Thief River Falls, Minn. -- Arctic Cat, a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company, announced today one of its most exciting model year lineups to date. To fill a gap in the snowmobile industry, Arctic Cat is offering a 2021 lineup headlined by the true mid-size BLAST models, designed for both performance and value.
The 2021 offering also has several new models and enhancements to existing vehicles.
Arctic Cat Inc. operates as part of the Textron Specialized Vehicles business.
“Arctic Cat is back in a big way,” Craig Kennedy, Vice President, Arctic Cat for Textron Specialized Vehicles Inc., said. “The 2021 lineup is a true testament of our dedication to the snowmobile industry, our customers and the brand. Our engineering team in Thief River Falls has been working tirelessly to create innovative new products that appeal to not only today’s snowmobile rider, but tomorrow’s potential enthusiast.”
All three models in the new BLAST lineup—the mountain BLAST M 4000, trail BLAST ZR 4000 and sport-utility BLAST LT 4000—are true mid-size vehicles powered by the industry’s first electronic fuel-injected, single-cylinder, 2-stroke engine—the 65 plus horsepower-class C-TEC2 4000, with 397cc of power. Riders will enjoy much of the same technology found in BLAST’s full-size counterparts, such as the Arctic Drive System and Arctic Mountain Suspension (AMS); the mountain version also features the revolutionary ALPHA ONE suspension system. And with a smaller chassis, these models offer better visibility and handling that is easy to maneuver and fun to drive.
BLAST is the perfect entry-level option for the customer looking for a sub-$10,000 sled or the experienced rider who wants an easy-to-ride snowmobile that is a blast to ride.
Model Details
The BLAST lineup is designed and manufactured in Thief River Falls, MN, and the engine is built in St. Cloud, MN. The BLAST line includes the mountain BLAST M with ALPHA ONE single-beam rear suspension, trail BLAST ZR and sport utility BLAST LT 4000 mid-size.
At the heart of the BLAST models is the industry’s first electronic fuel-injected, single-cylinder, 2-stroke engine. The 65 plus horsepower-class C-TEC2 4000, 397cc engine has plenty of power for the experienced rider and smooth power delivery for a new rider. The models feature the proven Arctic Drive System with a CVTech Trailbloc drive clutch and CVTech Invance driven clutch to deliver power to the snow.
To complement the engine, the all-new, mid-size chassis is extremely lightweight, delivering effortless maneuverability at any skill level. The new, mid-size seat makes it simple for the rider to transfer weight when cornering. To keep the sleds lightweight, Arctic Cat equipped them with the same Arctic Mountain Suspension (AMS) found on full-size mountain sleds and hydraulic twin tube shocks—front and back—to provide ample absorption.
The BLAST models feature a key start so the rider can just turn the key and go. The vehicles’ digital instrumentation provides standard data, while hand and thumb warmers ensure an enjoyable experience even in the coldest temperatures. To work or play all day, the sleds have an 11.7-gallon fuel tank. The new, sleek bodywork is all Arctic Cat and provides the perfect finishing touch to the mid-size package.
BLAST M 4000
Built for the new mountain rider but still a blast in the backcountry for the experienced rider, the new BLAST M 4000 combines the DNA of the full-size M 8000 models with a smaller stature and mill, offering a fun deep-snow experience.
Similar to its full-sized counterparts, the BLAST M 4000 features the Arctic Mountain Suspension (AMS) with lightweight spindles and mountain-specific suspension geometry. The front suspension has 7.2 inches of travel, an adjustable 37-39-inch ski stance and is equipped with 7-inch G2 ProClimb skis for predictable handling in all conditions and deep-snow flotation. In back, the proven ALPHA single-beam rear suspension provides 12 inches of travel to prevent bottoming out and agility beyond traditional sleds. The 146-inch Challenger track with 2-inch lugs provides all-around performance and great traction. The model also features a 4-inch low-height windshield.
The BLAST M 4000 is available in Dynamic Charcoal/Orange and special edition Camo/White/Fire Red with choice of American Flag, Canadian Flag or standard Camo/White/Fire Red.
MSRP: BLAST M 4000 $8,095 (Snowmageddon Retail Price); $8,495 (MSRP)
BLAST M 4000 LE $8,195 (Snowmageddon Retail Price); $8,595 (MSRP)
BLAST ZR 4000
The BLAST ZR 4000 is the perfect mid-size trail sled for the whole family. Whether the rider is moving up from a youth model or an adult who wants a fun, lightweight, easy-to-ride sled, the BLAST ZR 4000 delivers.
The BLAST ZR 4000 is a true mid-size trail package. The AMS front suspension offers 7.2 inches of front travel, an adjustable 37.5-38.5-inch ski stance and is equipped with 6-inch trail skis. In back, the slide-rail suspension with dual shock and adjustable torsion springs provides 10.7 inches of rear travel and plenty of agility to conquer every twist and turn on the trail. A 121-inch standard track with 1-inch lug provides all the traction needed in for various conditions. The model also features a 4-inch, low-height windshield.
The BLAST ZR 4000 is available in Medium Green/Dynamic Charcoal and Blue/White.
MSRP: BLAST ZR 4000 $7,695 (Snowmageddon Retail Price); $8,095 (MSRP)
BLAST LT 4000
Bigger isn’t always better, and the BLAST LT 4000 is the perfect mid-size sled for the cabin owner, outdoorsman or small business owner who needs a reliable work partner. The BLAST LT 4000’s mid-size lightweight chassis makes it easier to maneuver than full size sleds when hauling or towing for less driver fatigue during those long workdays. Its 4000 engine has enough brawn to take on the task at hand, and its value price is attractive to those customers who contemplated a sport utility snowmobile but were hesitant about a full-size price tag.
The BLAST LT 4000 has an AMS front suspension with 7.2 inches of travel, an adjustable 37.5-38.5-inch ski stance and is equipped with 6-inch trail skis. The utilitarian XTRA-ACTION Rear Suspension provides 12.5 inches of travel, and features dual shocks and adjustable torsion springs to help when carrying loads. A 146-inch Cobra track with 1.6-inch lug provides the perfect grip for a wide variety of tasks. The model also features a 15.5-inch windshield to protect the rider from the elements.
The BLAST LT 4000 is available in Red/Dynamic Charcoal.
MSRP: BLAST LT 4000 $8,095 (Snowmageddon Retail Price); $8,495 (MSRP)
Arctic Cat is offering a full line of accessories for the BLAST models, as well as individual ship with accessory kits for each model. The available ship with accessory kits are as follows:
- BLAST M: Pro Kit – Black
- BLAST ZR: Trail Blazer Kit
- BLAST LT: Winter Essentials Kit
BLAST Technology
Single-Cylinder 2-Stroke EFI Engine
With an industry-first design that’s compact and lightweight (less than 50 lbs.), this EFI engine brings 65-horsepower (397cc) performance to every ride. A 3-stage exhaust valve system takes this power to the next level, delivering improved throttle response and better overall engine performance. A counterbalance shaft eliminates most engine vibration. The result: a lightweight-but-mighty power source that fuels a ride like no other.
Lighter Weight, Mid-Sized Chassis
Easy handling and maneuverability are what this ride is all about, with a size that lets more riders capture more thrills.
Best-in-Class Power-to-Weight Ratio
An unprecedented chassis design combined with an unrivaled engine to deliver an action-packed ride that's easier to handle.
G2 ProClimb 7 Ski
Designed for improved flotation and effortless steering, these skis make the most rugged rides a whole lot easier.
Digital Gauge
Quickly access vehicle information on one easy-to-read display.
Electric Start
Get the convenience of a turn-key electric start system.
BLAST M Specific Technology/Features
ALPHA ONE Single-Beam Suspension
The single-beam rear suspension unlocks more maneuverability and provides a ride unlike anything else.
Challenger 146-inch Track with 2-inch Lugs
Count on versatile performance and reliable traction through every type of mountain-riding terrain.
4-inch Race-Height Windshield
A lower-profile windshield gives a new level of visibility.
BLAST ZR Specific Technology/Features
Slide-Rail Suspension
With a full 10.7 inches of travel, this responsive rear suspension soaks up any bump on the trail to keep the ride stable and smooth.
4-inch Race-Height Windshield
A lower-profile windshield gives a new level of visibility.
BLAST LT Specific Technology/Features
XTRA-ACTION Rear Suspension
This highly versatile suspension glides over rough snow and provides easier backing; the skid locks to get extra traction from the track.
Cobra 146-inch Track with 1.6-inch Lugs
This track was engineered with a unique lug shape and pattern to deliver the perfect balance of traction and float in loose snow. The result is improved powder performance and less track noise.
15.5-inch Mid-Height Windshield (BLAST LT 4000)
Added protection from the wind.
Tall, Versatile Seat
A higher seatback offers added support when riding alone, while an available 2-up accessory seat offers versatility for tandem trips.
Rear Rack
Pack up gear, tools and supplies for whatever the day demands.
Also new for 2021 models:
- The crossover Riot X model receives the ALPHA ONE suspension system, for increased handling in deep snow.
- The mountain lineup sees the addition of the revolutionary, adjust-on-the-fly ATAC (Previously called iACT) suspension system on the M 8000 Mountain Cat ALPHA ONE.
- For the utility market, Arctic Cat is reintroducing the Norseman X 8000, which offers big power and functionality.
Arctic Cat’s Snowmageddon pre-order only sales event returns for 2021. This year, Arctic Cat has lengthened the order window, announcing vehicles earlier in the season and providing more demo opportunities to consumers. This allows potential customers more time to make their purchase decisions.
All 2021 Arctic Cat snowmobiles are available by pre-order only, through the Snowmageddon event.
For more information, visit a local Arctic Cat dealer, go to ArcticCat.com or join the conversation on Arctic Cat Snowmobiles’ Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram accounts.