1998 formula iii 700 triple

Ski-Doo knows how to move you. And we're not just talking engines here.The new lower, sleeker CK3 chassis lets you drive quickly around cornerswith three cylinder power. It's the answer for those MX Z and Formula riderswho demand an upgrade in power but want to retain the middle weight agility of their twin cylinder powered steeds.

Ski-Doo engineering developed the CK3 with two key criteria in mind: raise the level of handling and stability while substantially improving cornering ability. The Quebec-based snowmobile manufacturer has createda very specific chassis and body that accommodates the existing line of600cc, 700cc and 800cc Rotax three-piped triples. It is far superior toanything that could have been accomplished by compromising the balance and handling of the S-2000 MX Z-style chassis with the triples.

The new chassis place the Rotax triples 2.8 inches lower in the chassis and .75 inches further back. This not only lowers the center of gravityand reduces the feeling of weight over the skis, it substantially raisesthe sleds' fun factor. You can actually drive these CK3 models into ANDaround the turns and take full advantage of the Rotax triples' power- whetherthat power comes from the Mach Z 800, the Mach 1 700 or the Formula III600 and single pipe 700 triples.

Many features seen earlier in the season on the MX Zx cross country racer-and continued with the '98 MX Z 670- are seen on the CK3 models. There's a reworked DSA front suspension with "Zx" style unequal-lengthradius rods, which maintain ski position when compressed for zero bump steer,more precise steering ability and reduced scrub. Other ideas seen on thenew CK3 models, but first viewed on the Zx include: spline-type driven clutch,easy-removal airbox (now one piece instead of two on all three cylindermodels) and the attachment of the drive axle to both sides of the tunnel.

This new CK3-based series of models is a very creative blend of the bestsfrom Ski-Doo. You get the best powerplants. You get a new body profile thatis wider than the S-2000, but has the same aerodynamics as the two-cylindermodels. You get recalibrated SC-10 performance suspensions with the acceleration control system. And you get an improved "feel" with these sleds.The seat is redesigned and more rider friendly with an overlap of cushioning on the sides and a reduced front height that lets you move around the saddlemore efficiently. Heck, the rider's footrests are even adjustable up toone inch to suit a wider range of personal styles.

The three cylinder Formula III 700 Triple is styled in passionate purpleslike a Formula III, but comes with a detuned version of the Mach 1 triple.While its three round slide 38mm Mikuni carbs are the same as those usedon the Mach 1, the F-III/700 has a three-into-one exhaust instead of theMach's three individual tuners. The single pipe setup is about 20 poundslighter, less costly and provides a totally different power curve, whichwe feel is much more conducive to overall trail riding.

Of the new CK3 models, Formula III 700 is our fave precisely becausethe engine power is so versatile and responsive at real world trail speeds.Yes, the Mach 1 with its three tuners will be better at top end. But itfeels peakier and seems better suited to long straights or frozen lakes.A good rider on an F-III/700 won't have a problem keeping up with a buddyriding a Mach 1 on the trail.

Interestingly, the CK3 series is not substantially lighter than the modelsit replaces. However, the F-III/700 is 18 pounds lighter overall than theMach 1. The key difference is in the pipes. And it comes in a key area forhandling, over the skis.

Ski-Doo engineers spent the past three and a half years redesigning thebulkhead area to fit the power of the Rotax triples. They also spent seriousefforts in placing that metallic mass where it would work for, and not against,the rider.

When you swing a leg over the saddle of the '98 Formula III 700 you "feel"the differences. With its overall performance feel and the fact that thisis the best handling Ski-Doo triple ever, those riders who moved over toMX Z and twin-cylinder Formula models will start moving back to these triples.Many of those people were tired of getting beat up by their sleds. The CK3offers power and handling - and no brutalization!

1998 Ski-Doo Formula III 700

Overall Height: 45 inches
Overall Length: 109.3 inches
Weight: 534 lbs
 Ski Stance: 41 inches
Engine: 699cc Rotax liquid- cooled triple, reed valve, RAVE
Exhaust: Tuned pipe
Clutch:
Drive: T.R.A.C.
 Driven: Formula cam, on countershaft
Suspension Travel:
 Front: DSA, swing arm, radius rods, sway bar, Motion Control gas shocks, 9.5 inches
 Rear: SC-10 High Performance Motion Control gas shocks, 10.0 inches
Fuel Capacity: 11.1 gallons
Key Features: Hydraulic disc brake, hand and thumb warmers, speedo, trip meter, tach,carbide runners, plastic skis
Retail Price: $6,999
Riding Impressions:  
"The engine is set down in the chassis nice, but it looks like it wouldbe a job to change carb jets."
- Les Pinz, Test Rider