6 minute read
2022 Workhorse Machines
WORK HORSE MACHINES By Joel Kunz
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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 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
track provides confident on-trail performance while delivering exceptional traction and grip in loose snow conditions on or off the trail. Standard utility features like the cargo rack and hitch ensure the Voyageur 146 is ready for any job. Storage was developed with the Matryx platform, so it installs securely without tools, and features seamless, integrated styling that matches the sled’s design lines. Sturdier zippers provide better cargo security and protection. Underseat storage comes standard with the Voyageur 146. The machine has an overall length of 125 inches and a 146-inch track. The 650cc 2-stroke motor has a 15-gallon fuel tank, comes standard with electric start, and has industry exclusive Smartwarmer technology. For more information and complete specs visit your dealer or go to: https://snowmobiles.polaris.com/en-us/voyageur/ voyageur-146
Ski-Doo Skandic WT
Purpose-built for work on the industry’s most responsive platform—the REV Gen4—Skandic WT starts with your choice of dependable 2-stroke or 4-stroke Rotax engines to provide the power for extreme reliability in harsh conditions best suited to fit your individual needs. It is outfitted with a 154-inch long, 20-inch ultra-wide track for superb flotation in deep snow, and exceptional traction when hauling heavy loads. Skandic sleds reach another level in rider comfort and capability, thanks to the open cockpit design, enabling the rider to influence the sled like never before. The sport-utility suspension refines ride both on trail and on top of powder. Industry-exclusive telescopic front suspension enables a large, flat-belly pan for exceptional deep snow flotation. Ski-Doo’s articulated rail maximizes deep snow traction in reverse or locked out when towing. The SkiDoo Skandic features optimal lubrication for extreme reliability and ultra-quiet operation and a rider-friendly H-L-N shift setup with push-button reverse. Easy shifting with multiple gear ratios
is ideal for heavy towing, thanks to its high load resistance. The cargo rack is capable of adapting to 16- and 20-inch-wide LinQ accessories to maximize accessory options. Multiple configurations allow up to 125 pounds of (56.7 kg) cargo capacity. The Skandic WT has an 11.1-gallon fuel tank and comes standard with electric start. For more information and complete specs visit your dealer or go to: https://www.ski-doo.com/us/en/models/sport-utility/skandic
Yamaha VK540
The Yamaha VK540 is legendary for its durability, reliability and dauntless work ethic. A proven 540cc 2-stroke twin engine powers this ultra dependable utility snowmobile. The heated Mikuni TM33 flat slide carburetor delivers crisp throttle response, while the small dual electronic heater coils in the carburetor body stabilize idle speed and reduce plug fouling. Together, these efficient carburetors help deliver great fuel economy and reliability. The VK540 comes with standard electric starting with manual backup, assured to get you going no matter how far the mercury drops. The VK540 has an 11.6-gallon fuel tank and 3-speed transmission. The Hi/Lo transmission with reverse is a workhorse one minute and a versatile trail cruiser the next. With a simple-to-use manual actuated lever, you can select from “normal” high range for cruising to low range for pulling heavy loads. The VK540 features a TSS front suspension and Pro Comfort Suspension with flip-up rails. Whether you’re riding one- or two-up or hauling a heavy payload, the dual-shock, fully-coupled suspension features a simple and effective flip-lever torsion spring adjustment. A 40mm, High Pressure Gas (HPG) shock provides exceptional control, fade resistance and maximum work abilities. Functional mirrors tout a large viewing area, making it easier to see what lies behind. The mirrors are mounted on the interior side of the Protective Windshield to shield them from potential damage. The dependable 20x154x1.5-inch Cobra track delivers the perfect balance of traction versus durability. The 1.5-inch lugs provide ample deep snow traction with the strength to withstand rugged, hard-packed terrain. For more information and complete specs visit your dealer or go to: https://www.yamahamotorsports.com/2-up-touring-utility/models/vk540
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