What's new on the hottest 2009 snowmobiles? That's too much
info to list in one magazine. We've taken a closer look at a few of the sleds
that freeriders are more likely to be interested in. What's new? Take a look.
The 2009 Ski-Doo MX ZX 600 HO E-Tec (now in the Rev XP
chassis) features lightweight Kayaba HPG clicker shocks, a 15x121x1.25 RipSaw
track, standard hand guards, integrated J-hooks and the all-new
direct-injection 600 E-Tec engine. Don't be fooled by the high-tech engine-it
easily runs with previous carbed models. Also available in Adrenaline (base
model) and Renegade (crossover) versions.
The 2009 Ski-Doo Summit Everest 600 HO E-Tec is the
first-year version of a 600 Summit XP. The XP chassis replaced the Rev chassis
on last year's Summit
800 and now completes the lineup (only the Summit Fan remains in the Rev
chassis). The 600 HO E-Tec is a potent engine package with ultra-smooth
throttle movement and broad power. We suspect this means that 2009 will be the
last year the 600 carbureted engine will be offered.
What's new on the 2009 Polaris Assault RMK? Everything,
beginning with the targeted consumer. The Assault is part of the RMK lineup,
but if you're a deep snow boondocker, you want to look at the Dragon or base
model RMK. But if you are a freerider at heart who attacks big holes and square
jump faces instead of braking for them, then the Assault belongs in your
garage. It has the best hard-core suspension package ever offered on a
mass-produced factory snowmobile. If it's tough enough for Randy Sherman
(cover), trust us, it's tough enough for anybody.
The 2009 Polaris 800 RMK Shift (available also in base RMK
and Dragon models) is a sledhead's dream. For a very reasonable price ($9,499),
you get all the guts of an RMK-the 800 Cleanfire twin, IQ IFS front suspension,
Sidehiller 2 skis, Freeride seat and IQ Raw chassis-complete with most of the `09
upgrades, like the front bumper and bellypan. What don't you get? The ProTaper
bars, Walker Evans shocks and a longer track. Oh, and graphics.
Yamaha's 2009 Nytro XTX is a hit with any blue-skinned
sledder. Deep snow guys appreciate its 15x144x1.25 RipSaw track while trail
racers will like its 41.3-inch ski stance with revised front suspension
geometry. Everyone likes the taller handlebars with J-hooks and the 130 hp
Genesis 130FI four-stroke makes snowmobiling a whole new sport. We like its
upright riding position and highly-flickable chassis and feel. The term `not
bad for a thumper' has lost its validity.
What's new on the 2009 Yamaha Apex MTX? There are two
graphics packages: Team Yamaha blue/white and Yamaha black with flames. There
is no SE version this year, which means both versions get reverse,
high-pressure gas SOQI shocks with new valving and updated rear suspension
shock valving.
The 2009 Arctic Cat F8 Sno Pro has a few new features. The
biggest on the list are ACER, Arctic Cat's new electronic engine reverse that
cuts 8 lbs. off the `09 F8. The F8 also features the cool Slide Action rear
suspension and infinite rider position technology.
What's new on the 2009 M1000? Take notes and write fast: New
telescoping steering post, new rear tunnel close-off assembly with 11-light LED
taillight, new rear bumper and snowflap, new tunnel taper and running board
design, revised Float rear suspension with new lightweight slide rails, new
A-arm bushings, new ECM mapping, new Power Claw track, reinforced tunnel
stampings and new color options.