When I found out that I was going to drive this model on a long-term trial this winter, I was thrilled because I was going to be able to compare it with the other engines in the Ski-Doo range. Over the past few years, I have driven several models with the famous 850 E-TEC engine as well as the 900 ACE Turbo. For this year, it was time for me to see how the 600R could make me feel.
From the get-go, I really felt its lightness, which gives the impression of performance. As you know, the lighter a machine is, the more you will feel the power/weight ratio, and with its 475 pounds and 125 horsepower, you initially feel like you’re behind the wheel of a machine with a much more powerful engine. Don’t expect impressive top speeds, though, because it’s still a 600 cc. Its lightness also makes it very maneuverable, as much on hardened snow trails as after a good snowfall.
In terms of oil and fuel consumption, it’s a little less than the 850 E-TEC engine. I can tell you more about its exact use in my end-of-season review. Now let’s talk about the sound of the snowmobile. In my opinion, the combination of the 600R engine and the exhaust system is not the ideal mix, as it produces a much too high-pitched sound. It may be because it’s the same exhaust as the 850 E-TEC engine. This higher-pitched sound is not very pleasant over long periods; sometimes, it is even unpleasant.
This year, Ski-Doo has developed an all-new 7.2-inch digital dial. The information it contains is really interesting, including fuel consumption statistics as well as speed statistics (maximum and average). All the necessary information for a ride is displayed at the same time: time, odometer (total or trip), engine temperature as well as the RPM, and your speed, of course. It was the opposite with the old dial where we had to choose between the time or the odometer in the small screen at the bottom. Unfortunately, in the evening, I didn’t really appreciate its monochrome colours because they make you feel like you’re in front of an old black and yellow computer terminal.
When it comes to lighting, once again, in 2020, BRP is keeping the halogen lights that give really average lighting if you keep everything factory built. But it’s a good thing there are accessories to make it all better. I always wonder when Ski-Doo will opt for white LED lighting like most other new snowmobiles from other manufacturers.
The model being tested this year features quick suspension adjustments and TS pilot skis, which allow me to quickly change the calibration of the rear shocks and the grip of the skis on the trails by turning the adjustment handles. It allows me to have the ideal adjustment in any conditions
The green look is still nice to look at in the snow, but for Ski-Doo purists, it’s yellow that should dominate. The colour scheme of the hood and chassis with red accents on the handlebars and seat complements this model well, but if you like to keep your snowmobile spotless, the green colour of the frame will make maintenance much more difficult. Exhaust fumes and brake dust stain and require a lot of maintenance.
For more details on the technical specifications of the Renegade X 600R 2020, I invite you to visit the Ski-doo.com website. I would like to thank BRP and Sledmagazine.com for the long-term trial of this magnificent vehicle for the 2019-2020 season.
