My First Impression of the Renegade X 900 Ace Turbo
Already more than 1000 kilometers with this snowmobile. I can now share with you my first impressions of the Renegade X 900 Ace Turbo 2019 in collaboration with Mini Mécanik Sport, BRP and SledMagazine.com. I can resume in one word my first impression: wow!
At first, you must adjust to the ITC intelligent accelerator system. It’s much gentler than a 2-stroke snowmobile, but don’t worry, you’ll get used to it quickly. I had the pleasure to try the three modes of the intelligent accelerator. In Sport mode, you feel all the power of the sled; it’s much fiercer. I mainly drove in standard mode, and it is more predictable compared to sport mode. This is a big plus especially at the beginning of the season because we don’t know what we can encounter, waterholes, rock, trees, etc. The eco mode allows the vehicle to drive faster than 70 km. The accelerations are smoother compared to other modes. It's an ideal mode for beginners or when loading into the trailer or pick-up. It is still fun to drive in this mode even for a more experimented driver.
ITC Intelligent Accelerator Mode Control
Regarding driving sensations, I didn’t feel the weight of the 4-stroke engine, although it is 42 lbs heavier than its twin with the 2-stroke engine. I drove mainly in hardened trail conditions, not a lot of snow at the beginning of the season. When I went in deeper snow, the weight was more perceptible, the front of the snowmobile tended to stall compared to a 2-stroke snowmobile. We can really fell the torque of the 4-stroke engine when you accelerate. The front of the snowmobile even tends to lift during sudden starts. We can have fun as if we were driving a 2-stroke snowmobile. Concerning the turbo, there is a small lag in the acceleration recovery, but it is barely noticeable.
With over 1000 kilometers driven so far, it consumes about 14.6 liters per 100 kilometers or 19.3 miles per gallon, which gives an autonomy of about 246 kilometers and if you have the 15-liter auxiliary fuel tank you can go up to 349 kilometers. It is good for a snowmobile of this weight and power. We are talking here of a power of about 150 horsepower at 12 PSI of turbo level pressure.
We are well protected on the sides, but because of its low windshield, it is colder for the upper body. Fortunately, Ski-Doo offers several windshield sizes as an option. A small windshield gives a better appearance, and it looks more aggressive. The hand protectors are quite effective. I can’t wait to see in colder conditions. However, I had to make some minor adjustments, as one of them was higher than the other and protect less depending on your driving position.
As for the controls, we are talking here about an X model snowmobile which comes with a multifunction gauge and handlebar control to adjust the temperature of the handles and heating thumb. The controls are easy to operate and backlit at night. The mechanical reverse gear surprised me a little bit for a vehicle of this price. I would have appreciated an electric back-up like on the Renegade Enduro or the Grand Touring Limited.
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Concerning suspension, I have not found the ideal fit for my driving style yet. I adjusted the snowmobile to position three on the front suspension and position one at the rear. There is still some adjustment missing. It will take me different snow conditions and more kilometers to find the perfect configuration for me until then I go back on the trail.
