Here are my first impressions of the rMotion X and RAS X suspensions available on the 2021 Renegade and MXZ XRS and X-Series models.
I won’t praise the other elements of the 2020.5 Renegade 137” XRS made available to me by Mercier Marine of Thetford Mines; I mainly want to focus on analyzing trail behaviour and giving our readers my thoughts on its new suspensions.
Over the 600 km, I was able to evaluate the new components of Ski-Doo. First, I must mention that it always takes a period of adaptation and adjustment to reap the full benefits.
Once the snowmobiler has the best possible setup, he or she will be delighted with the proposed X layout. I find that I can never have enough rear cushioning, but I can confirm that the new geometry and rear “IS A BLAST” configuration surprised me. Although my video footage does not do justice to the big jumps and bumps, I encountered during my trials, I must still stipulate that there is a world between the rMotion and the rMotion X. I can confirm that I have reconciled with the 137” Ski-Doo sleds. In fact, I’ve always found that the rMotion introduced in 2012 took away from the ski (edging in turns) and that you had to use tricks to balance the front to the back. It was even more noticeable on the 137” sleds. That’s why the short version (MXZ 129”, more agile) of the brand was my preference over the comfort provided by the 137”.
Even fitted with the standard Pilot ski, I personally noticed that the test sled was still lacking in turning precision. This should be resolved by 2021, though, as the new, much more aggressive Pilot X skis will be part of the latest versions. Please note that KYB Pro 36 R front shock absorbers no longer have rebound adjustment screws. This option was useful in small bumps as you could control the speed at which the rod returned to its initial point.
Aside from these points, the snowmobiler looking for a sharp machine, full of possibilities, will be fulfilled by this impressive development. Combined with the 137” Renegade XRS, the rMotion X and RAS X components provide unparalleled absorption capacity. Transfers are fluid, linear and allow even more precise braking both in straight lines and curves.
