the 600 sports
Amsnow
Set Apart
What claims to fame set these very similar 600s apart? Yamaha has an exclusive mechanical parking brake that is independent of its high performance hydraulic disc braking system. The parking brake is for trailering and parking on slopes. An hydraulic system tends to lose pressure over time, and thus effectiveness.
Yamaha also features its exclusive single-point "Quick-Adjust" rear suspension that lets you make quick shock and spring rate changes on the trail. That is a plus.
In addition, Yamaha's ProAction chassis is one of the stiffest sled designs we've seen to date. Torsional rigidity is a key to Yamaha's very effective handling and on-trail cornering agility.
Ski-Doo's Adrenaline is a favored package for us. The engine is strong, the handling consistent, the ergonomics satisfying and the overall performance rock solid. Ski-Doo's "look" is exceptional as the French-Canadian brand has a sense of style and refinement that none of the others have managed to blend into their sleds. There is a joy to the Ski-Doo that's seems to be built in. It is a sled that brings a smile to your to your face when you see it. Yet it has all the machismo you'll ever want.
Don't forget, you can build your own MX Z and get this sled in a variety of flavors. Did we mention that the Adrenaline, a pre-season offering only, was available with Rotax' very rider-friendly electronic reverse option on the 600cc twin?
Polaris is the number one selling brand. While we can find some little things to pick on, we can't fault the Polaris XC SP for anything major. In fact, there is a great deal to appreciate about this '02 offering. The engine package is the strength of this machine. In a very short time, Polaris has created engines that are the equal - if not better - than comparable brands with longer histories on the snow.
With the vast number of models that Polaris offers each season, it is amazing to us that Polaris can offer such consistently capable sleds year in and year out. Look at the improvements in chassis design, the suspension options, the consideration given to onboard rider ergonomics, and the incredible evolution of the trailing arm front suspension system. Polaris has made great strides over the years. Oftentimes, we forget to observe just how far the leader has come.
Leading this group by a titch on our scorecards is Arctic Cat's ZR600 EFI. It has the crispest engine response. It demands you ride it hard. It corners like a bullet train. And it forgives you when you pretend to be a sno-pro star and ride over your head. We were - and are- totally amazed how much one little change in the rear suspension can make in the personality of the ZR. This sled has gone from psycho to Prozac calm in a season. Add in the best handlebar setup of the year and you have our class favorite.