Snowmobiling is a very popular sport and new riders are added every year. However, manufacturers quickly noticed that there were not enough new enthusiasts and young people who were starting to snowmobile to counterbalance those who were no longer doing it. Thus, we see a wind of change in the manufacturers’ ranges to offer more adapted models, but also models for the youngest. 2023 brings a breath of fresh air at Ski-Doo with the new MXZ 120 and 200. Gleaming little machines to transmit our passion for snowmobiling to the next generation from a very young age.
Then there are the MXZ and SUMMIT versions of the NEO models, depending on where you want to ride, either on trails or in the backcountry. It is exactly with these types of models that manufacturers will succeed in attracting new fans. In this article, we will take a closer look at the 2023 SKI-DOO MXZ NEO+. A snowmobile based on the REV Gen4 platform with new mechanics that offers a lot for its retail price.
Appearance
At first glance, you immediately recognize the REV Gen4 platform introduced in 2015. Although Ski-Doo has just introduced the 5th generation of its REV platform, the generation 4 still remains relevant by offering excellent rigidity and optimized ergonomics for the rider. The NEO models provide an easy grip, as the controls are lower and are also reduced to suit smaller people. Thus, it feels like you are on a snowmobile that is ¾ the size of the other models.
Ski-Doo mentions an intermediate size snowmobile. It’s an excellent idea to make new riders feel confident even faster, but also the “small” ones. Although the dimensions have been reduced, we find the same quality of finish that we know from the manufacturer. That is to say a very well done assembly and well selected materials. The NEO models have an eye-catching look with a beautiful yellow contrast on the snow.
Powerplant
To power the NEO models, two engine options are available. Both are based on a 599cc two-stroke engine with electronic fuel injection (EFI) and produce 40 horsepower for the NEO and 55 horsepower for the NEO+ version. This difference in power between the 2 versions is due to a distinct exhaust and a specific injection map for each version. Although these powers are not equal to the very high performances of the sports models, this mechanics is very well adapted to the vocation of this machine.
Power is well delivered to the snow via the pDrive clutch. The clutch is well calibrated to offer a smooth engagement and allow you to feel all the horsepower efficiently with exciting accelerations. Of course, the 120-inch tracks that equip the NEO help limit inertia and get these snowmobiles moving quickly to cruising speeds in a matter of seconds. There are two track choices: the Cobra 120 x 14 x 1.0″ for the NEO and the RipSaw 120 x 14 x 1.25″ for the NEO+. These tracks provide good bite and just enough skid when the throttle is pressed quickly. So make no mistake, the fun factor is definitely present on these mounts and even more than expected.
Suspension
As for the suspension, we end up with a RAS X geometry in front with HPG shocks. Although it is a modest set of components, the behavior is very interesting and superior to what is offered compared to other entry-level snowmobiles.
At the rear, we find a new suspension geometry, the NEO. It’s different from what we currently find at the manufacturer with a single shock absorber instead of two. Despite the absence of a second shock absorber, the suspension offers acceptable comfort, the weight is reduced and the short 120″ axle certainly helps this behavior.
Driving Impressions
At the SnowShoot in Montana, the team was able to test the 55 horsepower 2023 SKI-DOO MXZ NEO+ version. Although we also had other more powerful models to test that day, we all found the riding experience on the NEO model to be quite surprising. In fact, the center of gravity is very low and you feel like you are one with the trail. The feeling when riding is really cool. You find yourself on a snowmobile with a mid-size frame that makes you feel comfortable from the very first turns and its handling is impressive. This is certainly due to the light steering with the Pilot 5.7 skis that bite into the snow, as well as the improved handling provided by the RAS X front suspension.
We have a lot of fun pushing the machine to its limits and we quickly come to the conclusion that the engine will be the limitation. Thus, the handling and the control are effective versus the engine which will only come to lack of “punch”. We must add that this is exactly what we want on a machine of this type. We will keep full control at all times. It is important to remain safe when trying to bring new and younger riders to our sport. The machine is not a performance monster, but it allows us to easily ride within the limits imposed on the federated trails and even a little more.
When it comes to comfort, the 2023 SKI-DOO MXZ NEO+ offers more than you might expect. The front end remains supple and reacts well to bumps. At the rear, the new NEO suspension offers good flexibility and will effectively dampen trail imperfections. However, when you start to push this machine harder over big bumps, you might feel that the rear end sags a bit too much. Of course, there is only one shock and we are all big guys on the team, but this bike is aimed at people of average height and weight. Moreover, it is not the first vocation of this frame to perform in the big bumps like the XRS models do for example.
One thing is for sure: Ski-Doo is bringing us these two new models for 2023 in order to seduce a young clientele and the team is convinced that there will be a lot of interest. What’s more, these machines offer really interesting sensations and don’t stop at their attractive retail price… The MXZ NEO and NEO+ give a lot for the money.
Strong Points
- Good choice of engines: NEO+ of 55hp and also NEO of 40HP
- Lower control and ergonomics made for small and medium sizes. Thus, these snowmobiles are less intimidating for the first experiences.
- Exciting trail riding and high expectations for the price
Areas for improvement
- Ergonomics a little cramped for taller people
- Rear suspension lacks stiffness in big bumps. However, this is not its vocation like the XRS models for example.
Conclusion
Ski-Doo certainly hits the bull’s eye in 2023 with these NEO and NEO+ models. A breath of fresh air was needed to attract new fans or simply to seduce people who were intimidated by the big machines. The manufacturer offers adapted engines, interesting performances, an exemplary quality of completion and all that at an aggressive price. Bravo Ski-Doo!
If you would like more information on Ski-Doo NEO models, visit the ski-doo website or your local dealer.
