The Cat is Back!

Everything You Need to Know About Arctic Cat's Acquisition and 2026 Lineup

If you've been anxiously watching the Arctic Cat story unfold over the past few months, you’re probably as pumped as we are that THE CAT IS BACK!

For those of us who bleed Arctic Cat green (or purple, if you're old school), the past six months have been a rollercoaster.

Textron's announcement about halting production had us all holding our breath, wondering if we'd lose another legendary brand from the snowmobile world. But here’s the thing about Cats – they've got nine lives (and they've only used two).

The news that dropped on April 24, 2025, didn't just save Arctic Cat – it marks the start of new leadership that is ready to bring the brand and experience back to life.

And they’re already rolling in the right direction with their 2026 lineup, boasting some serious upgrades and innovations.

Who Saved Arctic Cat?

The brand new owner of Arctic Cat is Brad Darling, an industry name who has already been with the company. Before becoming CEO and President of ARGO in 2016, Darling had spent 17 years at Arctic Cat.

Darling, along with an investment group with significant ties to Ontario Drive & Gear (ARGO's parent company), didn't just write a check and call it a day.

Within 24 hours of the acquisition, they were already re-engaging the workforce and firing up the production lines. Most importantly, it threw a lifeline to Thief River Falls and the people who gave their all to Arctic Cat.

While both Arctic Cat and ARGO will operate independently, having a leader who understands amphibious extreme terrain vehicles AND traditional powersports gives Arctic Cat a unique perspective.

From Uncertainty to Action

Remember when Textron announced they were putting Arctic Cat up for sale and shutting down operations at Thief River Falls? For a town home to Arctic Cat for over 63 years, it wasn't just about losing jobs – it was about losing identity.

Within a single day of the acquisition closing, Arctic Cat announced the re-engagement of most of its workforce – 300 jobs to Thief River Falls and getting the St. Cloud engine facility humming again.

But that wasn’t all – just two days after the acquisition was finalized, Arctic Cat unveiled its complete 2026 snowmobile lineup.

While most acquisitions take months just to figure out the org chart, Darling and his team were already showing dealers and customers exactly what's coming down the production line.

That's dedication. That's belief. And most importantly, that's the Arctic Cat spirit that refused to die even when the future looked uncertain.

The 2026 Arctic Cat Lineup

If actions speak louder than words, then the 2026 Arctic Cat lineup is screaming from the mountaintops.

EXT Special

Key Highlights:

●        First-ever two-stroke snowmobile with electric-assist power steering (EPS)

●        858cc C-TEC2 engine with C&A Pro XPT skis

●        Heritage-inspired 1971 purple throwback graphics

Let's start with the showstopper – the 2026 EXT Special. Arctic Cat just dropped the industry's first two-stroke snowmobile with electric-assist power steering (EPS).

The EXT Special rocks the 858cc C-TEC2 engine, comes equipped with C&A Pro XPT skis, and features a 137-inch Ice Ripper XT track with studded lugs. But what really caught our attention are the stunning graphics that throw back to the legendary 1971 EXT Special.

Pantera 9000

Key Highlights:

●        200+ HP Yamaha turbocharged triple engine continues despite Yamaha's exit

●        Electric power steering, heated seats (rider and passenger), auxiliary rear fuel tank

●        Essentially replaces Yamaha's departed Sidewinder S-TX GT

The new Pantera 9000 takes the Yamaha turbocharged triple and wraps it in a touring package. With EPS, heated seats for both rider and passenger, and an auxiliary rear fuel tank, this is Arctic Cat picking up where Yamaha left off.

With the Pantera 9000, Arctic Cat is bringing a model that gives touring riders what they want: power AND comfort. The Pantera 9000 delivers both in spades, proving that Arctic Cat understands the assignment when it comes to high-performance touring.

HCX & HCR

Key Highlights:

●        HCX (Hard Core Extreme): Fox FLOAT QS3 shocks, 146" track, built for big air

●        HCR (Hill Climb Racer): Coil-over Fox QS3 shocks, vertical steering post, 154" track

●        Both feature reinforced twin-beam suspension for aggressive riders

For the mountain riders who've been loyal to the Alpha single-beam setup but maybe wanted options, Arctic Cat's bringing back twin-rail configurations with the new HCX and HCR 858 models.

The HCX features Fox FLOAT QS3 shocks and a braced Float-Action rear suspension. Meanwhile, the HCR is aimed squarely at the hillclimb competition crowd, with coil-over Fox QS3 shocks and a vertical steering post that means business.

M Series

Key Highlights:

●        Weight reduction up to 7.5 pounds through aluminum components

●        858 engine refinements: reduced vibration, improved lubrication

●        Repositioned G8 display for better visibility when standing

The M series didn't just get a fresh coat of paint – it went on a serious diet. Shedding up to 7.5 pounds depending on the model, these sleds feature an aluminum drive shaft, lightweight brake components, and other weight-saving measures.

The 858-powered models also benefit from engine refinements addressing vibration and lubrication, while the G8 digital display has been repositioned for better visibility when you're standing up and attacking the mountain.

ZR Trail Burners

Key Highlights:

●        Full lineup returns with 600 and 858 engine options

●        ATAC models now control all four shocks (previously only three)

●        G8 touchscreen now available as an upgrade on Sno Pro models

The bread-and-butter ZR lineup returns stronger than ever. While the base IFP shock models are gone, the Sno Pro, ATAC, and R-XC models give riders plenty of options with either the proven 600 twin or the refined 858 big bore.

The big news? ATAC models now give riders handlebar control over all four shocks, not just three like before.

ZR 120

Key Highlights:

●        Final year of production for the legendary youth sled

●        Special edition 1972 Kitty Cat-inspired retro graphics

●        Black, grey, and "pinnacle purple" colorway

Even the youth market gets love with a special edition ZR 120 featuring throwback graphics to the original 1972 Kitty Cat.

Sure, it's the model's swan song (this is the last year for the 120), but what a way to go out – with style and a nod to where it all began. This one's going to be a collector's item, mark our words.

Models Returning for 2026

The 2026 model year brings back a comprehensive range of sleds that cover every rider's needs – from budget-conscious beginners to touring enthusiasts who want proven four-stroke reliability.

Four-Stroke Power Cats

Key returning models:

●        ZR Thundercat 9000: The speed demon continues with ~200hp Yamaha turbo power, ATAC EPS, and that distinctive Thundercat attitude

●        Riot 9000 EPS: Crossover riders get turbocharged performance with a 146" track and uncoupled suspension

●        ZR 7000: The naturally aspirated Yamaha triple (130hp) delivers smooth, reliable trail performance

●        Pantera 7000: Two-up touring comfort with proven four-stroke reliability

The 400cc Value Rides

●        ZR 400: 121" track trail sled with electric start and 60hp – perfect for new riders or those wanting an economical option

●        Riot 400: Crossover configuration with 146" track for riders wanting versatility without breaking the bank

●        Riot 400 Touring: Two-up seating brings passenger capability to the budget-friendly segment

●        M 400: Entry-level mountain sled with narrowed stance for aspiring powder hounds

●        Norseman 400: The utility workhorse with 146" track for those who use their sleds as tools

Youth Development

●        ZR 200: The step-up youth sled (192cc) continues for riders 14+ who've outgrown the 120 but aren't ready for full-sized power

What This Means for Arctic Cat Fans and the Industry

The past few months have been rough for Arctic Cat loyalists. Watching Textron essentially put your favorite brand on life support isn't easy. Luckily, the latest news means that Artic Cat isn’t going anywhere, and there are reasons for hope for fans.

Much Needed Brand Stability

First off, stability is back. No more wondering if your local dealer will still exist next year. No more worrying about parts availability or warranty support.

With Darling at the helm and production already ramping up, Arctic Cat owners can breathe easy knowing their sleds – and their investments – are protected.

Yamaha Engines Are Here To Stay

The fact that those legendary Yamaha four-stroke engines are staying in the lineup is huge. Despite Yamaha's exit from the snowmobile market, Arctic Cat secured the rights to keep using the engines in the 2026 models.

For riders who've built their loyalty around these engines, this means that they can continue to rely on their trusted power and performance for years to come. And for those who have yet to experience the smooth, powerful ride of a Yamaha four-stroke, this news gives them a reason to consider an Arctic Cat as their next sled.

Arctic Cat Is Back In The Industry

But maybe the biggest win here is what this means for the snowmobile industry as a whole. We're back to having three major players in the game.

Competition drives innovation, and innovation is what keeps our sport alive and thriving. When manufacturers have to fight for your dollar, everybody wins – better sleds, better prices, better technology.

Orders for the 2026 models are already being taken, with production set to fire up in August 2025. That's not a "wait and see" timeline – that's full steam ahead.

Goats Trail Is Excited For The Future of Arctic Cat

So what's next for the Cat? If the first week under new ownership is any indication, we're in for one hell of a ride. The speed at which Darling and his team moved shows they're not messing around and that there’s plenty to look forward to in the days ahead.

Here at Goats Trail, we've been proudly carrying Arctic Cat apparel through thick and thin because we believe in what this brand represents. It's more than just machines – it's about the memories made on them, the communities built around them, and the passion that drives us to seek out the next adventure.

When a brand that's been part of the fabric of American powersports for over 63 years faces extinction and then fights back, that's something worth celebrating!

Gear Up for the Cat's Comeback

Our officially licensed Arctic Cat® collection has everything you need to rep your favorite brand – from vintage-inspired designs that celebrate the heritage to the latest gear featuring that iconic Arctic Cat logo.

Because here's the thing: when a brand you love makes a comeback this strong, you want to be part of the celebration. Whether you're hitting the trails on that new EXT Special or bench racing at your local dealer while you wait for your 2026 order to arrive, you'll want to look the part.

Shop our Arctic Cat® collection now and join us in celebrating the return of a legend. From hoodies to hats and t-shirts, we've got the gear that lets everyone know you're part of the Arctic Cat family.

Are you as pumped as we are about Arctic Cat's return? Which 2026 model has caught your eye? Drop us a comment on our social channels – we'd love to hear what you're most excited about in this incredible comeback story!

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