As Arctic Cat introduces its new snowmobile platform for 2024, its play on words is likely as close to reality as it can get. The new Catalyst platform which spreads across not only Cat’s mountain segment but also the crossover, trail and race segments, has changed the game for the Thief River, MN, company.

Webster’s definition of “catalyst” is [an agent that provokes or speeds significant change or action]. There’s nothing subtle about this new platform and the four models it includes. Once you ride the Catalyst the changes are very apparent.

If there has ever been a reason for mountain snowmobilers to consider buying a 600cc sled, the Catalyst Mountain C-TEC2 600 is it. For 2024, the Catalyst will only be available in this engine configuration. But that shouldn’t stop the hardcore Cat riders from buying this sled. Due to all the changes, this snowmobile offers a unique riding style that will open up new terrain for Cat riders. If you get the 600 for next winter, although you may feel a little short on power, it will surprise you on performance and handling. Once you get the feel for the ride, it will make a natural transition when the bigger powerplant is released in 2025.

Last year the Radien2 platform was introduced on some Lynx models. This season it will be found on all Shredder models and packages, as well as on the Rave and XTerrain trail models. The Radien2 Platform features a slim design with a shortened tunnel and extruded running boards for better clearance in deep snow.

Although Lynx offers three Shredder models, only the Shredder RE and Shredder DS are available in North America. So that’s where we’ll focus our attention. Although there are a lot of similarities in some of the main features of both Lynx and Ski-Doo, don’t be fooled; these models have very distinctive handling characteristics for unique riding styles.

Mountain Max 800 LE 154 & 165
Available in Team Yamaha Blue, the single rail rear suspension and 794cc SDI two-stroke engine with the 154-inch by 2.60-inch Camso PowerClaw or the 165-inch by 3.00-inch Camso Powerclaw.

The race double-row running board edges include reinforced running boards and the 1.5-inch QS3 front shocks and QS3 center and QS3-L rear shock provide a 36-inch ski stance. The Mountain Max 800 LE platform includes Yamaha MTN skis, 20-inch tunnel bag, goggle bag, lightweight brake disc as well push button electric starting.

The snow will melt eventually. And we’re all powersport enthusiasts. So what do we do when the temps are warm, the roads are bare and the snow is long gone?

We find something else with a throttle that’s fun to drive.

Our friends at Polaris sent us out a 2022 Polaris Slingshot S late last fall for a demo. We’ll admit it was our first hands-on experience with a Slingshot. We have seen Slingshots running around since the model’s debut in 2015. It’s an intriguing vehicle. Is it a motorcycle? A car? Is it fun?

Since its introduction, the Slingshot has undergone several updates and changes, including new engines, features, and styling updates. The current model, the 2022 Polaris Slingshot, is available in several different trim levels and offers a range of performance and customization options.