I almost bought the wife an M7. I know nothing about the Cats. Just out of interest, what don't you like about the M series? I have to admit that I love the "look" of the Cats. Other than that, the last Arctic Cat I was on was a 1979 Jag....which I took too high and almost burnt up
I'm still saying go with the 800. My 04 800 is stock except for a can. I don't usually race but last year 2 guys on brand new 09 Polaris's, if I remember right one was a 900 the other a 700, asked me to race. Racing is not my thing but I thought what the hell. I smoked the 700 and the stayed right beside the 900 the entire length of the lake. I only weigh 185 lbs but I also can't believe the places this sled has gotten me in the powder so easily. I'm totally impressed with it. I'd bet you'd be more than happy with the 800. With the season just around the corner there will be more coming up for sale real soon. Cheers.
Well I didn't mind the King Cat, it was just little things that made me not like it. But the M series, 15 wide track is the BIGGEST thing. You need a 162 to get the same surface area a 151x16 has. Just doesn't make sense. I also HATE how they are designed under the hood, really seem like a knightmare to work on. My buddy has a 07 m8 153, he likes it ok, but he's had electrical problems randomly pop up when riding.
The thing is, i've rode doo's most of the time, had great luck with them, rode a rev and REALLY liked it. I haven't been on a M series but even if I loved the way they rode I still wouldn't want one. People here are asking STUPID prices for them also.
I'm really in no rush, just scoping out all the sites like this one, kijiji etc for a good deal. Probably going to look for another 2 weeks or so before I commit to a sled because I want to get a steal of a deal (why not sleds ain't selling to well).
Found another possible candidate. 06 1000 162", factory crate motor with warranty to cover all this season. Decent price, and sure is tempting to not have to worry about the motor. I haven't ruled out a 1000 because I know you have to be able to get them setup good, I mean I was with someone last year who had one and it was a beast.
Another route i'm considering is a 144" or 151" and throw a 159" or 162" under it. Prices jump insanly when it has that track and I don't get it. $125 for rails, $125 for tunnel extension maybe $700 for a brand new track and one day and it's done? Maybe regear, but I mean that's not much more. Or is there more to it?