Since the partnership began between BRP and SledMagazine.com for the long term trials, I had the opportunity to test 8 Ski-Doo models from 2006 to the last season. Probably due to a combination of factors, we did not test any 4-stroke Rotax engine. So, I am very excited to begin the 2014 season on a snowmobile that is very attractive to touring fans, the 2014 Renegade Adrenaline ACE 900.
Mounted on the REV-XS chassis that comes from the XP chassis, the Renegade lineup is now strongly settled in the market and offers many different models. For our tests, our model is equipped with electric start and mechanical reverse, two standard features of the 4-stroke segment. In the past years, I rode models with deluxe gauge and wide screen between dials. The standard analog gauge with display of the Adrenaline seems less attractive even if the dials are as easy to read. We know what comfort to expect from the rMotion rear suspension, especially with the 137 Ripsaw track. Even so, we will check out carefully the front-rear balance of our machine with the additional weight of its 4-stroke.
Great attention to detail has been brought to the XS platform : the attachment system of the side panels, the ergonomics of the electric controls, the LinQ system and its pre-perforated holes on the rear tunnel. These are only a few examples showing how Ski-Doo took great care of details. Again this year, everybody agrees about the looks. The full gloss black with some yellow pieces remains a Ski-Doo classic but it is still very effective. Along with standard equipments, Ski-Doo people had a nice surprise for us as many LinQ products will equip our trial model : tunnel bag, fuel caddy, adjustable backrest for 2-up seat. In fact, we installed these products ourselves, as suggested by BRP representatives, and we will talk about it in a future article.
Now, let’s talk about the main attraction, the long-awaited 4-stroke Rotax engine that delivers 90 HP with its 3 cylinders of 900 cc. With all the latest technologies of a snowmobile engine, this descendant of the ACE 600 is supposed to impress us on many aspects. First, the silent but sport side of this motorization is a major element presented by the manufacturer last spring.
Also, BRP promises a fuel consumption up to 10 l / 100 km or 23 mpg on ECO mode. Why on ECO mode ? Because this ACE (Advanced Combustion Efficiency) engine offers 3 driving modes : Eco, Standard, Sport. You can switch from one to another while riding simply at the push of a button; as it is fully controlled by electronics, the engine responds immediately.
These modes are used to optimize the fuel consumption or the performance according to the pilot’s needs. This is also possible thanks to the industry’s first electronic throttle called iTC (intelligent Throttle Control). The throttle is not connected to the engine with the usual cable anymore, but via electronic pulses.
Also, the Learning Key system is available in order to limit the top speed of the machine riden by beginners, for example. For more information on this new engine, please read the article written by my colleague Stéphane Miville at www.sledmagazine.com/actions/page?docId=6565
