Off-road vehicles are a rather diverse and controversial segment. It is characterized by both high power and functionality, and in some cases demonstrates comfort and outstanding ergonomic qualities. Snowmobiles, as a rule, are divided into two groups - dynamic mountain vehicles for active recreation and utilitarian models designed to perform practical tasks. The Arctic Cat Bearcat 570 XT modification, in accordance with the official positioning, rather belongs to the second category, but, as operating experience shows, this option is also interesting from a sporting point of view.
General information about the snowmobile
Although the model represents the entry level even in its own Bearcat family, its capabilities are enough to confidently represent the class of utilitarian devices. In addition, the balanced power filling and thoughtful design base allows the Arctic Cat Bearcat 570 XT to be used as a multi-purpose vehicle. Of course, entering the mountain snowmobile class requires a high level of ergonomics from the applicant. Both the suspension and electronic assistants are responsible for this area in this model. Thus, the display allows the user to choose between analogue and digital representation of tachometer and speedometer readings. In addition, the instrument panel contains trip meters, an odometer, as well as hazard lights and reverse indicators.
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.
The first snowmobile was based on a gas-powered sled model from Peter Peterson. It was also used by Polaris Industries, in which Hitten previously had a stake.
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.
Main technical characteristics
If we discard the power basis, design and technological features, then the only thing that will allow us to classify the model as a junior class of utilitarians is its dimensions. The compact Arctic Cat Bearcat 570 XT, the technical characteristics of which are presented below, is partly due to its modest size and is maneuverable and dynamic:
- The length of the device is 3480 mm.
- Width – 1270 mm.
- Track length – 3912 mm.
- Track width – 508 mm.
- Ski width – 205 mm.
- The gap between the skis is adjustable in the range of 1016 - 1118 mm.
- The lug is 35 mm.
- Weight – 292 kg.
- The transmission is an Arctic mechanism, equipped with a speed sensor.
- The drive system is with a roller pulley.
Clutch TEAM
For 2016, Arctic Cat used the TEAM clutch. The XF 8000 High Country is equipped with a TEAM drive clutch and a TEAM BOSS driven clutch. The biggest benefit of this partnership for Arctic Cat is that they now have a wide range of springs, weights and tools at their disposal. TEAM systems are widely recognized for their ability to reduce belt slippage. If this happens, it leads to an increase in operating temperature and rapid wear of the belt. And if you reduce belt slippage, more energy will be transferred to the track. Arctic Cat racing sleds have had TEAM drive systems for about a decade, so the switch to TEAM transmissions on many of the 2016 Arctic Cat sleds is not a big deal.
Characteristics of the power filling
The model is equipped with a budget carburetor engine of 565 cm2. The two-stroke power plant is equipped with an air cooling system and reverse, which is activated by pressing the corresponding button. However, power ratings vary depending on the specification of the Arctic Cat Bearcat 570 XT. The characteristics of the basic version in terms of power output are 62-64 hp. With. The more expensive XT Limited modification provides 123 hp. With. But in this case, the device is equipped with a 1100 cc unit.
From the point of view of work quality, the power components of the lower configuration also perform well. As the owners note, the 62-horsepower snowmobile confidently copes with difficult terrain, maneuvering along winding forest paths. Of course, the behavior of the technology reveals its utilitarian essence, which determines endurance and high power output. At the same time, the Arctic Cat Bearcat 570 XT model is noted for its economy. Fuel consumption, for example, is only 15 liters per 100 km. This is despite the fact that already average utilitarian devices “eat up” about 35 liters. True, a lot depends on the nature of the ride. Still, the younger representative of the Bearcat is often used as a mountain modification. The model turned out to be successful in terms of handling, which captivates many fans of extreme recreation.
Engine
The Arctic Cat 570 snowmobile has a two-stroke two-cylinder power unit, which, upon reaching 7300 crankshaft revolutions per minute, develops a rated output power of 45.53 kilowatts, which translates to 61.9 horsepower. Each cylinder has a diameter of 73.8 millimeters, and their total working volume is 565 cubic meters. The piston stroke is 66 millimeters. This unit, as standard for all snowmobiles, uses an air cooling system. One VM34 carburetor is installed per cylinder. CDI condenser cooling system.
Design Features
First of all, it is worth highlighting the Twin Spar platform. This is the manufacturer’s proprietary chassis, which is specially designed for long trips in comfort. Its design is made of two spar beams that take on the load from the steering column and the tunnel. Fixation of parts is ensured by blind rivets, which increases the durability and rigidity of the device. No less remarkable is the Diamond Direct Drive system. Thanks to the ACT gearbox, the developers have ensured a reduced rotational speed of the drive mechanism in the track section without loss of speed. As for the working base in the lower part of the Arctic Cat Bearcat 570 XT, it is made of the type of movable rail mechanisms. This device allows you to remove the passenger seat or, conversely, install a third seat. Flexibility in the formation of the design base also contributes to the expansion of the range of tasks that the snowmobile is capable of performing.
Optional snowmobile filling
Already in the standard version, the snowmobile user receives push-button engine reverse, electric start, combined optics of four halogen headlights, a digital-analog instrument panel, etc. It is worth special mentioning indicators and heating systems. The first are represented by fuel and oil consumption indicators. Heating is provided on the steering wheel grips, and it works in two modes. It is worth remembering the utility of the Arctic Cat Bearcat 570 XT, which is also manifested in the elements of additional equipment. This particularly applies to the tow bar, seat pan and reinforced bumpers for tough conditions. This list expands significantly in the case of the premium package. The set of equipment for such a snowmobile, for example, includes a cargo platform, special preparation for a winch, 30 cm ski extensions, an arch, a beacon, a trunk, etc. The choice of options is large, but each addition is not cheap, as befits a quality product.
Maintenance nuances
Like all members of the family, this version was developed with endurance and unpretentious maintenance in mind. However, to maintain operating condition, the snowmobile must be regularly checked for the quality of assembly of parts, the function of the power filling and the overall condition of the structure. The unit should also be thoroughly cleaned after each use. If any problems are detected, it is recommended to immediately contact the dealer service center. However, some spare parts for the Arctic Cat Bearcat 570 XT can be updated independently. This applies in particular to the suspension arm, belt, air intake, battery pack, engine cover and crankcase. Also, many owners of this model complain about deviations in fuel mixture and oil consumption. If such nuances are identified, it is recommended to replace or reconfigure the fuel pump.
Positive reviews about the snowmobile
The main advantages of this snowmobile include functionality, versatility in operation and reliability. These are the main characteristics for utilitarian modifications, but this device also has special qualities. The creators endowed the equipment with high ergonomics, provided not only by new technologies in the design, but also by electronic systems. Thus, users note the ease of use of the Arctic Cat Bearcat 570 XT dashboard. Reviews highlight the availability of information presentation in several modes. There are also positive opinions regarding the additional equipment, which is rare in its richness when compared with other entry-level snowmobiles.
Add-ons
Arctic Cat realized that XF High Country drivers would benefit from a telescoping steering column as they constantly change their riding conditions. That's why they used a clamp ring to raise or lower the handlebars by 102mm. Another addition is a 12V socket that will help you charge your phone or GPS on the go. Today, almost all four-stroke snowmobiles are equipped with an outlet, while most two-stroke models do not.
Arctic Cat also switched to 140mm high racing windshields. When riding a snowmobile on a snowy day, a tall windshield keeps the snow away from your face, while a low racing windshield keeps the snow away from your body when you're standing up. Racing windshields are great in rough terrain, but on the track on cold mornings they don't provide enough protection. The savvy owner of the XF High Country will definitely buy himself an additional windshield, which he will use on frosty days on the highways, and leave the low one for conquering harsh terrain.
Negative reviews
There are few reviews with disappointment in the technology. They mainly relate to the nuances of operation, which are unexpectedly revealed in the power filling. There are also complaints about the average power. The structural basis significantly expands the possibilities for using this snowmobile, but the low-performance engine sets its limits. However, a lot depends on the tasks for which the Arctic Cat Bearcat 570 XT is purchased. Reviews from owners who use the device exclusively for transporting heavy loads are not particularly complimentary in terms of traction properties. This is due to the fact that, like the users of snowmobiles in this series themselves, the manufacturer is more likely to consider the models as sports. Although, officially they are classified as powerful and practical utilitarians.
ProClimb chassis
The Arctic Cat XF High Country is built on a ProClimb chassis that has undergone a number of changes over the last few years to make it lighter and more responsive. This rigid chassis doesn't flex under rider input like the Ski-Doo T3.
Arctic Cat chassis are neutrally balanced and do not have a forward-facing riding position. We've been doing regular snowmobile tests for a long time now, weighing them by lifting the handlebars, and every time we find that Arctic Cat machines are almost perfectly flat. A balanced chassis means it will behave predictably even if the driver changes position.
