The BRP Ski-Doo Skandic WT 550 is a classic utilitarian snowmobile with unique characteristics. The equipment is characterized by high efficiency, high traction force and excellent controllability.
The manufacturer of the BRP Ski-Doo Skandic family is the Canadian division of the brand. The company's products are distinguished by their excellent build quality and are very popular among winter extreme sports enthusiasts. Another feature of Ski-Doo snowmobiles is the REV platform, which has put the brand ahead of the competition in terms of comfort and performance for years. The special seating geometry allowed the driver to sit comfortably in the seat and stretch his legs. The center of gravity was under the seat, and the seat was shifted forward. This technology reduced fatigue during aggressive driving and on long trips. The platform also made it possible to reduce the weight of the snowmobile by 15%.
The BRP Ski-Doo Skandic WT 550 is a modern model based on an upgraded version of the REV platform (REV-XU), combining dynamism and durability. The aluminum frame of the device reduces driver fatigue and improves controllability of the equipment. The 2-passenger sled features a modular seat and backrest to suit any type of riding.
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Features of the BRP Ski-Doo Skandic WT 550 model:
- adjustable steering column, allowing you to adjust the device to a specific driver;
- SC-5U sports-utilitarian rear suspension, designed specifically for models with a sporty accent. The suspension is optimally suited for driving on various types of snowy trails;
- LTS telescopic front suspension designed for deep snow travel. With it you don’t have to be afraid to travel over rough terrain;
- wide track, adding cross-country ability to the snowmobile;
- halogen headlight;
- digital instrument panel with gauges (speedometer, tachometer, odometer);
- Synchromesh transmission, confidently coping with any load. Two forward and one reverse gears ensure smooth running regardless of external factors;
- thin and narrow Pilot DS2 skis, characterized by strength and rigidity, increase the cross-country ability and maneuverability of the device. The presence of a low gear expands the possibilities for using the snowmobile;
- high windshield providing additional protection from the wind.
The BRP Ski-Doo Skandic WT 550 can be compared to a reliable SUV, ready to conquer any heights. The snowmobile is stable and safe and is perfect for outdoor activities or hunting. The device is not afraid of hard work or harsh operating conditions and will become an excellent partner in any situation.
Features of the model range
The models of the Sky-Doo Scandic 500 family are based on the modernized REV platform (REV-RU), which combines increased strength and excellent dynamic properties.
It is thanks to this platform that the manufacturer is many years ahead of its competitors in terms of performance and comfort. The driver can not only sit comfortably in the seat, but also straighten his legs if necessary.
Daniila Rukin
Snowmobile specialist "Buran". I go fishing in my free time.
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The manufacturer managed to reduce the weight of the snowmobile by 15% by shifting the center of gravity under the seat. In this case, the seat is located somewhat closer to the steering wheel.
A durable aluminum frame is installed as a frame.
WT 550
This model is often used for utilitarian purposes. It is suitable for both solo driving on snowy off-road terrain and for comfortable travel with one passenger. The passenger seat has a comfortable backrest and handles. In addition, the track has the following positive features:
- adjustable steering wheel;
- rear sports suspension type SC-5U;
- telescopic front suspension;
- halogen headlight;
- wide track;
- high windshield;
- narrow skis.
A modern digital multifunction panel is used to monitor speed, kilometers traveled and engine speed. The new transmission ensures smooth running in any conditions and allows you to cope with various loads.
In 2021, an updated model BT 550 went on sale, which received a new body color - Viper Red. All early models had a yellow body.
SWT 500 F
In 2001, the Scandic SVT 500 snowmobile appeared, which had unique technical characteristics. The model received a wide track (61 cm) and an ultra-high windshield.
Unlike the previous machine, this snowbike has a smaller engine, but it is not too inferior in power. Thanks to the minimum track pressure per 1 sq. cm, the track is able to drive freely even on loose snow cover, and the traction force is enough to pull out a passenger car stuck in the snow.
GTX 550 F
This Skido model belongs to the utilitarian-tourist class. The machine has a modified REV XP type platform. It was specially designed to expand the seat, adding another passenger seat. Due to this, the manufacturer had to slightly reduce the volume of the fuel tank.
A snowmobile can rightfully be called a “family one”, since two adults with one child can safely and comfortably move on the snow. The rest of the model is similar to the previous one, with the exception of the body color, here it is always black.
Element characteristics:
Chassis:
- front suspension type - LTS;
- front suspension shock absorbers - adjustable;
- front suspension travel – 150 mm;
- rear suspension type – SC-5U;
- rear suspension shock absorbers - HPG;
- rear suspension travel – 239 mm;
- Anti-roll bars are missing.
Transmission:
- transmission type - CVT;
- CVT drive pulley – eDrive2;
- variator driven pulley – QRS;
- type of brake system – hydraulic.
Engine
The latest versions of the BRP Ski-Doo Skandic WT 550 are equipped with a 2-stroke Rotax 600 HO E-TEC engine, which is distinguished by its unpretentiousness and high performance. The main disadvantages of this category of engines (low efficiency and environmental friendliness) have been eliminated.
The Rotax 600 HO E-TEC was not created from scratch. BRP's subsidiary (Evinrude) previously began producing 2-stroke engines with E-TEC technology. These units have been called one of the most environmentally friendly. For a long time, it was not possible to adapt the E-TEC technology, which has successfully taken root on engines for motor boats, to the operating conditions of snowmobiles. And only in the early 2010s, BRP introduced the first versions of units for snowmobiles with E-TEC technology, the main elements of which were:
- a powerful on-board computer that regulates fuel injection into the cylinders exactly according to a given schedule;
- original lubrication system, similar to an electronic fuel injection system, due to which oil is not wasted.
The Rotax 600 HO E-TEC unit has other interesting features:
- cooling of piezo injection injectors using gasoline;
- computer electronic board;
- reliable spark plugs with platinum tips and long service life;
- automatic preservation technology (performed by pressing one button);
- instant response to pressing the gas;
- starting the first time;
- smooth and quiet operation.
Characteristics of the Rotax 600 HO E-TEC motor:
- working volume – 553.4 cc;
- rated power - 57 hp;
- number of cylinders – 2;
- cylinder diameter – 72 mm;
- Recommended fuel type is AI-92 gasoline.
Other characteristics:
- cooling system – air;
- exhaust system - single muffler pipe;
- fuel tank capacity – 45 l;
- oil tank capacity – 2.5 l;
- average fuel consumption is 11.3 l/100 km.
Price of models
Ski-Doo Skandic WT 550 snowmobiles have a fairly high price. The cost depends on the year of manufacture and technical condition of the track. Thus, the price tag for new models without mileage from official dealers starts from 1,400 thousand rubles. In addition, many of them must first be pre-ordered.
Of course, you can find older used models on message boards. An all-terrain vehicle produced in 2006 - 2008 will cost about 450-490 thousand rubles, and 2015 - 2021 - 750-900 thousand rubles. Even a model with a 500 cc engine will be expensive, about 600-700 thousand rubles.
Owner reviews
- Andrew-500: Bought a BRP Ski-Doo Skandic WT 550 at the opening of the company’s official representative office in Nizhnevartovsk. Before this, I had no experience driving snowmobiles; I only rode with a friend and almost always from behind. I decided to buy a device for hunting and fishing. What was needed was a truly reliable and powerful satellite. I live in the western part of Siberia, and therefore there was a lot of work for the snowmobile at once. Since 2014, I have been using it for 7-9 months per season. The device suits everything, easily tows a sled with cargo and shmurdyak, accelerates quickly, and consumes little fuel. I don’t particularly bother with maintenance; the snowmobile is very unpretentious.
- New user: The main advantages of Scandic 550 are considered to be simplicity and relatively low cost. For a small amount you get a high-quality snowmobile with good traction and power. Of course, there is a difference with the “older Scandics,” but the 550 is quite enough for me. Together with a friend, I accelerated on it to 50 km/h. The device's consumption is about 13-14 l/100 km, which allows it to cover significant distances without refueling. Cross-country ability is also excellent, the low weight ensures that the snowball does not sag. While I don’t plan to change the device, I am completely satisfied with the Scandic 550.
- Maxim, St. Petersburg. I bought a Ski-Doo Skandic WT 550 about 2 years ago. For me, the snowmobile was my first, so I didn’t want to spend a lot of money. A friend who is fond of hunting advised me to buy this device. So far I really like the snowmobile. The maximum speed that was achieved was 80 km/h. The suspension on the device is simply indestructible; no breakdowns have yet occurred due to my inept driving. I like the Skandic WT 550 in terms of comfort: comfortable seat, heated handles, good visibility. The snowmobile is very stable and soft, I recommend it to everyone.
- Oleg Andreevich: A relatively inexpensive and fast car. Among the advantages of the Scandic 550, I would like to highlight its good maneuverability, long service life and unpretentiousness. This is a real workhorse. The snowball picks up speed quickly, but eats only 15-20 l/100 km. Its suspension is quite soft and at the same time reliable. Scandic 550 also has disadvantages. The rear carriage is weak, I already had to contact the service for the problem, although the snowman is not even 3 seasons old. All models of this brand are expensive to maintain. This modification is no exception. Replacing a windshield on a Scandic costs about 25,000-35,000 rubles. The rest of the units are not cheaper. If the issue of money is acute, then it is better not to take this model.
Three new budget snowmobiles from BRP. What to choose?
In the winter season 2020-21, we can expect many new products from BRP LYNX and SKI-DOO. We, in turn, foresee great interest in three new “economy” class products, which stand out not only for their price, but also have many interesting technical aspects.
We will talk about three representatives of the wide-track class of snowmobiles: Lynx 59* Ranger with 600ACE and 600EFI engines and Ski-Doo Skandic Sport 600EFI.
All three snowmobiles are equipped with a 4.5-inch LCD display on the instrument panel, Brembo braking system, and a 393 cm long and 50 cm wide track. And each of these sleds can perform in a variety of roles, fully justifying their title of “universal snowmobile.”
Of course, this versatility is thanks to its wide track and low weight. That is, the cross-country ability of these snowmobiles in deep snow will be at the highest level. This criterion is the main one for hunters and fishermen; and for those who rent out snowmobiles; and those who buy this snowmobile for work or for riding with family and friends.
Everyone remembers very well the popular models Lynx 59* Yeti 600 ACE and Ski-Doo Skandic WT 550 F. However, technology and progress have not stood still and in the new season the BRP line of snowmobiles will no longer be without these models. The transition to a new platform for BRP wide-track snowmobiles finally put all the dots in place and formed the vision of BRP designers for the next years. The air-cooled ROTAX 550F engine with carburetors has finally given up its position in the fight for the environment and consumer demands and has been replaced by a modern injection ROTAX 600 EFI with 85 hp. It also has the ability to manually start, like all 2-stroke engines, and is equipped with a liquid cooling system. What's in the "dry residue"? 35% more power, quieter engine sound, more reliable starting and higher efficiency.
And in addition, this new ROTAX 600EFI engine is combined with the most modern pDrive variator, is equipped with a mechanical oil pump, allows you to run the crankshaft in the opposite direction in the RER electric reverse mode, does not have RAVE valves and a programmable DESS safety check in the control module. All this greatly simplifies its maintenance away from service centers.
And if the representative of the “Canadian series” Ski-Doo Skandic can still show us a telescopic suspension, then the Finnish division LYNX decided to abandon the multi-variability and awarded all snowmobiles of the 2021 model year with a front wishbone suspension.
Lever suspension or telescopic? There are many pros and cons, however, the wishbone suspension with levers has long justified its design with an excellent combination of handling, softness and cross-country ability.
For those “conservative” users who choose a snowmobile for work and are accustomed to “telescopes,” they left this suspension option on the wide-track Ski-Doo Skandic Sport and WT and on the super-wide-track Skandic SWT models.
If we compare these three models of snowmobiles in terms of engines and gearboxes, we can immediately make a division between these three models. LYNX 59* Ranger 600 ACE snowmobile is a 4-stroke engine, electronic throttle control with an electronic reverse throttle trigger and an EasyShift transmission with low mode. Due to the 4-stroke ROTAX 600ACE engine, the reverse mode is implemented here in the form of a button on the steering wheel, which electrically engages reverse gear.
And the remaining two “brothers” with 600EFI engines, in this comparison, fall into the class of “light wide-track utilities” due to the lack of a gearbox with a reduced mode. Due to this, we get less weight, and the powerful 85-horsepower engine of these snowmobiles is not electronically controlled, but it is more “bold and peppy” during dynamic driving.
Let's watch a video review of the ROTAX 600 EFI engine.
The 59* Ranger 600 EFI and Skandic Sport 600 EFI do not have the aluminum boot guard found on the 59* Ranger 600 ACE .
But looking at the front suspensions 59* Ranger 600 EFI and Skandic Sport 600 EFI , we will have to seat them on different benches: the LYNX front wishbone suspension and the SKANDIC telescopic suspension are two different “songs”. And then there is a list of differences between them, which makes the Ski- Doo Skandic Sport 600 EFI the most budget option in this series of snowmobiles.
On this snowmobile, optional equipment included a manual starter and an additional radiator under the hood with a fan. Some people may not need this. Small 32 mm. the caterpillar toe will compact the snow well, create minimal load on the transmission and engine, which will ultimately reduce fuel consumption and reduce the possibility of engine overheating. The snowmobile tunnel already has markings for LinQ mounts, which can be installed depending on the selected accessories.
For example, if you are buying your first snowmobile and are not planning expedition trips, and the list of tasks includes: a trip to winter fishing, riding with your family in the nearest forest, one-day trips with friends, then this snowmobile is perfect for these purposes.
In such a situation, the Skandic Sport 600 EFI will act as a self-sufficient friend for weekend activities. Its front suspension will appeal to those who are accustomed to simplicity and reliability in design. Telescopic suspension means a narrow ski base, since the suspension struts fit into the dimensions of the snowmobile. And the ski base here is only 89 cm.
The total curb weight of this 4-stroke wide-track snowmobile is amazing - it's only 278 kg with a full 42-liter gas tank! This means that the “ dry” weight of the 59”RANGER with the 600 EFI engine is only 243 kg.
And the lower part of the snowmobile between the suspension struts is made like the bottom of a boat and provides excellent cross-country ability without piling up snow.
This means that it will be very easy to “throw” it along a hill into a traverse or turn it around in a clearing with counter-steering. Add to this the SC-5U rear suspension with a rear lift roller - this design makes reversing much easier. The caterpillar has hooks 32mm high. and this has a positive effect on several points: less noise from the caterpillar, less fuel consumption and load on the transmission, better compaction of snow and less slipping during sharp acceleration. Low glass adds a sporty appearance to the snowmobile. At the same time, this glass provides excellent protection from the wind thanks to the side deflectors.
Let's move on to our “Finnish” representatives of BRP snowmobiles.
We made a comparison of both 59 Ranger models with the 600ACE and 600EFI engines in our video review.
Next, let's look at the LYNX 59* Ranger 600 EFI package. The main differences here are obvious: the wishbone front suspension will not only be more comfortable and controllable in touring mode, but will also have a 10cm improvement. wider ski base.
Ski base 99cm. and the front suspension on both LYNXs is the same and will delight you with its softness and comfortable steering from a sitting position. This will be facilitated by modern BLADE DS+ skis with a deep double keel.
59*Ranger 600 EFI designers decided not to turn it into a “lever” twin of the SCANDIC snowmobile and diversified its equipment. On the Lynx 59*Ranger 600 EFI we see a manual starter and a radiator with a fan under the hood, and a snow hook 38 mm high. And on the luggage area there is a plastic panel with connectors for installing LINQ accessories. Plus high glass with side wind deflectors.
The rear bumper goes back and up, turning into a comfortable wide handle. A tow bar is an option.
The rear entrance is activated by turning the key again to the start position. Controls for heated hands and trigger are located on the dashboard.
And the pin is made in the form of a plastic switch, like on the Skandic 550 / Tundra 550F snowmobiles.
Caterpillar with 38mm toe. claims to be universal and omnivorous, regardless of the thickness of the snow cover. The rear suspension is also interesting here. This is a completely different design than is found on all Canadian Ski-Doo utility snowmobiles. The EasyRide*F rear suspension on the LYNX 59*Ranger 600EFI snowmobile is a simplified version of the unique EasyRide suspension that was introduced two years ago. Its uniqueness lies in its fantastic ability to drive in reverse even in deep snow. It was its design with a high-rising rear roller that turned out to be so functional that it replaced the previously widespread PPS suspension on utilitarian LYNX models.
In its “full” version with a hinge and a lifting roller, the EasyRide*A suspension is installed on the 4-stroke 59* Ranger 600 ACE . And on the 2-stroke 59*Ranger 600EFI we will see the option without the “EasyRyde F” lift roller. With this decision, the designers made the snowmobile more budget-friendly, and the issue of reversing was resolved by raising the suspension guides by 16%.
And here is the third participant in the comparative review of Lynx 59* Ranger 600 ACE .
Full EasyRide rear suspension with a lifting roller, linkage front suspension with a 99 cm ski base, and a 44 mm track with a “serious” toe . a radiator under the hood, a trunk guard, a low-speed gearbox and iTC electronic throttle control with three driving modes. High glass and side deflectors provide excellent wind protection.
Yes, there is a 4-stroke engine with a power of 62 hp. in contrast to the more powerful engines of its “brothers”. However, the ROTAX 600ACE is the most economical and quiet motor in the industry, and is also highly sought after due to its three electronic operating modes.
The total curb weight of this 4-stroke wide-track snowmobile is amazing - it's only 300 kg with a full 42-liter gas tank! This means that the “ dry” weight of the 59”RANGER with the 600 ACE engine is only 265 kg.
The range of its application is very wide and those who will buy it for a rental point and those who will use the snowmobile for work tasks and towing will be satisfied with this choice.
For the rest, of course, the choice is yours. Decide on your tasks and call us at the BRP center NORTH . We will help you make the right choice and equip your snowmobile with the necessary accessories.
