You are looking for a snowmobile for yourself. Snowmobilesrider is here to help you find the best snowmobile according to your taste. When considering high-performance snowmobiles, two models often come up in the discussion: the Ski-Doo Freeride and the Summit. Both of these snowmobiles are designed for off-trail riding and deep snow performance. Let’s look at the similarities and differences between these two popular models to help you decide which one might be right for you.
2024 Ski-Doo Summit vs 2024 SKI-DOO FREERIDE
1-Engine:
- Ski-doo Summit has a Rotax®850 E-TEC engine with two strokes
- While ski doo freeride also have Rotax® 850 E-TEC with two strokes
- Both engines can give you 849 cc of displacement.
- Both models can give you 165 hp.
When it comes to engine options, both models offer powerful Rotax engines, providing an impressive power-to-weight ratio. The 850 E-TEC engine is available on both sleds, so it means that both snowmobiles are equal under this heading.
2-Cooling system:
- Both snowmobiles have the latest version of the cooling system, which is a liquid cooling system.
A liquid cooling system is much better and fuel-efficient. If you do not know the difference between a liquid-cooled and fan-cooled snowmobile, then you can read about them here.
3-Weight and dimensions:
- Ski-doo freeride weighs almost 440lb(199.9KG), while ski doo summit weighs almost 436lb(198 kg).
- The ski-doo Summit is 129.9 inches long, while the ski-doo free ride is 125.5 inches long.
- The ski doo summit is 51.4 inches high, while the ski doo freeride is 54.90 inches high.
- The overall width of the ski doo summit is 40.3 inches, while the width of the ski doo freeride is 42.2 inches.
There is not a massive difference between the weight of these snowmobiles. So, in terms of weight, both snowmobiles are equal.
Also, in terms of length, height, and width, both snowmobiles are almost the same.
4-Brakes:
- Brembo brakes are present in ski doo freeride, while ski doo summit is also equipped with Brembo brakes but with adjustable levers.
- Both snowmobiles have E-TEC® direct injection with an additional booster injector fuel system.
5-Skis:
- Both snowmobiles have Pilot™ DS 4 skis.
- The ski stance in ski doo freeride is 36 inches, while in ski doo summit it is 34 inches. In both, ski distance is adjustable.
6-Track type:
- The Ski-doo freeride is equipped with PowderMax† track, while the Ski-doo summit is equipped with PowderMax† light 2.5 track.
- Track dimensions in ski doo freeride, length 154 inches, 15 inches in width, 2.5 inches in height.
- Track dimensions in ski doo summit, length 165 inches, 16 inches in width, 3.0 inches in height.
In terms of track options, both models come with various choices suitable for different riding conditions. The Freeride typically sports a shorter track length compared to the Summit, which enables easier maneuverability in tight spots and tree lines but sacrifices some deep snow performance.
7-Handlebars:
- In ski doo freeride, Tapered U-shaped aluminum with J-hooks / Low grab handle Riser block height – 4.7 inches handlebar is present.
- In ski doo summit, Tapered with J-hooks / Grab handle Riser block height – 4.7 inches handlebar is present.
Freeride’s design focuses on playful maneuverability with an emphasis on counter-steering capability during side-hilling or navigating through trees.
In contrast, the Summit prioritizes an aggressive stance for conquering technical mountain riding scenarios, demanding precise handling and control.
8-Shocks:
- In ski doo freeride, Front – KYB Pro 40 EA-3 with lightweight springs are present while in Center – KYB Pro 40 EA-3 with lightweight springs and in Rear – KYB Pro 40 EA-3 shocks are present.
- In ski doo summit, Front – KYB 36 Plus with lightweight springs are present while in Center – KYB 36 Plus with lightweight spring and Rear – KYB† Pro 36 EA-3 shocks are present.
9-Suspensions:
- In the front part of Ski-doo freeride, RAS™ 3 with Travel up to 8.5 inches suspension system is present, while in the rear part of tMotion™ XT with rail reinforcements and Travel up to 10.4 inches suspensions are present.
- These suspensions are the same for ski doo summit.
Some last words for ski doo freeride:
This deep-snow-specific design of ski doo freeride takes your ride to new heights with its captivating look, weight reduction, and enhanced technical performance for an unparalleled riding experience.
The Freeride is equipped with one of two top-tier Rotax 2-stroke engines, including the most potent factory-made turbocharged 2-stroke engine to date.
Experience precision carving with our tMotion XT, which features a rigid rear arm. This feature not only saves weight and increases capacity but also provides increased rigidity and superior stability during high-octane maneuvers.
Enjoy effortless starting thanks to the E-TEC SHOT starter system, which uses push-button technology at almost zero added weight. After an initial pull-start, the engine charges an ultracapacitor, which powers subsequent starts via the handlebar SHOT button throughout the day!
Some final words for ski doo summit:
Its specialized deep-snow design elements dramatically enhance your ride, presenting a visually stunning appearance, weight reduction, and superior technical performance to elevate your overall riding sensation.
Experience limitless power with our Summit snowmobiles, powered by one of three Rotax 2-stroke engines. This includes the formidable 850 E-TEC Turbo R – the most potent factory-built turbocharged 2-stroke engine available. Expect immediate response, exhilarating acceleration, and smooth power delivery.
Immerse yourself further into your ride with our 10.25 color touchscreen display featuring BRP Connect. This high-definition infotainment system offers an interactive, informative, and customizable experience that’s effortlessly simple and seamlessly integrated at your fingertips.
Starting has never been easier with our E-TEC SHOT starter – a push-button starting mechanism that adds almost no extra weight to your vehicle. After an initial pull-start, the engine charges an ultracapacitor, which allows you to start up simply by pushing the handlebar SHOT button.
Final thoughts:
The Freeride is designed for riders who seek agility and playfulness in deep powder and challenging terrain, making it ideal for those who value maneuverability and ease of access in various conditions.
The Summit is tailored more towards backcountry riders who require top-notch performance in steep, technical terrains. It is optimized for handling extreme ascents and descents with precision.
When it comes to additional features and accessories, both sleds can be equipped with specialized components such as adjustable ski stance widths, different track lengths, color options, accessory storage bags, and various windshield heights to cater to individual preferences.
Still need help for choosing snowmobile for you?
If you need more time to choose one over the other, consider your primary riding style – are you frequently tackling narrower treed areas or open bowls? Do you prioritize technical climbing ability or playful sidehilling capability? Answering these questions will help you determine which machine aligns best with your needs.
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