2023 Renegade XRS 850 Gen 5
For many years, I have been a fan of trail snowmobiles designed and developed for moguls. This is one of the reasons why I regularly choose the XRS. I love pushing the limits in bumpy conditions, especially on busy weekends. Last year, Ski-Doo engineers added the Smart-Shox electronic suspension to their lineup on the Mach Z. They have also added it as an option on other models. I had the chance to evaluate the Smart-Shox last year on the MachZ. And that was with a season of over 3000 kilometers. Although we had the chance to ride the suspension a bit in a narrow chassis with an Etec 850 last year at the Snow-Shoot, the 850 XRS with the electronic suspension became my number one choice for 2023.
Two big new features have been introduced for 2022-2023 by the Quebec manufacturer: the Gen 5 chassis and the new 10.25 inch touch screen! Well, thanks to our precious partner, the Contant Group, we were able to get a Renegade XRS 850 Gen 5 equipped with the new multifunction dial for the whole season, so we could evaluate it…
Motorization
It’s hard to be critical of something that is almost perfect. Without a doubt, the calibration of the 850 ETEC is mature, and has been for a few seasons now. This engine is calibrated to perfection, during more than 2000 kilometers (at the time of writing), I rediscovered the pleasure of this 165 horsepower twin-cylinder. The response is instantaneous, in no way does the throttle response suggest a flaw in the injection system, whether at low, medium or full throttle.
Cold starts are unhesitating, with very little fumes escaping, and the computer decreases power during warm-up to avoid premature wear if you were ever a little impatient to get going… You also have to give credit to the clutch calibration, they do a great job of delivering all the power to the track, at all times. The pDrive clutch is certainly one of the best on the market, both in terms of efficiency and durability.
Smart-Shox Suspension
I often refer to it as the forgiving one, certainly, this suspension will lower your chiropractic bill… It’s almost impossible to reach its maximum travel to finish its run against the stops or, as we often say, to hit the bottom. Its ultra-fast reaction speed continually readjusts itself becoming stiffer and stiffer during a rapid collapse. As in the past, three modes are available: Comfort, Sport and Sport+. The calibration of the three modes is very similar to last year’s. Comfort mode is the most comfortable with good flexibility, Sport mode is stiffer and Sport+ mode offers the most resistance possible. As seen on the Mach Z, the Comfort mode could be a bit softer, or simply add a fourth mode, why not…
10.25 inch screen!
Simply wow! This screen exceeded my expectations, both in terms of ease of use and performance. Interestingly, its compatibility with various smartphones has improved significantly compared to last year’s model. This touch screen is easily operated directly with the fingers, it can also be used with gloves although it is more tedious. You can also operate the whole thing from the controls on the left handle. It has all the useful information, with a nice and neat presentation, and very good size. You will be able to connect your phone and use the BRP Go application to plot your route.
On the trail
I’ve tried snowmobiles throughout my career, some great, some not so great, but without a doubt, the 2023 Renegade XRS 850 with the Smart-Shox suspension and 10.25″ digital display is in my top favorites. The effectiveness of this suspension was not in question, it worked very well in the 2022 Mack Z, but with a lighter snowmobile like the 850 Renegade XRS, it simply makes us unstoppable. The bigger the bump, the more you want it…
Never before have I reached full travel. The readjustment during a very fast collapse is simply phenomenal, a real jewel. Interesting to note that the suspension keeps the skis on the ground at all times. I tested the suspension with the adjustment blocks in all positions. In position 1, there is a slight lifting of the front of the snowmobile under acceleration, this effect diminishes in position 2, and becomes almost perfect in position 3. The fourth position definitely keeps the skis on the ground, but you lose some flexibility, my preferred choice is definitely the third.
Motorization side
Nothing to complain about, this engine is flawless and performs very well. The calibration of the direct injection system is simply perfect, with virtually no emissions, even during cold starts. The fuel consumption is very respectable for the power delivered. And the clutches react without hesitation, the acceleration is instantaneous, in short it’s 100% on the mark as we say.
The 10.25″ screen is very easy to use and works well with almost any type of phone. The size is perfect, and you can see the indicators very well even when using the trail map. No doubt about it, this is one of BRP’s good moves !
One point of improvement that persists is the steering. This snowmobile lacks grip in turns, and you have to constantly warn to avoid being blown across the trail. More aggressive skis would be desirable to improve the handling in turns.
Conclusion
This snowmobile will put a huge smile on your face. It is definitely a Go Kart that will offer you a lot of fun, the driving position is correct, even if I would opt for a higher seat to improve the ergonomics. The more bumps, the more you want… A real motocross!
In conclusion, this test was made possible thanks to Groupe Contant who have trusted us for several seasons.
Thanks gang!!!
