first ride 2000 mx z 700

While visiting Ski-Doo HQ in Valcourt we jumped on the MX Z 700 for a quick spin. We had a chance to try the 1999 setup with the SC-10 suspension and also give the new SC-10 II configuration a brief ride.

There is no question that the MX Z 670 HO from last season had a ton of power. We dyno rated it at 129 hp for the Shoot Out. Doo engineers knew that those were some mighty big boots for the new 700 to fill. But, based on our little get-to-know-you ride, we'd venture to say that the new sled will satisfy the true ditch banger. the power is down, but the package is much improved.

For starters, the TMX 40 flat slide carbs make for a much lighter throttle pull than the roundies found on the HO. They also give the engine a snap not found on the older model, so the power delivery is better.

The sled handles a lot better than the HO. The new SC-10 II skidframe is coupled in both directions- front to back and back to front. The result is a smooth ride with some weight transfer, but instead of picking up the skis and running out of control when you hit the gas, the sled rocks back a little then squats down and keeps the skis on the snow. You guessed it, it even corners without the ski squirting up unexpectedly. Albeit, we were only on the factory tuned demo sled for a brief time, but all indications are that this could finally be the flat-cornering Ski-Doo we've been waiting for.

Ergonomically, the 700 is the same as the 600 from 1999. The seat is very sticky and the high rider position makes you feel like you're riding on top of it. Some guys like it, some don't. On the good side, the handlebars give good control in the chop. The stop and go levers are light pulling so you can ride longer without hand cramps.

Overall, the 2000 MX Z 700 should prove to be a strong contender in the tight 700 single pipe performance class. It has good power delivery and solid suspension performance, the two things you want when you're running the ditches.