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Finally, a true Race Renegade
It’s no secret that Ski-Doo’s MX Z X-RS has been an AmSnow favorite for years. After all, it was named American Snowmobiler’s “Sled of the Year” in MY2014. So you can imagine our excitement when the black cover was removed from a 2015 137-inch Renegade with the letters ‘X-RS’ emblazoned on the side panel.
With ever-growing numbers of consumers moving into the “crossover” market, it was a no-brainer for the folks in Valcourt to bring more rider-specific, longer-tracked packages to this market segment. Not only have they brought the race-oriented X-RS package (Spring Buy only) to this category, but they’ve added new features on several models including handguards, handlebar controls, iTC and new colors.
The X-RS package is designed for the hardcore enthusiast searching for the features and feel of Ski-Doo’s RS snocross machine. Built on the familiar REV-XS RS chassis with r-Motion suspension and the Rotax 800R E-TEC engine, the new Renegade X-RS package also features the new RAS 2 front suspension, adding stability and control in the big bumps, combined with KYB Pro 40 piggyback racing shocks.
New transparent handguards (ready for an industry-first LED accent light option) and a Sunburst Yellow/Fusion Red color scheme will snap a few necks as it goes down the trail in 2015.
We’ve been longing, asking, and lobbying for a 1.5-inch track on crossovers for a while now, and the X-RS delivers! It brings a 15x137x1.5 RipSaw track standard. An optional 1.25-inch Ice Ripper XT track is available for those riding primarily on hard pack or ice.
The 15-inch-wide track is new to the Renegades for 2015. As the more trail-oriented of the Renegade models, it comes standard on the X-RS, X package, Adrenaline and Sport models. We think it will suit those riders who are aggressive on-trail just fine with improved cornering and quicker acceleration to top speed. We think other OEMs missed the boat by not offering the 1.5 lug track, instead opting for longer lugs that don’t as easily allow consumers to stud tracks, and diminish top speed and maneuverability.
Another Spring Buy is the Renegade X, available in the REV-XS or REV-XR platforms. New in 2015 is the RAS 2 front suspension for both. The XS is available with the 600 H.O. E-TEC or the 800R E-TEC and comes with the option of a 1.25-inch RipSaw or Ice Ripper XT. The XR is equipped with a 1200 4-TEC 4-stroke delivering up to 18 mpg and the RipSaw 1.25-inch track. Optional for both is the rMotion Quick Adjust system.
In 2015, the Renegade Adrenaline uses the RAS2 front suspension, a 15x137x1.25-inch RipSaw track, new Catalyst Grey/Race Orange coloring and four engine options including the 800R E-Tec, 600 H.O. E-TEC, 1200 4-TEC and now the 900 ACE. The 900 ACE engine has 90 hp and fantastic fuel economy (up to 23.3 mpg), but also adds the rotating throttle control we mentioned earlier that can be positioned as preferred, including as a finger throttle.
The Sport rounds out the more trail-oriented Renegades. The 600 ACE engine and its industry-leading 27.7 mpg combines with the REV-XS platform in 2015 and gets the iTC which can rotate to a finger throttle. A Carbureted 600 engine makes its debut on this sled in 2015 in the REV-XP version of the Renegade Sport.
No need to worry my boondocking friends, the Ski-Doo minds behind the Renegades haven’t forgotten you! In 2015 the Backcountry and Backcountry X (Spring Buy only) keep their 16-inch-wide tracks, but are updated with FlexEdge technology. Both sport a 137-inch rMotion rear suspension with two rear wheels in 2015. They also get the new RAS 2 front suspension. The added 20mm of ground clearance will be very popular with these sleds! Both versions are also equipped with the Summit’s REV-XM running boards with aggressive boot grips and better snow evacuation for romps in the deep powder.
The Backcountry is powered by your choice of the 800R E-TEC or the 600 H.O. E-TEC 2-strokes. The Backcountry X features the 800R E-TEC and HPG Plus R shocks with rebound adjustment up front and KYB Pro 36 rear shock with Easy Adjust high-low-speed single knob compression adjustments. The X adds race-style brake pads, a multi-function gauge cluster, a race-look mid-windshield and new transparent handguards.