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Arctic Cat presents several new cruisers for 2001. In the mid-sized category sits the new ZL 600 EFI esr. Its standard features make this a comfortable trail cruiser, with the styling points and grunt of a ZR.
The 599cc liquid-cooled twin is outfitted with Cat's new Arctic Power Valve (APV). That helps to boost low-end and midrange performance, increase the sled's peak horsepower, give better fuel economy and reduces noise emissions. EFI also comes on this one, delivering easier starts, and automatic fuel flow compensation for temperature and altitude changes.
The 1998 through 2000 500 and 600 case reed twins weren't able to have electric start. With the new Flex-Drive starter, the starter and ring gear no longer have to be aligned, allowing us to fire up with the turn of a key.
Arctic Cat uses Ryde FX shocks on the ZL's AWS V front and FasTrack rear suspensions, offering the same 10 and 13.5 inches of travel as the sporty ZR sleds, but at a much more plush setting.
The ZL 600 EFI esr has plastic skis and electric start, reverse and mirrors standard. The full-protection windshield is not only higher profile, it's wider and guards against the wind. It has a ZR-styled hood and belly pan, too. The ZL uses the same engine as the ZRs, but the ZL series offers more creature comforts and cushier ride.
You'll notice the color that dresses out this sled. Test Rider Doug Erickson notes, "The Solar Illusion color on the EFI Cats has great showroom appeal. The paint in the sun produced interesting colors, different from every angle."
Overall, the ZL 600 EFI esr is a nice-looking sled. It's stacked with some great new features from Arctic Cat, and carries a price tag of $7,299.