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Ski-Doo 2020— A look at the Main New Features Presented by the Valcourt Manufacturer
If 2020 marks the beginning of a new decade, Ski-Doo could not miss this opportunity to upgrade the Expedition family to the GEN4 platform. Indeed, the models of this snowmobile family, very popular in the northeast of the continent, had not been redesigned for a decade.
Ski-Doo had redefined the world of utility snowmobiles when it revised the Expedition family in 2010
For many people, the upgrade of this family of utility snowmobiles is not a big surprise since many were much more surprised by the fact that the manufacturer made us wait ten years before doing so. The wait was worth it since the 2020 Expedition will meet the expectations of snowmobilers who want a Utility-Sport snowmobile!
According to the manufacturer, the transition of the Expedition to the GEN4 platform will redefine the 20-inch utility line-up in terms of comfort, functionality, and versatility. Since an image is worth a thousand words, here are some of the aspects that were improved in 2020.
The transition of the Expedition 2020 to the GEN4 platform brings several improvements to the snowmobile
Of course, the Expedition driver will enjoy the advantages that made the GEN4 chassis so popular. The more open cockpit, based on Renegade models, allows the pilot to move more quickly as the trail conditions changes. The 122 mm more forward and 28 mm higher driving position gives the driver a better vision that offers him more reaction time to adjust the direction of his vehicle.
Engine and Track Options
The chassis change made possible the integration of its most recent versions of engines, which are more efficient and practical. The Expedition LE is available with the 600R E-TEC, 900 ACE, and 900 ACE Turbo engines and Silent Cobra WT 20x152x1.5 inch track. The SE Expedition is available with the same choice of engines, but with two track options, the Silent Cobra WT or the Silent ICE Cobra WT 1.8-inch. The Expedition Sport is available with the choice of ACE engines: 600 ACE or 900 ACE. Its track is a 16x154x1.5 inch Charger. Finally, the Expedition Xtreme is powered by the 850 E-TEC and is equipped with the 20x154x1.8-inch Cobra WT track.
Note that the Expedition SWT 2020 model remains on the REV-XU platform and is only available in 900 ACE version. Finally, the basic model, the Expedition Sport 550 is still on the REV-XP platform and only offered with the 550 Fan engine.
Easy Shift Transmission
To ensure that the engine power is transmitted to the track on the 20-inch models (LE, SE, and Xtreme), Ski-Doo has designed a new transmission: the Easy Shift. This transmission solves some of the problems that Expedition owners have faced in the past. Indeed, shifting is more natural and the Easy Shift transmission is much quieter. Also, the reverse mode can be activated directly from the handlebars on all Expedition SE, LE and Xtreme models. This is a significant advantage because it lets the driver switch from forward to reverse while keeping both hands on the handlebars.
The brand-new Easy Shift transmission is on the 20-inch models of the Expedition family in 2020
According to the manufacturer, the Easy Shift’s lubrication is optimal, providing it with higher strength while maximizing both durability and long-term reliability.
The Multi-LinQ
It is now possible for owners of 20-inch Expedition snowmobiles to install 16- and 20-inch LinQ accessories. It gives you a multitude of possible configurations using 200 optional accessories. This adds to the great versatility of these models.
The new Multi-LinQ opens countless configuration possibilities
New Digital Gauges
By 2020, all snowmobiles built on the GEN4 platform in the Trail, Utility, Hybrid and Touring segments will be equipped with new digital gauges. Two display sizes will be available, 4.5 inches (11.4 cm) or 7.2 inches (18.3 cm). The flatter angle of the screen of these gauges offers, according to the manufacturer, better visibility in all circumstances. These dials are fully configurable, so the driver can display the information he prefers.
Even if the current digital gauge was very popular with snowmobilers, Ski-Doo is innovating by presenting a new version
A New Summit for Off-Trail “Experts"
To push the limits, Ski-Doo has teamed up with experts in the mountain and off-trail snowmobiling to offer the “Expert” package. Available in 154 or 165-inch versions, this model features several improvements or adjustments that give the snowmobile and its driver all they need to go a little further than before.
Here’s a brief description of what makes Summit X Expert different from other Summits
As we can see, it is not a simple change of graphics here… The first noticeable thing is the shorter tunnel and the absence of a snow guard at the back. This is replaced by a deflector (which Ski-Doo calls light defense). This increases the snowmobile’s capacity in deep snow by eliminating snow clearance restrictions in the rear.
Shorter tunnel and deflector (see arrow)
The second element is the use of KYB HPG Plus shock absorbers which are more rigid at the front. The tMotion suspension features a KYB HPG Plus shock absorber in the center and KYB Pro 36 EA in the rear.
The front of the snowmobile is equipped with a new lightweight ski spindle.
The tMotion is equipped with an adjustable limiting strap as standard. It is, therefore, possible to quickly adjust the snowmobile’s behavior according to the type of trail without tools.
tMotion with adjustable limitation strap
All these changes are excellent, but Ski-Doo has also revised the ergonomics of the cockpit so that the driver is very comfortable in his maneuvers. The “Expert” set has a smaller handlebar with new flexible handguards. The steps have also been redesigned and go all the way to the front to help evacuate snow and reduce the weight of the snowmobile. There is also a lower, shorter, narrower and finally lighter seat called FORTY7c. Carl Kuster designed the seat.
As you can imagine, we are very excited to be able to try out this brand-new addition to the Summit family.
And Now What?
Of course, all these changes in the Ski-Doo line-up in 2020 make us excited. We will have the opportunity to test many Ski-Doo 2020 models in the coming weeks. Visit SledMagazine.com regularly!
In the meantime, you can read the article by Jean-François Leclerc who had the opportunity to do a first test drive of the Expedition Xtreme 2020. You can read his first comments by reading his article (here).
Besides, we invite you to watch the video of his first contact with this model.
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