whats new at skidoo for 2002

Ski-Doo made more than 200 changes for the good across its 2002 line. There is a new race-bred chassis based on pro-level snocross racer; a major repositioning of the "Deluxe" model for riders who are legends in their own minds; and a boondocker version of the MXZ. And, of course, there are the evolutionary changes in touring sleds, moving them all over to the preferred ZX platform.
 
Here's what's new in '02:
 
Mach Speed: The big gun 800cc Mach Z is virtually unchanged and is the only triple cylinder, triple piped model in the '02 lineup. The Tech Plus with opulent features like adjustable windshield and DPM is a spring only model.
 
MX Z: Sports riders get the best stuff, including a snocross-bred ZX-X platform. The new frame is designed to be stiffer for mogul mashing and features wider footboards, revised footrests to allow standing up over jumps, and more of a taper at the rear to fit the new longer travel SC-10 III rear suspension. New color combinations, longer travel front suspension with take-apart high performance gas shocks, new Simmons-style dual-carbide Precision skis, and choice of rear suspension setups make the MXZ series suitable for all riders. Adding to that versatility is the available choice in power from a 369cc fan up to the stompin' Series 3 800cc twin.
 
Look for Ski-Doo's electronic reverse system in more sleds, including the popular MX Z models. All fan-cooled engines come with RER and most popular liquid-cooled twins can be ordered with the nifty system as well.

In our Ski-Doo preview Bombardier executives had positioned the Renegade as a Summit, but have since moved it into the MX Z family where it more properly belongs. It is more MX Z than Summit anyway. The Renegade is a long tracked MX Z with sports ride and off-trail capabilities better than a short track MX Z but not up to the Summit standards for true mountain climbing. Think of this MX Z as the boondockers best buddy for flatland excursions. With an 800cc twin, the Renegade will break lots of fresh trails.
 
Legends: This is essentially a repackaging of the Formula Deluxe with a more sophisticated look and more amenities. These models come on the ZX platform and have the sport-style SC-10 II suspensions with a new variable rate shock or the electronic dual mode suspension. All engine choices feature Bombardier's electronic reverse. You'll also find the new dual runner skis on top line Legend models as well.
 
Our pick for a Legend would be the 800 or 700 twin in the top line GSE package. The electronically activated Bombardier Optimized Suspension System (BOSS) provides a more perceptible change between the "cruiser" and sport settings over last year's version. The cruiser setting is a bit plusher while the sport setting is more akin to the baseline MX Z setup. For those who are snowmobiling legends in their own minds, the Legend series offers the best of both worlds - controlled comfort and amenities for cruising combined with predictability in the moguls when you feel the urge to rekindle your own legendary riding styles.

You'll note that Ski-Doo designers have added chrome accents to make the Legend models a bit more upscale for '02.
 
Touring: The move to the ZX chassis means the top of the line Grand Touring luxury liner should wallow less like a Buick and respond more precisely like a Lexus. While the big 800 triple is gone, the GT gets the top line 800cc twin, now nicely equipped with push start and push button electronic reverse. Other touring models are upgraded as well, but other than graphics are very similar to 2001 models.
 
Powder: The Highmark X gets a stretched version of the race-tested ZX X frame and more mountain goodies like rear rack, adjustable handlebars, anti-slip runningboards and available 800cc power. Look for these sleds to offer new offset skis and a mechanically convertible ski stance.
 
AS last season, Ski-Doo continues with its spring-only package specials in virtually it entire model line. You chose the engine package, the chassis and suspension setups, and colors by pre-ordering early at your Ski-Doo dealership. According to Ski-Doo this is the only way to guarantee that you get the exact sled you want.

All in all, Ski-Doo did a lot of things that will make Ski-Doo enthusiasts very happy this coming season.