Overview
Anyone running light to moderate utility tasks on variable terrain will appreciate the 2017 Arctic Cat 700 VLX’s combination of power, durability, and practicality. This machine is built to handle farm duties, forestry work, or recreational trail riding with a focus on reliability and ease of use. Its single-cylinder 695 cc engine, equipped with liquid and air cooling and fuel injection, provides a balanced mix of torque and efficiency suited to a wide range of utility applications.
The design emphasizes simple functionality with a CVT transmission and a selectable 4X2 or 4X4 driveline. This setup allows riders to adapt quickly to changing terrain or load conditions, maximizing traction and control without the complexity of manual gear shifting. The independent double A-arm suspension at both ends, offering 10 inches of travel, ensures a smooth ride over rough ground, making it suited for work or recreational use on uneven surfaces.
Dimensions and features further reinforce its utility focus. With an 11-inch ground clearance and a wheelbase of 50 inches, the VLX can navigate obstacles while maintaining stability. Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear provide consistent stopping power, and the Carlisle Trail Pro tires deliver traction on loose or rugged terrain. Priced at $5,999, this model aims at buyers needing a purpose-built, easy-to-maintain utility ATV that balances performance and affordability in a competitive segment.
Performance & Powertrain
Anyone running utility tasks on rugged terrain will appreciate the 695cc single-cylinder engine of the 2017 Arctic Cat 700 VLX. With this displacement, it surpasses many segment competitors, providing a balance of torque and responsiveness suited for hauling, towing, or navigating challenging environments. The liquid and air cooling system helps maintain consistent performance under heavy loads, preventing overheating during extended operation.
The fuel injected system ensures precise throttle response and efficient fuel delivery, reducing stall risk and providing smoother acceleration across various conditions. This setup typically results in predictable power delivery, making it easier for operators to modulate engine output when performing work or trail riding. The engine’s design emphasizes durability and ease of maintenance, aligning with the demands of utility use.
The transmission employs a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which offers seamless belt-driven gear changes without the need for shifting. This setup allows for smooth acceleration from a standstill and maintains consistent power flow during load changes. The selectable drive system with 4X2 and 4X4 modes enhances traction control, enabling drivers to adapt to different terrains quickly and efficiently, whether traversing mud, snow, or loose gravel.
Suspension & Handling
Working a full day on trail work or hunting trips puts the suspension geometry and travel numbers to the test. The Arctic Cat 700 VLX employs independent double A-arm suspension at both ends, with 10 inches of travel upfront and rearward. This setup helps absorb impacts from rocks, roots, and uneven terrain, smoothing out rough sections without sacrificing stability. While 10 inches of travel is typical for utility quads in this class, it provides a good balance for trail riding and light to moderate obstacle clearance, reducing rider fatigue on extended excursions.
The double A-arm design offers predictable handling and precise steering response, especially beneficial when navigating twisty singletrack or packed dirt paths. The independent configuration ensures each wheel moves independently, maintaining tire contact and grip on uneven surfaces. This suspension type is less suited for aggressive jumping or extreme off-road terrain but excels in maintaining traction and comfort over typical trail conditions or work environments.
The brake system features hydraulic disc brakes on both ends, providing strong stopping power with modulation suited for various terrains. Hydraulic discs offer consistent performance and require less maintenance than drum or cable systems, making them reliable in muddy, wet, or dusty conditions. The Carlisle Trail Pro tires measure 25 inches in diameter, with the front tires at 8 inches wide and the rears at 10 inches, giving a stable footprint for grip on loose dirt, gravel, and trail debris. The tire sizes strike a balance between flotation and maneuverability, enhancing stability in softer terrain without sacrificing handling on harder surfaces.
Dimensions & Ergonomics
Most utility ATVs in the segment have lengths around 7 feet and seat heights suitable for a broad range of riders, and this machine with a length of 7.07 feet and a seat height of 48 inches provides a balanced profile for both stability and maneuverability. Its width of 8 inches appears to be a typo, but assuming it is 48 inches as typical for utility models, this width offers a stable platform without sacrificing agility. The wheelbase measures 50 inches, contributing to predictable handling and rider confidence on uneven terrain. With a ground clearance of 11 inches, it clears obstacles comfortably without excessive height that might hamper access or loading.
- Length: 7.07 feet
- Width: approximately 48 inches (assuming a typographical correction)
- Height: 48 inches to the seat
- Wheelbase: 50 inches
- Ground clearance: 11 inches
- Dry weight: 670 pounds
- Fuel capacity: 5.7 gallons
The dimensions translate into a machine that can fit into standard pickup truck beds with ease, making transportation simpler for work or recreational trips. The 48-inch seat height caters to a broad range of rider heights, offering enough clearance for taller individuals while remaining accessible for shorter operators. The 5.7-gallon fuel tank supports extended use without frequent refueling, and combined with ergonomic considerations, this ATV offers a practical balance between usability and comfort in demanding utility roles.
Notable Features
If you’re planning to tackle a variety of terrain with the 2017 Arctic Cat 700 VLX, you’ll want to know about the enhancements that set this model apart from base-trim competitors. One of the most significant upgrades is its fuel-injected 695cc single-cylinder engine, which delivers more consistent power delivery and improved fuel economy compared to carbureted alternatives. This engine’s liquid and air cooling system ensures better temperature regulation during extended use, reducing the risk of overheating during heavy workloads or long rides.
Another key feature is the inclusion of a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which provides a smooth, automatic power transfer from the engine to the wheels. This setup eliminates the need for manual shifting, making it easier to focus on the terrain and rider control. The selectable 4X2 or 4X4 driveline adds versatility, allowing users to switch from two-wheel drive for more efficient, everyday riding to four-wheel drive for challenging conditions such as mud or steep inclines. This flexibility enhances the machine’s utility in a range of off-road environments.
Additionally, the VLX model benefits from a thoughtfully designed exterior that emphasizes ease of access and durability. While many base models might offer minimal accessories, the VLX typically comes with integrated features like front and rear racks designed for load carrying, along with simplified instrumentation aimed at reducing maintenance downtime. These elements, combined with the model’s simple control layout, contribute to a more user-friendly experience, especially for riders who prioritize functionality and reliability in their utility ATV.
Pricing & Value
What you get here is a utility ATV priced at $5,999, positioning it within the mid-range of Arctic Cat’s lineup for 2017. This price point targets consumers seeking a balance of functional features and affordability, especially those involved in work tasks or recreational trail riding where durability and reliability matter more than luxury or high-end tech.
- Entry-level models typically start around $4,500 to $5,000, making this a slightly premium option with added features or larger displacement.
- Higher trim versions generally include added accessories, premium tires, or enhanced payload capacities, which can push prices above $6,500.
- The top-tier utility models often integrate more advanced features such as engine upgrades or additional cargo capacity but are priced significantly higher.
Compared to other utility ATVs in the same segment, the Arctic Cat 700 VLX offers a competitive package that justifies its price through its engine size, build quality, and brand reputation. It sits comfortably above entry-level options, providing more power and durability without reaching the premium costs of larger, more feature-laden models. For consumers prioritizing a dependable workhorse or recreational machine at a fair price, this model fits that niche without overextending into high-cost territory. Its placement indicates it is aimed at buyers who want more than basic, but do not require the advanced features of the top-tier models.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning to tackle tough chores or maintain large properties, you’ll want to know that the Arctic Cat 700 VLX offers a single-cylinder engine delivering reliable performance with a sturdy build. Its simplicity in design makes it suited for those who prioritize ease of maintenance and long-term durability over high-speed thrills or advanced tech features. The significant ground clearance and rugged chassis emphasize its utility focus, making it an effective tool for demanding work environments.
The most defining quality of this machine is its simple, no-nonsense approach to utility riding. It emphasizes function over form, with its heavy-duty frame and proven engine configuration ensuring consistent operation in rugged conditions. This approach may not appeal to riders seeking high-performance sport features or luxury comforts, but it provides the reliability needed in daily work scenarios. The simplicity in design also translates to lower ownership costs and reduced downtime, which can be crucial for commercial or property maintenance applications.
For those who need a dependable, no-frills utility ATV that can handle heavy workloads and rough terrain without fuss, the Arctic Cat 700 VLX stands out as a practical choice. However, if your priorities include aggressive off-road riding, advanced suspension technology, or high-speed capabilities, this model probably isn’t the best fit. It’s a machine built for durability and consistent utility, and it performs that role exceptionally well-making it the right pick for hardworking users who value simple, proven performance over flashy features.
Tech specs
Engine
Transmission
Suspension
Brakes
Tires
Dimensions
Tags and taxonomy
Compatible parts for the 2017 Arctic Cat 700 VLX
Selected from this machine's own specification, not a generic list. Check any of it against the table above.
- ClassUtility ATV
- DriveSelectable 4X2 / 4X4
- Front tire25x8-12
- Dry weight670 lb
- Winch and mountSynthetic and steel line kitsShop on Amazon
- Plow kitBlade, mount and push tube. Needs the four wheel drive on this machineShop on Amazon
- Tires25x8-12Front tire size fitted from the factoryShop on Amazon
- BatteryReplacement and AGM upgradesShop on Amazon
- Oil and filter kit695ccFull service kitsShop on Amazon
- Loading ramps1500 lbRated above the 670 lb dry weightShop on Amazon
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