OEMs always seem to keep something up their sleeve. Today Ski-Doo announced the 2017 MXZ X-RS Iron Dog as part of their new model lineup.
For those demanding the ultimate in durability from a 600cc sled, the 2017 MXZ X-RS Iron Dog varies little from its initial rugged design in model year 2015. In fact, other than color, the sled is nearly identical to the offering released for 2015. The following specs remain the same:
- RAS 2 front suspension
- REV-XS RS chassis with adjustable forward steering post
- rMotion rear suspension
- 15x129x1.25 2-ply RipSaw track
- KYB Pro 40 easy adjust aluminum piggyback front and rear shocks with compression adjuster (22 clicks)
- Brembo racing brake
- 8-tooth racing sprocket with reinforced drive shaft
- Transparent handguards
- REV-XP X narroew seat with 5L/1.3 gal storage
- Backlit multifunction steering controls
- Multifunction digital gauge with display and 5 mins high sampling rate record mode
- Pilot 5.7 skis with 7/16 in. (1.1 cm) round runner and 90-degree carbide
The biggest change in the sled comes only in its available engine choices. For 2017 consumers can only get the Iron Dog in black with a 600 H.O. E-TEC (so far). It's the only version of the X-RS package available in the 600 E-TEC engine. Your other X-RS options (the MXZ X-RS or Renegade X-RS) only come in the 800R E-TEC engine, but also offer color variations.
And now that the MXZ X-RS only comes in a 129-inch skid, what sets the Iron Dog version apart? The main thing is the beefed up suspension reinforcements in both the front and rear taken directly from Ski-Doo's factory RS race sleds. It's got even more durability built in than your "standard" MXZ and Renegade X-RS models. Each suspension spring goes one step stiffer and the center track shock uses a dual rate spring.
Prices also vary ($12,599 US for the Iron Dog, $14,099 US for the "regular" MXZ X-RS), as do a few other options. The standard MXZ X-RS 800R does have an optional Quick Adjust system available that features the rear shock Quick Adjust on the running boards and Pilot TS adjustable skis. The 800R MXZ X-RS also offers a choice of a 1.25-inch RipSaw or 1.25-inch pre-studded IceRipper XT track. The non-Iron Dog X-RS models also have electric start standard, while it's optional on the X-RS Iron Dog.
This sled should be exactly what Ski-Doo's terrain snowmobile racers need. The early announcement of availability means we should see a lot more of these on the tracks and race courses around the circuits.