Arctic Cat offers 19 different ATVs, but one in particular is a real attention-grabber. That model is the Thundercat 1000 H2. Why? Well, this ATV lays claim to having the largest-displacement engine in the industry. We don't have to tell you the benefits of that.
The Thundercat is powered by a 951cc, EFI, SOHC, four-stroke, four-valve, V-twin, liquid-cooled engine. Does the word "hemi" ring a bell? This engine has a hemispherical-shaped head that creates more complete, more efficient combustion, which translates to even more power. Electronic fuel injection aids in perfect starting, no matter what the altitude or temperature, and liquid cooling (with a high-capacity radiator and thermostatically controlled fan) provides consistent engine operating temperatures. Arctic Cat says that this engine is "not for the timid of throttle." The engine is built in Arctic Cat's state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in St. Cloud, Minnesota.
The fully independent A-arm...
The fully independent A-arm coil-spring suspension delivers 10 inches of suspension travel.
Bolted to the engine is a Duramatic CVT automatic transmission that has a long-life maintenance-free belt, which is said to withstand the harshest of conditions. Added flexibility comes courtesy of the push-button four-wheel-drive system with an all-new electronic front locking differential that is controlled via a push-button rocker switch on the gauge pod. This allows the rider to switch from rear-wheel drive to limited-slip four-wheel drive or full-time four-wheel drive easily.
The stance and fully independent suspension of the Thundercat were race-bred and performance-calibrated. Arctic Cat says that when you sit on the Thundercat, it will squat roughly 2 inches (depending on rider size) while maintaining its class-leading 11 inches of ground clearance and 10 inches of suspension travel. This lower ride height and center of gravity means the rider can enjoy aggressive cornering and high-speed handling with confidence. No suspension sway bar is standard; however Arctic Cat offers an optional sway bar for those who are willing to sacrifice some wheel travel to create flatter cornering during aggressive trail riding.
The 951cc, liquid-cooled,...
The 951cc, liquid-cooled, injected, SOHC, four-stroke, four-valve, V-twin engine delivers big power.
The Thundercat has a performance-tuned chassis that is agile and durable and accommodates a variety of rider sizes. Seat height is low and the handlebars have an ergonomically friendly design. Arctic Cat says these features culminate with a feeling of riding "in" the machine instead of "on" it.
Other Thundercat features include floating hydraulic disc brakes, adjustable shocks, a Spike Load Dampener on the rear axle (to minimize driveline wear from the V-twins power), a digital instrument pod, Thundercat-specific Razr 4-speed tires, front and rear cargo racks, and a 2-inch receiver hitch.
So there you have it. It seems like the Arctic Cat Thundercat 1000 H2 is the cat's meow. Or maybe "roar" is a better word.
Specifications
General
Vehicle model: 2009 Arctic Cat Thundercat 1000 H2
Base price: $11,199
Color: Competition Silver Metallic
Engine
Type: Liquid-cooled SOHC four-stroke four-valve V-twin with liquid-cooling
Displacement (cc): 951
Bore and stroke (mm): 92x71.6
Drivetrain
Transmission: Automatic CVT
Final drive: Shaft
Suspension
Front: Double A-arm, adjustable shocks, 10 inches of travel
Rear: Double A-arm, adjustable shocks, 10 inches of travel
Brakes
Front: Hydraulic disc
Rear: Hydraulic disc
Tires
Front: 25x8-12
Rear: 25x10-12
Dimensions/Capacities
Weight (lb): 716
Length (in): 84.8
Width (in): 47.5
Height (in): 48.0
Ground Clearance (in): 11.0
Fuel capacity (gal): 6.5
Wheelbase (in): 52.5
Front rack capacity (lb): 100
Rear rack capacity (lb): 200
Towing capacity (lb): 1,050