1999 skidoo formula sl
Amsnow
There are two versions of Ski-Dooing that use the same basic "503"engine package. The Formula SL is the barebones version. The Formula Deluxe 500 is the more "uptown" version.
What you get in either package is the veteran Rotax "503" type engine. Actually measuring 497cc, the fan-cooled twin has powered a variety of solo and touring models for Ski-Doo over the years. It was found in the Stratos and Escapade. Its roots go back to the Everest years. Now it isthe largest displacement fan-cooled engine in the Ski-Doo line, where it powers a couple of solo sports sleds as well as a touring and various utility models. As an added twist, Rotax worked its magic on one version to include the nifty Rotax Electronic Reverse system whereby you push a button, the engine slows to nearly zero revs and pops back alive- but churning in the opposite direction. This is the setup used on the new Formula Deluxe 500.For $700 less, you can buy a non-RER version that powers the more basic Formula SL.
Other than the RER feature, the piston-ported engine is essentially the same under either sled's hood. Dual 34mm carbs are standard and should pull easily for most riders. For those of us who actually became acclimated tousing Ski-Doo's primer for cold weather starting, we'll have to revert to flipping the choke lever just as with most other non-Ski-Doo models. Electronic ignition and a two-into-one tuned muffler system complete the basic Rotax"503" setup.
Standard Rotax clutching with a doughnut-shaped rubber cushion modulatesthe engine's vibration to help prolong clutch life. As with other clutchingsetups the Formula gets the total range adjustable drive clutch that canbe tuned in 200 rev increments.
Obvious differences between the two "503" packages is the mid-height windscreen on the Deluxe 500 versus the low unit on the SL. The base S-2000 aluminum chassis is shared by both as is the DSA trailing arm front suspension and SC-10 Sport rear unit. Travel of 7.7 inches up front and10 inches at the rear is the same. The key difference is the use of more expensive gas cell shocks on the Deluxe 500 versus the more basic hydraulicoil shocks on the SL.
You can count on hydraulic disc braking on both '99 "503" sled packages as well. This Brembo-designed self-adjusting brake is very responsive and more than adequate for either version of these fan-cooled sports sleds.
All in all, the choice between the Deluxe and the more basic SL may simply come down to dollars and a sense of wanting the trick new electronic reverse.You can get reverse on the SL, but it's the mechanical kind and dealer installed.So, what's it gonna be? Save money and yank your sled off the trailer or,pay up, push a button and drive off the trailer?
SKI-DOO Formula SL
Overall Height: 44.1 inches
Overall Length: 107.3 inches
Weight: 445 lbs.
Ski Stance: 42 inches
Engine: 497cc fan-cooled, piston port Rotax twin
Exhaust: Tuned muffler
Clutch:
Drive: Cushion-drive TRAC
Driven: Formula
Suspension Travel:
Front: DSA, swing arm, radius rods, sway bar, hydraulic shocks, 7.7 in.
Rear: SC-10 Sport, hydraulic shocks, 10.0 in.
Fuel Capacity: 10.6 gallons
Key Features: Hydraulic disc brake, hand and thumbwarmers, speedo, tach, trip meter, steel skis, low windshield
Retail Price: $4,499