2023-12-03 11:00:00
In the snowmobile world, both in Quebec and abroad, Michel Garneau is recognized as one of the best experts in the field. I asked him to give me the list of his favorites among the 2024 models.
Many already know him from the magazine Snowmobile Quebec, of which he is the editor-in-chief. His judgment is excellent. Here are Michel Garneau’s impressions of models from four companies.
LYNX
He first chose the Rave RE 850 E-TEC. According to him, it drives smoothly and has versatility with recalibrated suspensions. Its engine is powerful and efficient. In dynamic driving, in bumps if you prefer, it remains stable and responds very well. The braking level is strong with superb feedback. In second place, he chose the XTerrain RE 850 E-TEC. This snowmobile has a powerful and efficient engine. It ensures dynamic driving conditions while remaining very stable. Its grippy track provides plenty of off-road traction. He described it as a real assault tank for sporty cross-country off-trail riding. In third position, we find the XTerrain Brutal 850 E-TEC, a true Expedition XTreme on steroids according to him. The traction is second to none and the weight transfer is incredible and a lot of fun off-road. The engine is powerful and efficient.
In the world of snowmobiling, Michel Garneau is recognized as a leading expert by all those involved in the industry. Photo provided by Michel Garneau
SKI-DOO
His first choice is the Backcountry X 850 E-TEC which presents new stability and impressive precision when driving on trails. It’s a versatile trail and off-trail snowmobile, with impressive performance in both areas. Its engine is powerful and efficient. Comfortable for hiking while being at ease during sporty driving. The second one he chose is the MXZ X-RS 850 E-TEC Turbo R, with a competition package. For him, this engine is absolutely incredible with power to spare and impeccable response. It is equipped with a new very powerful brake with superb feedback. The suspension is comfortable on the trail while performing incredibly well in bumps. Its refinement and superb finish make it a benchmark. The third model is the Renegade X 900 ACE Turbo. He loved its incredible lightness of ride and its unparalleled level of comfort on the trail. Remarkably smooth, the engine is impressive, very powerful and efficient across the entire range. The finish and level of refinement are remarkable on this snowmobile.
POLARIS
The first model that stood out at Polaris for him was the 650 Indy XCR 128. He describes this snowmobile as being incredibly fun to ride. In its own way, it rewards the driver who interacts with his snowmobile. Its driving precision makes it a kind of kart on winding trails. The engine, smooth and responsive, is surprisingly muscular for an average displacement. The brake is soft and powerful and when driving dynamically, the snowmobile remains stable. His second choice is the Patriot Boost Indy VR1 137. The engine is powerful, smooth, refined and responds instantly to your commands. It is a superb snowmobile for long tours since it is very comfortable. Once once more, the brake is smooth and always powerful. The 850 Switchback Assault is his third choice. The engine is efficient and delivers smooth, linear power. He says it’s a lot of fun to drive because it really becomes one with the driver. The weight transfer under acceleration is incredible, while also being very fun and practical off-road. The braking system is up to par.
ARCTIC CAT
The ZR 600 129 ATC model is, according to the expert, the new king of driving precision and cornering stability at industry level. Its sporty driving style is exhilarating and rewards the driver who gets involved very well. Thanks to the Catalyst chassis, a great success at Arctic Cat, this snowmobile is light and easy to handle with its low center of gravity. The Riot 9000 ARAC EPS is his second choice. It has an incredible smooth ride and remarkable power. It develops fierce acceleration with a weight transfer that makes the skis hover above the trail, a sensation that is both smooth and intoxicating for the expert. It also offers a feeling of nonchalance which makes hiking more pleasant. His third choice was the Riot 600 ATAC. According to him, this snowmobile offers incredible driving precision for this niche while offering impressive stability despite its narrow front. The open cabin makes it easier to move around, a major advantage for off-road driving. The centralization of masses, the feeling of lightness felt and its low center of gravity make this snowmobile one of the most maneuverable and pleasant to control.
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