For the sixth consecutive year, I have the immense privilege of conducting long-term testing of a Ski-Doo snowmobile. This trial is done in collaboration with Les Motoneiges Géro, a BRP dealer in Saint-Jean-de-Matha. When discussing the test model for the 2024 season, my first choice was naturally a Renegade model with a 900 ACE Turbo R engine, considering its evolution towards the new REV Gen5 platform. The Renegade X version is an extremely popular package among snowmobilers due to its performance and because it’s more affordable than the X-RS version. The X version is also a model more oriented towards trails than racing. Here’s a summary of the key elements of the 2024 Renegade X model with the 900 ACE Turbo R engine that I’ll be closely monitoring throughout the season.
REV Gen5 Platform
A major innovation for Ski-Doo in 2024, the new REV Gen5 platform now evolves within the lineup of 4-stroke engine models. In terms of the attachment points for the front and rear suspensions, the REV Gen5 compares to the Gen4. However, there are several significant improvements that enhance the driving experience. According to our discussions with BRP’s technical teams, the REV Gen5 offers an optimized design allowing better belt cooling, with an air intake on the top of the left panel instead of drawing in warmed air from the engine compartment.
The soundproofing of the snowmobile is also optimized with panels in the engine compartment. I find the styling of the Gen5 even more attractive than the previous one. Once seated on the 2024 Renegade X, I find that the angle of the panels provides a better view of the trail. A very significant advantage of the new platform is the integration of standard LED headlights.
900 ACE Turbo R Engine
The 900 ACE Turbo R engine returns for a 3rd consecutive season as the most powerful engine in the Ski-Doo lineup with its 180 HP. For this test, I have two points of reference: my evaluation of the 2022 Mach Z with the same engine, as well as last year’s test of the 850 E-TEC engine. I’m curious to see if the 2024 version performs as well as the 2022 model. Also, will I miss the performance and lightness of the E-TEC?
I mainly sled with colleagues who have ACE-powered models. Therefore, I’ll be attentive to the fuel consumption of the 2024 Renegade X to see if, at similar cruising speeds, the engine’s fuel consumption is higher.
Front and Rear Suspensions, and Skis
The 2024 Renegade X is equipped with a combination of shocks that meet the expectations of the most demanding snowmobilers. At the front, there’s the RAS X suspension, boasting 9.6 in. of travel and equipped with HPG Plus shocks. At the rear, we find the rMotion X suspension, offering 11.5 in. of travel. The rear suspension also features HPG Plus shocks in the centre and KYB Pro 36 EA-3 shocks at the rear. After two seasons with snowmobiles equipped with Smart-Shox, I’m curious to evaluate the performance of the suspensions during full days of riding and in changing conditions. We replaced the rear springs on our snowmobile to better suit the test rider.
A suspension cannot be as effective without high-performance skis. Therefore, the 2024 Renegade X is equipped with Pilot X skis. These are renowned for their performance, stability, and anti-darting effect.
Instrumentation and Controls
The 2024 Renegade X I am testing is equipped with a 7.2-inch digital display dial and the new control module on the left side of the handlebar. I already have some experience with this new module since it’s similar to what was on my snowmobile last winter. Therefore, I’m curious to see how it performs during a ride. I noticed that the module only has one button to control both the handlebars and the heated throttle lever according to a proportional adjustment rule. In the past, these controls were independent. In this new configuration, could this potentially create challenges for the rider? That remains to be seen…
The ICE Ripper XT Track
Available as an option with the 2024 Renegade X, we have once again chosen the 1.25-inch ICE Ripper XT track. This track offers a significant advantage in performance and safety on the trail, especially during turns, while braking, or on icy terrain. The ICE Ripper XT track, with its pre-moulded studs, typically provides the best compromise between a studded track and a non-studded model in terms of durability, performance, and safety. With the sometimes-marginal trail conditions often found in southern Quebec, I believe an ICE Ripper XT track is truly essential. I’ll be able to assess this aspect again this winter.
Riding Experience
All the aforementioned elements influence the vehicle’s dynamics and form a whole that can be summarized in an overall riding experience. I have been snowmobiling regularly for over 30 years and have experienced the entire evolution of the Ski-Doo lineup since the models of the 1980s. My perspective for this test, as both a test rider and a columnist, truly embodies that of a demanding and experienced snowmobiler seeking a high-performance machine. Additionally, someone who appreciates the best engine and suspension technologies for regular trail use.
With the trails opening rather late this season, it’s too early to provide my first impressions of the 2024 Renegade X. However, it’s evident that the season will become even more interesting as the kilometres add up on the odometer.
In conclusion, I would like to once again thank our partner, Les Motoneiges Géro, for their collaboration in this long-term test. I invite you to get in touch with them and visit their dealership for all your Ski-Doo and Can-Am off-road product needs.
I also invite you to watch the video on the ultimate Ski-Doo 2024 experience, filmed during the assembly and delivery of the 2024 Renegade X that will be used in this long-term test.
