A few days ago, I had the opportunity to be invited to a private test session in Idaho. I got to try out some 2026 models, including the Renegade X-RS and the Renegade X 900. Both were equipped with the 900 ACE Turbo R engine and the RAS RX front suspension. Of course, the big improvement on these models is the front suspension, which has been upgraded to the RAS RX. Since its launch last year, many have been hoping to see this suspension on a Renegade. Clearly, the wait wasn’t very long!
Thanks to the RAS RX suspension, the MXZ models have made the most of the REV Gen5 platform. So, what about the Renegade, which is mostly equipped with turbocharged four-stroke engines? I say “mostly” because the Renegade with the Enduro package can be fitted with the 850 E-TEC engine. Of course, the added weight of a four-stroke engine increases the risk of understeer. So, I had high hopes that the RAS RX would make cornering easier with these models. Here are my impressions after a short test ride of the 2026 Renegade with RAS RX.
2026 Renegade Test: Improved Handling with RAS RX Suspension
I should note that this test ride was relatively brief. That said, I’ll have the chance to continue it at the end of February during the Snow Shoot. First, I quickly realized that handling the snowmobile on winding trails was much easier. The new geometry provided by the RAS RX suspension significantly reduces the roll effect in corners. According to the manufacturer, this reduction is around 18%. Regardless of the exact figure, I must say it’s substantial. I noticed much easier cornering and a reduction in understeer, which requires less effort from the rider. This means less fatigue after a long day of riding.
But what explains this improvement? With the RAS RX suspension, Ski-Doo has managed to reduce the distance between the snowmobile’s center of gravity and its roll center. The smaller this distance, the less the snowmobile tends to “roll” or “dive.” As a result, the front of the snowmobile stays more level in corners. To learn everything about the RAS RX suspension, I invite you to read my article on the subject. In that article, I refer to the RAS RX for MXZ models. The one on the Renegade models is slightly different, although the principles remain the same.
I also noticed that the handling felt “lighter” compared to previous-year models. This impression likely comes from the reduced effort required to steer through corners. That said, Ski-Doo has also made some adjustments to the suspension itself, which may have an impact. Specifically, they’ve slightly modified the geometry of the suspension spindle. First, they moved the ski mounting point backward to reduce the steering effort. The second change, aimed at the same goal, involves the steering motion ratio.
I should also mention that the Renegade models with RAS RX front suspension are not equipped with Pilot RX skis. Instead, the manufacturer has opted for Pilot X skis. These less aggressive skis are better suited for these models.
Another small change was made to the side bottom pan. Engineers added more clearance to allow for full suspension travel. These changes are purely aesthetic.
Renegade 2026 and RAS RX Suspension: A Winning Combo
For my part, I’m impressed by the impact of the changes made to the front suspension of the Renegade X and X-RS models. The RAS RX is a great improvement that adds to the joy of tearing through trails on these snowmobiles. I have no doubt that I’ll be able to share more after riding them again in Montana in the coming days.
Until then, ride safely!
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