If first impressions are truly meaningful, then the hour-or-so test drive I had on a couple Stampede side-by-side models (as well as a Recoil iS electric vehicle) are a good omen for the future of Arctic Cat dealers and riders.
The ride took place at Country Cat, who became a Stampede dealer last year, long before there was any public inkling that Textron was interested in purchasing Arctic Cat.
Not long after that purchase finalized this spring, P.J. Wanderscheid invited me to get acquainted with the brand by taking a Stampede 2-seater and XTR 4-seater for a brief test ride on the property surrounding their dealership in Sauk Centre, Minn.
This was not a definitive test by any means. I’d characterize it as an introduction, a chance to form a few impressions. I will spend A LOT more time on Stampede models in the future — along with Wildcats, Prowlers and Alterras — and more in-depth analysis will soon follow.
For now, here’s what I noticed upon my first brush with Textron Off Road’s first foray into the side-by-side world:
– They’re quiet, both in terms of engine sound (intake and exhaust) as well as mechanical sound from the drivetrain. Call me old, demanding or something unprintable, but I’m getting far less tolerant of loud machines, especially the ones that I spend considerable time with. Both Stampede models were well within my range of what I think is acceptable in terms of sound level and sound quality.
– Take-off is smooth, with a very linear response/progression from between the gas pedal and the engine/drivetrain. There was no annoying lurch upon take-off, nor was there too much engine braking. One of my biggest irritations about so many side-by-sides is that getting on/off the gas feels like a light switch until you master “feathering” of the gas-pedal. For many people this “mastering” occurs within five minutes of owning one, but for other people it’s a skill that remains elusive no matter how many times they’ve snapped their heads back into the headrest.
“Linear and smooth” best describes the Stampede’s response to throttle input.
– Good power from the 80-hp parallel twin engine. It’s all power I’d need for a utility SxS.
– Shifting between H-L-N-R-P is solid and deliberate. I had no “false” lever positions that require finding the intended gear.
– Suspension felt smooth and planted. I’m a fan of swaybars on utility machines, which the Stampede has on both the front and rear.
– Stampede set itself apart from other SxS options with its extended cab, which provides a dedicated storage zone between the back of the seats and the front of the box. It was perfect for tossing my camera bag and not having to worry about strapping it in to keep from sliding around the box. I can imagine enjoying this space for all kinds of stuff (for starters, I’d love it for installing snowmobile trail signs and brushing trail in the fall, where I’d keep the sledge hammer, lopers and chainsaw apart from all the signs that would stay in the box).
– Nice dash layout, including the gauge; like the dual 12v and USB outlets.
– The doors swing open with the hinge on the forward portion, just like an automobile. Maybe it’s because I’m used to Wildcats, but I found myself wishing the Stampede had “suicide” doors that were hinged at the back.
– Easy-access air filter and an automotive battery…nice!
– In general, these machines gave me a feel of high quality. These guys/gals did their homework to produce such a machine as their first entry into the SxS market. I’d run one of these against anything else I’ve spent time with, including Prowlers and HDX models.
– Most Arctic Cat dealers are (or will soon be) carrying Stampede models as part of their product mix. If you get a chance to test ride one, I’d love to hear your comments/impressions about it.
Talking with P.J. Wanderscheid (left) during the test drive.
Automotive battery and easy-access air filter, located underneath the front bench seat.
Dave Wanderscheid (black hat) talks about the Stampede’s features in between brief sessions in which he, P.J. and I traded driving/passenger positions in both machines.
I spent a total of 5 minutes playing around on this Recoil iS electric vehicle, which impressed impressed me greatly. Silent, quick to accelerate and with a real suspension (and tires), this machine would be REALLY handy to a lot of people.
P.J. (left) and Dave, with two Stampede models parked outside the original building location for Country Cat. Big thanks to both these guys for allowing me to put some time on the machines.