Arctic Cat upgraded the Wildcat 1000 platform for the 2015 model year with JRi ECX-1 piggyback shocks, revised engine management, easier-to-use door latches and increased low-speed power steering assistance.
The new shocks were the most significant change for aggressive recreational riders. They complemented the Wildcat’s long-travel suspension and reinforced its original focus on desert terrain, dunes and high-speed trail riding.
JRi ECX-1 Shocks for the 2015 Wildcat
The 2015 Arctic Cat Wildcat received JRi ECX-1 piggyback gas shocks with 2.5-inch bodies and reservoirs. The shocks provided adjustable compression damping and were designed to maintain consistent performance as suspension temperatures increased during demanding off-road use.
JRi placed the compression adjustment in the shock shaft rather than using a conventional crossover-style adjuster. This design allowed the adjuster to respond to the same fluid velocities and volumes encountered at the main piston, helping provide more immediate and precise damping changes.
For a closer look at the shock’s design, serviceability and original UTV applications, see our complete overview of the JRi ECX-1 2.5-inch adjustable UTV shock.
Long-Travel Wildcat Suspension
The original Wildcat 1000 combined 17 inches of front suspension travel with 18 inches at the rear. Its five-link trailing-arm rear suspension was engineered to control wheel movement while helping keep the tires planted as the suspension cycled through rough terrain.
Ground clearance measured 13 inches, while the chassis used an approximately 40/60-percent front-to-rear weight distribution. Arctic Cat positioned the driver and passenger low within the chassis to reduce the effect of body movement and improve confidence at speed.
951cc V-Twin Power
Power came from Arctic Cat’s liquid-cooled 951cc H2 V-twin four-stroke engine with electronic fuel injection. The engine used a 50mm throttle body, a ceramic-coated two-into-one exhaust system and TEAM Rapid Response clutches.
The drivetrain included selectable two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive with a locking front differential. Variable-assist electronic power steering reduced steering effort at low speeds, particularly when four-wheel drive and the differential lock were engaged.
Additional 2015 Arctic Cat Wildcat Updates
- JRi ECX-1 piggyback gas shocks with 2.5-inch bodies and reservoirs
- Adjustable compression damping
- Closed-loop EFI with a catalyst-equipped exhaust system
- Claimed 25-percent improvement in fuel economy
- New paddle-style half-door latches
- Approximately 20-percent more power steering assistance at low speeds
Wildcat Interior and Utility Features
The Wildcat included high-back bucket seats with upper-body support, three-point seat belts, tube-frame doors with integrated nets and tilt steering. LED headlights and taillights provided nighttime visibility.
A rear cargo area offered a 300-pound payload capacity, giving the sport-oriented Wildcat enough carrying ability for tools, a cooler and other supplies needed for a day on the trail.
A Notable Wildcat 1000 Model-Year Update
The addition of JRi ECX-1 shocks made the 2015 model an important step in the development of Arctic Cat’s original liter-class sport UTV. Rather than replacing the Wildcat’s fundamental chassis or drivetrain, Arctic Cat concentrated on suspension control, efficiency and day-to-day usability.
See our Arctic Cat Wildcat 1000 history and model guide for more information about the platform’s development and other significant model-year changes.
