1989 econo cruisers

SKI-DOO SAFARI SAGA

This sled may get slighted by the public because it is the only one of the four top economy touring machines that doesn't have an independent front suspension. It shouldn't be given short shrift. Bombardier's engineers have done a very nice job with this sled, especially when you consider the limitations and changed perceptions of leafspring skis. Maybe it will have a strut type suspension in the future, but for now, don't underestimate its touring ability.

We had the pleasure of riding this burgundy-colored econo-tourer in British Columbia last Spring. It was a pleasant surprise. The TRS7 rear suspension really smoothed out some excessively bad trails. An Escapade-type strut front end would be nice, but don't forget that the leafsprung front end has 3.5 inches of travel to assist the seven inches of rear travel. The wide 32.3 inch ski stance adds to front end stability, providing a very controlled and surprisingly plush ride for a sled of its price tag.

We've enjoyed the ride of the original MX-type rear suspension. It has two outboard-mounted coil-over-shock dampeners which provide up to seven inches of travel. First used on the original MX, not the newer Formula MX, the suspension is designed for exceedingly plush trail riding. It is not a performance suspension.
And that is why Bombardier has differentiated its two model lines between Formula, for performance, and Safari, for touring. This is a touring suspension. It is virtually identical to the suspension used in the Voyageur. It keeps the 16.5 inch wide track on the snow, delivers a bearing area of 1,043.2 square inches, and has the most travel of any of the four econo-touring sleds in the Indy Sport category.

Its 368cc Rotax twin is also a proven performer. It also powers the '89 Safari Scout. This twin cylinder powerplant has been the backbone of Ski-Doo's rental fleets for years. It, like the other manufacturers' engines, is as reliable as they get. People looking for an economical trail touring machine are looking for consistent performance, not race performance. This engine delivers it.

A single Mikuni 34mm slide valve carburetor helps fuel economy while the power calibrated exhaust helps keep the engine pumping out strong amounts of torque. A two-ramp "Instant Torque" Bombardier-built clutch delivers the power to the track.

This is one of the economy touring models that comes standard with electric start. The upscale Yamaha Ovation Deluxe does also. It's optional with the competition.

Saga buyers also get a high beam indicator, oil injection indicator and speedometer as standard. A tachometer, heated handlebars, a higher windshield, carbide ski runners and hitch kit are some of the available options.

Ski-Doo enthusiasts who enjoyed the old Safari 377, should really enjoy the new Safari Saga. It is the best of the "377" and the more expensive Voyageur. The powerplant is a proven performer. It has all the standard technical merits of the competition - CD ignition and oil injection. And it has a formidable seven inches of rear suspension travel. It should prove to be a very good value for Ski-Doo riders who want to enjoy economical touring this winter.