2018 Ski-Doo MXZ X 850 E-TEC End of Season Review
During the last season, I had the chance, thanks to Riendeau Sports, a BRP dealer in St-Mathieu-de-Beloeil, to test the 2018 Ski-Doo MXZ X 850 E-TEC. Was this high-performance Ski-Doo going to exceed the very high expectations following the long-term test of the TNT version the previous season? After a full season at the helm of the MXZ X, I can now say that it is rather impressive.
The 2018 MXZ X 850 E-TEC is perfect for sporty driving
850 E-TEC Engine
If performance was what we wanted, BRP has given it to us with the 2nd generation 850 E-TEC engine. Producing an incredible 165 HP of power, the 850 E-TEC is the most powerful 2-stroke engine in the industry. Its performance is also enhanced by the presence of additional booster injectors. It provides an astonishing response time, which is up to 30% quicker than its predecessor, the 800cc engine. To transmit all this power generated, the MXZ X 850 E-TEC is equipped with the pDrive primary clutch which requires no maintenance. For my part, I find that the 850 E-TEC engine demonstrates as much power as gentleness. It is very efficient at high speed and also enjoyable when riding at the lowest speed. Regarding gas consumption and oil injection, the 850 E-TEC engine is very reasonable considering its increased performance.
The 850 E-TEC engine’s power is incredible when exiting curves
Gen4 REV Chassis
The Gen4 REV chassis is still as pleasant to drive in the second year of its production. What I appreciate the most about this chassis is the advanced driving ergonomics that it provides. Thanks to the Ergo-Step panels, the driver can move much more easily on the snowmobile and tilt during sporty driving. It is clear that these characteristics ensure that the Gen4 REV chassis will allow every snowmobiler to enhance their driving abilities. Me being a tall snowmobiler myself, I very much appreciate being able to move much more easily on the snowmobile. Also, I find that the wind protection is also excellent, even if the chassis is 4 inches narrower than the REV XS version. The MXZ X’s medium-sized windscreen also provides good protection, regardless of the conditions.
The Gen4 REV chassis’ advanced ergonomics allows you to move easily on the snowmobile.
Suspension and Track
When we ordered this test snowmobile last spring, we got the ICE RIPPER XT track installed. This track is distinctive because it is fitted with pre-cast spikes on the track. These spikes have the characteristics of significantly improving the driving of the snowmobile on icy surfaces, as well as during braking and acceleration. With the adverse trail conditions we regularly encounter in southern Québec during winter, I believe spikes are a “must.” Also, this type of track is a lot more sustainable than one fitted with traditional spikes. In the case of impact, the risk of perforation is significantly decreased. The wear and tear of the track components are also reduced given that the carbide tips are located at the end of the rubber spikes.
As for the suspension, the MXZ X distinguishes itself from the TNT version due to the presence of a KYB PRO 36 rear shock absorber. This shock absorber is more efficient which significantly improves the snowmobile’s ability to move through difficult paths. This is made possible due to the rMotion suspension which is still considered as the best in the industry. The MXZ X’s front shock absorbers are HPG Plus with adjusted thread ring. These shock absorbers are very well calibrated for the MXZ X and sporty driving. The front RAS3 suspension offers 1 additional inch of sway versus the RAS 2, allowing it to be even more aggressive in the bumps.
129’’ rMotion suspension with KYB PRO 36 shock absorber
Driving Experience
The MXZ X 850 E-TEC 2018 offers an incredible driving experience whatever the trail conditions are. An important element to consider with the MXZ X is the length of the track, which is 129 inches. This length is the perfect balance between maneuverability and comfort. This track length is now the new standard for trail performance snowmobiles at Ski-Doo. With the ICE RIPPER XT option, I felt safe throughout the season. Also, our test snowmobile was equipped with reclining handlebars that can be set to 4 different positions. This allows the snowmobiler to adjust the handlebar position to his liking, be it toward the front for sporty driving or to the back for a relaxing ride. Our snowmobile was also equipped with the “Adjustments” option with quick adjusters for the rear suspension and the Pilot TS skis. As for me, I love the Pilot TS skis because they allow quick and easy ski grip adjustment. This is very practical when trail conditions change during the day.
What an incredible ride with the 2018 MXZ X 850 E-TEC
Areas for Improvement
The 2018 MXZ X 850 E-TEC is, in my opinion, an exceptional snowmobile in many regards and has exceeded the expectation I had before starting my long-term test. Since nothing is perfect in life, there is an element that could be improved in future versions of this model. First of all, with the adverse and icy conditions we encounter in southern Québec, in my opinion, it is essential to equip ourselves with ice scrapers, regardless of the snowmobile brand or model we own. Those available in the BRP catalog are excellent and very efficient. However, the standard MXZ X fitted with optional quick adjusters for the rear suspension has hydraulic line protection plates that interfere with the scraper bolts. Conversion plates that allow access to the bolts are available in the catalog. It would be good for these plates to be installed as standard, so you don’t have to modify it later.
In my opinion, a second element that could be improved is the difficulty to remove or install the drive pulley guard. With some practice, it becomes a lot easier to do, but it is obvious that it’s more difficult than with all the Ski-Doo snowmobiles that I have previously used or owned.
What I Liked the Most
The 2018 Ski-Doo MXZ X 850 E-TEC is a rather incredible snowmobile that I loved driving during every ride this season. What is most impressive with this model is its incredible ability to ride on difficult paths, even at high speed. The MXZ X is not only excellent in difficult paths but simply devours them. In these conditions, I always felt in perfect control and comfortable. This is possible due to a combination of incredible lightness and high-performance suspension. Also, the Rotax 850 E-TEC engine is equally impressive. When pressing the accelerator, we know that it is powerful. It will certainly be able to satisfy the most demanding snowmobiler when it comes to performance. Also, the accessories available for the Gen4 REV are quite brilliant. I loved the new LinQ bags, seat bag and combo bag, which allow you to bring a lot of equipment. This was very convenient when filming our video capsules.
In conclusion, the 2018 MXZ X 850 E-TEC is a high-performance snowmobile intended for experienced snowmobiles that are after more adjustments. The version with all the “adjustments” is the best in this regard.
Jean-François Leclerc, the 2018 MXZ X 850 E-TEC test pilot
If you want to know more about the 2018 MXZ X 850 E-TEC, we invite you to watch our final review of the long-term test by clicking on the YouTube link below.
Https://youtu.be/SdSHUUFTIBo
We also invite you to watch the presentation and report on the test of the model in Episode 7 of Snowmobiles.tv.
Https://youtu.be/086xmJGW08o
In closing, I would like to thank the team of Riendeau Sports, now a branch of the Contant Group, for the loan of the 2018 Ski-Doo MXZ X 850 E-TEC snowmobile for the long-term test. I invite you to stop by the store to see the whole Ski-Doo range and other BRP Products.
Riendeau Sports, partner of SledMagazine.com
