to improve driving performance and improve handling when cornering, when performing sharp maneuvers, etc. In addition to high performance in terms of handling, this arrangement is distinguished by increased strength and long service life. The developers conducted a series of tests to ensure the endurance of the machine, which should not fail during harsh operating conditions. So, especially for this, the car received a high-strength Twin Spar chassis of its own design. It is based on two spar boxes made of aluminum. This “winged” metal made it possible not only to eliminate chassis deformation and resistance to damage, but also to significantly reduce the overall weight of the vehicle. In addition to this, it is worth noting that the two spar boxes are triangular in shape, and as an alternative to the usual bolts and nuts, self-tapping rivets are used here, increasing the rigidity and strength of the chassis. The organization of the workplace in the Araktik Cat Z1 snowmobile is performed at a high ergonomic level. So, let's pay attention to the modern dashboard with a Deluxe-class digital-analog display. The peculiarity of this display is its functionality. It includes standard instruments that display current speed, daily mileage, oil level and engine temperature, as well as other parameters. Including indicators for reverse lights and hazard lights on the dashboard.

To increase the level of comfort and convenience during long-term operation, the device in question received an electric starter, ensuring uninterrupted engine starting in cold weather. Of course, the developers also provided for the so-called emergency start, which can be activated if the electric starter breaks down. Thanks to this, the engine can be started in any, even unplanned, situation. Additional starting elements are very relevant for operation at extremely low temperatures, down to minus 50 degrees.

The snowmobile of the same name is initially a two-seater, but if necessary, the passenger seat can be removed to provide additional space that can be used to place cargo. In this way, the lifting capacity of the machine can be increased. By the way, the vacated passenger seat can be used for fishing and hunting needs.

The Arctic Cat Bearcat Z1 XT snowmobile has a powerful hitch that allows the machine to be used as a tow vehicle for heavy cargo containers. In this case, the load capacity can reach about 500 kg. Moreover, with the help of this snowmobile you can pull out stuck equipment that has fallen into a ditch (for example). In addition, we note the strong protection of the snowmobile from damage when colliding with obstacles - thanks to reinforced front and rear bumpers. The car's suspension has a good degree of protection when hitting branches, stumps and other hard objects. Reinforced bumpers are the prerogative of the standard equipment.

Among the optional components available for the Arctic Cat Z1 XT snowmobile, we highlight a spacious luggage compartment under the driver's seat, as well as a high windshield, widened skis (their width is 300 mm), snow clearing accessories, a winch, a built-in engine heater and other options. This may include heated seats, an engine radiator and a stabilizer bar. The last component is important because it increases cross-country ability in deep snowdrifts.

Variator belt for Arctic Cat Z1

Specifications

1. Dimensions, mm: Length – 3480; Width – 1270
2. Minimum/maximum ski track width – 1016/1118 mm
3. Ski width/ski extension width – 205/300 mm
4. Front suspension – AWS VII with double hydraulic shock absorbers
5. Rear suspension - articulated, with adjustable torsion springs
6. Rear shock absorbers – 50 mm (diameter)
7. Rear Link – Torque Sensing Link
8. Front/rear suspension travel – 216/330 mm
9. Propulsion - caterpillar, with front drive sprockets
10. Caterpillars, pcs. - 1
11. Tension mechanism – screw type
12. Caterpillar belt – reinforced, rubber-fabric
13. Track length/width – 3912/508 mm
14. Grouser height – 35 mm
15. Transmission – continuously variable variator Arctic
16. Gear positions: down, forward, reverse, neutral
17. Brakes – hydraulic, disc
18. Electric starter - yes
19. Power system – EFI, with two diffusers with a diameter of 48 mm
20. Ignition system - transistor
21. Lubrication system - dry sump
22. Weight – 332 kg
23. Load capacity – 650 kg
24. Fuel tank volume – 64 l
25. Layout – double
26. Exhaust system components - pipe and muffler.

Basic options:

Electric starter, reverse, heated throttle trigger and steering wheel grips, windshield, passenger backrest, rear tow bar, speedometer, odometer, reinforced bumpers front and rear, as well as halogen and LED headlights front and rear, respectively.

Track for Arctic Cat Z1

Magnum 500 brand tracks are perfect for Arctic Cat Z1 . The symmetrical profile of these tracks has excellent traction qualities both when moving through the forest and when moving on hard crust. When driving on loose and shallow snow, the MAGNUM 500 tracks demonstrate excellent driving characteristics and provide an unforgettable riding experience.

• The nature of the engagement is lantern;
• Number of steps - 62;
• Caterpillar weight - no more than 34 kg;
• Length - 3968 mm;
• Width - 500 mm;
• Thickness - 6 mm;
• Pitch - 64 mm;
• The height of the lug is 32 mm.

Engine

The Arctic Cat Z1 snowmobile is equipped with a two-cylinder engine, which has a powerful four-stroke design. At the same time, the design of the internal combustion engine itself is very compact and ergonomic, using lightweight technical solutions designed to reduce the total weight of the snowmobile. The engine is adapted to high temperatures (above zero degrees) thanks to a liquid cooling system. The cylinder diameter is 98 mm. With a displacement of 1 liter, the engine develops 123 horsepower, which is an excellent result for a car in this price category.

Price

The price of the new Arctic Cat Z1 model starts from 520 thousand rubles and up to 750 thousand Russian rubles. The price, as a rule, varies depending on the year of manufacture of the snowmobile, additional equipment, version (basic or modified), and on the configuration.

A used model will cost from 350 thousand rubles to 610 thousand Russian rubles. The price is also influenced by factors such as the year of production, the version (basic or modified), the number of operating hours, the number of kilometers traveled and the general technical condition of the snowmobile.

Reviews

• Dmitry, Nizhny Novgorod region. This machine has its pros and cons, which is quite typical for such an inexpensive workhorse. Arctic Cat Z1 was purchased for family travel, for walks and tourist trips. Currently the mileage is 500 kilometers. I was pleased with the powerful engine, especially compared to the old Viking. The “American” once had to tow this Viking, as well as the old Expedition - he pulled it out without any problems. The car confidently crawls uphill, and the maximum speed is 100 km/h. Comfort and amenities are at a decent level. The glass is not that high, but it’s quite enough for my height - at least the wind hardly blows in my face, and I don’t have to wear a helmet. But if anything happens, I can always install higher glass. Of the minuses, I will note the heavy weight - the car weighs as much as 400 kg, and even more. Handling is good if you drive alone. The reverse function must be used carefully, as the snowmobile quickly buries itself in powdery snow. As for service, not everything is clear. For example, I am afraid of replacing glow plugs - if I suddenly need to change them, then I will have to disassemble half the engine. So far the original spark plugs are still in place.
• Vasily, Leningrad region. My snowmobile is a 2009 model year. I bought it from a friend. Even though the snowmobile was well-maintained, I immediately appreciated its advantages. For example, this is excellent handling - the car steers perfectly even on slopes, although there may be delays when performing high-speed maneuvers due to the heavy weight of the snowmobile. There is an opportunity to put it on one ski - no question. In this case, sharpness and controllability will improve, but at the same time directional stability will decrease and rolls will occur. Therefore, as they say, the quieter you drive, the further you will go. The machine has been in operation for more than two seasons. I installed a permanent winch and anti-roll bar so that I could get through deep and loose snow without any problems. In addition to serious advantages, there are also serious disadvantages - for example, the track is too wide, because of which the snowmobile is not able to drive over many bridges.
• Yaroslav, Ufa. The snowmobile's current mileage is 2,500 kilometers. This is a decent indicator, and during the entire period of use I thoroughly appreciated all the pros and cons of the machine. I’ll say right away that the technology pleasantly surprised me. There is enough power in reserve for any task. Among the serious shortcomings, I note the large mass, due to which engine traction quickly disappears when moving uphill. The snowmobile is reliable and comfortable, adapted to leisurely and measured driving without sudden maneuvers. For me this is rather a plus, since I often travel with my wife and children. I was pleased that the engine started even at minus 37 degrees. The device is capable of transporting up to 350 kg of cargo along with a sleigh - I checked it myself. And you can also remove the passenger seat to secure even more cargo. The result is such a cargo workhorse. You can carry firewood. The snowmobile turned out to be economical, but very demanding on fuel quality. It is also advisable to use original consumables, oils, filters, etc.

Battery for Arctic Cat Z1

Dimensional data:

Electric starter, reverse, heated steering wheel grips and throttle trigger, high windshield, backrest for the passenger seat, rear towbar, odometer and speedometer, halogen headlight, LED taillight.
Today, new technologies, unique developments, and innovative solutions from the engineers of the American company Polaris make Polaris snowmobiles one of the most reliable in the world. Polaris snowmobiles of the 2012 model year, in comparison with their predecessors, received the most progressive design and a new bright look. In addition, more Polaris models are equipped with the efficient PRO-RIDE progressive suspension.

The benefits of such a suspension can now be fully appreciated not only by those who are closely familiar with motocross, but also by those who simply love snowmobiles. The use of a motocross motorcycle design in the rear suspension promotes correct weight distribution, greater precision in cornering and makes it possible to very quickly and accurately adjust the suspension based on the weight of the rider and the condition of the snow cover. The new line offers a choice of eight snowmobile models in the performance class.

In addition, they received greater clearance between the tunnel and the track, lugs up to 44 mm, improved bushings and Walker Evans Needle shock absorbers with compression adjustment. PRO-R models are equipped with lighter parts. If high-speed traversing of broken trails, exhilarating acceleration out of corners, negotiating uneven terrain with lightning speed or testing the strength of a snowmobile is what you are looking for, then the Polaris Rush series sport snowmobiles are your choice: these are models for true connoisseurs of extreme sports.

The engine of the new Polaris Rush is a proven and reliable liquid-cooled Liberty engine with a displacement of 600 or 800 cc. cm. Thanks to the Cleanfire Injection fuel injection system, it has become more economical and provides the fastest possible acceleration. The new Rush sports snowmobiles feature an IFS sports suspension with new levers to reduce steering effort, integrated tunnel protection, and improved handling.

New crossover class snowmobiles are represented by seven new models. The flagship model in this class is the 800 Switchback PRO-R, which, thanks to the PRO-RIDE rear suspension with progressive stiffness without feedback, carried over from RUSH snowmobiles, is perfect for both flat and cross-country routes. Equipped with a new seat with a 51mm wider middle section for more comfortable driving. The lightweight and durable PRO-RIDE chassis provides the car with excellent traction and acceleration, and the handling is perfectly balanced. The Switchback PRO-R snowmobile combines the qualities inherent in sports and touring snowmobiles.

As an additional option, this snowmobile can be equipped with the Adventure Cargo luggage system, the capacity of luggage boxes is about 20 kg. Also in this class is the limited-edition SnowCheck Polaris 800 Switchback Assault 144. This machine features new bright graphics for plastic elements, curved ski runners with an adjustable base, comfortable Pro-Tapper steering and Walker Evans shock absorbers.

Aggregates

The Arctic Cat Birket 570 is equipped with a 565 cc engine with a capacity of 61.9 hp. and air cooling system

This power unit is considered one of the most reliable and economical, which attracts the attention of many users. There are also no complaints about the variator of the Bearcat 570 snowmobile; it perfectly complements the engine, giving the vehicle endurance

Chassis

Front mounted AWS VII suspension provides a smooth ride and agility. At the rear of the snowmobile there is an articulated suspension with fiberglass springs that prevent overloading. The owner of the BEARCAT 570 XTE has the ability to adjust the distance between the skis, and the wide universal track itself adapts to any type of surface.

Equipment

In terms of equipment, Arctic Cat snowmobiles are significantly ahead of the competition. Initially, the model 570 XTE of the BEARCAT series is equipped with Top versions of other brands, while the price of American equipment is an order of magnitude lower. The manufacturer made sure that the Birket 570 could satisfy the requirements of a wide range of potential customers, which resulted in the availability of high-quality optics, a removable seat, a heating system and other accessories. For a practical person, it is most profitable to buy a snowmobile of the described model, since initially it has everything for efficient operation and performance of work.

Manufacturers

Arctic Cat was founded in early 1961. Its founder was Edgar Hitten. From the very beginning, the company specialized in the production of snowmobiles and was called Polar Manufacturing. A year later it received the name Arctic Enterprises, and only in 1996 the name that is now known throughout the world.

Currently, the company, in addition to its main plant in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, has production centers in South Dakota and Australia. In addition, there are about 40 official distributors dispersed around the world and more than a thousand official dealers in North America.

Comparison of the Bearcat 570 model

Despite the fact that Arctic Cat occupies a leading position in the market, it is not without competitors. The Bearcat 570's main rival is the Yamaha Viking 450. The Japanese model is equipped with a 535 cc engine, but it makes up for the difference in power with comfort and low fuel consumption. For 100 km, Yamaha's brainchild spends only 20-24 liters, depending on the weight of the load and the road.

There was also internal competition. Many fans of the company choose the Arctic Cat 570 XT snowmobile. The characteristics of the models are practically the same, but the limited version has a more capacious tank. The volume of the fuel tank is 66 liters. A full tank lasts for 200-250 km.

Basic equipment:… Basic equipment

• The structural length of the snowmobile is 3480 millimeters.
• The width of the body is 1270 millimeters.
• The smallest ski track width is 1016 millimeters.
• The largest ski track width is 1118 millimeters.
• The width of the skis is 205 millimeters.
• The width of the ski flares is 300 millimeters.

Specifications • As we already wrote, Arctic Cat chose their proven old Twin Spar chassis.

Peculiarities

Engine 2000

The 565cc, two-cylinder, air-cooled engine is designed for quality and powerful performance. Push-button reverse is widely in demand among utilitarian models. This engine is valued all over the world for its simplicity and reliability.

Front suspension AWS VII

The 2000 Series Bearcat features Arctic Cat's legendary AWS VII front suspension. Twin-tube hydraulic shock absorbers allow you to fully control the ride. As a result, you move in comfort and are less tired when driving. Hour after hour, kilometer after kilometer.

Bearcat 2000XT rear suspension

The articulated frame allows the rear of the track to be raised, reducing the load on the sled as it moves forward on the trail. However, this function is especially useful when reversing, since raising the rear of the frame allows the snowmobile not to plow through the snow or dig into it, but to ride on top of the snow cover. For more traction, lock the snowmobile's heel and enjoy all the benefits of movement.

ACT Diamond Direct Drive System

The revolutionary planetary gearbox, which is installed on Arctic Cat snowmobiles, unlike a conventional transmission, does not have a drive chain, chain box or intermediate shaft in its design. This allows not only to make the transmission lighter and more compact, but also to lower the center of gravity of the snowmobile, increase its strength and improve the level of controllability.

Electric starter

The electric starter ensures a smooth and reliable start with a simple turn of the ignition key.

Push-button reverse

One press of a button is enough to quickly, smoothly and easily engage reverse.

Digital dashboard

Choose between digital and analogue speed and tachometer displays. There's also an odometer, two trip meters, engine clock, reverse indicator and hazard lights.

Passenger footrests

Comfortable footrest for the passenger ensures a stable and comfortable ride over bumpy areas.

Protecting the passenger's hands from the wind

Reliable protection of your passenger's hands from wind and cold.

Removable passenger seat

In case you need luggage space while driving alone, the passenger seat can be easily removed.

Wide track

The 51cm track with patented Quiet Track technology really leaves a big mark, and the XTRA-ACTION adaptive rear suspension benefits from such a massive track.

Heated grips

With heated grips and throttle trigger, your hands will always be warm - a comfortable ride on long trips is guaranteed.

Reinforced front and rear bumpers

Bearcat models come standard with heavy-duty front and rear bumpers to provide excellent protection for your snowmobile.

Extra high windshield

Ultra-high windshield for protection when riding in open snowy areas.

Polaris

The new chassis, which ensures that the center of gravity of the snowmobile is as close as possible to the steering column, guarantees good handling and comfortable movement on various surfaces. Mountain bikes, crossovers and other sports vehicles powered by 800 cc 2-stroke Suzuki engines are designated by the prefix 8000, and the 6000 modification is equipped with a 2-stroke 600 cc C-TEC2 engine of our own American production.