With the release of the REV platform, Ski-Doo disrupted the snowmobile industry and snatched the championship from Polaris. But that doesn't mean the Canadian manufacturer will now sit back and let a new Polaris slogan or concept tarnish the reputation of its best-selling brand. This won't happen, at least not without a serious fight.
Ski-Doo Renegade XRS 800 etec
Let's take a look at the mountain snowmobile market. Polaris has released a super lightweight deep snow mountain sled, teasing Ski-Doo. And this season, Ski-Doo responded with dignity by releasing the powerful, lightweight, grippy T3 Summit Series models. They not only caught up with their competitor, but also surpassed them.
Ski-Doo managed to surprise where it would seem that all niches were occupied: for the segment of sports and touring snowmobiles, they released the advanced ACE 900 4-stroke engine with a “smart” key and several operating modes. At the time of its release, there was only one competitor on the market—Yamaha with a line of models based on the Phazer platform with a 4-stroke 500 cc engine. Ski-Doo has made a comeback in the entry-level market by replacing its 55-horsepower 2-cylinder fan-powered Rotax engine with the modern, fuel-efficient 4-stroke 2-cylinder ACE 600. In three seasons, the 60-horsepower ACE has successfully replaced the Rotax 550 in all of the manufacturer's budget models. . Thus, Ski-Doo showed its readiness for competitive pricing, which significantly strengthened the company's presence in this market segment.
All this is said to mean that a serious war is brewing between Polaris and Ski-Doo, the results of which we will see on the podiums in dealerships. Polaris has developed a new AXYS chassis, which also powers the 800 Switchback Pro-X, designed to handle challenging terrain. Until this season, Ski-Doo did not have a snowmobile that could compete with this model. You can, of course, consider the Backcountry or Freeride series, but this is not the same. It is not known how Ski-Doo figured out the Polaris's move, but the 2015 Ski-Doo Renegade XRS 800 is a worthy alternative to the Polaris Pro-X.
The short track Ski-Doo MXZ XRS is designed for serious off-road use, while the long track Renegade XRS is a serious all-around performance sled. Like the sporty MXZ XRS, the Renegade XRS is well equipped and makes you wonder if you can handle the power.
One of the most talked about new products of 2015 was the AXYS chassis with a well-balanced seat. Why did Polaris decide to go this route? They needed to come out with something new and advanced to compete with Ski-Doo's still-improving REV platform. The REV chassis was first released in 2006 on the MXZ X, but the 2006 REV platform has moved on much further by 2015. The names may not change, but the functionality changes significantly. And it is the ever-evolving REV platform that competitors from Polaris have set their sights on. They've done a great job and achieved a great result, but the 2015 Renegade XRS 800 is a very strong competitor that will leave impartial buyers scratching their heads when choosing a snowmobile.
Engine
All versions of the Renegade 800 differ from the competition in terms of engine performance. The 2-stroke ETEC engine is genius. It combines all the advantages (cleanliness and environmental friendliness) of 4-stroke engines with the rapid acceleration, lightness and electronic controllability of 2-stroke engines. These Rotax motors are economical, environmentally friendly, and don't smell as bad. With the proven TRA drive pulley, the engine starts at 3800 rpm and revs to 7900 rpm. You'll appreciate the smoothness and responsiveness of the ETEC engine in tight corners.
The 800cc twin-cylinder engine sends more than 160 hp to a 137-inch Ripsaw track that spins around an updated rMotion rear suspension.
While Polaris focused on the design of its new Pro-XC suspension, Ski-Doo installed easily adjustable shocks, springs and links for better weight transfer. The rear axle has four wheels for maximum traction and successful landings over bumps.
What is a snowmobile for and what are its features?
Fortunately, there are snowmobiles that allow you to move quickly in the snow, without any problems covering quite long distances on such an inconvenient surface. These include the Yamaha snowmobile, Russian Mechanics, and Ermak.
This type of transport is not only optimal for snow, but also quite versatile.
Snowmobiles are used to transport cargo, carry passengers, and also hunt, because this unit is quite maneuverable, which makes it easy to pursue an animal.
Snowmobile
The design of any snowmobile is maximally adapted to the conditions of use.
Instead of wheels, skis and tracks are installed here. Such a replacement allows you to effectively move through snowy areas, because the caterpillar provides the necessary traction force, and the skis prevent the unit from getting stuck in the snow.
Otherwise, the technical structure of such equipment is almost identical to that of a motorcycle.
For more information about snowmobiles, watch the video:
Suspension and handling
One of the most notable new additions to the 2015 Renagade is the RAS2 front suspension. This is not just an advertising slogan. This is a significant improvement that perfectly complements the rMotion rear suspension and significantly improves the snowmobile's handling in all types of snow. The suspension features all-new suspension geometry, lightweight components and, in the case of the XRS, KYB Pro 40 compression-adjustable racing shock absorbers. Who would have thought that a new front suspension could improve the ride of all snowmobiles that use it so much?
When it comes to performance sleds, the key considerations are power, suspension and handling. Comfort and convenience are, of course, important for such a model with a racing heritage, but not in the first place. Still, the Renegade XRS features a stylish, narrow REV-XP X seat that lets you get up and down while riding. There is a small storage space under the seat along with a glove compartment.
When it comes to styling, the XRS is a real eye-catcher with its bright yellow-orange color scheme and racing-car-like lettering. The hand guards on the handlebars are made of transparent material and provide excellent protection from wind and branches. The snowmobile has a multifunctional instrument panel with a customizable three-zone LCD display. An optional electric starter is available, and Ski-Doo's renowned Rotax Electronic Reverse is standard. Of course, there are plenty of accessories available for a sled, but would you want to add weight to a racing sled that's built on the motto "less pounds, more power"?
With the arrival of the Polaris AXYS and Pro-X snowmobiles on the market, the new 2015 Ski-Doo Renegade XRS 800 may not get the attention it deserves. But know that this is a worthy representative of the family of powerful crossovers, which feels confident even on the biggest bumps and snowdrifts, especially with the new RAS2 suspension. The Ski-Doo Renegade XRS 800 is definitely a success. However, keep in mind that this is a really serious sled.
Technical characteristics of Ski-Doo Renegade XRS 800 etec:
- Engine: Two-stroke two-cylinder Rotax ETEC with a volume of 799.5 cc. cm.; electronic fuel injection system; tuned exhaust 2 in 1
- Power: 160 l. With. (alleged); engagement at 3800 rpm; maximum - 7900 rpm
- Drive: Ski-Doo/Rotax TRA III; QRS driven; electronic push-button reverse
- Brake system: Brembo hydraulic discs with stainless steel brake lines
- Front suspension: RAS2 double A-arm with KYB Pro 40 R shock absorbers with compression adjustment and coilovers; stroke - 241 mm
- Rear Suspension: Ski-Doo rMotion with KYB Pro 40 Easy-Adjust shocks; stroke - 406 mm
- Length: 3109 mm
- **Width:**1216 mm
- Height: 1199 mm
- Distance between skis: 1077 mm
- Track: 15" 137" 1.5" Ripsaw
- **Weight: **218 kg (claimed)
- Fuel tank capacity: 40 l
- Equipment: Standard: REV-XS RS chassis, aluminum steering wheel with J-shaped handles, multi-function instrument panel, REV-XP X seat with luggage compartment, push-button reverse, 114 mm handlebar stand, warm glove compartment
- Extras: rear view mirrors, bags, electric starter
Reviews
- Leonid, St. Petersburg. The Summit 800 model pleased with its lively 150-horsepower engine, which allows you to unleash the full potential of the snowmobile, and its sports chassis. The handling and dynamics are in perfect order, but I can’t say the same about reliability. Since the load falls mainly on the chassis, it causes the most trouble. I already had to change the tracks once (complete set assembled). Skis are quite fragile and don’t last long – they crack in the cold. Alternatively, you can install more durable skis, but they are very expensive. The car already cost me more than a million rubles, and at the same time it still annoys me with problems. There is a shortage of spare parts; they are not always in stock; they must be ordered. Looking at the secondary market is not an option; there are only parts from old domestic cars. And yet, I am not going to sell the snowmobile, because for the sake of such controllability I am ready to put up with a capricious suspension. In such a car it is better to drive on smooth and well-worn roads - in such conditions I get more pleasure from driving than off-road.
- Nail, Sakhalin region. A decent snowmobile for professional needs, for fishing and hunting. The car drives well on flat and icy roads - for example, on a frozen lake. Off-road is a little more difficult, since here you have to be more careful so as not to bump into a stone or crash into a tree. In general, I try to stay away from the wilderness, since I do not have professional management skills. This is my first snowmobile, and I have been using it for six months, and during this time there has not been a single breakdown. I liked the comfortable driver's seat that doesn't slip. If necessary, you can ride together, fortunately there is also a rear passenger backrest for this purpose. There are also heated grips for me and the passenger, so frostbite has not been a problem yet. Fuel consumption is perhaps the only drawback. The car is quite powerful, and therefore consumes more than 25 liters per 100 km. In addition, you need to buy high-quality gasoline, preferably AI-95. Due to the small fuel tank, you have to carry a canister with you if you travel long distances.
- Igor, Leningrad region. I have been using this machine for about a year, and this was enough for me to study all the pros and cons of the BRP Skido Summit 800 snowmobile. First of all, I will note the well-thought-out ergonomics - the instruments are easy to read and do not glare in the sun thanks to the massive visor, and the high windshield prevents snow from entering , and the headwind doesn’t hit you in the face. But for safety reasons, you still need to wear a helmet, especially if you drive very fast - after all, this device is designed for active driving. And here the car pleased me - the maximum speed of more than 100 km/h is picked up quite quickly, and such intense acceleration seems to shake out the whole soul. If you push hard, then the engine makes a lot of noise, and the vibrations from it are noticeably transferred to the steering column. Such shaking is sometimes annoying, and you have to slow down. Although you can be patient for the sake of getting a dose of adrenaline. The car as a whole consumes little fuel when compared with similar engines of the same power. And the engine is demanding on the quality of gasoline; it must be filled with 95-grade fuel. The build quality is excellent, like other branded snowmobiles like Yamaha. The car did not disappoint at all in terms of reliability. It is fast and at the same time practical. I will recommend her to my friends.
One of the best brands
If you want to purchase a snowmobile, you should choose the right manufacturer, because a reputable company will be an almost 100% guarantee of excellent quality and long service life of such a unit.
One of the most famous companies in this area is Bombardier or simply BRP. It specializes in producing a wide variety of equipment for tourism, extreme conditions and off-road.
It was founded more than 70 years ago, and since then, units from this manufacturer have firmly established themselves among the best in the world. The company is constantly modernizing its production, adding new features so that the equipment really pleases its owner.
Various add-ons
But the unit alone will not be enough, because riding requires accessories for brp snowmobiles, such as a hard hat or helmet.
Helmet
A modular brp snowmobile helmet will protect your head from injury and help you feel more confident while driving. Be sure to choose durable protective equipment that will become a reliable shield against injury. Check that it is exactly your size.
In addition, any snowmobile buyer, over time, thinks about improving and expanding the functionality of his unit.
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To achieve this, the manufacturer offers the following additions that will make the snowmobile safer, more convenient and original:
- an enlarged windshield that is guaranteed to protect the driver from snow in the face;
- Protection from branches is also in demand, which will allow you to confidently move on a snowmobile even in wooded areas. Hunters will definitely appreciate this addition;
- special trailers that will significantly increase the amount of cargo that you can transfer at one time;
- trunks , which will become the optimal place for storing tools, transporting purchases, as well as other small cargo.
Case
- As a rule, the case of a snowmobile is located in the rear part or, on the contrary, is moved to the front, due to which it does not interfere with control at all and fits harmoniously into the design of the unit;
- For those who often ride a snowmobile at night, a finder headlight . This is a powerful light source that allows you to illuminate absolutely any area, and not just that part of the road that is in the direction of movement of the unit;
- all kinds of sets of vinyls, stickers, overlays that will allow you to add originality to your snowmobile and decorate it.
As you can see, there are many opportunities to complement a snowmobile from the BRP company, making it more functional, useful and attractive. Spare parts for the brp snowmobile are also needed.
Bumpers
Sometimes it is very important to find parts, so BRP offers the purchase of such a body part as a bumper.
The bumper is made of excellent aluminum with plastic to ensure proper durability.
In addition, you can easily replace this component of the case yourself, because assembly is not much of a problem.
Bumper
Always purchase only the original bumper to ensure your snowmobile has the necessary durability, which is very important in mountainous terrain.
Roller for track system
The roller will also become an important spare part, since this part of the snowmobile is very vulnerable; it is the one responsible for the operation of the tracks. It happens that after difficult sections of the road it fails.
It is worth purchasing a brp roller , which will become a reliable part of the tracked mechanism and will ensure long and uninterrupted operation of this important system.
Oil
Oil is an integral part of the operation of the system of such units, because it provides engine lubrication. Without it, the engine would constantly overheat, which is not good. Therefore, we recommend purchasing the recommended brp xps snowmobile oil.
brp xps oil
It will allow the engine to operate normally without overheating in any conditions, while analogues for these snowmobiles may not be suitable.
Rules for use and storage
Any owner of a BRP snowmobile wants the equipment to serve him for as long as possible and without any technical problems. This can easily be achieved if you operate, store and manage according to certain rules, but also if you repair brp snowmobiles in a timely manner. They will help keep the unit operational for as long as possible:
- Before you start driving your snowmobile, first warm up the engine for a couple of minutes;
- always fill your unit with only recommended types of oil and fuel, which guarantees the correct operation of all snowmobile systems;
- In no case should you ride without a helmet or other protective equipment, because such negligence can lead to serious injury;
- always keep your snowmobile clean so that dirt does not harden on it and corrosion does not form, which is detrimental to the metal elements of the machine;
- after the trip, be sure to clean the unit from snow and ice, because precipitation will begin to melt, flooding the snowmobile with water, which can lead to equipment failure;
- do not overestimate your driving skill while driving, it is better not to make sharp maneuvers, especially at high speed;
- do not run over stones and other hard objects that may become dangerous to the integrity of the snowmobile;
- Store your snowmobile in a dry place that is protected from precipitation. Ideally, the unit will be located in the garage.
As you can see, the rules are really easy, their implementation will not be difficult. But thanks to this, you can significantly extend the life of the snowmobile. All necessary information about BRP snowmobiles can be read on the official website rosan.com/.
Buy BRP snowmobiles, which, although they have a high price, will allow you to conquer snowy roads, mountains and ice without any problems.
