Top 3: Off-trail snowmobiles for 2018
Enthusiasm for off-trail snowmobiling has continued its rise, and the success of this type of machine is likely attributable to its aggressive appearance, powerful engines, and especially to its capacity to climb terrain that most would think unreachable. Year after year, manufacturers seek to ameliorate their offerings in this niche market. Here are my top 3 off-trail snowmobiles for 2018. Bring on the snow!
Position 1: Polaris Pro-RMK 800
This year once more the manufacturer proposes its collection of RMK mountain snowmobiles. All the snowmobiles from this large family come paired with the excellent AXYS frame. The rigidity, lighter weight, and especially the general balance of the AXYS frame provides a real advantage that pushes this snowmobile to the forefront of this list.
The Pro-RMK 800, part of this product line, is an exceptional machine with its powerful 800CC CleanFire 2-stroke engine, a selection of tread lengths (155, 163, and 174 in), and a well-calibrated, adjustable suspension made for literally swallowing snow.
Other than new color options, there are no major changes in store for 2018. Nonetheless, this machine is the lightest on the market and performs amazingly. In 2017, Polaris had improved its offering by adding 174 in treads. Having personally tested these oversized treads, I can attest that the feel of the ride remains excellent and does not become a nuisance. The driving is comparable to that of the 163 in tread, but with the extra bite that comes with the additional 11 inches. The result is a vehicle that is king of the mountain, which is perfect, since its name is, in fact, Rocky Mountain King or RMK!
Position 2: Ski-Doo Summit X 850
New as of 2017, the Summit X 850 offers the 4th generation platform and the 850cc E-TEC 2-stroke engine, a highly competent combination that delivers an out of the ordinary performance and sensational driving experience. The version that interests us is the Summit X since it can be ordered in 2018 with a tread kit of 154, 165, and now 175 in.
The new features for 2018 relate mainly to the new SHOT system. This system stores energy, permitting the driver to rapidly start-up the engine after a full stop without the usual weight constraint seen with conventional start-up systems, saving 20 lbs in the process while also benefiting from an alternative start-up system. The most salient feature of this vehicle is its ergonomic design geared toward the pilot’s needs. The driving experience is very intuitive and the driver quickly gains a sense of complicity with the vehicle. Perfect for climbing any mountain!
Position 3:
For the third position, I was unable to choose only one model since I love the new Arctic-Cat M8000 just as much as the Yamaha Sidewinder M-TX. That’s why they both share third place on my list.
Yamaha Sidewinder M-TX
Different from the other machines, the Sidewinder M-TX is in a separate class due to its 4-stroke engine, generous dimensions, and heavier weight. Nonetheless, this ride manages extremely well since its 200 horsepower engine and its 130 lbs outrageous torque provide all the energy necessary to reach the summit at full force.
For 2018, Yamaha enlarged (i.e., doubled) its mountain snowmobile models and configurations in order to satisfy all customer needs. In addition, it’s now possible to purchase very aggressive treads 162 in long and with 3 in paddles, which will give you the traction necessary to transmit the Sidewinder’s power onto the terrain and savagely propel the machine.
The coming year also brings a new, lower angle to the treads and the possibility to bloc the first rear suspension shock absorber. The result is sublime as it permits the driver to quickly leave the snow behind and float atop of it within a few seconds.
With such a pedigree, it’s not surprising that the Yamaha Sidewinder M-TX made this list. This machine can achieve impressive feats with its prodigious mechanics that never fail, even in high altitudes. This is a notable advantage over the 2-stroke engine.
However, the Yamaha is really in its ideal environment when in presence of large amounts of snow on an open terrain. With its larger size and weight, maneuverability quickly becomes an exhausting task in tighter paths.
Arctic-Cat M8000
At first glance, the Arctic Cat M8000 hasn’t changed much. However, 2018 will bring with it a new 800CC C-TEC 2-stroke engine. Having been reviewed in detail, this engine was revised in order to deliver better torque at high and low rpm. In addition, it consumes up to 30% less oil. You will find it provides all the power needed for your acrobatics.
In 2018 you will also see the new Ascender platform with a more rigid frame, running boards narrower by 1 in, treads with 9.7° lowered approach angle, and an overall profile 10% narrower for improved side-hill performance and for climbing out of deep snow.
The driving features have been reworked to be more ergonomic resulting in a stronger driving experience for the pilot. Considering these ameliorations, the general behavior of this vehicle is more maneuverable, agile, and communicative. This ride will permit you to push your capabilities more and more at each outing.
Conclusion
This year again, snowmobile manufacturers focused much of their efforts on a line of products that has been enjoying great success for over a decade. Numerous modifications are made year after year, and all of these machines are capable of spectacular off-trail prowess. All that is left to do is to decide which one will be yours, a difficult task with all of these hyper competent machines to choose from. Good luck!
