Arctic Cat's 650 ATV Earns 'ATV of the Year' Awards

THIEF RIVER FALLS, Minn.--Dec. 1, 20035, 2003--

'ATV Illustrated' and 'ATV Guide' laud Arctic Cat's most powerful ATV yet

Arctic Cat Inc. announced today that its new 650 4X4 Automatic all-terrain vehicle (ATV), the company's most powerful ATV, has been recognized as the "2004 ATV of the Year" by both "ATV Illustrated" and "ATV Guide." Introduced in June, Arctic Cat's 650 ATV represents the company's first entry into the growing big-bore market segment, which are ATVs with large-displacement engines over 500cc.

"We're honored that our new 650 ATV has been recognized as a truly outstanding machine by two leading industry publications, especially since this is our first entry into the big-bore class," said Christopher A. Twomey, chairman and chief executive officer of Arctic Cat. "These awards demonstrate Arctic Cat's technology leadership and innovation as a manufacturer of the most versatile ATVs on the market today."

Driven by demand for the company's innovative new products, Arctic Cat's ATV sales have outpaced industry sales for several years. The company reported ATV sales for the six-month period ended September 30, 2003, of $123.0 million, up 22 percent from the prior-year period.

Arctic Cat's 650-class ATV features a 633cc liquid-cooled engine equipped with automatic transmission and engine braking. This top-of-the-line Arctic Cat ATV is capable of strong midrange acceleration and impressive torque, due to a powerful V-Twin, four-stroke engine. The 650 ATV also features an industry leading 6.5-gallon fuel tank, 13 inches of class-leading ground clearance and a 300 lb. load capacity. Arctic Cat's 650 ATV is available in three models: the 650 4x4 Automatic, the 650 4x4 Automatic MRP and the 650 4X4 Automatic Limited Edition.

With electric-shifting front differential, Arctic Cat's 650 automatically transfers engine torque to both front wheels as needed, providing added traction on the fly and enhancing its easy riding style. With the push of a button, the 650 shifts from two-wheel to four-wheel drive, at any speed.

For reliable stopping power and a smooth ride, the 650-class ATVs feature hydraulic front and rear brakes, along with fully independent front and rear suspension. The machine's digital instrument panel gives the rider a wide range of information, including speed, mileage, time and gear position.

Arctic Cat Inc. designs, engineers, manufactures and markets all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and snowmobiles under the Arctic Cat(R) brand name, as well as related parts, garments and accessories. The company markets its products through a network of independent dealers located throughout the contiguous United States and Canada, and through distributors representing dealers in Alaska, Europe, the Middle East, Asia and other international markets. For more information, visit the company's Web site at www.arcticcat.com.