If you’re looking for a snowmobile that’s ideal for fast mountain riding, the 2026 Ski-Doo Freeride is here. Featuring ultra-rigid suspension, a choice of powerful engines and top-of-the-range equipment. It has everything you need to explore snow-covered terrain and out-of-the-way places. Find out more about the Freeride and a sneak peek at the Ski-Doo 2026 mountain novelties.
What’s new this year?
2026 brings refinement with technical improvements and a considerable slimming cure. Weight reduction is the main focus on Summit models. Up to 14 lbs less on already highly optimized snowmobiles.
The 2026 Ski-Doo Freeride is no exception, with a total weight reduction of up to 6 lbs, depending on the configuration chosen. This “restraint” is explained by the manufacturer’s desire to maintain maximum chassis rigidity. As we all know, the Freeride is ideal for large-scale jumps and advanced maneuvers (re-entry and bowtie, for example). As such, ruggedness has to be at the forefront of the package.
To achieve such weight reduction on lightweight snowmobiles, the manufacturer has targeted less critical areas. The result is an extra-short tunnel on the 154“ and 165” versions. All versions feature a thinner tunnel material. The rear frame members are also thinner and therefore lighter. In other words: the Freeride is lighter, offering less drag in the snow, which will facilitate technical maneuvers. It also reduces the rider’s effort required to play longer in the snow.
Another new 2026 feature that’s perfect for the mountains: integrated GPS!
We’re already familiar with the huge 10.25” touchscreen, which effectively brings together all the basic information and much more. For 2026, we now have a screen that includes integrated GPS navigation. This means you can find your way around even if the cellular network is no longer available. Handy for driving in mountains and remote areas.
If your friends also have this screen, you’ll be able to see them live on the map. You can even see their last registered point. When you’re looking for someone who got stuck in the mountains, you’ve got to admit it’s an ideal tool!
850 E-TEC engine – Turbo or not?
To power the 2026 Ski-Doo Freeride, the manufacturer offers two variants of its 850 E-TEC engine. On the one hand, the 165 hp naturally-aspirated version, which has been proving its worth for a decade with instant response. And a smoothness of operation unmatched in the market for a 2-stroke.
Then, for a few thousand dollars more, we’ll get the turbocharged version. The 850 E-TEC Turbo R delivers an impressive 180 horsepower. All this power remains constant up to an altitude of 8,000 feet. That’s a significant 25% advantage over a naturally-aspirated engine at this altitude. As an added bonus, the power curve is more aggressive in the mid-range, ensuring vigorous acceleration.
The only downside is a slight delay in throttle response. Although not dramatic, this delay requires anticipation of fractions of a second when maneuvering. The turbo version also adds 18 pounds of weight. So, if you live in Quebec, you’ll have to resign yourself to the fact that the non-turbo version is preferable. On the other hand, for the Rockies, we’d go for the turbo compression without a second’s hesitation.
What a pleasure to put it through its paces!
As you take your place at the controls, you immediately notice that the ergonomics are perfectly adapted to the world of the mountains. The minimalist handlebars and unobstructed visibility already suggest the exploits you’ll be able to perform with complete ease. The engine is started by the SHOT system, appreciated for its ease of use and low weight. The roar of the turbo engine is heard, and we prepare to cut deep furrows. The clutch is calibrated to initiate movement smoothly and in a fraction of a second.
Powerful braking
A new feature we’ve LOVED since 2024 is the ultra-powerful 4-piston brake from Brembo. We love it as much for its stopping power as for its precision. It also features an adjustable lever to improve ergonomics and adapt to your preferences. The lever reacts instantly to the slightest movement, enabling rapid action with a single finger. This makes perfect sense when you consider that the brake is almost as necessary as the throttle off-piste.
High-caliber suspension
We certainly couldn’t write about the 2026 Ski-Doo Freeride without mentioning its exceptional suspension. The imposing KYB Pro 40 shock absorbers are found at both front and rear. Fully adjustable to match your riding style .Clearly oversized, these suspensions are there to meet the demands of the biggest jumps and are ready to take on the toughest riders. At the rear, the tMotion-XT no longer has the flexibility of the previous generation, which considerably improves riding precision. Also noteworthy are the standard rail reinforcements, in line with the robustness vocation.
Trail beast?
The 146” version offers an excellent capacity to cover a nice portion of trail to reach our favorite spot. Although not specifically designed for long distances on flat terrain, it offers good performance. And what a feeling of power with every acceleration, thanks to impressive traction. Trail sections now seem a lot less boring!
Why are we tripping hard on the 146” version?
For our test ride, we deliberately opted for the 146” version because of its playfulness. It’s a real machine for wheelies and doing all kinds of tricks relatively easily. It’s impossible not to love it. What’s more, for team members less accustomed to mountain riding, it’s easy to master. As well as being ideal for learning the basics on it. Experienced riders and novices alike will all find something to enjoy!
All in all, the Freeride proves to be an exceptional snowmobile, incredibly fun to ride and robust in the face of maneuvering errors. You can really have fun in deep snow, even if it’s not as capable as a Summit. Still, the Freeride is easily forgiven for not being the most precise when it comes to sidehill maneuvers . Neither the lightest nor the most maneuverable in tight spots. On the other hand, it allows for big jumps and excesses of “courage” without fear of damaging it too much. The Freeride is built tough and ready to take it on without flinching.
The final word
At the SnowShoot, we had another go at the combo: turbocharged engine with a short 146-inch track. The result: a real wheelie monster that lifts its skis at every opportunity. Of course, with a loss of steering precision in the process.
Still, we love this super-handy machine with its pronounced “playful” aspect. It all depends on the terrain you’re riding on, but the short version provides a welcome extra challenge. Otherwise, you can opt for the 154“ or 165” versions.
For even more information on Ski-Doo models, visit their website.
Equipment shown in photos
- One-piece suit: CKX Elevation Zero
- Helmet: CKX Titan AirFlow Carbon
- Boots: CKX Colchester Pro
- Gloves: Klim Gauntlet Klim Gauntlet
- Bag: FXR RidePack
Photo credits: Steve Maillet
