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PriceSki-Doo's Summit wins on price, but this is mostly because the demo sled we had was the base Everest model, not the premium Summit X ($10,999), which would best compare with the Dragon, Sno-Pro and SE packages of the others. Even so, the three 800s are pretty close in price with the Arctic Cat the most expensive 8. The Nytro is even more expensive though as the 162 SE model we tested retails for a whopping $12,599. Then again, you won't be topping off the oil after every ride with the Nytro and you get better fuel efficiency and the ease of electric start.
Overall ImpressionsOur testing showed that the difference between the power, weight and climbing abilities of the three 800s is very close.
In the straight-line course all three posted times within a second of one another, the Summit definitely has a bit of a lead in this category, but the difference between the M8 and Dragon is negligible. The Nytro continues to improve, but the reality is that it's no match for an 800 when pointed straight up a hill. A few less pounds and 15-20 more horsepower and this would be a completely different story.
While the climbing abilities of the three 800s are very similar, the handling characteristics are vastly different. Everyone agrees the handling of the Summit and M8 are worlds apart, but some riders who have more time on the XP chassis will argue its strengths. Those of us who haven't spent as much time on the Summit really struggle to make it work. Its strength definitely is straight-up climbing and in most situations the Summit will climb higher than any of the others in this test. The Summit is very stable in the trails though and most comfortable on the ride out to get to the powder. It's without doubt the most controversial machine of the bunch. Riders either love it, or hate it.
One thing most everyone agrees on though is the Polaris Dragon 800. It seems to do everything well - not outstanding in any one area, but not bad at anything either. Whether it's sidehilling, boondocking, climbing or trail riding, the RMK Dragon does just about everything well.
Meanwhile, the M8's layout and riding position make it an incredibly well balanced sled. This machine is the easiest to roll-up on one ski and lean into the mountain and hold it there. The excellent balance takes this sled into a league of its own in technical terrain. However on the trails the suspension is a bit harsh and tough to steer.
In the right snow conditions the Nytro is a ball to ride and its handling is surprisingly good. The only time you really notice the added weight is when coming downhill where the inside ski can sometime sink into the snow. The cause is two-fold, the Nytro is heavier than the others, but also so much of the Nytro's weight is the engine, all centered in one place, more over the skis than the others.
Guest Riders: Chad Jorgensen, an experienced rider from LCC, and Jodie Phillips, who has been riding 8 years, were our guest test riders.