Once again, at summertime, we visited the dealers to chat with the maintenance managers and the mechanics teams. The goal of our conversations was to identify the snowmobiles that we could call our best pre-owned recommendations.
As each year when we do so, we must keep in mind that if a snowmobile is not on this short list, that does not mean it is not a good buy. On the contrary ! But the models we suggest are the ones that are particularly outstanding.
Also, we must remain watchful. A snowmobile that has been well-maintained by its previous owner will almost always be a better buy than a snowmobile that has been untended.
So, here are for each manufacturer the two models that stand apart in our search for the best pre-owned snowmobiles – as well as for the 2009 model year than the 2010 model year. Let us remember our rather simple criteria : they are the models that gave the least problems all while being interesting and worthwhile with use.
For Arctic Cat 2009 models, we selected the F570, which is a sport machine with a 2-stroke 565 cc fan cooled engine, and the Bearcat Z1 XT, which is a utility/trail machine powered by a twin cylinder 4-stroke 1056 cc engine completely renewed in 2009.
Among the 2010 models, we chose the M8 HCR, a mountain snowmobile tracked by a twin cylinder 2-stroke 794 cc engine and that is outstanding by its forward rider positioning, perfect for aggressive riding. Lastly, we also chose the TZ1 Turbo LXR, a touring sled equipped with an easily detachable passenger seat and with a wide variety of adjustments of the rider positioning.
For BRP 2009 models, first we selected the GSX and GTX 550 F. The GTX is the 2-up inexpensive touring edition while the GSX is what we could call the sport coupé of the family. They both share the same mechanical features and qualities. They are the snowmobile rental favorite machines; this says a lot about their reliability and good conditions.
For the 2010 models, our attention fell on the MXZ and the GSX equipped with the Rotax 800R engine. They are machines with great versatility. For the snowmobilers looking for a 2-up vehicle, the Grand Touring LE and SE with the surprising 3-cylinder 4-stroke 1200 cc engine are trustworthy.
For Polaris 2009 models, we must mention the FST Touring Turbo 4-stroke, a wonderful rather luxuous touring snowmobile. The 4-stroke engine is turbocharged and it gives an instant response as well as a sustained one. The IQ Dragon Turbo 4-stroke, a performance snowmobile also equipped with a 4-stroke turbocharged responsive as wished engine, is also a very good choice.
Among the 2010 models, we have the essential Rush 600, a snowmobile based on an innovative rear geometry and powered by a twin-cylinder Cleanfire 2 that has proved itself. And there is also the Trail Touring, a touring and trail snowmobile completely based on the Polaris technologies that have proved itself since many years. Moreover, this last model is available at a very affordable price.
Finally, for Yamaha 2009 models, we selected the Bravo 250, a lightweight machine but made for hard work in all conditions, and the RS Venture TF, a tourism model powered by a 3-cylinder 4-stroke 1049 cc engine, the same one than we find on many performing models of this manufacturer.
When we look at the Yamaha 2010 models, the trail snowmobilers can trust the popular Apex line. Indeed, the different Apex models are powered by the powerful Genesis 150FI engine, which is known to be reliable throughout the industry.
For the utility snowmobile fans, we notice right away the VK 540, a rather retro-looking snowmobile made for hard work. This model is tracked by a 2-cylinder 2-stroke, fan-cooled engine that has the reputation to make a tireless machine out of it.
Not easy to choose.
As we repeat it each year, the important thing in selecting a pre-owned snowmobile, is to clearly define your needs. Then, you take a look at all the models that fulfill these needs while being watchful for the general condition of the snowmobile and the clues that will tell you if it has been well-maintained or untended.
Finally, the best buy is the one that will satisfy you the most.
