2019 M 8000 Mountain Cat Alpha One

The new paradigm of backcountry performance

February 2018 Feature

ALPHA ONE Rear Suspension System

ALPHA ONE is the revolutionary new Arctic Cat rear suspension system that uses the newest technology and innovation to deliver the industry’s lightest rear suspension.

Unlike traditional sliderail suspension designs that have two parallel rails positioned on the outer portion of a track, ALPHA ONE features one single aluminum beam positioned in the middle of the Power Claw track, allowing the track to significantly flex and conform to the snow.

The result is the lightest suspension in its category, that offers an entirely new level of increased maneuverability with less required rider input; substantially easier sidehilling; and increased traction and deep snow performance. Best of all, ALPHA ONE eases sidehilling and maximizes maneuverability for beginning riders while offering a higher level of performance and capability for experienced riders.

A full 11 lbs. lighter than comparable systems, ALPHA ONE is the industry’s lightest mountain suspension. And it’s a system that doesn’t trap snow within the skidframe like traditional designs, so it rides even lighter in real-world conditions in the same way as other Arctic Cat mountain sled innovations.

Constructed from extruded aluminum with magnesium attachment points, the ALPHA ONE suspension is 4.5 lbs. lighter than traditional rear suspensions. The 15-inch wide ALPHA ONE Power Claw track comes in 154- and 165-inch lengths with 3.0-inch lugs. Its design and unique internal construction supports the increased flexibility, while its 3.5-inch pitch design results in a 6.5-lb. weight reduction compared to traditional tracks. Large 10-inch rear idler wheels ensure maximum efficiency with minimal power loss.

ALPHA ONE retains the front suspension arm dampened by an adjustable Fox Float QS3 shock, and a rear suspension arm dampened by an adjustable Fox Float 3 QSL semi-locking shock for quick and simple customization for riding conditions.

Arctic Mountain Suspension (AMS)

The AMS features mountain-specific geometry, spindles and A-arms for easy to maneuver handling in deep snow. Its 27-degree spindle caster angle provides optimal ski camber for off-trail cornering and more predictable counter-steering, especially when sidehilling. The lightweight, forged-aluminum spindles have minimal surface area, reducing drag and improving performance in deep snow. Dual-phase high strength alloy-steel A-arms are lightweight and durable.

FLOAT-ACTION Rear Suspension

Arctic Cat redesigned the rear suspension in 2017 that combined new, lightweight rails that shed 1.5-2 lbs. while providing optimal suspension travel and a better ride quality in all conditions. Improvements for 2019 include a switch to two 8-inch diameter rear idler wheels for improved durability, plus new 5.5-inch rail-mounted wheels for added durability. Compared to models from 2015 and older, the FLOAT-ACTION suspension incorporates revised mountain-specific geometry, with a longer rear-arm pull rod and revised rail profile that delivers consistent track tension during the full range of travel. A longer front arm shock works with the pull-rod for increased front arm travel, which improves the ride performance in all conditions, especially in big bumps. The FLOAT ACTION suspension is built in three lengths to accommodate 141-, 153- and 162-inch track lengths.

LED Headlight

A new LED headlight on select 2019 M 8000 models and all M 9000 models delivers enhanced lighting performance. When the high beam is activated, the low beam also stays on to deliver a light pattern with great range and width. On the 9000 model, special LED accent lighting comes on when the key is turned on.

New Hand Controls

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