1997 arctic cat jag

 O.K., so we laughed out loud when we saw the 1997 Jag. But come on -could this thing look any more like a Dodge Neon? When you look at a fire-spitting Thundercat or a psychedelic ZR, "cute" doesn't usually leap to mind, but our test riders took one look at that rounded little bugger and simultaneously said: "Hi!"

There's no doubt, the Jag is a rider-friendly snowmobile. Smaller riders will groove on the way that the Jag actually fits them; you won't have to straddle the gas tank to lock into the foot rests (though they could be tighter or better angled). The handlebars fit, so you won't feel as though you're driving a big rig or trying to steer from the back seat. One complaint that some have voiced about Cats is that you need hands big enough to palm a basketball to brake; control on Jag's quick-adjust disc brake, however, is better. While we're talking ergonomics, the seat could be more comfortable; this one is newly designed, but it's not quite there. Remember guys, if you're going to scale-down a snowmobile, you have to do it everywhere...seat included.

For more experienced, more aggressive riders, the Jag's top-end speed won't thrill you (you're looking at about 70 mph max with a 175 to 200-pound rider going flat-out on averaged-packed snow). But what the Jag lacks in arm-stretching acceleration, its small, tight stature makes up for in quick agility ("fun" was a consistent comment among our test riders). And its 431cc Suzuki fan-cooled twin does muster enough power to keep you in sight of the big guys.

Under the hood, there's a new, larger air intake, designed to minimize snow ingestion at the throat of the carburetor and improve bottom end. Atop the airbox, you will find a pretty trick tool box.

Suspension-wise, may we just say, "amen." Most econo-sleds that pack enough power for fun come laden with suspensions that pound the tar out of lightweights. You need a suspension that performs well at mid-range speeds, because this baby rides moguls; it won't skim them like its bigger Cat colleagues. The AWS V double wishbone front suspension does the job here; it rated 8.5 points in ride and handling in our test evaluations. In back, the FasTrack Long-Travel rated 8s in ride and handling. These results were found on trails with average snow cover (some ruts and bumps, fairly recent grooming).

In addition to the FasTrack's greater rear travel, Jag riders will also enjoy the comfort of increased front ski suspension (two inches more than last year). The Jag also features Cat's new aluminum bulkhead, which shaves 17 pounds.

If you own or have seen a '96 Neon - oops, Jag - there are significant styling changes to the 1997 model. Arctic is concentrating on improving its fit and finish, and the effort shows on the Jag as well as the Puma; the injection-molded pieces on the bellypan and dash fit flush, tight and smooth. Cat guys say that this attention to detail is especially important to youth and family riders. This winter, you will know the Jag by its smooth lines and its friendly demeanor - give it a wave and say "hi.

1997 Arctic Cat Jag

Overall Height: 37 inches
Overall Length: 108 inches
Ski Stance: 39 inches
Engine: Suzuki 431cc, oil-injected, fan-cooled twin
Exhaust: Tuned pipe
Clutch:
Drive: Arctco (rpm sensing)
 Driven: Arctco (torque sensing)
Suspension Travel:
 Front: AWS V double wishbone, progressive rate springs, adjustable coil over gas
shocks, 7.1 in.ches
 Rear: FasTrack Long Travel System slide-rail, adjustable torsion springs, gas
shocks, 11.5 inches
Fuel Capacity: 10 gallons
Key Features: Standard speedo, trip odometer, gas gauge, low oil light, andwarmers. Jag DLX offers electric start, thumbwarmer. Reverse, high windshield, tach,mirrors, rack and hitch optional on both
Retail Price:
$4,199 (base)
  $4,499 (DLX)
Riding Impressions:
"It's cute and fun, fun, fun." - Steve Ingram, Test Rider