First contact with the Backcountry X-RS 850 E-TEC 2019

I have been a snowmobile passionate for several years now. Mother Nature gave us a great gift this season by allowing us to ride on October 27. A record for me as a snowmobiler for over 25 years. It’s not just a few kilometers around the house, but a beautiful 222 km of fun. A nice sunny day, the magnificent scenery of the Gaspé Peninsula and the company of two snowmobile enthusiasts like me.

After a 2 hours drive to the snow-covered playground, I had the chance to drive for my first few kilometers a new 2019 Ski-Doo model. The Backcountry X-RS 850 E-TEC is a model classified as a hybrid, 50% trail and 50% off trail. The SledMagazine.com team will have the opportunity to test it this year in collaboration with BRP.

First, I would like to point out that we were in early-season conditions on unsurfaced trails and public land, ideal conditions for this type of model.

Having ridden the Renegade Backcountry X last year, I was on familiar ground with this new sled. The model this year is equipped with the new E-TEC Shot technology. I can tell you that it works well. I started it when we left in the morning with the starting rope and then the E-TEC Shot button worked until the end of the day. At each start, I was impressed by the silence of the execution of this new technology, and I took pleasure in pointing out to my colleagues that I had not yet used the rope.

By removing the starter, starter ring and battery, the manufacturer indicates a decrease of about 20 pounds, and you can feel it. The snowmobile is easy to handle both in snow and in the tracks of the 4×4 vehicles that were omnipresent during our day. When you want to take a turn, all you have to do is put your weight on the side you want to turn, and you’re ready to move in another direction.

The power of the 850 E-TEC engine is still very impressive; I could feel it. The X-RS model is equipped with multi-position shock absorbers in both rebound and compression, so I didn’t spend much time modifying the suspension. I am looking forward to trying it in other conditions like deeper snow and surfaced trails to find the perfect fit for me.

I quickly noticed the new positioning of the control of the heated handle; they are easier to adjust while driving. The X-RS version is equipped with a multifunction gauge; I noticed that the time was not present, I wonder if it's normal. The small windshield gives a nice look, but it will not be practical in extreme cold.

Can’t wait until the next ride to continue my test of the Ski-Doo Backcountry X-RS 850 E-TEC 2019. For more information on the long-term test, I invite you to visit the Long-term trials section on SledMagazine.com.

Have a good season, everyone.