Happy, excited and lucky … that’s what came to mind when I knew I was chosen to be a long-term tester of the Ski-Doo Expedition Xtreme 2020.
Before putting this machine to the test, we would like to give you an overview of its features as well as its many qualities that make it a model suitable for many snowmobilers.
This first picture shows my first contact with the Expedition Xtreme during the last Snow Shoot that took place in Montana. The entire Sledmagazine.com team greatly appreciated its versatility, overall balance and the feeling of being able to do everything while on board.
Mechanical Components
Ski-Doo has chosen to use the high-performance Rotax 850 E-Tec direct injection 2-stroke engine for this version. Thus, the heart of this machine delivers 165 horsepower, which is sure to offer clear accelerations and strong recoveries.
The Rotax 850 E-TEC engine powers the Expedition Xtreme.
In addition, the manufacturer installed a redesigned pDrive pulley with frictionless double rollers. This addition is supposed to allow more efficient gear changes, a more uniform rpm while being lighter. This mechanical combination will enable the Expedition Xtreme to have “everything you need in the belly” to accomplish heavy tasks, but also to have fun on the trail as much as in the powder!
The expanded REV Gen4 chassis was used for the Expedition Xtreme.
Such mechanics required a robust chassis and that’s precisely what the manufacturer chose with its extended REV Gen4 platform that offers lightness, rigidity and above all a wonderful balance.
The rear track is impressive
To efficiently transmit all this power, a huge 20" x 154" Cobra WT track with 1.8” spikes is used. In addition, an Easy Shift transmission (H-L-N) offers even more versatility in the various tasks to be performed. The manufacturer has done an excellent engineering job on this side to offer the best of both worlds between work use and not to compromise too much on the “fun factor.”
Front Suspension
On the front suspension side, the manufacturer has used a RAS 3 hybrid suspension that allows an adjustable spacing (38.4 in. and 40.2 in.), depending on your use. In addition, the Expedition Xtreme comes standard with HPG Plus shock absorbers as standard equipment.
At the rear suspension level, there is an HPG Plus central shock absorber as well as a KYB Pro 36 rear shock that offers an efficient 22-click compression adjustment. It’s great to be able to modulate the firmness of the rear suspension so easily according to the use you want to make of it.
Rear suspension with articulated zone
In addition, the SC-5U rear suspension has an articulated rail that allows more comfort on trails, ease of backing up in snow and the ability to lock the rail for more traction when towing or in deep snow.
Other Features
The rear space is huge, and with the ingenious LinQ multi-function plate, both 16" and 20" LinQ accessories can be used. The result is an impressive combination of configurations with more than 100 accessories available. The manufacturer is well known for offering many well-designed accessories for these vehicles.
Other well-adapted standard equipment is also included with the Expedition Xtreme. These include a low windshield, side wind deflectors, hand guards and a trunk behind the seat.
Another important element is, of course, the ergonomics offered to the pilot. On this side, everything seems to have been well thought out and even with my rather sturdy frame, I can sit comfortably, the various controls are well-positioned, and the handling is what I would call natural. All that’s left to do is drive around and talk more about it at this level.
During this long-term trial, I will take note of many observations to give you a full report. Thus, I will report on the general behaviour on the trail as well as off-road, the comfort provided, the ergonomics of the driving position as well as fuel and oil consumption.
With all these details, it makes us want to ride the Ski-Doo Expedition Xtreme! That’s what I’m doing in a few minutes to test this great snowmobile. I’ll get back to you with my comments and first impressions… Follow us regularly throughout the season on the special trial page. In addition, subscribe to our Facebook page to keep up to date with the latest news from the snowmobile world.
The Sledmagazine.com team would like to thank our partner BRP Ski-Doo for making this long-term trial possible.
