racer v replica
Amsnow
What really gives the ProXR a Rev "look" is the new seat, which brings the rider three inches closer to the handlebars and sets him three inches higher on the sled. This makeshift "rider forward" arrangement is okay for banging through the deepest moguls, but not as forgiving for day-to-day living. Hardcore riders will like the setup, but the average rider will find it less friendly than the REV.
On the other hand, the Ski-Doo Blair Morgan replica REV is more than a seat and handlebar extension. It is a complete concept that works exceedingly well and is an exceptionally competent snowmobile for the real world.
Like the ProXR, the Rev's Blair Morgan package is a limited edition intended to stimulate spring buyers. Beyond a graphics package, you get 13-inches of rear suspension from the Rev SC-10 III and high pressure gas shocks controlling 9.5 inches of front A-arm suspension. The 800cc Rotax twin is comparable to the Liberty 800. (If you can get the semi-direct injection version of the big Rotax we'd sure recommend it as it's crisper and more responsive than the carbed twin.)
As a concept for 2004, the Rev (pick a Rev) is a huge winner. Ski-Doo's rider-forward concept is a complete concept, not a seat and wishful thinking.
We truly suspect that Polaris may have a better overall rear suspension. This is not a slap at Ski-Doo, but a statement about how the Rev integrates the rider as part of the sled. Ride position is centered in the seesaw action, meaning that you get less butt slap in the rough. You can quickly stand for deep moguls, sit and relax for smooth sections and really hang it out in twisties, as the handlebar to rider position is extremely well coordinated.
Both sleds have all the typical features like handwarmers, etc. But in styling and completion, the Ski-Doo ranks ahead of the Pro XR racer.
As a final note, we will be very surprised if the next generation of Polaris "Rev-killers" comes with trailing arm suspension or attempts to convert a traditional chassis/bulkhead into a rider forward construction. We expect the next Polaris that competes with the Ski-Doo will be even more of a Rev than what Ski-Doo has now. But for now, Polaris has the XR.
Due to its limited production run of early season order only, our advice is to grab one as an investment. But, when we look for a sled to have for the long haul, day after day and mile after mile, there is only one choice: Ski-Doo Rev Blair Morgan "X package."