2002 arctic cat impressions
Amsnow
ZR series:
There is a multi-level grouping with the "spring only" Cross Country models and the "Plain Jane" versions. The Cross Country models feature the race-proven adjustable center suspension shock and clicker shocks up front. You get a different, but racier, windshield. The ordinary ZR models are spectacular on their own, so don't feel left out if you don't buy until later. You'll get the coupled suspension, "performance trail bars" and bigger windscreen.
t is absolutely unbelievable how dramatically better the 2002 ZR 800 is when compared to the 2001 version we had in our test fleet this winter.
Granted, the added elevation at West Yellowstone took some of the big twin's testosterone away, but it was Cat engineering that turned this engine's toggle switch performance into a smooth and very trail-friendly high performance blaster. The coupling in the suspension allows some weight transfer from front to rear, but for the most part we found all ZRs, especially the 800 model, precise in steering input and extremely well-balanced in overall handling. These sleds can be setup to respond like slot cars on a wide variety of trails.
As with all Cats of recent memory, the '02 ZR can take trail abuse better than anything on the snow. The deeper the moguls the better they like it. On smooth trails with lots of twists and turns the ZR can make an average rider better because the sled not only goes where you point the skis but the tail follows without excess wag.
The ZR seems to literally stick to the snow as you discover that the best way to corner it is to drive it smoothly and less like a rally car or dirt tracker with the butt end out. The ZR 800 of last year was extremely unpredictable when trying to ride fast through the turns.
The 800 had so much torque that you could lift the skis off the snow when grabbing a handful of throttle as you exited a turn. The 2002 version plants the skis as you enter a turn and keeps them there even when you hit the throttle hard. There is much less unweighting of the front from the '02 model.