2017 Arctic Cat Alterra 500 TRV

Dispointed

I am disappointed in the performance of the bike and sales team for arctic cat. I purchased the alterra trv 500 in the spring of 2016 which is the legal 2 up. I was offered the upgrade of bigger tires for a reasonable price which I took. 2 years later I purchased a plow for the bike from the same... dealer. In 2019 I noticed the bike burning oil with 1800 kms. Took it back to the dealer and was advised there was water in the air filter box. I will admit I was in deep water 2 years ago but there is a drain hole in the bottom of the air filter box so I do not understand why there should have been water remaining in the air filter box. This bike is stored inside at all times or have a cover. Long story short, rebuilt the top end. As I was picking up the bike from the dealer an employee brought the bike to me and had a mechanic inspect it as the drive was not working right. This is when I am advised the centrifugal clutch is starting to go. Upon further conversation I am now advised this clutch is smaller then the 700 and because I was plowing ( only for 1 yr) had bigger tires, this was the reason which this clutch is failing. Not sure why I was not advised to not add these upgrades due to the capability of the bike not being able to accommodate these upgrades. Loved the bike with a great ride financially broke and disappointed. Read Full Review

Not very durable

After 100 hours of riding the heat shield broke. The dealership replaced and within 50 hours it broke again. This time the only fix was to wrap the exhaust in heat tape. Now my leg is always hot. I noticed that my belt drive case is always very hot. I don't think the belt get enough air intake. Afte...r 180 hours the belt disintegrated and locked up my back wheels almost causing to ripe out. I put a new belt on and 100 hours later the intire wet clutch system went. Its been in the shop 4 months now and still no parts. I will never by another Artic cat again. Read Full Review

Nice machine

I have had the 500 for 3 years now and think I can give a honest review. Price with the comparables was at least 3k cheaper. I ride with all different brands and it never fails to keep up with them. I have had issues with exhaust heat shield breaking. The dealer replaced it twice and it broke again.... The only fix was to wrap the exhaust with heat tape which now has extreme heat on my left leg when operating at low speeds. The rear brake is terrible. It is only on one wheel and does not stop you. I have a continuous clicking in the back brake which the dealer informed me they can't fix it. It is a very stable machine even when riding double in off camber. I would recommend drive belt replacement after 200 hours. Mine disintegrated at 220 hours leaving me stranded. They class this machine as a 500 but it's not even a 450. The power is adequate when riding single but when doubling climbing steep hills you will want more power. I would rate this machine 7 out of 10. Read Full Review