2005 Arctic Cat 650 V twin
Arctic Cat has done something no one else has ever done before. They now offer riders an engine choice when it comes to their flagship models. Their big-bore engines now come in two different base engine designs. The first is the all-new 650 H1 Hemi or the (new last year) 650 V-Twin. The H1 is a single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, 641cc four-stroke engine designed for massive low-end and midrange torque. The V2 is a V-twin, liquid-cooled, 633cc four-stroke engine known for its smooth power delivery and performance. Both engines have automatic transmissions and perform quite well.
Although, this ride review is not about the H1, we would like to give you just a bit of information on Arctic Cats first in house ATV engine. The new 650 H1 engine is assembled near the company’s corporate headquarters in Thief River Falls, MN, a new state-of-the-art, 24,000-sq.-ft. facility. The technical scoop is as follows. The engine is a liquid-cooled, single-cylinder 641cc four-stroke power-plant that is fed by a 40mm Keihin carburetor with electric choke. The H1 engine delivers consistent operation in hot or cold conditions with liquid cooling and a thermostatically controlled auxiliary fan.
The name “H1” comes from its hemispherical-shaped cylinder head and single-cylinder design. Again, the liquid-cooled, single-cylinder 641cc four-stroke features the Duramatic automatic transmission (with Hi-Lo range), electronic push-button 2WD/4WD and engine braking. The new engine was designed by a specialized team of professionals in Arctic Cat’s new ATV Engine Division. Which is staffed by well-known German engine design firms and existing Arctic Cat employees experienced in the disciplines of clutching, quality control and field testing. Thanks to its single-cylinder design, the new 650 H1 has a broad power-band with an emphasis on low-end and midrange torque, providing optimal power for pulling under heavy load or accelerating on trail rides.
I would have to say Arctic Cat has done a great job of proper styling when it comes to the new Arctic Cat ATVs. The machines actually have a front body style and headlights that resemble the facial features and eyes of a cat, producing an interesting product. When you first look at the machine, you will notice that the machine sits quite high and gives the impression of a rather large ATV. All controls are with in easy reach and operate easily. The seat is large and comfortable. Rider position is good and the large floorboards offer plenty of room and protection from debris. A new seat latch has been designed for more convenient seat removal. A two-inch “automotive-style” receiver hitch, long-range 6.5-gallon fuel tank, digital instrument pod (mph, odometer, dual trip meters, hour meter, clock and fuel level) and Start-In-Gear capability complete the ATV.