Looking for a used powder sled

[2010m8snowpro]

Looking to buy a used deep powder sled. Going to spent up to $5000. What should I get and why? Found a few 2017 Artic cats I that price range

 

[stahlecker]

I think that's a solid choice. You'll want to try for a Mountain Cat on a 2017. Those have the dropped chaincase and that makes a huge difference. In 2018 all "m" series cats got the dropped chaincase.

 

[IDspud]

I think that’s as solid as you’ll find. Have several similar I won’t sell for that. One at 6500 miles.

 

[Clark42]

Good reliable machine. Might be able to get something newer, 18+ and even 19+ were big steps for AC. I had my 2019 with 1850 miles posted for $4000 and it still took 3 weeks to find a buyer. Prices are softening daily it seems.

 

[bnorth]

Not sure where you're at but selling Alphas around me is like selling cancer. You could probably scoop a 19 for $5k on a spring deal. Otherwise I would say find a T3 Doo or a 2016/17 Cat with the 2.6 or 3" lug powerclaw track.

 

[BeartoothBaron]

I'd also check out an AXYS for that kind of money. Summer tend to bring the best deals if you're patient, but not always. Anyway, once you get into the AXYS, reliability shouldn't be a huge concern. If that's your priority though, the Doo 800s are pretty unbeatable. Guy I ride with was on a '13 for quite a while and had zero issues - something like 3000 miles and I think he even said he'd never replaced the belt! That said, beg, borrow, or steal a ride on all three brands if at all possible. AXYS, Ascender, or T3 are all solid choices, but one might work a lot better for you than the others. You do see strong brand preference in some areas too, so the bargains might be in the "off" brands, and I can see people unloading Cats because of the uncertainty about their future.