Once again this year, our partner Les Motoneiges Géro, a BRP dealer in Saint-Jean-de-Matha, allows me to test a new snowmobile as part of Sledmagazine.com’s long-term testing program. I will have the chance to test the 2024 Ski-Doo Grand Touring LE. It is one of the most comfortable trail models and offers the most technologies for tandem riding. Here are its main features:
900 ACE Engine
On my 2024 Grand Touring LE, I will test the 900 ACE engine with its 95 HP. It’s an engine that should satisfy many snowmobilers, offering an interesting horsepower count. The 900 ACE engine is known for being very fuel-efficient. It also offers the possibility of two other driving modes, Eco and Standard. In my test, I will check its real fuel economy, performance, and ride smoothness according to the chosen mode.
To power this engine, BRP is reintroducing its ITC system, which was modified in 2022 to achieve more predictable accelerations, especially in Sport mode. BRP also brings back the proven pDrive pulley.
REV Gen5 Chassis
Since 2019, Ski-Doo snowmobiles equipped with a 900 ACE, Turbo, and Turbo R engine were assembled on the REV Gen4 chassis with a larger design. For 2024, they transition to the Gen5 chassis which, in theory, would offer a more balanced maneuverability, better responsiveness, and allow for tighter turns. I will verify these aspects along with wind and weather protection. Additionally, the appearance is truly impressive and will certainly get noticed.
The Silent Track II
The traction comes from the Silent Track II track measuring 137 x 15 x 1.25 inches. This snowmobile utilizes the Silent Track system, which is designed to reduce noise and diminish vibrations caused by the track’s rolling. This is an aspect I’m eager to validate because, from experience, I know that a standard track can be very noisy at certain speeds and introduce a lot of vibrations.
Dashboard
This snowmobile is also equipped with a 7.2-inch digital display. The positioning of this display offers excellent visibility. According to the owner’s manual instructions, we can customize the information we want to see. Therefore, during my test, I will verify if all the useful information can be easily viewed without having to adjust settings.
In the past, it was possible to configure the dashboard to display differently based on ambient brightness. There was also an automatic option where the dashboard adjusted itself. I will see if this functionality still exists, as it was very useful.
Controls
The 2024 Grand Touring LE is equipped with an electric starter and an electromechanical reverse. The starter button also serves for reverse gear.
Also, the driver’s handlebars and thumb are heated, as are the passenger’s handlebars. This snowmobile also includes two outlets on the passenger side for heated gear and one outlet for the driver. During the test, I will verify their performance as well as the ease of adjustment. The double seat is also heated, which will be greatly appreciated, especially at the end of cold days. The control seems to be well-positioned. We will see this winter if the seat fulfills its function and if it is comfortable.
Other Standard Equipment on the Grand Touring LE 2024
The 2024 Grand Touring LE also comes with two sets of LinQ attachment points to secure our luggage. This product, which has already proven its worth in the past, should still be just as effective.
The mirrors are adjustable and sufficiently wide, and I will check the rear visibility they provide. This is an important element for me; I want to know who is behind me without having to turn or concentrate on the mirrors. Therefore, I keep my focus on the front of the vehicle.
New for 2024, the snowmobile comes with new LED headlights that will come standard on snowmobiles on the REV Gen5 platform. This should solve the lighting issue of previous models.
Finally, the snowmobile comes with a passenger backrest and a 62-liter LinQ cargo box. The backrest should provide security for the passenger. The cargo box is very large, allowing us to bring several items with us. I will mainly check its waterproofing.
Suspension
The 2024 Grand Touring LE also features the new suspension introduced in 2021.
At the Front, the RAS X
This suspension offers three ski stance options: 42.1 inches, 43.0 inches, or 43.9 inches. A stance of 42.4 inches would be the norm for most other BRP snowmobiles. I will start the season with a 43.0-inch stance to observe its behavior and will adjust if I am not satisfied.
At the Rear, the rMotion X with Air-Controlled Pneumatic Shock Absorber (ACS)
This system allows us to soften or stiffen our suspension according to our preferences or trail conditions.
Pilot 5.7 SL Skis
The design of these skis is said to significantly reduce swaying. This is crucial for many snowmobilers who constantly seek to minimize swaying, which can make our rides uncomfortable.
This combination of front and rear suspensions impressed me in 2023 with its performance and comfort. Considering that BRP is reintroducing the same configuration on a new chassis, I can only imagine the level of comfort this snowmobile will offer.
Options for the 2024 Grand Touring LE
This year, our partner, Les Motoneiges Géro, has installed tunnel snow scrapers on our 2024 Grand Touring LE. This should make our outings less stressful when conditions are icy or hardened. As standard, this snowmobile comes equipped with an ultra-high windshield of 27.5 inches.
In the past, I have ridden with this type of windshield. It offers several advantages, including excellent protection against cold weather and the elements (rain, freezing rain, wet snow). However, its height brings drafts of air to the rider’s back, and snow tends to blow towards us from the rear. Therefore, I prefer a windshield that I can adjust to my liking. I will see if this is a good option.
My dealer installed a medium-high windshield (19 to 23 inches) on my 2024 Grand Touring LE. This completely changes the appearance of the snowmobile. It closely resembles a Renegade.
Elements to Monitor During My Long-Term Test
To provide you with the best possible review and my impressions of this model, here is a summary of the specific elements I will be checking throughout the season:
- Performance of the 900 ACE engine in all three driving modes.
- Fuel consumption.
- Performance of the front and rear suspension with the ACS shock absorber.
- Use of the digital dashboard.
- Integration and use of accessories.
- Snowmobiling experience with the Pilot 5.7 SL skis.
- Overall reliability and maintenance of the snowmobile.
- Riding experience with the new REV Gen5 chassis.
- Performance of the new LED headlights.
- Performance of the adjustable windshield.
I will provide my initial impressions later this month, weather permitting, and a final report will follow at the end of the season.
Finally, I would like to thank Les Motoneiges Géro, the BRP dealer in Saint-Jean-de-Matha, for lending me the Ski-Doo Grand Touring LE 900 ACE 2024 for this long-term test. I also invite you to visit Géro’s team in store to see the latest Ski-Doo and Can-Am Off-Road innovations.
