2018 Arctic Cat® M 8000 MOUNTAIN CAT (153)

2018 Arctic Cat® M 8000 MOUNTAIN CAT (153)

• NEW ASCENDER PLATFORM WITH NEXT-GEN MOUNTAIN BODY PANELS

The Ascender platform brings a whole new way to attack the mountain. Running boards are 1 in. narrower than previous designs and the overall profile is 10% narrower for improved side-hill performance, improved venting and ease of laying the sled over in deep snow. The revised bellypan shape allows the rider’s feet to move 2 inches further forward for even greater ergonomic options for riding. The drive shaft dropped 1.125 inches allows for a 9.7º lowered approach angle providing more maneuverability and the ability to get up and stay up on the snow. Improved fit and finish with easy on/off one-piece body panels allow easy access to the engine compartment and brings a distinctive Arctic Cat styling.

• 8000 C-TEC2 ENGINE WITH DSI

Introducing the most efficient and responsive 8000 engine from Arctic Cat. Fresh from our plant in St. Cloud, Minnesota, this 2-stroke engine features noticeably faster throttle response and acceleration compared with our previous 800, plus up to 30% reduction in oil consumption below 7000 rpm, 36% increase in low-end torque and 18% increase in midrange torque. Delivering a rare combination of increased power, reduced emissions, and ultra-low oil consumption, the overall crispness sets new standards for performance and rideability in the 160-hp class.

• 1.125" DROPPED DRIVESHAFT

Like the 2017 Mountain Cat, this 2018 M 8000 Sno Pro is fitted with the 1.125" dropped driveshaft. The increased track-to-tunnel clearance of 3" allows us to use 8-tooth drive sprockets on this model, giving you a flatter approach angle with more floatability and maneuverability. In addition, you’ll also notice a huge difference in your sled handling. This update delivers a more efficient power transfer to the snow, letting you enjoy more horsepower when climbing, carving, sidehilling and boondocking.

• ARCTIC MOUNTAIN FRONT SUSPENSION WITH FOX FLOAT 3 QS3 SHOCKS

Lightweight, forged-aluminum spindles have less surface area than the previous design, reducing drag and improving performance in deep snow. Also, dual-phase high strength alloy-steel A-arms are lighter than previous designs. FOX FLOAT 3 QS3 shock lets you adjust your shocks to suit the riding conditions without removing your gloves. Set the clicker to 1 for a softer ride. Click it up a notch to setting 2, and you’ll be able to take on any bump. Or click up to 3 for a stiffer ride to take on whatever the backcountry has to offer.

• FLOAT-ACTION REAR SUSPENSION WITH FOX FLOAT QS3 FRONT AND FOX FLOAT 3 QSL REAR SHOCKS

The FLOAT-ACTION Rear Suspension features revised rails that shed 1.25 pounds, giving optimal suspension travel and a better ride quality in all conditions. The FLOAT-ACTION suspension incorporates mountain-specific geometry, delivering consistent track tension. The FOX FLOAT QS3 front track shock and FOX FLOAT 3 QSL rear track shocks are engineered to perfection. The lightweight design and premium bump control improve resistance to bottoming out. The quick switch on each of these shocks allows you to choose from three specifically calibrated ride control settings allowing you to change up your ride in a matter of seconds.

• ARCTIC DRIVE SYSTEM WITH TEAM RAPID RESPONSE II DRIVE AND TEAM RAPID REACTION BOSS DRIVEN CLUTCHES

The Arctic Drive System™ features a lightweight magnesium chaincase. The new TEAM® Rapid Response II™ drive clutch features an auto-adjusting belt tension design that delivers consistent performance without manual adjustments. It also features a 12.5% lower effective starting ratio while maintaining the top ratio for smoother engagement and reduced belt wear at drive-away speed.