skidoo tweaks its 440 for 2004

 With the REVolutionary 440 sled introduction last year, Ski-Doo has stuck mostly with the same and chosen to "upgrade" their MX Zx 440 LC race sled rather than reinvent it. Most improvements were aimed at the outcome of durability, lighter weight, powertrain and holeshot performance.

The biggest change for yellow is the completely new clutches. The primary clutch is a lighter weight TRA III, and the secondary is TEAM Industries Reaction roller-type. No doubt the new components will affect the transmission in some way or another.

The 440's track is longer and stronger. The new two-sprocket internal/external driver system will provide positive track engagement while eliminating weight at the same time. Despite the changes, the sled remains 435 pounds dry.

Like Polaris and Arctic Cat, a type of pipe-preheat switch will retard engine timing so the pipe is heated to a temperature that will maximize power from the word "go." For the first time, this type of switch is standard on the stock sled.

And, although the platform remains largely the same, the 440's seat has changed. It's rounder and narrower to allow for better maneuverability. It's also lighter than last year's model. A light is incorporated into the seat to make it easier to see, also.

Lastly, with an increased compression ratio and improved carburetor calibration from their Rotax™ 453s, the Ski-Doos may put up just as hard a fight as last season when they won 177 of 344 championships on major circuits. We'll soon see.