If you’ve been on the trails for a few years, you’ve probably noticed that hybrid snowmobiles are becoming more and more common. In fact, it is the fastest growing segment in the snowmobile industry. But what explains this trend?
We see two main factors. First, a longer suspension on the trails is a big advantage. When Ski-Doo introduced the Renegade – in fact, the first one was the Summit Renegade – we thought snowmobilers in the mid-western U.S. would be using it on their trails and towing it for deep snow rides in the West Coast region.
“I traded in my MXZ for a Renegade so I could do both off-roading and trail riding in comfort,” Corey Haas explains on his Facebook page. “Every ride becomes an adventure when you don’t have to limit yourself to one type of riding. I ride both the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and the West Yellowstone area.”
Like Corey, while snowmobilers appreciate the features of this vehicle for off-roading, they really like the new technologies that make it more comfortable and capable for trail riding. The longer suspension acts as a bridge between bumps, creates more traction and increases comfort for taller riders.
Second, a host of innovative features and proven technology make off-road riding more enjoyable. The snowmobiles are lighter, the improved riding position feels like one with the vehicle, the tracks are much more powerful, and the suspension makes tight turns easier. Plus, the fuel-efficient engine allows you to venture out on long trips with peace of mind.
So if you like to explore uncharted terrain, maneuver through rough terrain, blaze a trail after a snowstorm, or hop from one lake to another during a few days of hiking, get on your hybrid. It’s equipped to give you the best of both worlds: trail and off-road riding.
This versatility is really what makes hybrid snowmobiles so popular.
“However, the growing appeal of Renegage models presents a new challenge,” says Jimmy Côté, Ski-Doo product manager. “People know that their hybrid is now versatile, so they want it to fit their exact riding style. Some people venture out into the wilderness only once or twice a season, while others beat the trails and then turn to off-roading for a few hours.”
BRP meets this requirement by offering three 2017 Renegade models:
The Renegade X-RS, Renegade X, Renegade Adrenaline and Renegade Sport are primarily intended for trail riding, although breaking trail and running into deep snow from time to time is very much in their nature.
The Renegade Backcountry snowmobile, more like the pioneering Summit, is more assertive in off-road riding, but doesn’t do well on bumpy trails. In fact, the 60% off-road to 40% trail ratio describes it very well. Riders who like to explore deep powder areas at low elevations, but don’t want to miss out on the fun of going full throttle on the trails, will find this model to be a great choice.
The Renegade Enduro is part of the growing adventure snowmobile sub-segment. This Renegade is equally at home on and off the trails thanks to an array of features that make it both capable and comfortable, including adjustable and air-controlled rMotion suspension, adjustable Pilot TS skis and a heated seat. Whether you’re on a short vacation or hitting the trails for the weekend, this vehicle will fit your needs.
As a Renegade buyer, you want to customize your snowmobile to fit your style. We offer a wide range of accessories that allow you to put your snowmobile in your hands, whether it is the LinQ system bag, the 1+1 seat, the skid plates, the raised handlebar kit, the Garmin GPS unit, the LED auxiliary light or the snow scrapers to name a few.
This versatility is also one of the appeals of the Renegade enthusiast clothing collection. Because Helium Enduro apparel is not only waterproof and windproof, but also ultra-soft and breathable, it’s perfect for active off-road riding. However, unlike mountain clothing, this collection has lightweight insulation to keep you warm in colder weather, while still facilitating a relaxed ride on the trail.
Hybrid snowmobiles are not new. As far back as 1968, enthusiasts could ride their Olympic Ski-Doo just about anywhere and have a great time. This freedom encouraged engineers to push the limits of snowmobiling. Today, the passion to excel is more than ever in BRP’s plans. The proof is in the pudding: the Renegade continues its meteoric rise, and no one can predict what summit it will reach.
