Arctic Cat is set to defend its cross-country championship titles with a new 2018 ZR 6000R XC snowmobile that features key improvements for the upcoming season.
The newest consumer-available machine builds on wins in the 2017 USXC I-500 and Iron Dog events with Fox ZERO QS3R shocks, a new lightweight tubular driven shaft system, race-bred seat design, the auto-adjusting TEAM Rapid Response II drive and TS-273 driven clutch combination, as well as improvements in engine calibration mapping.
It starts with the lightweight, ultra-tough Pro-Cross chassis that delivers championship-winning rigidity and ergonomics. It’s matched by the combination of the ARS front suspension and the 129- SLIDEACTION rear suspension (with 7-position rear coupling adjustability) effortlessly carves corners and swallows bumps. A new four-wheel rear axle design increases track support in high-load racing conditions.
New coil-over Fox ZERO QS3R shocks on the skis and rear suspension provide premium performance in all terrain conditions via their simplified adjustability and Kashima coating.
The high-tech, Arctic Cat produced 6000-series 600 C-Tec2 2-stroke engine delivers class-leading horsepower and fuel economy thanks to Dual-Stage Injection (DSI), batteryless EFI, APV electronic exhaust valves, exhaust pipe temperature sensor and electric oil injection. Revised engine mapping for 2018 increases performance. It also features the no-compromise convenience of push-button engine reverse.
Racers will appreciate the reshaped seat, which features a cut-down shape up front to maximize cornering efficiency and rider ergonomics. Likewise, race-ready features like tether switch and hand guards come standard. It’s matched by Next Gen bodywork with improved air flow for better underhood heat management, plus easy-to-remove side panels and hood provide quick and simple access to key components.
The 15x129x1.25-in. Ripsaw track features clips on each track window for maximum performance in all snow conditions, and comes ready for traction products with the removal of the Quiet Track bumps.
Its RMC hydraulic brake system features a racebred master cylinder and lightweight disc for enhanced braking performance.
Here’s the new features for 2018:
- New TEAM TS-273 driven clutch and Tubular Driven Shaft combination features a larger 29mm OD shaft (compared to the previous 25mm OD for the solid shaft) that trims 2.4 lbs. while increasing stiffness by more than 7 percent. A lengthened shaft spline improves clutch-to-shaft support for improved clutch and belt alignment. The new clutch is based on the previous TSS-04 model, but with a new post design to accommodate the new hollow driven shaft.
- New Fox ZERO QS3R ski and rear suspension shocks feature coil-over springs and 3-position dial compression adjustability for quick and easy tuning for riding style and conditions. They are rebound adjustable and feature Kashima coating for the smoothest, most supple action, plus remote reservoir architecture for fade-free performance.
- The Arctic Cat 6000-series 600 C-Tec2 DSI 2-stroke engine features revised calibration mapping for improved performance.
- TEAM Rapid Response II drive clutch and TS-273 driven clutch feature an auto-adjusting belt tension design for optimal and consistent performance, plus a 12.5 percent lower effective starting ratio (while maintaining the top ratio) for smoother engagement and reduced belt wear at drive-away speed.
- The 15x129x1.25-in. Ripsaw track comes with clips on each track window for maximum top speed in all snow conditions. This non-Quiet Track version of the Ripsaw does not include the molded-in bumps in order to ease stud pattern options.
- Revised 21/38 gearing using a Borg Warner chain and gear combination delivers improved top speed and performance with reduced chain stretch, lower friction and increased strength.
- A new seat design reduces weight, lowers the center of gravity and is shaped to enable more efficient body position while cornering.
- New lightweight 4-wheel rear axle design delivers increased track support.
- New LED headlight delivers best-in-class lighting performance.
- New black fuel tank.