After 1000 km at the helm of the Ski-Doo Expedition Xtreme, I am now ready to give you my impressions. I won’t hide the fact that I loved every single moment on it so far because everything is there: power, comfort, pleasure, versatility, look… Let’s just say, it’s hard to resist!
Ski-Doo has wisely implemented the high-performance Rotax 850 E-TEC direct injection 2-stroke engine in this version of the Expedition. We end up with a beast that delivers the equivalent of 165 horsepower. This engine is perfectly adapted and provides performances worthy of its name “Xtreme.”
As a result, the mechanics provide good acceleration, powerful recovery when exiting bends, and the front end tends to lift very often. For me, I love the fun of controlled wheelies, and it adds to the sense of freedom (or playfulness) that this snowmobile offers its rider.
Also, the engine response is swift. As soon as you press the accelerator, you feel the full force of the cavalry propelling you forward. There are virtually no delays during accelerations and recoveries. The power of this engine is delivered very quickly but can also be easily modulated if the pilot controls himself with the accelerator. This allows you to ride more comfortably on trails while having the opportunity to increase the pace towards a sporty riding style.
Another fascinating aspect of this ride is the Easy-Shift transmission with its two gear ratios. It’s well adapted to the versatility of the model. For instance, on the “LOW” ratio, you can do utility type work such as pulling a grater, zigzagging between trees at low speed, or even do some off-trail riding. Engaging the “HIGH” ratio will make it easier to tackle the trails without putting too much strain on the engine. It’s great to have a two-speed transmission, and it adds even more to its versatile, all-purpose character. It should also be noted that this transmission is easy to operate, and its running is outright stealthy with impeccable quietness.
The Cobra WT 20" x 154" track with 1.8" lugs provides excellent flotation on loose snow and a lot of bite when you hit the throttle. Ease of trail riding should also be emphasized. Although the track is 20 inches wide, you don’t feel it much, and you’re surprised at how much you can do with this machine.
The ergonomics have been well studied to offer the driver an excellent driving position with intuitive access to the various controls on the handlebar. Additionally, the dial is simple, and groups all the information efficiently. However, you cannot browse through it without removing one hand from the handlebar. A knob on the handles would have been appreciated.
The seat is very comfortable for the driver who can remain seated for several hundred kilometres a day without getting too tired. The width of the tunnel is somewhat surprising at first because you have spread your feet wider apart. Initially, you feel some tension in your hips, but after a few outings, you no longer notice it, except when you return to a “standard” 16" tunnel.
During my first trail rides, I tried to analyze different aspects, and one of them that surprises me the most is the overall balance of the Expedition Xtreme thanks to its enlarged REV GEN4 chassis. This assembly allows a well-balanced weight distribution between the front and rear as well as a well-perceived rigidity. The skis are easy to lean on in turns, the steering is precise, and the rider feels in full control throughout the day.
After many outings on and off the trails, I realized that the suspensions on this model are well-calibrated. It offers excellent comfort while allowing firmness for fast bends. What’s more, the KYB Pro 36 rear shock absorber offers effective compression adjustment in just 22 clicks. It makes it easy to calibrate the rear of the snowmobile depending on the use you want to make of it; more for work, for the trail, for off-trail, when two people are riding…
The front is not to be outdone though with a RAS 3 hybrid suspension that allows for adjustable spacing (38.4” and 40.2”) depending on the desired use. The Expedition Xtreme comes standard with HPG Plus shock absorbers providing optimum performance, and the feedback to the rider is intuitive for natural driving.
I also had the opportunity to drive the Expedition Xtreme with a passenger. Yes, our test snowmobile is equipped with a passenger seat that can be installed very quickly using two latches located on each side. It’s simple, very effective, and solid, of course. Its comfort is excellent according to passengers who have tried it, and the handles are well located, regardless of the person’s size. However, we would have liked to have heated handles included at this price. Also, we chose the version without the backrest option, and after driving a few times in a more “rhythmic” way, the passengers got tired quite quickly since there was no back support. So, for the asking price, it would have been interesting to have the backrest included and heated handles.
At the moment, it’s hard to talk precisely about gas/oil consumption since the snowmobile has finished its running in, and the kilometres are not enough to elaborate on this aspect. You will have to wait until the trial review to get this information.
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The SledMagazine.com team would like to thank our Ski-Doo partner for making this long-term trial possible.
