I’ve had time to learn about the 2017’s, time to ride the large majority of them in reality based conditions and time to reflect on what I’ve learned and felt.
If there is a general theme to my 2017 picks it might well be “more than I need, but what I want”
While 2017 offers some very significant and innovative offerings in the mountain segment, I’m a trail guy! My experience, reference and viewpoint will always be focused on trail sleds.
In previous years I have revealed my best picks in alphabetical order and in reverse alphabetical order the following year. For 2017, I went random and pulled them out of a hat. As it works out the order seems quite appropriate for 2017. Here we go!
YAMAHA
Much has been revealed and written about the newest, biggest, baddest power to ever hit a production snowmobile.
Yamaha’s 998cc triple cylinder Genesis Turbo is a marvel of performance engineering. The technical details and secrets of its seamless delivery of arm pulling power throughout its power band can be found elsewhere on SledMagzine.com
Yamaha : Year of the Sidewinder
I pick a Yamaha Sidewinder model not only because of its unique power, but because it represents a significant commitment by Yamaha to remaining relevant in the snomo biz.
This motor was crazy impressive to me, not only in its hyper space velocity capabilities, but for its refined smoothness at ordinary people pace. It is an extremely well mannered beast without surge or search for fluid and predictable response to responsible throttle inputs.
I never thought that the Vipers had all the get up and go that they should have and never understood why not. I had a 2011 Vector with the 1049cc Genesis and it had plenty of pull and top end. The Sidewinder models take care of that and much more.
I’m sure that some will say that there is no reasonable logic in owning a snowmobile with capabilities that significantly exceed rider, trail condition and legal limitations. But, it’s the human condition to desire things that surpass our needs or capabilities. Houses, cars, lawnmowers, barbeque grills…. you get the idea.
I have a BMW capable of 150mph and buy tires for it with a speed rating of 149mph. I have no problem (OK an occasional problem) operating it in a reasonable, safe and responsible manner. Just because it can, doesn’t mean that we will.
It’s a fact, guys and gals want snowmobiles that stir the soul and can do more than we can. As you will see in my other best picks I intend to continue in that preference.
All of the above is why I pick a 2017 Sidewinder. Not for the all out speed, for the smooth, immediate and exhilarating response. The thing is ohhh so smooooth!
At 1st ride the available power was so evident that I questioned myself as to if I possessed the good judgment necessary to safely navigate a snowmobile with this much potential for thousands of miles. The sensation was that drastic. It was well balanced beyond my belief and fun to drive with no unwelcome turbo noises and limited engine braking.
The Sidewinder bodywork exhibits improved fit and finish with the added bonus of much easier side and center panel removal for easy access to everything underneath. Thanks to Polaris for showing the snowmobile world that a LED headlight is a must have improvement for mature eyes, the Sidewinder has an impressive and unique LED light.
Yamaha Snowmobile Marketing Manager Wade West has every right to be proud of the 2017 Sidewinders
The 1st near 200HP, full production snowmobile, factory calibrated and manufacturer warranted……….I’ll take one!
But which model? RTX, LTX, STX, XTX or BTX in DX, SE or LE calibrations. Yep, I agree…..way too many uninspiring letters, but there are 6 distinct chassis configurations offering a total of 11 different models not counting color choices. That’s a Sidewinder for virtually everyone!
A sled with this much giddy up needs extra traction to maximize GO as well as STOP. Yes it’s true….some snowmobiles accelerate much quicker and go much faster than others, but they all slow down at about the same rate. In my opinion the 1.75” Backcountry track found on the Sidewinder XTX 137 LE will greatly assist in both stop and go directions.
My 2017 YAMAHA pick? The Sidewinder XTX 137 LE for the 998T, 137” coupled rear skid, the 1.75” Backcountry track and the now proven QS3 shock package.
Editor note: I was so intrigued and impressed by my initial impressions of the Sidewinder, I’ve requested that our partners at Yamaha allow SledMagazine.com to long term trial a Sidewinder XTX 137 LE next season. Stay tuned!
BRP
We’ve “no doubt” read or viewed something about it. We invite you to read several articles here on SM.com.
2017 Ski-Doo – The REVolution continues
It’s “what’s next” from the over developed, highly stimulated brains of snowmo engineers in Valcourt, Quebec. Overall chassis goals were balance in 2 planes with a 50/50 ski weight split and an improved vehicle input position for the rider. Ski-doo R&D spent the last 4 years planning and perfecting what informally became known as G4.
While BRP does not officially call the 4th generation REV chassis by the G4 name, I will. And the balance achieved is something that you can feel.
Let’s ask ourselves a few questions
- Is unequal side to side balance a reason that sleds don’t generally fly level?
- Is unequal side to side balance a reason that it’s easier to turn right versus left?
- Is unequal side to side balance a reason that uphill left turns are the most challenging?
Maybe, I don’t know. It seems logical to me that side to side balance could be an important factor.
The G4 seemed and felt extremely well balanced as it should, because it is.
Have you ever wanted to crawl out over the top of your ski to get the perfect additional bite just where and when you wanted it?
When an inside ski lift raises its ugly head, have you ever wished that you could reach over and push it back down?
That’s what the improved RAS 3 front suspension, G4 balance and rider position made me feel like I was doing. Rider input and influence over the vehicle, beyond what we’ve had before. The G4 handled better….noticeably better, whether I chose to just site and ride a better balanced snowmobile or to move all around it like I was doing snowmobile aerobics.
For me the jury is still out on the open foot well with toe bar design. Mountain guys and gals prefer the additional mobility that an open foot well allows. I completely get the concept, but I’m a seasoned veteran who is used to being locked in by more than my hands. At least 1,000 miles of additional riding will be needed before I pass final judgment. Fortunately Ski-doo will offer optional adjustable toe bar and lateral foot panel accessories to accommodate any final rider preference.
All of this positivity is without adding the promised benefits of reduced oil consumption, improved durability and increased performance of the new 850 E-TEC power pack into mix. During my Snow Shoot experience with the new 850 E-TEC engine, I definitely experienced it to be smoother and very linear in its power delivery without the 800 R’s quirky mid 7,000 RPM surge. However, undeniably improved performance was not immediately apparent to me at the high elevations of our tests. Based on the “real riding world” sea level experiences of my fellow SledMagazine.com/Motoneiges.ca test riders, the performance increases of the 850 E-TEC will just be icing on the cake. Add the new “said to be maintenance free” P drive roller clutch and light the candles of celebration.
For 2017 the differences between the 850 E-TEC “Spring only” MXZX and the “in season” MXZ TNT are the X’s race inspired rack steering and brake, KYB Pro 36 EA rear shock, forward adjustable riser, graphics and the available factory option of Quick Adjust and TS skis.
My 2017 BRP pick? I’ll save a little snomo coin and take the MXZ TNT 850 E-TEC in black please!
POLARIS
Once again I’m about to pick a model whose capabilities exceed anything I intend to or am capable of doing with it and is built tougher than anything I need. Many (maybe even most) snowmobilers regularly select sled models that fall into that very category. People buy XRS’, ProXs and RRs without any real intention of operating them to their fullest potential.
My buddies and I are also guilty. We buy models with superior suspension capability then spend significant effort in seeking out the smoothest trails and destinations possible.
For 2017 the new RUSH XCR with ultra premium Walkers Evans shock package and 1.35” Cobra track really lit my fire. I’ve experienced thousands of miles on the AXYS chassis in the Switchback ProS configuration and loved the experience and performance.
For 2017 the XCR is only offered in the RUSH model, I wish that Polaris had also given us an XCR Switchback option. While nothing earthshaking changed, the sensation of superior calibration on the XCR was inspiring. It was not a rigid or harsh feeling; it was more of a stuck to the surface and contours of the trail feeling. Stable, sure and sensational!
I don’t care if I need to start it with a string, I want one. Limited storage potential YES, but I’ll deal with it. My interest in using it for its intended cross country racing purpose is ZERO, but I want one. It is built tougher and it looks tougher.
I want to feel like the XCR made me feel, every time I hit a trail. It had the same effect on me as my 509 helmets and goggles do. It made me feel younger than I am. Isn’t that what life should be all about?
My 2017 POLARIS best pick? The 800 XCR RUSH sign me up!
ARCTIC CAT
I bet that you expected me to mirror my Yamaha best pick inspiration and select Arctic Cat’s new Thunder Cat 9000 with the same 998cc Genesis Triple cylinder Turbo……..NOPE.
The Thunder Cat is without any doubt an impressive package, but the Cat that really digs its claws into my chest for 2017 is a pure bred Cat.
To me Arctic Cat is the Harley-Davidson of the snowmobile industry with an extremely loyal grass roots following for their unique style of image and performance. Their heritage, brand and appeal remain undeniable.
Arctic Cat’s Suzuki built 800 twin, in my opinion has always felt and sounded exactly like the caged animal ferocity that we associate with both Cat and raw 800 performance. The Cat 800 may not be the fastest or most powerful 800 offered. But the sensation of unrefined, brute force, screaming animal power is vintage Arctic Cat and is inspiring to ride. A unique to the industry heritage is what continues to make Arctic Cats the favorite choice of many.
I strongly considered a 6000 series; Arctic Cat built 600cc CTEC2 for my best pick AC power plant. During my 2017 Snow Shoot experience, I experience inconsistent calibration across several models with the same engine. When the 600 CTEC2 calibration is on “it’s really on “and I love it, but when it’s slightly off it’s not as impressive. The 8000 engine gives me the same performance smile every time.
The handling of my best pick was crisp and easy on the arms in a variety of conditions and temperatures. And the ProCross Slide Action rear suspension with 1.25 RipSaw is a great compliment to the abilities of the AC Fox QS3 shock package.
My pick is a Spring Only model, so hurry if you want one. You can also get it in a 137” length which is totally up to your preference.
My pick comes standard with deeper keel ProCross 6 skis, 11” windshield, ProCross bumper, goggle holder, mid size rear bag, tunnel flares, SnoPro brake lever and electric start.
If the above reasons were not enough, my pick has one of the coolest names in snowmobiling and it looks exactly like a sled with a cool name should look.
MY pick is the 2017 Arctic Cat ZR 8000 El Tigre ES in 129” length
For me the sap always seems to boil down to the sweet result of what sled floats my boat. And the ZR 8000 El Tigre ES really floated my boat for 2017.
