9—Ski-Doo Summit 850 175
If I rode all the time in British Columbia, this sled would be much higher on my list. But for most days, the long track is just overkill. That said, it is remarkable how well the 175- by 3-inch track performs in average snow conditions. It still corners nicely and doesn’t feel as long as it is. In fact, the only time I notice the added length is when I’m trying to creep my way through tight trees. That’s when I feel just a little too much push from the track. Retail: $15,649.
10—Arctic Cat M 8000 Mountain Cat 162
During the past three years Cat has shown a renewed commitment to the mountain segment of its product line. There have been significant changes in the chassis to make the M series lighter and sleeker—better in the trees and on the sidehills. When you add the 3-inch track on this snowmobile, it tends to power its way anywhere you want to go. Even though there have been major advancements in the mountain segment by all manufactures, I wouldn’t want to let the Mountain Cat get lost in the excitement. This sled just works. Retail $14,399.
Steve's 10 Favorite 2018 Sleds:
- Ski-Doo Summit 600R E-Tech with 2.5-inch track
- Ski-Doo Summit X 850 165 with 3-inch track
- Polaris 850 Pro-RMK 163 with 3-inch track
- Polaris 600 Pro-RMK 155 with 2.4-inch track
- Arctic Cat M 8000 Alpha One 165 with 3-inch track
- Ski-Doo Freeride 154 with 3-inch track
- Arctic Cat M 6000 SE ES 153 with 2.6-inch track
- Polaris 800 RMK Assault 155 with 2.6-inch track
- Ski-Doo Summit 850 175 with 3-inch track
- Arctic Cat M 8000 162 with 3-inch track