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High Performance + Engine EfficiencyFirst, the engine story!
It's no secret that 600cc engines lead the sales parade each year, so its natural that Cat is pumping a lot of thought and technology into its 600cc units. This year it adds the 600cc EFI II engine to its F6 mainstay.
The 600 helps Cat meet 2006 emissions standards by using an exhaust pipe sensor to cut carbon monoxide emissions by 25%. From a corporate standpoint that's great, but Hallstrom says it also offers additional benefits to riders. First, it helps prevent cold drive-away hesitation, an annoyance when the mercury has slipped into those single and negative digits. In addition, the new system also boosts engine acceleration, making for smoother, quicker starts - always a plus in a performance sled.
Cat's addition of the 600 EFI II, plus its decision to offer only the 900 EFI on its ZR900 in '06, means that among its high-performance sleds only the F7 and F5 have carbed, as well as EFI, engine options. Don't expect that to last for long!
Also aiding the high-perf lineup of the F5, F6, F7 and ZR9, Cat has worked on the suspensions, lowering the center of gravity and recalibrating the standard models for groomed trail riding. Most important, though, is a new, lighter weight, Hacksaw track with 1-inch lugs that was jointly developed with Camoplast.
For its Sno Pro models, Cat gives the sleds more ground clearance, Fox Float shocks with a more aggressive calibration to absorb the bumps and a 2-inch rear arm shock designed into the skid frame. The track this season will feature a 1 3/8-inch lug, and all Sno Pro models will come with matching color hoods and pans, giving them a more unified, aggressive appearance.
Note too that Firecat EFI R models will use the chain and sprocket style reverse gear and feature the standard suspension package. Also, fans of red Firecats will have to wait. For now that color has been dropped from the lineup.