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Arctic Cat's M6 returns again in the trusty M-series chassis. This is the most conventional of the group with the REV-XP at the other extreme as the most rider forward. Some may take this as meaning that the M-chassis is an old-school and outdated riding position, but we feel that this is still one of the best handling mountain chassis available. Sidehilling especially on this sled is a dream as it holds a line with little effort on even the steepest hill.
The M6 receives a few updates for 2010 but remains essentially the same machine as 2009. As with all 2010 M-sleds the M6 gets a new taller lightweight seat. This new seat looks great on the machine and makes it easier to transition between a sit-down and standing riding position. Also new are the FrogzSkin powder vents on the hood openings. This prevents snow from entering the engine bay and works especially well at the hood hinge area. The previous design allowed snow to enter, which would often then freeze, and when you opened the hood the frozen ice block would crack the plastic.
The M-series chassis is light and nimble and really shines when sidehilling and boondocking. The running boards on the M-series machines are the best in the industry as they are wide, offer excellent grip, and clear the snow easily. Unfortunately the M6 doesn't get the adjustable telescoping steering post like the Sno Pro model, so we were stuck with one handlebar height. Thankfully, it was a decent height that worked well for us.
The M6's engine is zippy and has good power for a 600 class machine; it falls short of the Nytro in terms of low-end grunt but is right there with the other two 600's in performance. The M6 is a very easy machine to ride and is well suited to beginner and less experienced riders. It is much less intimidating to ride than an 800 and it's still very capable.