At Ski-Doo, the evolution of platforms is like clockwork. In fact, the manufacturer is used to introducing new chassis every 5 or 6 years. In 2017, the REV Gen4 platform was announced and 6 years later, Ski-Doo innovates once again with the introduction of the REV Gen5.
While the REV Gen5 is used for trail and mountain snowmobiles, it seems that this evolution will have more impact in the off-trail world.
Here’s a summary of the benefits this new chassis offers:
- 8 cm narrower at running board height
- Narrower and more compact design
- LED headlights
- Up to 16 lbs lighter
- Revised air intake system
- New HVAC cooling system
- New engine frame with 4th engine mount
- New easier to remove drive axle
- Easier access for maintenance
- Redesigned and lighter rear suspension
- Redesigned and lighter tracks
- New DS4 skis (Expert package only)
- New adjustable brake lever
- Completely redesigned electronic architecture to simplify connectivity for the most advanced platform in the snowmobile world
- 10.25″ color touchscreen display with optional BRP Connect
Now let’s take a closer look
The Gen5 chassis is 8 cm (3.1 in.) narrower in front of the running boards. The beveling angle of the running boards towards the rear that was present on the Gen4 is no longer there. So the width remains the same over a good portion of the running boards (30.43 inches).
For the panels, we can see that Ski-Doo has reduced the width by 51mm on the left side compared to 25mm on the right side. This is due to an all-new guard around the pulleys and a rearrangement to optimize ventilation of the pulleys and the belt.
Of course, a narrower frame makes it easier to ride on the side of the mountain and reduces friction from the snow.
Reducing snow infiltration in the engine compartment
Ski-Doo has redesigned the position of the air intakes to reduce the possibility of snow infiltration when riding in deep powder. In fact, the air intake located on the front of the Gen4 is no longer there.
The air inlets have been repositioned on the side and above the console. These are more protected from branches or other objects that could damage them. Also, it is easier to remove snow that could accumulate when driving in deep snow.
New 4-point engine mount
The new chassis also includes a new engine mounting system. It includes 4 attachment points compared to 3 on the Gen4. This new system allows for better vibration absorption. In addition, it ensures a better alignment of the pulleys reducing the risk of overheating. This will definitely have a positive impact on the life of the belts.
Speaking of belts, Ski-Doo engineers have made several improvements to the ventilation of the clutch system. First, a separate air inlet is now present on the panel covering the pulleys. The air is, therefore, cooler, optimizing the cooling of the clutches and the belt. The open guard and fins on the driven pulley help force the air to circulate. All these improvements will also help the durability of the belt since it will operate in lower temperatures.
tMotion X suspension
Completely redesigned in 2023, the new tMotion X includes 90% new components. Its new geometry increases its performance while reducing its weight by 1.25 kg (2.75 lbs). It also offers more travel.
The front arm is 13 mm longer and the rear arm has been repositioned to better control weight transfer. These modifications also increase the capacity in 25 mm bumps.
Finally, the tMotion X uses stronger, lighter, rubber-free rear wheels, a new aluminum rear axle, and a unique new rear arm mount that eliminates the need for an axle and makes maintenance easier.
tMotion XT Suspension (Expert Package only)
The Summit X with Expert Package features a tMotion XT fixed rear arm with a new PowderMax X-Light track with full-width stems for riders willing to sacrifice a little bit of tilt to get an even more stable and predictable ride on particularly technical terrain, especially on mountainsides.
The tMotion XT with fixed rear arm has the same benefits as the tMotion, and is available with an adjustable limiter strap that, for 2023, increases the adjustment range (50 mm instead of 30 mm).
3.0″ PowderMax X-Light Track with FlexEdge
The new 3.0″ PowderMax X-Light with FlexEdge weighs 4 lbs. less than the previous version. It increases both track speed and traction. Its profile extends to the edge to maximize its 16-inch width.
3.0″ PowderMax X-Light Track (without FlexEdge)
The new 3.0″ PowderMax X-Light track is 2.6 lbs (1.17 kg) lighter than the REV Gen4 FlexEdge. This also allows it to improve its speed and traction. It also uses a full-width tread pattern with studs that extend to the edges of the track. What makes it special is that it has full-width shanks that eliminate the lateral flex found on the FlexEdge. This will increase the precision, stability and predictability of the Expert package snowmobiles.
New Pilot DS 4 skis
Ski-Doo introduces the new Pilot DS 4 skis, which have a 35 mm forward keel and a redesigned shape to increase lift in the rear. According to the manufacturer, the driver gets better stability on the side of the mountain because the ski will stay flattered. In addition, we should notice better stability on compact snow since the skis will no longer tend to wobble.
Adjustable brake lever
To meet the needs of drivers, Ski-Doo is introducing an adjustable brake lever in 2023. This means that the brake lever can be adjusted to the position of your choice. This adjustable lever is offered on the Summit X with Expert Package as well as on the Freeride.
Storage box
The new storage box offers a volume of 3.5 liters. You can easily put several items in it, like a pair of Goggles and spare gloves for example… Standard storage on a snowmobile, you can never have enough!
That concludes this summary of the features and improvements that the REV Gen5 platform offers to mountain snowmobilers.
Of course, our reviewers who will be attending the Snowshoot in a few days will be able to try it out. You can read their comments and observations on Motoneiges.ca. It’s a date!
To see all the 2023 models, here is the Ski-Doo website.
To learn more about 2023 Ski-Doo lineup
