Earlier this season, I had the immense privilege of being invited by Ski-Doo to try out the 2020 snowmobiles. With the arrival of the fourth edition of the REV platform in 2017, it was evident that Ski-Doo was about to renew the very popular 20-inch tracked Expedition model with the new REV GEN 4 chassis. After building a reference base with a 2019 model on a REV-XU chassis, it only took me a few seconds to see how much the new configuration improved the driving experience in a very significant way. For Ski-Doo, the utility category is important, and it is evident that the Valcourt manufacturer’s goal was to produce the best line-up of utility snowmobiles in the industry. The goal was achieved!
Changes for 2020
Expedition SE
The main difference in the Expedition line-up for 2020 is the arrival of the GEN 4 platform for the LE, SE and Xtreme models. Many of the platform’s components are the same as for models with 16-inch chassis. The most significant difference is the width of the panels, which are designed to accommodate the brand-new “Easy shift” transmission. The front panels were also adapted to provide optimal cooling for these models. All versions of the 20-inch Expedition models have a front radiator with a fan, even models with 2-stroke E-TEC engines. Moreover, all models in the Expedition line-up come with an electronic reverse as standard, allowing you always to keep your hands on the handlebars.
With the new configuration, Ski-Doo’s designers wanted to give an even sportier look to these models. Especially for the Xtreme version which has a front grid like the GEN4 models with extended design and 900 ACE Turbo engine. The four main Rotax engines are available in the new Expedition line-up. The 600R E-TEC, 900 ACE, and 900 ACE Turbo are available in LE and SE versions. As for the Expedition Xtreme model, it is now powered by the very powerful Rotax 850 E-TEC engine. The SE model, available only in spring, is also equipped with air suspension and a huge cargo box. The presence of tracks with “Silent Track” system is another good element, which significantly reduces noise during your rides. The LE and SE models are equipped with DS-2 skis.
Xtreme Expedition
The Xtreme model is the most eye-catching model in the Expedition series. With the changes made in 2020, Ski-Doo’s team wanted to bring this model into an even more off-trail configuration. The new model is 30 pounds lighter than the previous version. The track is 154 inches long and has 1.8-inch studs. The handguards are also flexible, and a retaining handle is also installed on the handlebars. This model is equipped with the DS-3 skis, the same as on the Summit. The look of the Expedition Xtreme model also has everything to please off-trail snowmobilers as well as Summit and Freeride customers.
Accessories
Beyond the technical specifications of the new models in the Expedition line-up, there is an essential element to consider, which is the incredible number of accessories that will be available for the 20-inch models. All models are equipped with a new “Multi-LinQ” rear plate that can support all LinQ accessories in the existing line-up, in addition to a Cargo box. For 2020 Ski-Doo will offer 25 new accessories specially designed to be used with the Expedition models. Loading capacity has also been increased with the new configuration.
Driving Experience
On the test day, I had the opportunity to test the Expedition models in the four versions with Rotax engines. From the start, it is evident that the Xtreme model is the one that will attract the most interest from off-trail snowmobilers. The combination of the 850 E-TEC engine and an aggressive 154 by 1.8-inch track makes this snowmobile highly performant on and off the trail. Having tried it, I can confirm that this snowmobile is extremely fun to drive. For LE and SE models, they also work very well with 900 ACE and 900 ACE Turbo engines. For me, my favorite during the tests was the Expedition LE model with 600 R E-TEC engine, especially for its low weight and very impressive performance. The fact that the panels are wider and the presence of a large windshield on the LE and SE versions provides excellent protection against the wind. However, the most important element for me was the performance of these trail models. After driving a 2019 model on a REV-XU chassis, it is evident that the 2020 versions on a GEN 4 chassis can be driven in a much sportier way on trails. The off-trail performance is also remarkable, allowing snowmobilers to go even further. The rear suspension of these models remains the SC-5U. So, these models offer an incredible combination of performance, both on trails and off the trail.
Expedition LE
For more information on the Expedition 2020 of Ski-Doo, we invite you to watch a video made during our tests.
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We also encourage you to visit your BRP dealer and www.ski-doo.com.
