Arctic Cat ATVs: specifications and model differences
Arctic Cat
Arctic Cat ATV models compared
| Model | Class | Engine | Curb weight | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arctic Cat Alterra 300 | Utility | 270cc | 517 lb | $4,899 |
| Arctic Cat Alterra 600 | Utility | 597cc | 762 lb | $9,599 |
| Arctic Cat Alterra 450 | Utility | 443cc | 613 lb | $6,999 |
| Arctic Cat Alterra 110 | Youth | 112cc | 265 lb | $3,399 |
Alterra youth and utility configurations
The Alterra 110 is the youth quad. The Alterra 300 is the entry utility, the Alterra 450 is the mid-size with a 1,050 lb tow rating, and the Alterra 600 is the full-size with standard power steering.
What to check before buying an Arctic Cat ATV
Compare weights on the same basis. ATVpedia warns that Arctic Cat's dry figures leave out some fluids, so an Alterra's listed weight is lower than a rival's curb weight. The Alterra 300 is rated to tow only 331 lb, far below the 450 and 600 at 1,050 lb, so match the model to the trailer.
Compare Arctic Cat ATVs with Honda and Yamaha
Arctic Cat
Arctic Cat sells the Alterra family of ATVs. This page covers 4 current models, from the 112cc Alterra 110 youth quad at $3,399 to the 597cc Alterra 600 at $9,599. The table lists class, engine, weight, towing and starting price; Arctic Cat ATV models compared.
How Arctic Cat organizes its ATV lineup
The Alterra 110 is the youth quad. The Alterra 300 is the entry utility, the Alterra 450 is the mid-size with a 1,050 lb tow rating, and the Alterra 600 is the full-size with standard power steering.
Which Arctic Cat ATV to buy
The Alterra 450 at $6,999 undercuts Yamaha's Kodiak 450 by $800, and TripIV says it is comfortable for all-day trails and capable of work. ATV On Demand calls the Alterra 600 the best-handling Arctic Cat 4x4 it has ridden. Wild Ride ATV lists overheating and electrical complaints on the 450.
Arctic Cat history and reputation
Wikipedia says Arctic Cat was formed in 1960 and makes snowmobiles and ATVs in Thief River Falls, Minnesota. The ATV reviews describe a value-priced line, and ATVpedia cautions that Arctic Cat's dry weights are not directly comparable with rivals' wet or curb figures.
What to check before buying an Arctic Cat ATV
Compare weights on the same basis. ATVpedia warns that Arctic Cat's dry figures leave out some fluids, so an Alterra's listed weight is lower than a rival's curb weight. The Alterra 300 is rated to tow only 331 lb, far below the 450 and 600 at 1,050 lb, so match the model to the trailer.
Wild Ride ATV lists overheating and electrical issues on the 450, so check the cooling system on a used one. Dealers are fewer than for Honda or Polaris, so ask where service is done.
Other ATV brands
ATV questions
What is the cheapest Arctic Cat ATV?
The Alterra 110 youth quad at $3,399 is the cheapest, and the Alterra 300 at $4,899 is the cheapest utility model.
Does the Alterra 600 have power steering?
Yes. ATV On Demand says all Alterra 600 models come with electronic power steering as standard. The 450 in the same range does not list it as standard.
What towing figure does the Arctic Cat ATV range give the Alterra 450?
Arctic Cat lists 1,050 lb, the same as the larger Alterra 600. Arctic Cat lists the same 1,050 lb figure for the Alterra 600, so the smaller engine costs no towing capacity.