The 2016 Ski-Doo snowmobile line-up centers on refinements and new technology. The legedary Blizzard name is re-introduced to the MX-Z line, along with a new Renegade Enduro, and the new Expedition Xtreme in the utility/touring crossover segment.
Ski-Doo introduces the adjustable Pilot TS (Tunable Ski) which allows the rider to adjust the depth of the ski keel with a simple knob. Twist the knob, which is located in front of the spindle, to one of 20 positions which alter the keel depth up to a half inch, increasing or decreasing front end bite. A quick adjustment to match sloppy or rock-hard trail conditions. For 2016, most models now use the RAS 2 front suspension.
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Out in back several MX-Z models, including the X-RS, X and the new Blizzard, are equipped with 129-inch tracks. Not long-tracks but certainly not short-tracks either, this new “tween” segment offers better traction and bump absorption while still retaining sharp on-trail handling. The TNT and Sport MX-Z’s continue to ride on a traditional 120-inch track.
Many MX-Z and Renegade models come standard with the Ice Ripper Xt Track. A derivative of the RipSaw track with carbide studs embedded in track lugs for added grip in icy conditions but weighing less than a studded track.
The popular drive-by-wire throttle system, Intelligent Throttle Control (iTC), is standard on the 1200 4-TEC engine. After being available on the 600 and 900 ACE 4-strokes, Ski-Doo decided to implement the smooth and easy to modulate 3-mode iTC into the 1170cc four-stroke triple.
Sitting in the middle of the MX-Z line-up, the new for 2016 Blizzard is available with your choice of engines, the 600 and 800cc E-TEC 2-strokes or the 900 ACE and 1170cc 4-TEC 4-stroke triples. Regardless of your engine choice, the XS bodywork is standard, with slightly wider body panels on the 1170 equipped sleds to accommodate the bigger muffler. But this is no wide-body XR.
The successful crossover segment gets another model added to it with the Renegade Enduro. Some speculate this is a replacement for the GSX, which has been removed from the line-up. Although not equipped with traditional long distance touring bags, this crossover is still about long trips in the fashion of the Paris-Dakar cross-country rally. Fingertip adjustability of the rMotion suspension with Air Ride and Pilot TS skis, traction from the standard 137- by 1.25-inch Ice Ripper XT track make this an attractive sled.
The pick-up truck of snowmobiles, the Expedition Xtreme fills a wide niche of the utility/touring crossover segment. Just under $15,000 this loaded to the gills sled is powered by the 800R E-TEC in the REV-XU chassis turning a 20- by 154- by 1.75-inch track. It comes standard with a giant rear rack, synchromesh hi/low/reverse transmission, trailer hitch, radiator and an articulating rear suspension.
This special edition sled unites backcountry sledders and snowboarders. It’s essentially a Summit SP 154 model with a two-passenger seat, sans backrest and a side-mounted snowboard/ski rack on the left side.
Go to Ski-Doo.com for all the details.
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