Sys Nica: 2016 Snowmobile Release

Monday, February 15, 2016

2016 Snowmobile Release – Ski-Doo & Concepts

Ski-Doo is the first out of the gates with their 2016 model year launch, lest we forget who continues to be first in the marketplace. Ski-Doo continues to gain “snow” in most areas. They have been running strong ever since they changed the way we ride sleds – shortly after the 2003 REV when Ski-Doo gained, and has held the top position in the market. For 2016 they continue to move forward.

Here are the highlights for 2016, to give you some information on whether or not you want to upgrade or switch over to Ski-Doo next season.

New Tech (Pilot TS)

Something you will find on some of the models next year is a new Pilot TS adjustable ski. As trail conditions change, the performance of the snowmobile skis change. The Pilot TS gives the rider the ability to dial in the ski’s runner/carbide blade to be more aggressive and responsive, or less aggressive and relaxed.

Twisting a knob in front of the ski leg raises or lowers the runner blade. The further the blade is out or extended, the maximum bite in corners or on ice is achieved. Fully retracted, it allows the ski to steer a little softer (no darting), yet more relaxing to the rider when you are just cruising the trails. As trail conditions change throughout the day, say from hard frozen to soft mushy, you can simply adjust the steering and cornering effort with the turn of a knob.

Pilot TS skis are standard on the 2016 MXZ Blizzard, Renegade Enduro, and the Grand Touring SE (more on these below). They are also available as an accessory for sleds with the RAS 2 front suspension. Also on some models, you will get the Pilot TS’s if you spring-order the Adjustment Package with your sled.

Trail (MXZ)

Characterized by their ability to handle bumps in the ditches or tight turning in the trails, the MXZ is Ski-Doo’s flat-lander mainstay. This is also the model that the race sled is based from. MXZ riders typically care about light weight, quick response whether it’s throttle or steering, and fast mogul absorption. Here, the rMotion rear suspension shines.

The MXZ-X, X-RS, and Blizzard models will get the longer 129-inch track found on their race sleds. MXZ models with the 1200 4-TEC will also get the REV-XS body styling, and intelligent Throttle Control (iTC).

The new model for 2016 in this category is the MXZ Blizzard. The classic Blizzard name has been synonymous with highlighting the latest racing tech on a consumer sled. For 2016, the Blizzard is an in-season package that includes many of the features found on the XR-S, but offering a little tamer experience. This model includes a 129” rMotion rear suspension, HPG Plus shocks, Ice Ripper XT track, the new Pilot TS adjustable skis, and a fuller windshield.

The MXZ-X-RS differs from the Blizzard, in that it includes hand guards, KYB Pro 40 piggyback racing shocks, Pilot 5.7 skis (unless ordered with the Adjustment Package).