2016 Arctic Cat Wildcat Trail 700: Specs & Review

by Jhon Lennon 50 views

Hey guys! Let's dive into the 2016 Arctic Cat Wildcat Trail 700, a machine that brought some serious fun to the trails. If you're looking for a side-by-side that's nimble, reliable, and ready for adventure, you've probably heard about this one. In this article, we're going to break down all the juicy specs, talk about what makes it special, and give you a real feel for what it's like to own and ride. Let's get started!

Overview of the 2016 Arctic Cat Wildcat Trail 700

The 2016 Arctic Cat Wildcat Trail 700 is designed to offer a thrilling off-road experience in a compact package. It's built for trails, offering a blend of agility, power, and comfort. The Wildcat Trail 700 quickly became a favorite among off-road enthusiasts. Its appeal lies in its ability to navigate tight trails while still packing enough punch to make things exciting. This model year brought some refinements and improvements over previous versions, solidifying its place in the competitive side-by-side market. It’s all about maximizing fun without sacrificing reliability.

The Wildcat Trail 700 is powered by a 700cc, liquid-cooled, twin-cylinder engine. This engine is designed to deliver smooth and responsive power throughout the RPM range, making it suitable for both casual trail rides and more challenging off-road adventures. The electronic fuel injection (EFI) system ensures consistent performance and easy starting in various conditions. The engine's power is managed by a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which provides seamless acceleration and efficient power transfer to the wheels. The CVT system also features engine braking, which helps to control speed on steep descents and adds an extra layer of safety. The combination of the 700cc engine and CVT transmission makes the Wildcat Trail 700 a capable and versatile machine for a wide range of riders.

Beyond its powertrain, the Wildcat Trail 700 boasts a range of features designed to enhance the overall riding experience. The suspension system consists of double A-arms at both the front and rear, providing independent suspension for each wheel. This setup allows the vehicle to absorb bumps and ruts with ease, delivering a smooth and controlled ride. The suspension travel is carefully tuned to balance comfort and performance, ensuring that the Wildcat Trail 700 remains stable and predictable in various terrains. The vehicle's compact dimensions make it easy to maneuver through tight trails and navigate around obstacles. The ergonomic seating and controls are designed to keep the rider comfortable and in control, even during long rides. These features, combined with the Wildcat Trail 700's rugged construction and reliable performance, make it a standout choice for off-road enthusiasts.

Detailed Specifications

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Knowing the detailed specs of the 2016 Arctic Cat Wildcat Trail 700 is key whether you're considering buying one or just want to compare it to other models. Here's a comprehensive breakdown:

Engine

  • Type: 700cc, Liquid-Cooled, Twin-Cylinder, 4-Stroke
  • Fuel System: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
  • Horsepower: Around 45-50 hp (Note: Arctic Cat didn't officially publish the exact horsepower figure, but this is the estimated range based on similar models)

The engine is the heart of any vehicle, and the Wildcat Trail 700's engine is designed to provide a balance of power and efficiency. The 700cc twin-cylinder engine delivers smooth and responsive power, making it well-suited for a variety of riding conditions. The liquid-cooling system helps to maintain consistent engine temperatures, even during demanding rides, which contributes to the engine's reliability and longevity. The electronic fuel injection (EFI) system ensures precise fuel delivery, resulting in easy starting, smooth idling, and optimal performance at all altitudes and temperatures. The EFI system also helps to reduce emissions and improve fuel economy. While Arctic Cat didn't officially publish the exact horsepower figure for the Wildcat Trail 700, independent tests and comparisons suggest that it produces around 45-50 horsepower. This amount of power is more than enough to tackle most trails and provides a fun and engaging riding experience. The engine's design and performance characteristics make the Wildcat Trail 700 a capable and versatile machine for off-road enthusiasts.

Drivetrain

  • Transmission: CVT with Engine Braking
  • Drive System: 2WD/4WD with Electronic Front Differential Lock

The drivetrain of the Wildcat Trail 700 is engineered to deliver power to the wheels in an efficient and controlled manner. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) provides seamless acceleration and allows the engine to operate at its optimal RPM range. The CVT system also features engine braking, which uses the engine's resistance to help slow the vehicle down, especially on steep descents. This feature enhances safety and control, reducing the need for excessive braking. The drive system offers both 2WD and 4WD modes, allowing the driver to select the appropriate level of traction for the terrain. In 2WD mode, power is sent to the rear wheels, providing a more agile and sporty feel. In 4WD mode, power is distributed to all four wheels, maximizing traction in slippery or challenging conditions. The electronic front differential lock allows the driver to further enhance traction by locking the front wheels together, ensuring that both wheels receive equal power. This feature is particularly useful when navigating through mud, sand, or rocky terrain. The combination of the CVT transmission and versatile drive system makes the Wildcat Trail 700 a capable and adaptable machine for a wide range of off-road adventures.

Suspension

  • Front Suspension: Double A-Arm with 10 inches of Travel
  • Rear Suspension: Double A-Arm with 10.5 inches of Travel

The suspension system of the Wildcat Trail 700 is designed to provide a smooth and controlled ride over various types of terrain. The double A-arm suspension at both the front and rear allows each wheel to move independently, absorbing bumps and ruts with ease. This independent suspension system helps to maintain stability and control, even when driving over uneven surfaces. The front suspension offers 10 inches of travel, while the rear suspension provides 10.5 inches of travel. This generous amount of travel allows the wheels to articulate and follow the contours of the terrain, minimizing the impact of bumps and vibrations on the rider. The suspension is carefully tuned to balance comfort and performance, ensuring that the Wildcat Trail 700 remains stable and predictable in various conditions. The suspension components are also designed for durability and reliability, capable of withstanding the rigors of off-road use. The combination of the double A-arm suspension and ample travel makes the Wildcat Trail 700 a comfortable and capable machine for tackling a variety of trails and terrains.

Dimensions

  • Overall Length: 110.5 inches
  • Overall Width: 50 inches
  • Overall Height: 64.3 inches
  • Wheelbase: 84.6 inches
  • Ground Clearance: 10 inches
  • Dry Weight: 1,076 lbs

The dimensions of the Wildcat Trail 700 are carefully chosen to provide a balance of stability, maneuverability, and comfort. The overall length of 110.5 inches and wheelbase of 84.6 inches contribute to the vehicle's stability, while the overall width of 50 inches allows it to navigate narrow trails and tight spaces. The overall height of 64.3 inches provides ample headroom for the driver and passenger. The ground clearance of 10 inches allows the Wildcat Trail 700 to clear obstacles and navigate uneven terrain with ease. The dry weight of 1,076 lbs is relatively light for a side-by-side, which contributes to its agility and responsiveness. These dimensions make the Wildcat Trail 700 well-suited for a variety of off-road adventures, from trail riding to exploring rugged terrain. The compact size and lightweight design also make it easier to transport and store.

Brakes

  • Brakes: 4-Wheel Hydraulic Disc

The braking system of the Wildcat Trail 700 is designed to provide reliable and consistent stopping power in all conditions. The 4-wheel hydraulic disc brakes offer excellent braking performance, allowing the driver to confidently control the vehicle's speed and stop quickly when needed. The hydraulic system ensures that braking force is applied evenly to all four wheels, maximizing braking efficiency and stability. The disc brakes are also less prone to fading than drum brakes, which means that they maintain their performance even during prolonged use. The braking system is an important safety feature, and the Wildcat Trail 700's 4-wheel hydraulic disc brakes provide the driver with the confidence and control needed to navigate challenging terrain safely.

Tires

  • Front Tires: 25 x 8-12
  • Rear Tires: 25 x 10-12

The tires of the Wildcat Trail 700 are chosen to provide a balance of traction, durability, and ride comfort. The front tires are sized at 25 x 8-12, while the rear tires are sized at 25 x 10-12. The larger rear tires provide increased traction and stability, while the smaller front tires enhance steering response and maneuverability. The tires feature an aggressive tread pattern that provides excellent grip on a variety of surfaces, including dirt, mud, sand, and rocks. The tires are also designed to be durable and resistant to punctures, ensuring that they can withstand the rigors of off-road use. The combination of the tire size, tread pattern, and construction makes the Wildcat Trail 700 well-suited for a variety of off-road adventures.

Key Features and Benefits

So, what makes the 2016 Arctic Cat Wildcat Trail 700 stand out? Let's highlight some key features and benefits:

  • Compact Size: At 50 inches wide, it fits on most trails.
  • Powerful Engine: The 700cc engine delivers plenty of power for fun rides.
  • Smooth Ride: The independent suspension soaks up bumps with ease.
  • Versatile: Great for both casual trail riding and more challenging terrain.
  • Reliable: Arctic Cat is known for building tough machines.

Let's delve deeper into these aspects, shall we? First off, its compact size is a huge advantage. Many trails have width restrictions, and the Wildcat Trail 700's 50-inch width means you can legally and safely explore these areas. This opens up a whole world of riding opportunities that might be off-limits to wider side-by-sides. Plus, navigating tight spots and maneuvering around obstacles is much easier with a narrower machine. The powerful 700cc engine provides ample power for a thrilling ride. Whether you're climbing hills, accelerating out of corners, or just cruising along the trail, the engine delivers smooth and responsive performance. The electronic fuel injection (EFI) ensures consistent power delivery, regardless of altitude or temperature, so you can count on the engine to perform reliably in all conditions. The independent suspension system is another key feature that sets the Wildcat Trail 700 apart. The double A-arm suspension at both the front and rear provides a smooth and controlled ride, even over rough terrain. The suspension soaks up bumps and ruts with ease, minimizing the impact on the rider and enhancing comfort. This allows you to ride longer and enjoy the experience more, without feeling beat up at the end of the day.

The Wildcat Trail 700 is also incredibly versatile, making it suitable for a wide range of riding styles and terrain. Whether you're a casual trail rider who enjoys leisurely cruises through the woods, or a more adventurous rider who likes to tackle challenging obstacles and rugged terrain, the Wildcat Trail 700 can handle it all. Its combination of power, suspension, and maneuverability makes it a well-rounded machine that's ready for anything. Finally, Arctic Cat has a long-standing reputation for building tough and reliable machines, and the Wildcat Trail 700 is no exception. It's built to withstand the rigors of off-road use, with durable components and a robust design. This means you can spend more time riding and less time worrying about maintenance and repairs. The Wildcat Trail 700 is a machine that you can count on to perform reliably, year after year. These key features and benefits make the 2016 Arctic Cat Wildcat Trail 700 a standout choice in the side-by-side market.

Potential Issues and Things to Consider

No machine is perfect, right? Here are some potential issues and things to consider before you jump on the 2016 Arctic Cat Wildcat Trail 700 bandwagon:

  • Suspension limitations: The stock suspension might feel a bit soft for aggressive riders.
  • Noise: Some users have noted that it can be a bit noisy compared to other models.
  • Aftermarket Support: While decent, aftermarket support isn't as extensive as some other popular models.

Let's break these points down. The stock suspension on the Wildcat Trail 700 is designed to provide a comfortable ride for a wide range of riders. However, if you're an aggressive rider who likes to push the limits and tackle challenging terrain, you might find the suspension a bit soft. This can result in bottoming out over large bumps or feeling unstable in corners. If you fall into this category, you might want to consider upgrading the suspension with aftermarket shocks or springs to improve performance and handling. Noise is another potential issue to consider. Some users have reported that the Wildcat Trail 700 can be a bit noisy compared to other side-by-sides. This noise can come from a variety of sources, including the engine, exhaust, and drivetrain. While the noise level may not be a major concern for everyone, it's something to be aware of, especially if you plan on riding for extended periods of time. You might want to consider wearing earplugs or investing in a quieter aftermarket exhaust system to reduce the noise level. Aftermarket support is another factor to consider. While there is a decent amount of aftermarket support available for the Wildcat Trail 700, it's not as extensive as some other popular side-by-side models. This means that you might have fewer options when it comes to customizing or upgrading your machine. However, there are still plenty of aftermarket parts and accessories available, including suspension upgrades, exhaust systems, and cosmetic enhancements. You just might have to do a bit more research to find the parts you're looking for. Despite these potential issues, the 2016 Arctic Cat Wildcat Trail 700 remains a popular and capable side-by-side. By being aware of these potential issues and considering your own riding style and preferences, you can make an informed decision about whether this machine is the right fit for you.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the 2016 Arctic Cat Wildcat Trail 700 is a solid choice for anyone looking for a fun and capable trail machine. Its compact size, powerful engine, and smooth ride make it a joy to drive. It’s a great option for both beginners and experienced riders alike. If you value agility and the ability to explore tight trails, the Wildcat Trail 700 definitely deserves a look. So, get out there and explore!