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But let's get real here, the smaller LE is the model that better competes with the Yamaha and Cat, on price. It too delivers spot-on handling, a low center of gravity and the best standard skis in the business, the Pilot 5.7. These babies bite in the corners and rarely dart.
However, we still feel the GSX performs best with the 4-TEC on board, there's little bump-steer and twitchiness as the heavier sled stays better planted in the turns. We do feel a little more tail wagging on the GSX than the others in this group, maybe 1.25-inch lugs would help some. We feel we can be more aggressive coming out of a turn with either the Vector or Z1 when trying to keep up with younger, or faster, buddies.
While we like the air-controlled ride on the SE, the HPG-VR center shock does a decent job too. There's little bottoming in choppy trails, the SC-5 suspension providing 16 inches of travel.
Throttle response is better from the E-TEC, but still solid with the heavier 4-TEC 4-stroke. Gas mileage last winter was excellent though on the E-TEC and good on the 4-TEC. We got 16.69 mpg with the E-TEC in a Renegade and 14.28 mpg with the 4-stroke in an MXZx.
Even on the LE and Sport models we like the GSX's good seat grip and moderately tall windshield and mirrors. Electric start and push-button reverse are standard on the LE. Plus you have two engine choices.