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Fast Family Cat
We can’t deny that we’ve long enjoyed Arctic Cat’s TZ1 Turbo and have named it our best 2-up several times. And yes, we were influenced by its impressive power.
Cat’s strong 1056cc 4-stroke twin with a turbocharger will pound out 180+ horses, and despite this sled’s weight (no official numbers, but this isn’t a lightweight sled as it rides in the Twin Spar chassis), you can feel it. Press that easy squeeze throttle flipper and BOOM, the turbo kicks in and the TZ1 snaps forward.
It’s fun to zip this one out of corners, especially when Mom isn’t on the back.
But the heft is more noticeable here and you feel a little more push in corners than with the Grand Touring. Still, it’s easy to control, especially when you’re just cruising with a passenger. And if you find yourself on a long open abandoned railroad bed you’ll enjoy exercising that turbo, even with a passenger aboard.
The FasTrack slide-action suspension with coupling blocks is good and has proven durable. Handling big bumps is no problem and even with two big guys on this it does not bottom out excessively.
Cat has created a comfortable sled, something we’ve praised for years in all the Twin Spar models. You sit straight and upright with good reach and knee room. Foot holds up front are sizeable and we like the seat too. Some riders say they find the rear seat less comfortable than on some other models. Better have your spouse sit on any seat before making a final decision, no matter your sled choice.
This is a luxury ride to be sure, with heated front and rear seats and hand-warmers for the rear passenger too, along with wind deflectors. But the TZ1 also has push-button reverse and electric start, both making it easier on the rider and keeping frustration levels low. Remote electric start is an option too.
We like the tall windshield. It does a good job of diverting air flow. Rear riders also felt the shield helped them, limiting head buffeting. Cat has adjustable bars on its TZ1, so if you and your significant other trade spots while trail riding, each of you can get comfortable with the controls. It’s relatively easy to unplug the pin that holds the bars in place and put them where you want them.
If there’s no one riding with you it’s pretty simple to remove the back seat and then you have the option of flipping the seatback forward to offer you some additional back support. If two of you are heading out for a long trip though, there are two side bags and one large rear bag over the tunnel for carrying extra gear or clothing for a second day’s ride. All are waterproof.
Note though that the TZ1 Turbo drinks premium 91 octane, so you’ll need to stay alert for gas stations with premium fuel when filling up along the trail. It seems to us that more and more rural gas stations are offering the premium fuel, so that seems to be less of a problem each winter.
The verdict
In reality we could be comfortable on three of these sleds on any touring outing, but the Grand Touring is our choice due to its precise handling, comfy ergonomics and sweet naturally aspirated power that delivers good fuel economy.
Cat’s TZ1 Turbo is a close second because it’s the raciest feeling of these four due to its monster power, although it drinks premium gas. But its handling is light and sled comfort and conveniences are plentiful. Venture isn’t far behind either, and is a good value when looking closely at price and quality. Plus its steering effort is extremely low, so an older rider may particularly enjoy that aspect.
The aging Polaris is fourth, but it’s a good value option and has push-button reverse and comfortable seating.