2020 Arctic Cat Alpha One Hardcore 165 long-term owner review

Last year I rode a ski-doo Summit 165; this winter I'm on an Alpha One Hardcore 165. Here's a detailed review of the Alpha after 400km in all conditions.

[@AlaskanFalcon]

Best Review I've seen in a long time.

[@ryanteach1045]

You have restored my faith in KZbin reviews! There is hope...

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Ryan Teach Glad you enjoyed it. When you’re not being paid you can do what you need to do.

[@mcats8]

I really liked this review, especially since I snowchecked a 2021 Alpha having never even ridden one. You were thorough and spoke a lot of truth about these "sponsored" riders. Great job, looks like I will be fine with my choice.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

mcats8 It’s scary isn’t it, snow checking an expensive machine and spending summer wondering if you made the ‘right’ decision. Don’t worry. I’m sure you’ll have a great time on your new Alpha.

[@bobbygushlinger3637]

I love your honest and non-brand biased reviews. What kind of blue gloves are you running? It seems in NA that those style don't exist.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Thanks. Glad to hear it. Here's more about those gloves kzbin.info/www/bejne/hXPGnIGua9d8orM

[@dsx97]

We have something very similar in Alaska most see them in commercial fishing good gloves to keep your hands completely dry. Though the dexterity isn't there I think?

[@SUMMITSUNKAN]

''They still scratches up, I don't know what's that all about'' lol. The struggles of riding the sticks, it ain't broken in if aint got some scratches on her! Great video as always!

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Anders Sundqvist Ha. Thanks. Found a crack in my bumper last week so one of those sticks must have fought back.

[@rabidpandamotovlogs1389]

Awesome review. Have not ridden an old ditch pickle in years, even though I'm from the Arctic Cat and Polaris region of Minnesota USA. I am more partial to Polaris but admire both companies. Minnesota was home to MANY snowmobile companies back in the day, but only a few have survived. Keep ridin' our products, they're enjoyable. Cheers.

[@staticstang]

It’s a bummer that the season is coming to an end! Great review..🤘🏼

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Staticstang: Thanks. And it’s going to be a short sharp spring here in Japan because the snow pack was thin this year. Off for a ride tomorrow though, and there has been fresh snow so should be good.

[@edwardabrahamiii3742]

Staticstang not in AK we got till early may

[@mnjikaning1]

Finally, an honest unbiased review with no bashing competitors!!! So many great comments because you're right, all sleds have strengths and weaknesses.

[@JeffreyJim09]

From a highly critical reviewer (and reviewer of reviews ;) ), this is super well done.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Jeff Brines Thanks, Jeff. Appreciate the comment, particularly having just checked out your channel and seen the amazingly high quality reviews and other material you produce. If that’s your B roll, your A roll must be epic. I’ve just rediscovered MTB after 15 years obsessed with road bike racing, so I’ll be trolling your channel now. Seems like our garages are full of similar toys. Got to take issue with your claim about Tucker being the world’s fastest trail dog, though; I reckon my Goldens would take him on.

[@dicktracy8537]

First... love your videos, thank you for the subtlety humorous content. I grew up in the snowmobile warzone of northern Minnesota. Many of my friends, guys and girls, were sponsored racers by the big three. I've always been a Polaris guy and rode them even during their dark days of the early 2000's. My Polaris ego was damaged a few times out at the fish house when all of us returned home for the holidays and met up on our sleds. For years I sat at the back of the pack until recently when I bought my first Artic Cat. Long story but I'm not going back and I can't wait to see how they respond to the new Polaris matrix models. It's awesome to see how the culture is spreading across the globe because it is driving the industry to break out with amazing new technology and in my case, good paying jobs right down the street from me. Tips up brother!

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Dick Tracy Cheers for that, Mr DT. One of the fun things about making vids is hearing yarns from people around the world. Thought you were a bot when I saw the comment first line preview on my phone, though. You know the ones: love your content, great video, you have such a great sense of humor, let’s be KZbin friends, etc. Glad I kept reading.

[@dicktracy8537]

@@AkatarawaJapan I get the bot thing.... In the states we have the moniker "Minnesota Nice". Honestly, I think we're the most passive aggressive people on this planet.... a bunch of smiling road-ragers.... LoL. Anyways, I live about ten minutes away from the largest snowmobiling event in the world called Hay Days.... Look it up if you get a chance.

[@curvs4me]

That alpha is spectacular. The snow you have is excellent if maybe a bit warm.

[@ADVENTURESThisWay]

Another great job of expressing your opinions and experience of operating the ALPHA. Cat doesn’t get as much love for their snowmobile products as they deserve. AND BRP Linq accessories are the best system..

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Adventures This Way: Cheers! I think the LINQ narrow system will fit on a Cat or Polaris tunnel. Gonna look into it over summer so I can really mess up the Cat’s identity.

[@ADVENTURESThisWay]

@@AkatarawaJapan There are a few companies that make a conversion bracket. One is South Simcoe Machine here in Canada. Only reason I don't have this bracket is limited room on the Cat 129 tunnel...

[@AkatarawaJapan]

@@ADVENTURESThisWay Oh thanks. Just checked out their site and their machined brackets look great. Asking if they ship to Japan.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

@@ADVENTURESThisWay And they got back right away to say yes. Thanks for the info.

[@RCHomemadeHobbies]

Cool video! I made an Alpha RC Snowmobile! It’s gonna be ready for next winter!

[@mrhelmut]

Best Review of the Alpha One. I looked at your review several times before i bought my Alpha 2020 Hardcore! Regards from Sweden

[@AkatarawaJapan]

mrhelmut Cheers. Hope you’re enjoying it.

[@stud3737]

I love ur footage of you riding and keep up the good work! You earned a sub!!

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Thanks. You'll find lots of other riding vids from the past few years if you're looking to fill your social distance.

[@tboystoys5682]

Brother you did an amazing job reviewing your alpha. I think you should review other sleds as well because not only was it informative but it was also entertaining. Call it like ya see it. Love it.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Thanks. Appreciate that a lot.

[@defmc1]

30 days a year? I'm jealous. I live in the Rocky Mountains and ride 10-15. I like the way you critique. No bs. I just bought a new 155 800 khaos. I'll tell you what I think in a few months. Subbed.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

defmc1 Good for you. Look forward to hearing how you find the Khaos. For now I am riding the 154 I tried at the end of this review. All the sleds are so good these days that I run out of me way before running out of them.

[@russ384]

Thanks for taking the time. I have a 20' hard core 154 with speedwerx stage 2. On your next alpha I highly recommend the stage 2. Massive low end and mid range gain. Top end a bit more. Just a good nasty and sappy naturally aspirated setup, and dam near as reliable as stock. Fun level went up a couple of notches over stock. My last sled was a turbo 17' mc, I prefer the stage 2 over it.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Cheers. How did you know I'm getting that 154 I rode? That's top secret. What are the key bits with a speedwerx stage 2?

[@russ384]

Stage 2 is full exhaust, higher comp head for your elevation, Delta 3 reeds, clutching. Around 17hp gain and lose 20 ish lbs total with this. I also have the light weight secondary clutch parts, billet spider in primary clutch, tki belt drive. All those parts remove 5-6 lbs rotating mass. Belt rotates easier than chain as well. More power to the snow.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

@@russ384 Oh man, that sounds great. Thanks for the details--always prefer to hear from someone actually using the gear rather than just reading the company spiel. Going to look into it.

[@russ384]

Akatarawa Japan also put a poly carbinate hood on it with small led headlight, lost another 15-20ish pounds doing this. Thing will flip over backwards on command, light weight is fun.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

@@russ384 Way to go. Are you on Insta? Would love to see some pics or vid.

[@KuehlIndustrial]

i watch waaaay too much you tube... love snowmobiles. BEST CHANNEL EVER....

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Thanks. So do I. Waaaay too much.

[@crosslukas9952]

Good One ! Im glad you have noticed Janzkak on his Sidewinder two beasts both sled and rider 😊

[@n2snow]

I have seen this video before but enjoyed it again. I had already given it a thumbs up.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

The sled is still running great. Only change is Pin'd Performance running board inserts, which fix the stupid Cat boards once and for all. I sold my Doo but will always remember that wonderful 850 motor.

[@JasonMcMurray]

spot on review! Thanks for giving it to us strait! I agree its time for some running board upgrades, these ones didn't work in 2012 and they still don't in 2021 hahaha!

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Cheers, Jason. Love your riding. Seems like you're having a good time with Muskoka and the gang in BC.

[@mynewuseddoo]

Beauty review again man! I am still loving my mountain cat and the HiJet is still the best little sled hauler. I have had the same experience as you in having the chance to ride a 154. Coming off of my 162 it was so nimble! Needless to say a 154 will be my next sled. It'll fit a bit better in the HiJet too LOL. Oh and I will recommend the Black Cats running boards from Arctic Cat. I installed them last fall and have about 2000 km on them now......amazing! They are also stiffer than stock and clear snow excellently.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Thanks. Super tempted to get a 154--Quick, somebody slap me into my senses. Hacking the holes on the Cat really works, but a set of Black Cats like yours would be nice. Kei trucks rule! Change the oil on your HiJet every 3000k or so and you should be able to thrash it forever. Got a rev counter?

[@mynewuseddoo]

@@AkatarawaJapan no tachometer in mine unfortunately, drive by sound LOL. I have been running full synthetic since i purchased it. Super clean unit and only has about 14000 km right now and papers to confirm. I was thinking 5000 km oil changes with the synthetic but will keep an eye on it. A friend of mine bought a turbo doo and I must say WOW! That machine is a beast! Have you modified the rear suspension in your Kei at all or just stock? I notice after coming off the mountain and heading home at night I get a lot of people flashing me their high beams. The sled squats the truck slightly that it changes the angle of my lights up. Nothing crazy but its enough. I was thinking about adjusting my head lights down a bit but wondering if you might have any suggestions.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

@@mynewuseddoo: My HiJet has a headlight adjuster dial so I can tweak that when under load. Presume your lights have been realigned right for driving on the right side of the road? I'm sure the turbo Doo is great. Would love to ride it but the price just came out in Japan @ more than CAN$30K. Which is 3 brand new kei trucks. Going to have to pass...

[@kristianbacker7990]

Good review. I like this kind of review that is made of someone probably at the same level as me in the terms of skills and use, and focusing more on the practical things and general properties of the sled rather than all the high performance and expert properties that factory drivers and magazine reviewers tend to focus on.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Kristian Backer Good to hear it. I’m still enjoying the Alpha a lot, but it’s got a faulty temp sensor that needs replacing. The thing is such fun in pow.

[@christoffersjoberg1622]

Really like this video! Great review! Seemed very honest! I think i´m buying an alpha next season!

[@Stratts28]

Great video. Totally appreciated the honesty

[@gustavsigvaldsen884]

Best review i’ve ever seen😃🙌🏻great video man keep up the good work

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Good to hear. Will be riding an Alpha 154 and a Khaos 155 next winter so should be an interesting comparison.

[@gustavsigvaldsen884]

@@AkatarawaJapan can’t wait to see, i acctualy am looking for an alpha to buy.

[@cohanodowichuk3765]

The older cats like a 2012 or a 2013 mountain sled have a really good reverse button because it’s no sticking out of the handle bar too far

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Cohan Odowichuk The current one is in a good position but the mechanism is hopeless. They will know this by now but we will probably be stuck with it for years.

[@ponycarfan]

Great review and very entertaining. Thank you.

[@n2snow]

Awesome vid! I like your reviews. Like a good book, can’t put it down! 👍👍👍

[@AkatarawaJapan]

N2SNOW Bill Thanks. Got one on the Blast coming just as soon as I can fix a bug in my editing software.

[@n2snow]

@@AkatarawaJapan Cool, I’ll be looking for it.

[@98gmc1500]

Great video, almost inspiring! We have had a bum winter so this might be something to look forward to picking up for next season 🤘 I currently ride an 18 850 doo and an 18 king cat!

[@AkatarawaJapan]

I have also got an 18 850 doo. Feels radically different to the Cat, doncha reckon?

[@98gmc1500]

@@AkatarawaJapan actually they are ver similar I find because the king cat and Yamaha sidewinders have the lay down steering post and I put the ice age pro motion on it.

[@gregmulfort9577]

I enjoy your videos, nice and non biased, like you said there are alot of paid reviews. Thumbs up from America and I shared on a dumpster fire forum

[@jeffwindrim975]

It’s not about what brand you ride it’s all about going out and having fun simple as that.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

For sure. If people ask me what brand to buy I say whichever one has a shop close to you with helpful staff who fix things fast. Winter is short.

[@SSSGolf]

If Korg from the marvel movies made sled reviews. Love it, love the review.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Shaun McGee I don’t know Korg but if he asked to borrow my sled I presume the correct answer would be sure.

[@medievalman3737]

This kind of riding reminds me of Newfoundland riding on Canada’s east coast awesome video!

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Cj Hickey My usual kind of riding is the sled in one direction and me in another.

[@k2buildit]

Fantastic review and I enjoy the videos! Lots of fun!

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Ken Molter II Thanks. FYI I have bought some of those Linq adaptor brackets.

[@sylfix2680]

I ride a 2016 Summit 800R etec and I love it, 163x16x3" and I don't know man but this thing is awesome! Edit: Running a jaws rowdy, no battery, and elka stage 4

[@cmartinite]

Awesomeness - great real review. Thank you

[@AkatarawaJapan]

OMG! I love your music! Didn't know you rode sleds, but now it all makes sense. Playing on snowmobiles in the cold...Cold Play. Brilliant.

[@MrJeffyb69]

Linq bag statement @ 6:52 LOL :-) You are 100% correct !

[@lancewood2278]

Thanks much help with my purchase of 2020 alpha one. Mt. Love

[@TraxlayerTV]

This doesn't affect me, because I always slow down and go carefully around any greenery "☠ Great review, I hope to see you on a Khoas 850 next year.😁

[@AkatarawaJapan]

I hope you slow down for greenery too. Plants have feelings, you know. When the Khoas has got e-start I'll consider it (sorry, purists). In the meantime, I think I can get a similar effect on an Alpha 154 with the rear shocks backed off.

[@jasonwells3999]

Nice review bud! I really enjoyed it.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Thanks. I've still got this sled and still love it. Powder and tree beast. Just not so good on the hard snow.

[@christopherwright4560]

Great review! Love the commentary lol! Curious the Alpha 154 your riding now, 2.6 or 3”? Debating between a 165 w/ elevate kit or 154 stock and might stick to a 2.6” lug Riding in deep BC interior snow.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Christopher Wright My 154 is a 3 inch. I don’t have any experience with the lower lugs or elevate kits so can’t help there. The 165 let me get away with lower speeds while getting my skills and line choices up, and now the shorter track is making me learn to move around the running boards more effectively. If I had to pick one for big mountain terrain I’d probably go 165.

[@billkenyonbk]

Great video great analogies 🤙

[@HaNg_ALL_ThE_tRaItOrS_hiGh]

I was actually put on the assembly line against my will and probably helped assemble that thing. Normally a welder but we were ahead in welding and they moved a bunch of the welders to the snow line. I didn't mind it even though I was super pissed about it at 1st. Just happy I no longer work there and can now actually wear my polaris jacket again. 🤣

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Dusty Lee Did they chain you to a work station or something?

[@HaNg_ALL_ThE_tRaItOrS_hiGh]

@@AkatarawaJapan worst management and leads I've ever had the displeasure of working for.

[@tjledrew]

Im fucking dying at the way you talked about the arcticat travel bag

[@codyhardman6786]

This review is amazing. Your hilarious.

[@danhillman4523]

"your" Kek. Bunch of kids here.

[@PacificDark]

Best. Review. Ever.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Pacific Chief Cheers for that. Glad you enjoyed it, and hope you get some decent sled time this winter.

[@sergesvz]

Id love to go riding with your group in Japan. Good reviews.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Serge SVZ Cheers. See you in Japan.

[@SnakeInDaGrazz]

awesome review bradda

[@jaredgulaga8367]

Another great review, coming to this vid after watching your Alpha vs Doo vid. I'm about to bite the bullet on an Alpha, my dealer just so happens to have a brand new 19 they used as a show piece listed at a spectacular deal, as well as a 21 as shown in this video. After riding both, would you say the 21 is any better? Worth 4000 dollars more? Cheers!

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Cheers. If it were me I think I’d take the spectacular deal. There haven’t been any major changes so may as well keep the money in your pocket.

[@jessiebruno9313]

Great review!!...From New Brunswick Canada

[@charlespalmerii4299]

Great job, really enjoyed your review... thinking about an Alpha or Riot X ... thanks

[@ApeXxTurbo]

I enjoy the tree riding! :D

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Mikkel Høiseth: Some of the trees you ride through don’t enjoy it!

[@ApeXxTurbo]

@@AkatarawaJapan Hey I need firewood for next winter! :) another great vid!

[@enduroisland4202]

Nice review, Love watching the treebashing video 😁👍🏻

[@AkatarawaJapan]

What bushes? I don't see no bushes.

[@farming4g]

I would only say get a POOlaris just for a review sake lol. I don't have a polaris sled, but do have 2 polaris atvs and a utv... needless to say, the oldest machine out of the bunch is the best, the others are a lot of corner cutting. Yes, Janzkak is fun to watch on those 4stroke beasts.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

If I can overcome my fear of unreliability I’ll get a Khaos. Loved the one I rode the other day.

[@adampoulin9251]

Its normal you get play in your steering on a sled, if you ride in someone else path like on a trail or something your arms would hurt from being swung left to right constantly

[@ippielb]

Nice review, very thorough. I like the red little dolly that grabs the track you have in your shop, did you make that? I agree with quite a bit of your opinion, but I do have to say I did not enjoy the icy hard snow performance. Washed out quite often, I also slip off my running board often, my old sled has skins airframe running boards. Cat had a cargo system in the accessories catalog. Shot for all I agree. Lol your steering was better then mine after 400km.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

ippielb Yep, not the sled for hard snow but then again I’m not the rider for hard snow either. Made the shop dolly. I was out with guys on RMKs this weekend and when I complained about the steering slop they showed me their Polaris version of slop which was almost as bad. I think the difference is that the Cat just keeps getting worse over time. Hope you didn’t mind me plugging your movie at the end-it deserves WAY more views.

[@ippielb]

Akatarawa Japan if you ever find yourself in western Canada send me a message. We’ll go out.

[@mendomotox1569]

Great review, thanks alot! You should really have more viewers, you make great content. Do you ride bikes or quads in the summer? Makes springtime not so depressing lol

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Thanks for watching. Glad if my vids give people something to watch and mock while maintaining the correct social distance. Got a moto X bike but am a total muppet on it. Have a lot of fun on the Yamaha Banshee 350 quads, though. If you dig back you'll find some vids on this channel.

[@mendomotox1569]

Great! Banshees are awsome, I'd love to see some summer content if you have the time, I'm on a Yamaha yfz450 or Polaris Sportsman 1000 in the summer. Need to get back into bikes though, used to have mx bikes. Thinking of a dual sport when funds allow. Keep up the good work :)

[@boser1212]

I had under 300 miles on my 2020 when the rail separated at the front. Good news is they warranty it. Bad news is I never hit any thing at all and now it’s off warranty if it happens again.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Bummer. I’ve heard of that happening but not seen it. A new rail is about $300 if off warranty, no?

[@boser1212]

Akatarawa Japan the price isn’t listed on their parts site but I’d bet here in Canada they are at least a thousand bucks to replace.

[@menotyou7762]

@@boser1212 if not more. give it time this will become a problemo

[@boser1212]

@@menotyou7762 I’m not giving it much time. I’ll ride it this season and it’s gone. Sick of the savage wash out and I’m not testing my luck.

[@NMBPictures]

im getting the renegade xrs 800 e-tec just because these videos. it looks so fun to do. did i choose the right snowmobile for on/off trail? :)

[@koltonluscombe4500]

I ride a riot 146 and it’s nuts I like it way more than the skidoos

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Kolton Luscombe Good for you. The ski-doos are great sleds too. I always moan about my Summit’s front end but the good riders do everything on them so it must mainly be me.

[@johnlanthier9047]

An ANZAC reviewing a sled from Japan!?!? Hard to get my head around. Good review though. I want to turn my ZR8000 in and get a Riot.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

I can't get my head around it either. Next review: Ethiopian rides a Polaris on the moon.

[@Redspath]

Great review!

[@heybubbah]

They should have at least put a small deflector for the sake of the gauge, like my '19 does. I replaced the deflector with the Cat brand windshield bag, you should look into it

[@AkatarawaJapan]

You can get deflectors but I like the naked look. Windshield bag sounds like a good idea. Thanks.

[@ericduchesne807]

2019 engine 800 exploded due to the engine oil injection pipe which broke 5706-536 at $ 12.67 between the engine and the tank not guaranteed. 2,500 kilometers. Please be careful.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Eric Duchesne Ouch! That would be a bummer.

[@ericduchesne807]

@@AkatarawaJapan It's not over .... a judge will have to decide that. The lemon law 👍👍👍

[@Wanderer509-]

Great review! I have the same sled, I miss the electric start from my 14 cat. Cat really does miss the mark on accessories, the doo mounting system seems the best. I just noticed cat wants to sell me 200 dollar brackets to beef up the tunnel to carry fuel or heavy loads. Was interesting to see the terrain in Japan, I didn’t know they rode over there, I would have thought they’d be too restrictive like Central Europe.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Brad Osburn There’s good riding in Japan, but usual story: you need to know who to know, and build the relationships to maintain access.

[@lilmisspolaris12]

Ha ha, puny and nerdy. I never thought you were either. Great vid. Well said. Only negative comment is that I'm pissed off I'm not there riding with you. On one of your spares :-)

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Lil Miss Polaris When your little girl gets a bit bigger you’ll both be here slaying powder on toys with and without motors.

[@jeffbrown8974]

Perfect

[@YammiePro]

I like it in blue/white!

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Yamaha Exciter! Good choice. I’ve heard those are the fastest colors.

[@twostroke_1]

Had the alpha 2020 154 hc have the alpha 2021 154 hc at the moment which is about to go in on trade for the 2022 154 hc. The 154 has the track speed so its faster and climbs quicker than my buddies alpha 165 . Haha fiddly as fuck love it. Great vid man

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Thanks. I ended up buying the shop's 154HC I tried at the end of the vid. What a wicked sled. Ample power and track speed, like you say. Amazing how just a few tiny inches of track can make such a difference to how the whole thing feels.

[@twostroke_1]

@@AkatarawaJapan I don’t know if you have tried the muster throttle yet on it. I would recommend getting one it really does make a big difference just my opinion though.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

@@twostroke_1 Keen to try a finger throttle one day, but I always worry about smashing through the scrub we get around here. I guess with a proper guard it's not an issue.

[@twostroke_1]

@@AkatarawaJapan The guard an absolute must for sure with it but you need a minimum of 3 days to give it a good try as it will give you hand and arm cramp till you get use to it.

[@danjdavid]

very clever, very entertaining, very well done review.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

danjdavid Thanks. Nearly time to ride again.

[@avz46]

great vid

[@curvs4me]

Bud, I have to ask. I've searched for Yamaha snowmobiles in Japan and I just don't find any information or dealers. I grew up with at a Yamaha dealer and have always preferred them. I don't know how tax is structured there. I imagine there's a benefit to buying a national brand?

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Yamaha in Japan is nowhere in the mountain riding scene. VK540s at ski hills is about the only place you see them.

[@curvs4me]

@@AkatarawaJapan It's so bizarre, they are everywhere in the States. I would think there's a significant savings to be had with shipping costs and import duties. Maybe they are no longer producing sleds in country?

[@goshdarnitman]

Eh fun to watch man, thank you

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Thanks. Nice handle, darn it.

[@zx9green791]

Great video!

[@danhillman4523]

Those add-on pipes don't actually do anything other than make your sled more obnoxiously loud.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

I hear you (pun intended) on the loud pipes thing but they are much lighter and free up space in the engine bay that I use for a battery but others use for belts, tools, lunch pots, easier access to plugs, etc. There are some excellent cans now that give you most of the space/weight benefit for hardly any increase in decibels. e.g. GGB Quiet Can.

[@Yammi1990]

The seat... would you get it again? Worth the money? Was it useful on the trail?

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Yes, I'd get it again. It's a fraction taller but main difference is firmer at the back and extends about 50mm further back, so it suits me as a 6ft guy with two screws in my leg that don't like deep knee bends.

[@mikemills2396]

it would help, if you were on a polaris. it's one of the EASIEST sleds to maneuver on a mountain. said by all pro's.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Help what? I've got a 1996 Polaris Indy 500--will that do the job?

[@t.emmettmclaulin3451]

Great review !!! Great candid content. Keep riding. Come visit in Alpine WY. :)

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Riding Wyoming is on my list. Super keen.

[@corymckinnon9588]

No trouble with engine overheating on the trails?We have long spring riding and long trail rides to get to the snow.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Cory McKinnon Drop the scratchers and you’re good to go.

[@corymckinnon9588]

Thanks for the reply.Nice videos,i spring ordered the 154" last week.

[@Shane.Halverson]

That cough at 4:00 tho

[@sinkinisersquad2859]

I just wanna know, how is that a 2020 if the 2021 is red and the 2020 is green, 2019 is purple and 2022 is blue

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Japan export model. We could choose any color so long as it was this one.

[@charlespalmerii4299]

I like the tunnel bag, can you please share who makes it and name of it... thanks much enjoyed your Video! :)

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Thanks. It’s a standard Cat bag. Available online.

[@gordthor5351]

I don't understand the logical contradiction of saving weight, yet opting for the added weight of electric start. If a person can go through the rigors of sledding in deep powered (which is easier with less weight), how can it be such a chore to pull the sled to start it? I totally get the reverse thing. It sucks a ton of energy dragging a sled out of a truck, but it's piss all to pull the sled over once (maybe twice). My old carbureted mountain cat starts starts first or second pull. I'm sure the newer sleds are even easier to start. People spend thousands of dollars to lose a few pound, so why add the weight (and cost) of a battery and starter motor (to pack around always). Surely, it takes more effort (overall) dealing with the added weight, than 1 pull on the handle. More like a 1/4 pull on a well tuned Arctic Cat.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Fair comment. I think most people who spend big money adding lightness don’t opt for e-start. But for my weak arms and how and where I ride, the advantage of e-start outweighs (ahem) the weight penalty. Super helpful when stuck on weird angles, and the effort of 40 or 50 rapid pulls a day adds up. The doo SHOT is best of both worlds, although ironically the doo 850 has a shorter, tighter pull than the Cat anyway so I don’t mind pull starting it. The Cat seems to need all the rope.

[@tedpendagast579]

Some people have joint or shoulder pain, especially older folks Shorter people have a harder time rip starting When it’s really cold, the e start is easier than trying to both with both arms and legs and putting your back behind it just to get the engine to sputter

[@miffoivan]

wrong! the linQ is not the best, Its most likely the worst! no way to modify the storage in any way on the tunnle in the field. the old all tunnle long rail-rack with rubber diving bag is the best! Super versatile and easy to pack and unpack. + if you have just a few things in there it wont be flying around in there and break everything, because the bag is soft, and it presses down on all stuff in ther, no mater how full/empty it is! :)

[@AkatarawaJapan]

That is a really good point. Haven't seen one like that for ages, but it makes sense. Still wouldn't call LinQ anywhere near the worst, though. Even the Polaris system has external attachment lugs, but the Cat bags have them buried inside where you have to empty the bag to get at them. Super annoying.

[@TheIrongutz]

Friend broke 2 Alpha rails in 4 outings and had to wait a month to get one on warranty.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

TheIrongutz That would be a bummer. How the hell did he manage to break one, let alone two?

[@TheIrongutz]

@@AkatarawaJapan We live in the Rocky Mountains (Canada) and he was doing his usual jumps with his new Alpha and 1 bent near the rear and the other started cracking where the shock mount attaches. Yes, he’s hard on sleds but he’s never had issues on the traditional rails doing that on his older M8. His is a year old now so maybe they have beefed them up? Maybe he should just quit jumping so high/far 😂

[@jeffbrown8974]

What size lithium battery do you think I need for my m8000

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Sorry, no idea about li batteries. Wish it had SHOT...

[@PierresAdventures]

I don’t know if you like the colours! Best ending !

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Pierre's Adventures Man, I respect your endurance making it to the end.

[@PierresAdventures]

Akatarawa Japan it was good and entertaining review. I really I appreciate your 2020 brushes cutter review.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Pierre's Adventures: OK, you just gave me a name for the sled: The Brush Cutter. I’m making the label today.

[@PierresAdventures]

Akatarawa Japan rock on! Mine is call White Fang.

[@darrellfolk5284]

Absolutely Awesome review! And Yes I like the Color!! And I also agree with everything you said!!! Instant Subscriber!!! I also love "Fiddly as Fuck" I think I'm gonna start saying it. Hahaha. I just love to Ride!! Being out there!!! Be safe my Friend!!

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Darrell Folk. Happy to hear that. Fuddly as Fick is a useful variant in polite company.

[@Brobro449]

How are they on trails in can heard they feel stange on rides in

[@AkatarawaJapan]

They can feel a bit funky on trails, but once you hit the pow they are animals.

[@georgef1176]

Great review. You described it like Rob Kincaid, you just gotta chill out not ride it so hard. They are an amazing sled.

[@shperax]

400km is not long term. You say you get out 30 times a season. There's no way you can only have 400km. It just seems like you should have much more km then that. Oh primary clutches explode at 1500 so watch it for that.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Fair point--I should have called it one-season review or something. Here in Japan our riding zones are very close to road ends, so we don't rack up the big miles that are typical in North America. Plus, I ride other sleds, so not all those 30 days are on the Alpha. Anyway, I'm still enjoying the A1 it and ended up also buying that 154 I ride at the end of this vid. Call me stupid, but got a great deal. Super sled. Problems at one stage with a faulty temp sensor but otherwise all good. Next season I will sell one of them and try my first Polaris. Thinking Khaos. Wish me luck.

[@ben_syxxes8179]

If you’re looking for a top notch gear bag check out SledRax (www.sledrax.ca) It utilizes the linq adaptors and it’s a weather and impact proof pelican case. My first year running this set up and wish I had gotten it long ago 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Ben_Syxxes Thanks. Checked the site. Looks like a good system.

[@cannedham3774]

wuts with the ski-doo flap?

[@AkatarawaJapan]

That’s what I want to know, but when I ask myself I don’t make any sense.

[@cannedham3774]

@@AkatarawaJapan 🤣

[@markoxy5196]

@3:58 slow it down to .25 thank me later 😂

[@EmotionalTree]

Syxxes broke one but he smashed a tree good.

[@AkatarawaJapan]

D E L P H I Yes, I saw that vid. Hitting trees seems to do it, and some of the guys who huck big inverted air seem to break a few.

[@Indeewoods]

Cat has had sloppy steering for over 20 years. They just can't fix that...

[@AkatarawaJapan]

INDEEWOODS The only way to understand it is if they have continually, actively decided not to fix it.

[@hassebrasse3827]

2:21 skidoo???

[@AkatarawaJapan]

Optical illusion.

[@jimbeck3038]

25lbs for electric start but you did say you are a 6ft 160 lbs weakling

[@AkatarawaJapan]

I know it's a bad idea. But I have a weakling's allergy to pull starting.

[@moimayamahaetmesnounours]

Why is it a bad idea ?

[@moimayamahaetmesnounours]

I always thought that ALL the snowmobiles have an electric start, but in ALMOST ALL the snowmobile videos on KZbin they have a rope start, even the brand new arctic cat (it's real I watched some Old snowmobiles videos), but the only one with an electric start was a YAMAHA sidewinder, I think, can you tell me please why did the snowmobile manufacturers wait so long to add electric start on their machines ?