Despite a winter that delivered less snow than expected, I had the opportunity to spend significant time aboard the 2024 Lynx Shredder RE 3900 Turbo R, equipped with a 154-inch track, through a partnership between SledMagazine.com and Lanteigne Sports BRP in Caraquet, New Brunswick.
The winter certainly did not deliver the conditions I had hoped for. Several of the off-trail areas we normally ride were difficult, and sometimes impossible, to access. The 2024 Lynx Shredder RE, however, did not disappoint.
After spending a season behind the handlebars, I came to better understand this machine’s personality. It is powerful, rugged and exceptionally well suspended, but it may not be the ideal snowmobile for every type of rider.
In this long-term review, I share my impressions of its power, suspension, off-trail handling, ergonomics and behaviour in technical terrain. More importantly, let’s determine what type of rider the Lynx Shredder RE is really designed for.
2024 Lynx Shredder RE 3900 Turbo R: Built for Serious Deep-Snow Riding
The Shredder RE is clearly intended for deep-snow riders with an aggressive riding style.
Its package combines several key components: the Radien² platform, Rotax 850 E-TEC Turbo R engine, LFS front suspension, PPS²-DS+ rear suspension, premium KYB shocks and a 154-inch PowderMax X-Light track. Lynx itself describes the Shredder as a deep-snow machine designed for demanding conditions. website
On paper, it becomes obvious that Lynx did not build this sled simply for casual cruising. It was developed for challenging terrain, steep climbs, jumps and riders who demand a lot from their suspension.
Key Specifications
- Available colours: Bright White / Evo Red and Platinum Silver Satin / Black
- Starter: Manual with SHOT
- Skis: Blade DS+
- Platform: Radien²
- Engine: Rotax 850 E-TEC Turbo R, 849 cc
- Track length: 154 in.
- Track: PowderMax X-Light, 154 x 15 x 3 in.
- Ski stance: 36 in.
- Front suspension: LFS
- Front shocks: KYB PRO 36 EA-3 R Kashima
- Rear suspension: PPS²-DS+
- Center shock: KYB 46 Plus Kashima
- Rear shock: KYB PRO 46 HLCR Kashima
- Display: 4.5-in. digital display or optional 10.25-in. Color Display with BRP Connect
- Claimed dry weight for the 3900 x 3.0 configuration: 218 kg / 480 lb
These specifications match Lynx’s official 2024 technical information. website
Beyond the numbers, however, the Shredder’s size and personality are something you really notice once you get behind the handlebars.
A Rugged Design That Makes Its Presence Known
When I look at the Lynx Shredder RE, my first impression is that this is a snowmobile built to take abuse.
It looks substantial and extremely rugged. That same feeling remains once you are standing behind the bars.
Compared with some narrower mountain sleds, it can almost feel like you are riding a tank built to conquer whatever lies ahead.
That personality is also part of its appeal.
Ergonomics Designed Primarily for Stand-Up Riding
The seat and handlebar position work well for off-trail riding.
Because this snowmobile is primarily designed to be ridden standing up, the seat is relatively narrow, allowing the rider to move easily from side to side.
Being a smaller rider myself and using a shorter riser, I could still sit comfortably during trail sections used to access our off-trail riding areas.
I do, however, have one concern regarding the instrument cluster.
The gauge sits fairly low and can be difficult to read while riding. You almost have to stand and lean forward to clearly see some of the information.
Snow buildup around the display can make visibility even worse.
The sled I tested was not equipped with the larger 10.25-inch Color Display with BRP Connect offered on certain configurations. website
Improving gauge visibility would definitely be something I would like to see in future versions.
Its Larger Dimensions Influence Technical Riding
From a styling perspective, I really like the Shredder RE.
It looks tough, purposeful and performance-oriented.
Its physical size, however, is an important factor to consider.
To me, it feels larger than some competing snowmobiles aimed more directly at technical tree riding.
That can become tiring over the course of a full day when you are constantly changing direction and performing precise technical manoeuvres.
In my opinion, a narrower Shredder would become an even stronger option for riders who focus heavily on technical riding.
In its current configuration, I see it as more at home with riders who enjoy alpine terrain, faster open areas, climbing and jumps than those who spend most of their time weaving through extremely tight trees.
Rotax 850 E-TEC Turbo R: Where the Shredder Really Comes Alive
If there is one area where the 2024 Lynx Shredder RE Turbo R impressed me the most, it is power.
The previous season, I had been riding a naturally aspirated Summit X.
Moving to the Turbo R completely changed the experience.
Throttle response is impressive.
Every time I squeezed the throttle aggressively, this machine immediately reminded me just how much power was available.
For someone who does not enjoy an aggressive sled, a naturally aspirated version may be more appropriate.
For an experienced rider looking for more performance, however, the Rotax 850 E-TEC Turbo R takes the riding experience to another level.
Extra Power Exactly When You Need It
With a naturally aspirated snowmobile, there are situations where you sometimes wish you had a little more power.
With the Shredder RE Turbo R, that reserve is there.
Whether performing a hop-over, pulling a wheelie, crossing a depression or trying to recover when the sled begins to trench in deep snow, the engine responds immediately.
You need to be ready for it.
When you use the full throttle, you had better hold on tightly.
That power also helps the snowmobile stay on top of the snow and maintain momentum in situations where a less powerful sled might require more planning.
Lynx Suspension: The Shredder RE’s Biggest Strength
In my opinion, the area where the 2024 Lynx Shredder RE stands out the most is suspension.
Lynx really knows how to build suspension systems.
The Shredder RE setup includes:
- KYB PRO 36 EA-3 R Kashima front shocks;
- PPS²-DS+ rear suspension;
- KYB 46 Plus Kashima center shock;
- KYB PRO 46 HLCR Kashima rear shock. website
Together, they provide an outstanding level of control and stability.
The Rougher the Terrain Gets, the Better the Shredder Feels
In off-trail riding, you are not always lucky enough to be first through an area.
If you are following several snowmobiles, the terrain quickly becomes rough. Holes get deeper, tracks become uneven and impacts become much harder.
That is exactly where the Shredder RE suspension begins to shine.
At speed over rough terrain, the sled remains remarkably composed. You feel much less like you are being pulled in every direction.
Look where you want to go, and the snowmobile follows.
In powder, I like running a softer setting on the KYB PRO 36 EA-3 R Kashima front shocks. It helps me maintain better control and reduces unexpected reactions from the sled.
I have the opportunity to ride many different snowmobiles, and that smooth suspension feel remains one of the characteristics I most strongly associate with Lynx.
Proper Suspension Setup Can Completely Transform the Shredder RE
Having high-quality shocks is not enough.
It is extremely important to learn how to adjust your suspension according to your weight, skill level, riding style and terrain.
An incorrect setup can completely change your perception of a snowmobile.
On the other hand, a properly adjusted suspension can make the sled easier to control and even help you improve your riding skills.
I strongly recommend asking your dealership to explain the available settings before making adjustments randomly.
It is an often overlooked detail, but it can make the difference between simply riding a snowmobile and truly taking advantage of its capabilities.
On the Snow: A Snowmobile That Likes to Be Pushed
The Lynx Shredder RE delivers an unmistakably aggressive riding experience.
In the mountains, I consider it a versatile snowmobile, as long as you are comfortable with its size.
The engine helps compensate for some of its weight and dimensions.
If you enjoy steep climbs and using all the power available, this sled is more than willing to deliver.
In fact, it almost seems happier as the pace increases.
On fast, rough terrain, the suspension performs extremely well and lets you maintain a high level of confidence.
Blade DS+ Skis: Excellent Flotation, but a Compromise in Tree Riding
The Shredder RE’s ski design is another interesting aspect of the machine.
During our visit to SnowShoot in Montana, I had the opportunity to discuss my impressions with members of the Lynx pro-rider team.
The Blade DS+ skis used on the Shredder provide a considerable surface area.
Lynx officially equips the 2024 Shredder RE with Blade DS+ skis and a 36-inch ski stance. website
That extra width provides several advantages.
It improves flotation in deep powder and helps the snowmobile remain on top of the snow during certain manoeuvres, particularly jumps and drops.
In those conditions, the stock configuration works very well.
Less at Home in Tight Trees
The compromise becomes more obvious when moving into technical tree riding.
A wider ski can require more effort when initiating rapid manoeuvres or maintaining a precise sidehill.
The conversations I had with Lynx riders went in a similar direction: depending on the style of riding, some riders prefer a narrower ski configuration.
That matches my experience.
For jumping, deep powder and aggressive riding, the stock configuration works well.
For someone looking for maximum precision between tight trees, it represents more of a compromise.
Build Quality, Accessories and Overall Value
In terms of finish quality, accessories and overall product design, BRP has built a strong reputation, and the Shredder RE fits within that philosophy.
The LinQ attachment system is particularly useful for riders who like to configure their snowmobile for different types of outings.
Fuel containers, bags, storage accessories and other equipment can be added easily.
The Shredder RE is obviously a premium snowmobile, so its purchase price must be considered in relation to how it will actually be used.
A rider who regularly uses its power, suspension and deep-snow capabilities will get more value from the investment than someone who rides primarily at a relaxed pace.
After a Full Season: What Stands Out the Most
The winter did not live up to my expectations, but the snowmobile impressed me in several areas.
The 2024 Lynx Shredder RE 3900 Turbo R stood out to me for three main reasons:
power, suspension and ruggedness.
For my own riding style, I would probably feel more comfortable on a Ski-Doo Freeride or Summit X.
I am not a particularly large rider, and in certain technical situations, I sometimes felt like the sled was riding me rather than the other way around.
The front-end size, ski stance, ski width and overall weight all contribute to that feeling.
Personally, I would prefer a more compact machine while keeping a similar level of power.
But that is also very rider-dependent.
A taller or heavier rider — or someone who prefers open alpine terrain, jumps and aggressive riding — may have a completely different impression.
Who Is the 2024 Lynx Shredder RE Really For?
After spending a season with it, I believe the 2024 Lynx Shredder RE Turbo R is primarily aimed at riders looking for a rugged snowmobile capable of taking serious punishment.
It is particularly well suited to riders who prioritize:
- aggressive riding;
- premium suspension;
- strong turbocharged power;
- steep climbs;
- jumping;
- rough terrain;
- deep powder.
In the large mountain terrain of Western Canada, I believe this machine can truly demonstrate the full extent of its capabilities.
In Eastern Canada, where riding areas often include tighter wooded terrain, its larger size can become more demanding for highly technical riders.
What I Would Like to See on Future Lynx Mountain Snowmobiles
If I could make a few changes to future Lynx mountain sleds, I would start with the gauge positioning.
I would like the display to be easier to read while standing.
I would also like Lynx to preserve the rugged character of the Shredder while considering an alternative version that is:
- lighter;
- narrower;
- more agile;
- more minimalist.
In my opinion, that would allow Lynx to better address two very different categories of riders: those who prioritize aggressive riding and those who demand maximum precision in technical terrain.
I discussed several of these points with the Lynx team during SnowShoot, and they were very receptive to rider feedback.
My Verdict After a Winter on the Lynx Shredder RE Turbo R
The 2024 Lynx Shredder RE 3900 Turbo R has a very strong personality.
It is not a snowmobile trying to please everyone.
It is powerful, rugged and exceptionally well suspended.
At the same time, its dimensions require more physical commitment than a narrower mountain sled when the terrain becomes very technical.
For a rider who enjoys charging hard, jumping, crossing rough terrain and making full use of a turbocharged engine, the Shredder RE has a lot to offer.
For someone who focuses mainly on tight tree riding and highly precise manoeuvres, its larger size deserves careful consideration before buying.
For me, the two standout features are still the PPS²-DS+ suspension package and the performance of the Rotax 850 E-TEC Turbo R.
Those two elements give the Lynx Shredder a personality that feels noticeably different from many other mountain sleds I have ridden.
I would also like to thank Lanteigne Sports BRP in Caraquet, New Brunswick, as well as SledMagazine.com, for supporting this long-term review.
