If you want an ATV with more power, control, balance, and comfort, look no further than the Alterra 600. The ultimate full-size ATV for the jack-of-all-trades looking to explore more, the Alterra 600 is built with a 600cc engine for an elevated ride. With 25 or 26-inch tires and electronic power steering, this ATV will support higher ground clearance and enhanced control. We know you want an ATV that can handle bigger challenges, and with the Alterra 600, you're in for your best rides yet.
Watch Video$9,199 Starting USD*
*Plus destination charge and set-up. Logistics surcharge of $250 will apply.
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With a powerful 600 class EFI engine built in St. Cloud, MN, the Alterra 600 is built to fuel your sense of adventure. This high-output power will let you explore tougher terrains and achieve more on your ATV.
DASH-MOUNTED GARMIN TREAD GPS
Enhance your ride with a dash-mounted Garmin Tread Off Road GPS. This accessory is an absolute necessity for any group ride, letting you view your routes, music and group members' locations easily. While this GPS is sold separately, it will take your ride to the next level.
Learn MoreDASH-MOUNTED GARMIN TREAD GPS
Stay connected to your crew with the Garmin Tread Powersports Navigator. You'll have multiple features to keep you confident in every ride and is build to withstand even the toughest conditions.
- Rugged Design: Garmin is built for any kind of terrain and weather- IPX-7 rated for water-resistance and build to U.S. military standard 810 for thermal and shock resistance.
- Group Ride: The U.S.-only feature allows you to share your ride and stay connected with your group by tracking friends from your Tread device or a compatible smartphone.
- High Visibility Display: Tread is designed for easy viewing any time, day or night.
- Trail and Off Road Navigation: Garmin Tread offers turn-by-turn navigation for unpaved roads and trails, and features preloaded topographic and street maps of North America.
- BirdsEye Satellite Imagery: Directly download high-resolution BirdsEye Satellite Imagery with a Wi-Fi connection.
ENHANCED SUSPENSION SYSTEM
The enhanced suspension on the Alterra 600 offers a smoother ride and easier steering. You'll feel the difference offered by larger, upgraded shocks and springs, as well as power steering, and you'll never want to go back.
UP TO 12.25-INCH GROUND CLEARANCE
If you're looking for the confidence to ride over obstacles, the Alterra 600 has you covered. With 11.5-inches of ground clearance on the Alterra 600 EPS and XT, and an enhanced 12.25-inch ground clearance on the Alterra 600 LTD and the Alterra 600 SE, you'll be able to clear more than just bumps in the trail.
DRIVER ACCESSIBLE STORAGE
With an easy-to-access and spacious storage compartment that you can reach from the rider's seat, you'll have room for everything you need on your journey.
SELECTABLE FRONT LOCKING DIFFERENTIAL
With the all-new selectable front locking differential on the Alterra 600 LTD and Alterra 600 SE, you'll be more in control of how you ride. By simultaneously putting maximum torque to all 4 wheels, your vehicle's traction will be optimized, letting you handle harder terrains with ease.
LARGE FOOTWELLS
No matter your stature, you'll find a comfortable ride on the Alterra 600. The large footwells offer extra space for a variety of shoe sizes, and the ergonomic control placement is designed to fit any rider.
OPTIMIZED ENGINE ORIENTATION
With the one-of-a-kind engine orientation and exhaust routing, you won't feel all the heat from your ATV while riding. Instead of focusing on the heat, your attention can stay fixed on your epic ride.
1,050-LB TOWING CAPACITY
The Alterra 600 is equipped for hard work as well as a great ride. With a front tow hook and 2-inch rear receiver, your ATV can pull over half a ton.
3,500-LB WARN WINCH
With the Alterra 600's 3,500-LB WARN Winch, you can get yourself or your friends unstuck with ease. Standard on the Alterra 600 LTD and Alterra 600 SE, or available to add onto the Alterra 600 EPS and Alterra 600 XT, you'll be prepared for the unexpected.
ELECTRONIC POWER STEERING
With standard electronic power steering (EPS) on every Alterra 600, you'll take your ride to the next level. Enhanced control, easier turns, and intuitive handling will all upgrade your ride more than you could imagine.
FRONT AND REAR RACKS
Heavy duty doesn't even begin to cover it. With both front and rear racks, you can carry over 300 lbs of strapped down cargo with you wherever you go. Never leave your cargo behind again.
12 MONTH WARRANTY
With a year of rock-solid coverage protecting your ATV, you can have peace of mind on and off the trail.
Alterra 600 EPS | Alterra 600 XT | Alterra 600 LTD | Alterra 600 SE | |
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Liquid-Cooled, Single Cylinder | ||||
600cc | ||||
CVT - CVTech Trailbloc | ||||
2WD / 4WD Electric Actuation | ||||
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) | ||||
H/L/N/R/P | ||||
2WD/4WD Open | 2WD/4WD Open | 2WD/4WD with Selectable Front Locking Differential | 2WD/4WD with Selectable Front Locking Differential | |
Locked |
Alterra 600 EPS | Alterra 600 XT | Alterra 600 LTD | Alterra 600 SE | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Electronic Power Steering | ||||
Double A-Arm with 8. 75 in (22.2 cm) Travel | Double A-Arm with 8.75 in. (22.2 cm) Travel | Double A-Arm with 8.75 in. (22.2 cm) Travel | Double A-Arm with 8.75 in. (22.2 cm) Travel | |
Double A-Arm with 8.75 in (22.2 cm) Travel | Double A-Arm with 8.75 in. (22.2 cm) Travel | Double A-Arm with 8.75 in. (22.2 cm) Travel | Double A-Arm with 8.75 in. (22.2 cm) Travel | |
Dual Front Hydraulic Disc, Single Rear Hydraulic Disc | ||||
Foot Operated Rear Brake | ||||
Park in Transmission | ||||
25x8-12 | 25x8-12 | 26x9-14 | 26x9-14 | |
25x10-12 | 25x10-12 | 26x11-14 | 26x11-14 | |
Steel | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum |
Alterra 600 EPS | Alterra 600 XT | Alterra 600 LTD | Alterra 600 SE | |
---|---|---|---|---|
515 lb (233. 6 kg) | ||||
100 lb (45.3 kg) | ||||
200 lb (90.7 kg) | ||||
1050 lb (476 kg) |
Alterra 600 EPS | Alterra 600 XT | Alterra 600 LTD | Alterra 600 SE | |
---|---|---|---|---|
86. 1 in (218.7 cm) | ||||
47.8 in (121.4 cm) | 47.8 in (121.4 cm) | 48.8 in (124 cm) | 48.8 in (124 cm) | |
50.1 in (127.3 cm) | 50.1 in (127.3 cm) | 51.1 in (129.8 cm) | 51.1 in (129.8 cm) | |
762. 3 lb (345.7 kg) | 744.8 lb (337.8 kg) | 824.1 lb (373.8 kg) | 854 lb (387.4 kg) | |
52 in (132 cm) | ||||
11.3 in (28.7 cm) | 11.3 in (28.7 cm) | 12.25 in (31.1 cm) | 12.25 in (31.1 cm) | |
5. 7 gal (21.6 L) | ||||
Standard 2-in Receiver |
Alterra 600 EPS | Alterra 600 XT | Alterra 600 LTD | Alterra 600 SE | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Medium Green | Phantom Grey | Fossil | Phantom Grey |
Alterra 600 EPS | Alterra 600 XT | Alterra 600 LTD | Alterra 600 SE | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Standard Full Length | ||||
Multifunctional Digital Gauge | ||||
Dual Halogen Headlights, Single LED Brake Light/Taillight | Dual Halogen Headlights, Single LED Brake Light/Taillight | Dual Halogen Headlights with LED Accents, Single LED Brake Light/Taillight | Dual Halogen Headlights with LED Accents, Single LED Brake Light/Taillight | |
Electric Start | ||||
Steel Front and Rear Rack, Front Bumper, Front Tow Hooks, Operator Accessible Storage | Steel Front and Rear Rack, Premium Front Bumper, Front Tow Hooks, Operator Accessible Storage | Over-Molded Front and Rear Racks, Premium Front Bumper, Tow Hooks, 3,500-lb WARN Winch, Operator Accessible Storage | Over-Molded Front and Rear Racks, Front and Rear Rack Extenders, Premium Front Bumper, Tow Hooks, 3,500-lb WARN Winch, Operator Accessible Storage |
Vehicle specifications are subject to change.
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WARNING: Arctic Cat® vehicles can be hazardous to operate. For your safety, all riders should always wear a seat belt (Side-by-Sides), helmet, eye protection, and protective clothing. Riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix. Arctic Cat recommends that all operators take a safety training course. For safety and training information, please see your dealer or call 1-800-887-2887 (ATVs) or visit www.ROHVA.org (Side-by-Sides). Arctic Cat vehicles are for operators age 16 years and older with a valid driver’s license, except the Alterra 90, which is intended for operators 10 years of age and older. ©2020 Textron Specialized Vehicles Inc. All rights reserved.
Disclosure: We may get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.
1998 saw the release of the mid-sized Arctic Cat 500 4×4. This machine meant good news for the farmer but not so much for the aggressive rider. With its high ground clearance and nonprogressive steering, you might say that this Cat was a hodge-podge of sought-after vehicle characteristics. But thanks to its flaws, the Arctic Cat 400 that followed was able to achieve the perfect balance between being a hardworking behemoth and a trail monster.
The Arctic Cat 500 4×4 is a purpose-built utility vehicle that speaks strength and performance. With its high center of gravity, electronic fuel injection, a MultiRack Platform, and excellent towing capabilities, this quad is the perfect ride for adventurers, hunters, and campers.
Do not let its hunting-inclined features fool you, as this four-wheeler also performs exceptionally well on trails and diverse terrain. All it needs are capable, experienced hands to steer its wheels in the right direction. This 4×4 deserves a little bit more credit than what it currently gets.
The Arctic Cat 500 4×4 is a rec-utility vehicle released in the market by then Arctic Cat (now a subsidiary of Textron Inc.) in the late 1990s. Often confused with the BearCat lineup, this 493-cc UTV fell under the mid-size class, which rivaled big-bore vehicles during its time. Many consider this wheeler odd due to some of its attributes, both pleasant and disadvantageous for riders. But collectively, its features packed a punch.
Consumers can choose between a carbureted trim or the 2002 Arctic Cat 500 with its EFI or Electronic Fuel Injection. Models had either a Duramatic automatic transmission or a five-speed, auto-clutch manual transmission with Hi-Lo range.
Depending on model year and trim, riders may pick a quad in camo, red, or black finish. Add-ons were still available through dealerships and online traders – these enable owners to personalize their vehicles according to the function they will serve.
All Arctic Cat 500 vehicles came in TBX, TRV, M4, and LE trims. All had selectable dual driveline modes, Start-In Gear feature, hydraulic disc brakes, dual pistons, and coil spring shock absorbers. Models released before 2001 did not have a lot of options for accessories. But this was later made available for 2001 through 2007 models.
The list price of an Arctic Cat 500 is between $6,300 and $11,000, depending on the year, trim, transmission type, and package inclusions. TBX models come standard with a dump bed, TRVs are two-up vehicles, and LE Hunter’s Edition trims come with add-ons for hunters, making them pricier than the rest. I went ahead and consolidated data from Nada Guides for your reference (please note that these values only cover ’01 to ’07 models):
Arctic Cat 500 Prices | ||
---|---|---|
Model Year | Transmission – Trim LE – Limited Edition MRP – MultiRack Platform | Price Range |
2001 | 4WD Manual – LE (Hunter) | MSRP: $6,749 Average Retail: $1,350 |
2001 | 4WD Automatic – LE (Hunter) | MSRP: $6,999 Average Retail: $1,385 |
2001 – 2007 | 4WD Manual | MSRP: $6,349 – $6,499 Average Retail: $1,375 – $2,070 |
2001 – 2007 | 4WD Automatic | MSRP: $6,599 – $6,699 Average Retail: $1,360 – $2,100 |
2002 | 4WD Manual EFI | MSRP: $6,599 Average Retail: $1,430 |
2002 | 4WD Automatic EFI | MSRP: $6,799 Average Retail: $1,490 |
2002 – 2006 | 4WD Automatic – TBX | MSRP: $6,999- $7,149 Average Retail: $1,485 – $1,970 |
2003 – 2004 | 4WD Automatic – MRP | MSRP: $6,749 – $6,949 Average Retail: $1,515 – $1,605 |
2004 | 4WD Manual – MRP | MSRP: $6,549 Average Retail: 1,545 |
2004 – 2006 | 4WD Automatic – TRV | MSRP: $7,399 – $7,599 Average Retail: $1,705 – $2,230 |
2005 – 2006 | 4WD Automatic – LE | MSRP: $7,449 – $7,549 Average Retail: $1,600 – $2,170 |
2006 | 4WD Automatic – M4 | MSRP: $7,249 Average Retail: $1,995 |
The Arctic Cat 500 Limited Edition trims sported several aesthetic and functional enhancements compared to the base model. The vehicle’s characteristics made it more desirable for recreational riding as well as regular outdoor tasks. Below are some of the most notable enhancements the four-wheeler had:
Despite the enhancements mentioned, the LE trims were far from being the perfect off-roading vehicle. For one, the driveline lever, located left of the fuel tank, was low and felt awkward. This drawback was a big upset for riders, as this flaw carried over even to the 400-cc model launched in 2003. The suspension geometry for this quad still felt amiss, corrected only by its TRV sibling. Furthermore, the protruding transmission case cover cramped the foot brake and provided operators limited foot room with the scabbard installed.
Like any other quad, the Cat has a few hitches here and there, but nothing too complex that cannot be rectified. Some of them have been permanently resolved over time (especially with recent-year trims), but others seem to have been passed onto later models.
Owners encounter the issues below with secondhand purchases. If you are in the middle of buying a pre-loved Cat, you should know of these Arctic Cat 500 ATV problems ahead of time:
Problems with the actuator seem to be prevalent across mid-size Arctic Cat models. It never fails to leave non-tech-savvy Cat owners puzzled. However, for experienced mechanics, correctly diagnosing the issue (actuator versus electrical) is already half-solving the problem.
Naturally, you will still need to refer heavily to your owner’s manual and do fundamental tests for the fuse, power, ignition, and switch. Once these tests reveal nothing wrong in any of these individual components, only then would it be safe to say that the actuator is defective and would require replacement.
This issue is common, especially for operators who ride in 8,000- to 10,000-feet elevations. If you are one of these adventurers, you may notice that your 4×4 bogs down badly and scuffles to hold 18 mph on gravel roads. Jetting the carburetor, cleaning the air filter, testing compression, and checking the choke are some of the things you can do to eliminate the problem.
If all these fail, you will need to perform an Arctic Cat 500 carburetor adjustment, which ultimately solves the problem.
Some Cat owners report having issues when cranking but find that the quad is not starved for fuel and that fuel lines are not clogged upon inspection. Interestingly, Arctic Cat Prowler 500 models also have this problem. Should this happen to you, make sure to do the following:
After you have done these initial steps, you may want to do a compression test first before digging deeper into what is causing the problem. Doing this will help you avoid doing complicated but unnecessary procedures such as taking the top end off when it is not warranted.
Another trick is to change the oil (note how much oil was added), drain it into a see-through container, and observe if gas floats on top of it (then measure the gas content afterward). If you see no gas-oil separation, then you can rule out fuel contamination as the cause. After you rectify the issue, periodically drain the carburetor float bowl to prevent any recurrence.
Textron Inc., an industrial corporation from Rhode Island widely known for its snowmobiles and all-terrain vehicles, is the maker of the Arctic Cat 500 4×4. This American firm is the parent company of Arctic Cat Inc., Cushman industrial vehicles, Cessna aircraft, Bell helicopters, E-Z-GO, TUG, McDonald Douglas, Bad Boy Buggies, and Greenlee tools.
Textron’s continuous efforts to strengthen its product line has earned it a spot as one of the Fortune 500 companies. At present, the company’s offerings include gas-, electric-, and hybrid-powered off-road vehicles – among these are the Prowler, Stampede, Havoc, Wildcat, and Alterra lines of SxS and ATVs.
The drawbacks that the Arctic Cat 500 had in its initial production years paved the way for mechanical enhancements made evident in 2010 and more recent models. Now, the Cat’s features all work together in perfect harmony. Its lower center of gravity and long-travel suspension, on-the-fly 2WD/4WD modes with differential lock, and revamped seat design have improved the quad’s cornering and steering responsiveness.
Owning an earlier model year would be no different. You can expect a dependable, nifty off-road vehicle built for demanding work and hard play. With the right amount of care and proper maintenance, the Arctic Cat 500 guarantees to deliver a renewed sense of freedom when you ride.
At the end of April, Arctic Cat pleased fans of its ATVs with good news: they are waiting for replenishment. We are talking about the Alterra 600 EPS, which will be released in the 2022 model range. In the US, it will be available from July, it will get to us a little later.
The line itself is not new: Alterra appeared in 2016, replacing the existing XR series. Structurally, these are solid and reliable ATV-quad bikes with one or two seats, which have a cool, strict design with sharp lines.
Next - we will tell you about the novelty of 2022.
If externally there are almost no changes (compared to the 2021 Alterra 570 model), except for small things, then the platform received reinforced racks and a lot of updates.
First of all, it is a low center of gravity and a narrow seat where the driver's hips will be. As a result, the Alterra 600 will be more confident and stable in tight corners and on slippery surfaces. It will also be more comfortable to ride standing up (since there will be more free space for the knees and hips), and it is more convenient to shift the body along the platform back and forth, which will also improve handling. For this, the ATV also received spacious footwells.
The suspension is pretty much the same: double A-arms. Its stroke is almost 23 cm, and the clearance of the ATV is just over 31 cm. This is a huge clearance for a mid-budget all-terrain vehicle with a 600 cc engine: usually in this segment the clearance is 26-28 cm, and only in some trim levels it can reach 30.
Even more impressive is the 31 cm clearance in combination with the wheels: the basic version is fitted with 25-inch tires. Smaller wheels weigh less, are easier to dig out of the mud, and will go more easily where larger tires can get stuck or skid. But if you want, you can put larger diameter wheels on the Alterra 600 (up to 27 inches without modifications), further increasing the ground clearance.
600-cc engine Alterra receives for the first time: in previous years, either 545-cc or 695-cc were put on this line.
The new engine was redesigned, has 1 cylinder, and produces 45 hp. This is practically the golden mean for universal ATV all-terrain vehicles: it will consume a sane amount of fuel, but it will also have enough power to cross difficult sections. For serious loads, the engine was equipped with an enlarged air filter and high air intakes. They tried to lighten the engine itself to the maximum, and to reduce vibration and faster response, it was equipped with a precisely balanced crankshaft.
Naturally, the transmission has also been redesigned. There is a Canadian CVTech CVT with a Trailbloc drive pulley, an oversized Prowler Pro drive belt, a reinforced cooling system and a plug-in all-wheel drive.
Basic version
Alterra 600 will be released in four modifications:
All versions of Alterra will get electric power steering, a lockable glove box under the steering wheel, easily removable body panels (to make servicing the components easier), a capacious gas tank (21.5 l) and a mount for installing a Garmin Tread Powersport navigator. In addition to maps, the navigator supports group driving mode (it will display other participants in the race), the display of sensors, and can play music.
Separately, it is worth mentioning the modified exhaust system: now the exhaust manifold runs centrally under the seat. Thanks to this, the heat will be better removed, and your feet will not get hot.
Available for pre-order in the US, starting at $8399 for the base model.
8(495) 128-15-13
In 2021, Arctic Cat is reducing the number of models, focusing on the most popular and mass categories. In the new lineup, we will see 10 models: 6 versions of the Alterra ATV ATVs, 3 Prowler Utility UTVs and one version of the Wildcat Sport XX sport UTV. Each model will be available to choose additional options.
Now - more about the lines and models.
The series will include 6 models. All of them, except for the oldest one, are single:
Line of "working" ATVs with a three- and six-seater cab with a roof, a track width of 1386 mm, a link suspension, a folding flatbed and the possibility of towing.
Does not include windshield and doors as standard.
The series includes three models:
Sports ATVs are highly specialized equipment, so not all manufacturers produce them. Arctic Cat in this segment offers one, but very interesting model - the two-seater Arctic Cat Wildcat XX.
In 2021, the Wildcat XX will come in a single version - with a 130-horsepower liter inline engine, impressive ground clearance (35.5 cm), increased suspension travel (457 mm, with Fox 2.5 Podium QS3 adjustable shock absorbers) and an open body behind the cab , which can be loaded up to 136 kg.
The model will be sold in three trim levels: