I like to think of our 2016 Arctic Cat XF 8000 Crosstrek as our “Smokey and the Bandit” sled. If I had a long way to go, and a short (or even long) time to get there, this was the sled I was pulling out of our stable!
The machine solved all our usual gripes about wind protection and lack of storage by coming with a tall windshield, including mirrors (what are those, right?), and soft saddlebags stock. The 800cc Suzuki twin under the hood has proven plenty reliable, and the TEAM clutches for 2016 have given this motor a little more pop.
What’s intriguing about this sled is that it‘s not like Arctic Cat’s bread-and-butter high-HP, Ricky Racer sleds that this OEM is kind of known for. There’s a lot here that the comfort cruisers of your group will love (like the ultra-cushy seat), and early MPG numbers are surprisingly very good from this engine (based on past experience). The longer track (137) made this a little pushy in tight corners, but overall not bad. There’s performance to be had as well, and the suspension is definitely set up for a heavier load (cargo or passenger), just not for the rough stuff.
Takeaways
- A Cat 800 that’s good on fuel? If you’re gently cruising, yes. If you’re pushing the pace, then its MPG numbers are average.
- Very plush seat. Almost too soft if you get into much more than stutter bumps, butt appreciated on long rides.
- More than enough stock storage for a saddlebag trip.
- Don’t forget to set your handlebars; this sled is even more plush and easy to drive with the perfect rotation.
You’ll find our full Long-Term Test article in an upcoming fall issue of American Snowmobiler magazine, along with Real World stats like gas mileage, top speed and other riding impressions. Subscribe online today!
- Ross Halvorson, AmSnow Associate Editor