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WHAT MAKES AN ALTERRA DIFFERENT?
Alterra is the new name for Arctic
Cat’s newest ATV platform. On the
500, 550 and 700, it includes a new
chassis with more forward engine
mounting than previous designs and
improved suspension. All Alterra models
get bodywork with a slim midsection
and clean, updated styling. Our test
machine, the Alterra 700 XT, has power
steering, painted bodywork, aluminum
wheels and LED lights surrounding the
halogen headlights. Last year’s flagship
ATV also came with a winch, bumpers
and LED headlights.
HOW DOES COST COMPARE?
The Alterra 700 XT is $10,399 or
$10,899 in camo. The base Alterra 700
goes for $9199. Yamaha’s Grizzly 700
EPS SE is $10,299. The Kawasaki Brute
Force 750 EPS is $9999. The Suzuki
KingQuad 750 Power Steering Special
Edition is $9599. The Sportsman 850
SP is $9999.
WHAT POWERS IT?
A fuel-injected, 695cc, single-cylinder,
single-overhead-cam, four-valve engine.
A cushioned clutch cover helps reduce
engine noise.
IS THE TRANSMISSION SPECIAL?
Like most 4x4 ATVs, the Arctic
Cat has a fully automatic, belt-type
continuously variable transmission (CVT).
What makes it different than most is
the oil-bathed centrifugal clutch on the
CVT’s primary clutch. It protects the belt
during aggressive riding and provides
natural engine braking. The shift lever
operates more smoothly than some.
WHAT KIND OF 4WD SYSTEM DOES IT
HAVE?
Selectable 2WD/4WD with manual
front differential-lock control. Some
machines have automatic front
differential lock, but both systems work
well.
HOW IS THE POWER DELIVERY?
As you’d expect from a 700, there’s
no shortage of power. In normal trail
riding, the Alterra 700 always seems
relaxed, with more than enough muscle
in store to consume long, straight
stretches with a burst of speed or
flatten challenging climbs with reserve
torque. The power delivery is smooth,
which helps in steep, rocky terrain or
any situation where control is critical,
The Alterra’s engine and clutch tuning
are sporty enough to provide quick,
With 10 inches of travel front and rear, the Arctic Cat has no trouble handling a
fast trail pace, and the ride is impressively plush.
A rear sway bar limits body roll, which helps the Alterra corner flatter than
previous Arctic Cat platforms.