Off-road vehicles are a rather diverse and controversial segment. It is characterized by both high power and functionality, and in some cases demonstrates comfort and outstanding ergonomic qualities. Snowmobiles, as a rule, are divided into two groups - dynamic mountain vehicles for active recreation and utilitarian models designed to perform practical tasks. The Arctic Cat Bearcat 570 XT modification, in accordance with the official positioning, rather belongs to the second category, but, as operating experience shows, this option is also interesting from a sporting point of view.
General information about the snowmobile
Although the model represents the entry level even in its own Bearcat family, its capabilities are enough to confidently represent the class of utilitarian devices. In addition, the balanced power filling and thoughtful design base allows the Arctic Cat Bearcat 570 XT to be used as a multi-purpose vehicle. Of course, entering the mountain snowmobile class requires a high level of ergonomics from the applicant. Both the suspension and electronic assistants are responsible for this area in this model. Thus, the display allows the user to choose between analogue and digital representation of tachometer and speedometer readings. In addition, the instrument panel contains trip meters, an odometer, as well as hazard lights and reverse indicators.
Reviews
- Sergey, Leningrad region. I've been using this snowmobile for almost a year. At the first stage I had good impressions of the car. The device is quite light and maneuverable, with a wide track and excellent maneuverability. You can even overcome deep snowdrifts. At first I was even delighted with this American car - I was almost convinced that I had made the right choice in favor of imported equipment. But it turned out I was wrong. Despite the high cost, after about six months of intensive use the first problems began to appear. Suddenly, the fuel level sensor, which was attached to the gas tank cap, fell off. Then I discovered later that the sensor had fallen into the fuel tank. Another problem was problems with the electric starter, so I had to use a manual starter. The car consumes a lot of fuel, since the engine is two-stroke. You also need to regularly refill with high-quality oil. Its volume is as much as 64 liters - apparently, the developers knew in advance about the problem with increased consumption. It is inconvenient to engage gears, almost like on a Viking. Overall, I think that this American is no better than the Russian snowmobiles that I have ever ridden.
- Maxim, Irkutsk. For our harsh winters we had to buy a high-quality and expensive snowmobile. It turned out to be the Arctic Cat 570XT, which was ideal for my needs. I have been interested in fishing since childhood. Mine moves excellently on a frozen lake, and I consider this a significant advantage. I was also pleased with the presence of a large windshield that protects from gusts of oncoming wind. For greater comfort and convenience, you can turn on the heated steering wheel grips, and then you can generally drive without gloves. I’ll also note one interesting detail, thanks to which this compact snowmobile becomes a three-seater - with the help of a special insert that is inserted when the second seat is moved away, and as a result another seat is formed. At the same time, the load on the chassis increases significantly (when transporting three people). But the suspension can withstand such a load thanks to powerful springs that increase rigidity and endurance. As for the interior, it surprised me no less than the rideability of the snowmobile. The same goes for the appearance – the snowmobile looks stylish and dynamic from the front and back. In general, this model impressed me in all respects.
- Alexey, Magnitogorsk. A great snowmobile for all occasions during the winter season. This car combines everything - quality, practicality, technology, design and ergonomics, handling, reliability and other parameters. The car drives quietly and smoothly, it is very good for hunting and at work. The snowmobile confidently climbs the hill and rides like a real utilitarian snowmobile. In general, in this device I found something in common between a mountain and a utilitarian snowmobile. I will recommend it to my friends. I have been using the car for two years, during which time I have not had a single serious breakdown.
- Denis, Ekaterinoslavl. A nice snowmobile with a classic appearance and great capabilities. The main thing is just not to forget to service it. After all, the slightest breakdown can develop into a serious malfunction, due to which this American can ruin my entire family budget. But seriously, the car is really expensive to maintain. It is better to use only original parts, including branded consumables, oil and fuel. I've been using it for a year and a half, so far so good. One of the minor shortcomings was the failure of the reverse speed switch, and at the most unexpected moment. The model is ideal for riding with the family, as well as hunting and fishing needs. I ride this snowmobile with my grandfather and son, maybe even three of us. The car behaves well on slippery roads - for example, on a frozen icy lake. Against this background, the small lug is somewhat overshadowed, which is sometimes not enough to overcome powdery snow, or climb a hill.
Main technical characteristics
If we discard the power basis, design and technological features, then the only thing that will allow us to classify the model as a junior class of utilitarians is its dimensions. The compact Arctic Cat Bearcat 570 XT, the technical characteristics of which are presented below, is partly due to its modest size and is maneuverable and dynamic:
- The length of the device is 3480 mm.
- Width – 1270 mm.
- Track length – 3912 mm.
- Track width – 508 mm.
- Ski width – 205 mm.
- The gap between the skis is adjustable in the range of 1016 - 1118 mm.
- The lug is 35 mm.
- Weight – 292 kg.
- The transmission is an Arctic mechanism, equipped with a speed sensor.
- The drive system is with a roller pulley.
Characteristics of the power filling
The model is equipped with a budget carburetor engine of 565 cm2. The two-stroke power plant is equipped with an air cooling system and reverse, which is activated by pressing the corresponding button. However, power ratings vary depending on the specification of the Arctic Cat Bearcat 570 XT. The characteristics of the basic version in terms of power output are 62-64 hp. With. The more expensive XT Limited modification provides 123 hp. With. But in this case, the device is equipped with a 1100 cc unit.
From the point of view of work quality, the power components of the lower configuration also perform well. As the owners note, the 62-horsepower snowmobile confidently copes with difficult terrain, maneuvering along winding forest paths. Of course, the behavior of the technology reveals its utilitarian essence, which determines endurance and high power output. At the same time, the Arctic Cat Bearcat 570 XT model is noted for its economy. Fuel consumption, for example, is only 15 liters per 100 km. This is despite the fact that already average utilitarian devices “eat up” about 35 liters. True, a lot depends on the nature of the ride. Still, the younger representative of the Bearcat is often used as a mountain modification. The model turned out to be successful in terms of handling, which captivates many fans of extreme recreation.
Engine
The Arctic KET 570 snowmobile is equipped with a two-stroke gasoline engine. The power unit has a two-cylinder layout, with crankshaft speeds of up to 7300 rpm. The rated power is 62 horsepower, and the diameter of each of the two cylinders is 73 mm. The working volume of the cylinders is 565 cubic meters. The unit has a high level of safety and is protected from overheating and hypothermia. To do this, the engine has a continuously running air cooling system, which maintains a stable temperature of the internal combustion engine components. This is very important in warm or frosty weather.
Design Features
First of all, it is worth highlighting the Twin Spar platform. This is the manufacturer’s proprietary chassis, which is specially designed for long trips in comfort. Its design is made of two spar beams that take on the load from the steering column and the tunnel. Fixation of parts is ensured by blind rivets, which increases the durability and rigidity of the device. No less remarkable is the Diamond Direct Drive system. Thanks to the ACT gearbox, the developers have ensured a reduced rotational speed of the drive mechanism in the track section without loss of speed. As for the working base in the lower part of the Arctic Cat Bearcat 570 XT, it is made of the type of movable rail mechanisms. This device allows you to remove the passenger seat or, conversely, install a third seat. Flexibility in the formation of the design base also contributes to the expansion of the range of tasks that the snowmobile is capable of performing.
Test drive Arctic CatBearcat 570, Arctic CatBearcat 570XT, Arctic CatBearcat Z1 XT
Just five years ago, utilitarian snowmobiles looked more like ordinary sleds with a motor attached to them. Riding them was uncomfortable, sad and scary. They were difficult and reluctant to control. When designing the new utilitarian Bearcat family of snowmobiles, Arctic Cat engineers took a different look at the question of what a “workhorse” should be. As a result, the cars saw the light of day in terms of technical parameters, classic utilitarian vehicles, and in terms of comfort and control, they were as close as possible to tourist vehicles.
Here's the lineup of Arctic Cat's utility sled family: Bearcat 570, Bearcat 570XT, and Bearcat Z1 XT. The cars are radically different from their predecessors. When designing, the designers took a conceptually new step for utilitarian devices - snowmobiles should not only be powerful and reliable, but also have comfort as close as possible to the tourist level. In accordance with this concept, the Bearcat family was placed on the new Twin Spar platform, which, one might say, “freed the hands” of the designers. It was possible to install new engines, create a high, ergonomic seating position (which drivers of utilitarian “snowballs” previously twisted behind the wheel could only dream of), ensure intelligible handling and build into the design of all devices an impressive potential for installing various options and additional equipment.
Together with the Twin Spar platform, the ACT Diamond Direct Drive transmission appeared on snowmobiles, which migrated from mountain bikes and sports models, where it worked well. The ACT Diamond Drive does not have an intermediate shaft with a chain reduction. Fewer parts – higher reliability. And in addition, losses when transmitting torque from the engine to the track are significantly reduced. Before installing ACT Diamond on utility snowmobiles, the transmission was modernized and lightened by 3.5 kg. In models BC 570 and BC 570XT for 2009, the reverse drive is mechanical, and on cars of the 2010 model year, reverse is activated by pressing one button.
The front suspension is the seventh generation AWS II. Assembled on A-arms, it handles all the bumps with a comfortable softness and clarity, more typical of touring cars. The Slide-Rail rear suspension with Articulating heel drop and wide track clearly qualifies Arctic Cat utility vehicles as "Wide Track." The only thing is that the rear track with a “breaking heel” is present only on the Bearcat model with the “XT” prefix.
The regular BC 570 paid for its more than attractive price tag with a not very wide track (38 cm), a small fuel tank (41 l) and a short list of options. In terms of cross-country ability, the BC 570 is objectively inferior to its fellow BC 570XT with a 51 cm wide track. However, in the 2009–2010 models, the BC 570’s track was lengthened from 365 to 383 cm, which increased its “survivability” in loose powder.
The BC 570XT has the same engine as the BC 570 - 2-stroke, air-cooled, with a displacement of 565 cm3 and a pair of VM34 carburetors. In terms of technical characteristics and arsenal of options, the BC 570XT is closer to the top model BC Z1 XT, equipped with a 1056 cc engine. The exterior of the BC 570XT is an exact copy of the BC Z1 XT. The only thing missing in the standard configuration of the “500th” XT is side rear view mirrors.
From additional options compared to the BC Z1 XT, the “middle brother” does not have heated seats and passenger grips, an additional radiator, a remote engine start system and a radio communicator. If you “load” the BC Z1 XT with all the listed equipment, then, perhaps, you can no longer classify it as a utilitarian “workhorse”. Not a GT, of course, but definitely a simple tourist.
In terms of handling, all Bearcats leave smooth, positive emotions. They are not afraid of deep snow and are ready to build routes that bypass prepared trails. They “draw” turns with enviable stability - this is due to the low center of gravity of the Twin Spar platform and the completely non-utilitarian design of the front suspension. The power of the engines (even in the 500 cc version) is enough both for removing firewood and heavy loot from the forest, and for a family trip with the breeze. And the journey, I note, will take place with decent comfort.
Text: Automobiles Magazine
Optional snowmobile filling
Already in the standard version, the snowmobile user receives push-button engine reverse, electric start, combined optics of four halogen headlights, a digital-analog instrument panel, etc. It is worth special mentioning indicators and heating systems. The first are represented by fuel and oil consumption indicators. Heating is provided on the steering wheel grips, and it works in two modes. It is worth remembering the utility of the Arctic Cat Bearcat 570 XT, which is also manifested in the elements of additional equipment. This particularly applies to the tow bar, seat pan and reinforced bumpers for tough conditions. This list expands significantly in the case of the premium package. The set of equipment for such a snowmobile, for example, includes a cargo platform, special preparation for a winch, 30 cm ski extensions, an arch, a beacon, a trunk, etc. The choice of options is large, but each addition is not cheap, as befits a quality product.
Maintenance nuances
Like all members of the family, this version was developed with endurance and unpretentious maintenance in mind. However, to maintain operating condition, the snowmobile must be regularly checked for the quality of assembly of parts, the function of the power filling and the overall condition of the structure. The unit should also be thoroughly cleaned after each use. If any problems are detected, it is recommended to immediately contact the dealer service center. However, some spare parts for the Arctic Cat Bearcat 570 XT can be updated independently. This applies in particular to the suspension arm, belt, air intake, battery pack, engine cover and crankcase. Also, many owners of this model complain about deviations in fuel mixture and oil consumption. If such nuances are identified, it is recommended to replace or reconfigure the fuel pump.
Positive reviews about the snowmobile
The main advantages of this snowmobile include functionality, versatility in operation and reliability. These are the main characteristics for utilitarian modifications, but this device also has special qualities. The creators endowed the equipment with high ergonomics, provided not only by new technologies in the design, but also by electronic systems. Thus, users note the ease of use of the Arctic Cat Bearcat 570 XT dashboard. Reviews highlight the availability of information presentation in several modes. There are also positive opinions regarding the additional equipment, which is rare in its richness when compared with other entry-level snowmobiles.
Arctic Cat Bearcat 570 XT Suspension and Bumpers
To ensure the best controllability of the vehicle at any speed, Arctic Cat developed the AWS VII suspension. The design of this suspension uses exceptionally strong and reliable A-arms with hydraulic shock absorbers, which ensure full control of the vehicle in fast turns and stability in steep turns.
AWS VII suspension
The Arctic Cat Bearcat 570 XT snowmobile is equipped with a frame that allows you to equip the device with a transformable rear suspension on fiberglass springs. Weakened springs turn the suspension into a hinged one, with a “heel” that moves freely vertically. This allows the caterpillar to follow the surface topography, maintain excellent route and speed, and give the snowmobile good maneuverability.
If it is necessary to tow a loaded trailer, it is recommended to modify the articulated suspension into a straight part, for which you just need to tighten the springs. In this configuration, the snowmobile does an excellent job of towing.
To increase safety and protect the snowmobile from damage in the event of accidental collisions with an obstacle, base Bearcat models are equipped with reinforced bumpers.
Negative reviews
There are few reviews with disappointment in the technology. They mainly relate to the nuances of operation, which are unexpectedly revealed in the power filling. There are also complaints about the average power. The structural basis significantly expands the possibilities for using this snowmobile, but the low-performance engine sets its limits. However, a lot depends on the tasks for which the Arctic Cat Bearcat 570 XT is purchased. Reviews from owners who use the device exclusively for transporting heavy loads are not particularly complimentary in terms of traction properties. This is due to the fact that, like the users of snowmobiles in this series themselves, the manufacturer is more likely to consider the models as sports. Although, officially they are classified as powerful and practical utilitarians.
