What Track length is good for XLT's

[SpencerA]

I know every sled is set up to handle different size tracks better. I have a 97 RMK 600. I have the stock 133" 1 1/2 paddle track on it now. I want to go to either a 136 or 144" track. I weight 145lbs and want a great all around track that can handle some soft stuff to trails.

Also what needs to be modded exactly to make it fit? And what size of track should I be looking for?

Thanks

 

[volcano buster]

Given that the old XLT's are not worth all that much anymore, I wouldn't spend too much on it. With that being said, I would probably look for a 141" so that you can use a 136"-144" rail extension (133 - 141 should be the same added length). Pick up an RMK tunnel extension and install some 8 tooth drivers and get it mounted up. I would be more excited to use rail extensions and leave the rear suspension where it is currently mounted than trying to move it back. Seems that they get finicky when the mounting points start to get out of whack.

 

[SpencerA]

The more I think about it seems like actually a waste of money to extend the track since these sleds are so heavy to begin with. Expecially considering you can get a newer sled for not much more. I'll probably just keep the 133 on it and use it for a trail sled only.

I know I keep hearing people say that sleds have come a long way since my 97. So when did snowmobiles really start getting better suspension, being lighter, ect? Basically are the Edge chassis night and day difference from the Wedge?

 

[retiredpop]

Think small steps to where they are now especially from wedge to Gen2 to Edge. The biggest change was when the IQ chassis came along and now the gigantic step with the Pro chassis.

 

[volcano buster]

I had a '94 XLT that I extended and put a 136 under. I thought it was fun until I bought my '99 700 RMK. It was a tank and finally totaled it and bought an '05 700 RMK 144. I liked that one tremendously more than the last 2. I now have a '10 600 RMK 155 and enjoy it, but haven't ridden the new PRO yet. I think for the money, the later Edge chassis' weren't all that bad and the price shouldn't be too bad. I would go that route instead of dropping $$$ into the XLT.

 

[X2Freeride]

Remember 136 from 133.5 only puts one more lug on the ground. Kinda hard to justify the cost.

 

[volcano buster]

Correct.

I was upgrading from the stock 121x15x.25 (actually larger but never felt like it).

In my opinion, the XLT won't be worth anymore if you start adding stuff to it than it is right now. Ride it as is, then upgrade the sled. If you have the money, shoot for a 2007 600/700 or so, otherwise, I think the later Edge Chassis 600/700's should give you some good bang for the buck. If you were closer I would sell you exactly what you need.

 

[MARV1]

Heck, those XLT's were fun to ride and got great fuel mileage and I am thinking of buying one for my 10y old son to ride. $5-600 and you can find a track and updated skid to bolt up to it, sell what you have to get some money back, gear it down a bit and have more fun.