WORK HORSE MACHINES
This issue’s topic of choice is a machine style that may be one of the smallest in total sales percentage but seeing some significant innovations in comfort and performance—work horse machines. Once again, I made a call to my local dealership to ask a few questions; always a good place to start. Track length and width were the first things mentioned as to significant differences between a basic work horse machine and your standard trail sled. But the industry continues to grow providing new sleds that are considered a “sport/utility” type machine, giving the owner features, comforts, performance and rideability found on the trail with features a working sled would need. Much like anything snowmobile, the manufacturers have features and functions that they call their own and promote. Although there are differences, the similarity remains in their cross-function ability, giving the rider a more versatile working style machine. These machines are often found on farms, used at ski hills and in places where the snow depth requires a working machine beyond that of the standard ATV/UTV, unless fitted with tracks. Once again, there are some trade-offs, and that is why working with a professional at your local dealership is best. When giving advice, people often try to sway a new buyer in the direction of their previous choice which is natural. Your friend at the snowmobile dealership has resources and information that will answer your questions and help you find the machine that is best for you, no matter what your buddy bought. The following are four machines we chose to cover…enjoy!
Arctic Cat Norseman
Arctic Cat features their C-TEC2 8000-series engine which packs serious power into the Norseman X 8000. The 749cc, 160 HP electrically injected 2-stroke motor has a 13.7-gallon fuel tank that requires 91 octane fuel. The machine also boasts the allnew Arctic Cat ADAPT CVT system which provides improved
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By Joel Kunz
throttle response and smooth power delivery, important both on the trail or towing. The machine features the Arctic Race Suspension (ARS) and Arctic Cat IFP 1.5 shocks, both front and back. The front ski stance is adjustable from 31.5 to 41.5 inches for maximum adaptability and the XTRA-ACTION Adjustable Rear Suspension ensures you have the best maneuverability on the trails and ultimate traction for towing and hauling. The Norseman has a 153-inch Power Claw track that is 15 inches wide on its 132-inch overall length chassis. It features pushbutton electric starting, push-button reverse and standard accessories that include: hand and thumb warmers, front sport bumper, tow hitch, wind deflectors, ice scratchers, rear overload springs, rear rack, tether switch, 12V outlet and tunnel bag. For more information and complete specs visit your dealer or go to: https://arcticcat.txtsv.com/snowmobile/sport-utility/norseman
Polaris Voyageur 146
The Voyaguer 146 features the rider-first Matryx platform which delivers complete control with breakthrough rider dynamics. The rider-first, snocross-inspired cockpit has been proven on the track to reduce effort and improve rider connection. The Patriot engine delivers performance for any riding style. The industry leading 650 engine delivers class-leading power to weight and provides easy runability with spirited performance. The Voyageur 146 delivers superior on-trail handling, with a 15-inch-wide track and Polaris race IFS. Polaris Internal Floating Piston (IFP) Shocks deliver both durability and high-performance. They perform reliably under the harshest conditions and deliver a smooth ride and handling. The 146 IGX rear suspension with the 1.6 Cobra track provides floatation and traction in any snow condition, allowing the Voyageur 146 true go-anywhere capability. The 1.6 Cobra
Minnesota Snowmobiling
