Adjustable Ski Stance/Width
This might be one of the biggest differences (noticeable to the eye and otherwise) between the SKS and RMK. What makes the SKS a little more stable on the trail is the sled’s additional three inches of width. Think of what extra three inches does for a snowmobile while cornering on the trails. It stays flatter, hence is more stable. The skis tend to stay planted more than the RMK’s will. Even at its narrowest ski stance, the SKS is still wider than the widest ski stance on the RMK. That would be noticeable not only on the trail but while sidehilling. But that doesn’t mean you can’t sidehill with the SKS. You definitely can, it’s just not quite as easy as the RMK.
This is where you have to ask a hard question. What is the percentage of time you spend on the trail vs. off-trail. If the percentage off-trail is higher than on trail, you should look at the RMK. Vise versa and you should consider the SKS.
Suspension, Shock Packages
The RMK gets the new React front suspension Polaris introduced for MY2019. In a nutshell, the React comes with a new geometry and narrow adjustable ski stance, a sway bar to help with handling and new forged A-arms and spindles. The SKS AXYS RMK Adjustable front suspension is the same suspension found on the 600 Pro RMK 155 and Assault sleds. It’s wider but still adjustable, as previously mentioned.
When it comes to shock packages, the 800 SKS 155 comes with Walker Evans Compression Adjustable Piggyback Needle Shocks on the front suspension and Walker Evans Compression Adjustable Piggyback Shocks in the center and rear positions. This is slightly different than the 800 Pro RMK 155 where sledders have two options: Walker Evans Monotube (in all four positions) or Walker Evans Compression Adjustable Piggyback Shocks (skis and rear shock position). While there is only one choice on the SKS, you won’t be disappointed as these are good shocks.