In order to push the limits, BRP has released its first version of semi-active suspensions for 2022! Designed by KYB, they are dedicated to dealing with the toughest trails around! This is the KYB Smart Shox Pro series. The rear end is equipped with this system of intelligent components while the central shock is a Pro 40 adjustable in compression, well known on previous models. At first glance, the front shock rods and springs are visually impressive due to their size.
Three modes are available and accessible by a simple selector button: Comfort, Sport and Sport + on which is the optimal reaction!
The comfort mode deactivates the solenoid sensors which allow the assistance of the system.
Without going into technical details, the purpose of this article was to evaluate the efficiency and the relevance of the implementation of this technology. The machine under test is a 2022 Renegade 850 X-RS. Smart Shox only appears as an option on a few models, including the Mxz and Renegade (2022-2023) XRS versions, as well as standard on the famous 2022 MACH Z LIMITED EDITION.
Tested on a varied trail run with the 14.5 liter Link canister installed on the tunnel (25 lbs overweight), our test rider was able to test different situations where the benefit of this system was felt. First of all, it is important to mention that these shocks are factory mounted on RAS X front and rMotion X rear components. In addition, Pilot X skids have been part of these configurations since 2021. This upgrade was done because the previous models suffered from a lack of precision in cornering. At the time of these changes, the Motoneiges.ca team was impressed by these modifications.
As far as the rear suspension is concerned, it is definitely the best our rider has ever tested, and he was not forced to collapse completely on very rough roads, even with the system completely inactive. The collapse is progressive and linear so that the rear is not affected by heeling or successive kickbacks when encountering sudden large bumps or a repetition of bumps. The Smart Shox is noticeable when riding aggressively, the difference between Sport and Sport + mode takes a few hundred kilometers before you can tell the difference. However, it remains a major asset in situations where the driver must quickly correct his or her trajectory. For example, if you hit the side of the trail, which is often hard and higher, the snowmobile will inevitably tend to overturn. However, the correction of the external shock provides immediate stability so that the rider will be surprised by the minimal effort required to rebalance. In bumpy areas where the angle of attack is irregular, the Smart Shox system stabilizes the steering and eliminates roll. Performance is enhanced and there is a direct impact on effort and fatigue.
In the past, and for all trail sleds under test, our rider Yves suggested replacing the rear torsion springs with HD springs to increase suspension performance. The ones on the Renegade X-RS with the Smart Shox do not require this attention.
Who is this type of suspension for? The Smart Shox is dedicated to expert riders who want to get the most out of a trail machine. It is also a great opportunity for those who want to ride two-up without going through the sport touring versions and keep a sporty feel. Once again, this is the best performing original suspension and torsion springs Yves has ever evaluated! This is the result of a sharp product that is still intuitive and easy to use. This is the first year that this system is available in the snowmobile segments and there are questions about the durability, reliability and maintenance of such components. Thus, special attention must be paid to the sled sensor (see below) and the hydraulic hose of the rear shock absorber in order to avoid any breakage. Ski-Doo is not in the habit of doing things by halves and the technologies introduced in the last decade have proven to be reliable and in the event of a breakdown, it is always possible to ride in standard mode without sacrificing our ride!
