2011 Apex XTX Test Ride Review

[blue rider]

I have an 07 Attak that I bought new. I have changed the front end bushing to Ulmers, modified the handwarmers, installed a clutch kit (Ulmers), recalibrated the rear mono, changed ski's to 6.9 pilots, installed aggressive snow trackers. The sled has 7000 miles and runs excellent. Since installing the snow trackers it rails and steers very easily almost like power steering. Now to the test ride.

Last weekend in Eastern Manitoba at Powerhouse Yamaha I went to take the new Yamaha iron for a ride. The models they had were two Apex XTX's and various Nitro's. Not a fan of the Nitro due to lack of wind protection and don't care for the styling. The Apex was very pleasing. The power was instantaneous, the motor was silky smooth, the track noise was quiet, the ride was awesome (and yes we weren't driving only groomed trails as their was some pounded moguled sections to test). I could not believe it was a 144". Wish there would have been a 128" to compare as I drive groomed trails, however I wouldn't dismiss the idea. Do we need PS? I think with the right ski combination maybe not, but with this feature the options are no longer limited to how aggressive we want to go. For all the negative feedback on these sleds I say try it so you know first hand. Experiencing is believing. It was so easy to drive. I was so impressed I went for another test ride.

Is it 164 or 150 hp..... does it really matter? This machine is so refined, quick, fun to drive, and has all kind of future potential for more power. I don't know the top speed but I'm sure that can be had with clutching and gearing if required.

Are these sleds perfect for all applications or people - probably not, just like everything else with sleds that's why we have choices. As an owner of the number one in snowmobile sales (Skidoo) 09' 500ss for my kids I can honestly say it is a time bomb. I do not trust the realiability of this sled. Yes it is light and fun to drive but that is it. There is no longevity to it. After researching on dootalk about this model I realized it has a lean spot on the low and middle range that will burn it down. The dealer when asked about this had no clue how to fix it, he told me just don't drive in that range. Ya right. I changed pilots, mains, and raised the needle. Everything good in that area. However it is just a matter of time before the ISOFLEX grease runs out and takes the crankshaft bearings with it.

My point to this is the fun factor, durability and reliability of these Yamaha products cannot be beaten. People driving other brands don't think twice about replacing their motor in a season. They expect it! They are the ones buying a new sled every season so they have warranty because they know their gonna need it!!

Would I run out and buy an XTX? No... not at this point. But when I am ready to upgrade in the next year or so it will be a new Apex and possibly a Vector to replace the Skidoo!

Mark

 

[Super Sled]

Excellent post, Sir! I feel the exact same way.

 

[CaptCaper]

They (XTX) must be selling like hot cakes. I asked 2 different local dealers if they would take my 07 Attak as trade on the XTX and they never replied back.

 

[vcrash]

for comparison reasons, past sleds, lots of doos,92 exiter2, 94 vmax 4, 97mxz670 turbo, 99 mach z, 2003 rx1 turbo, 05 mach z, 07 mxzx 1000, 2008 xp800. new 2011 xtx.

The xtx is definatly the most exiting stock sled that i have ever owned. with a fifteen minute setup this thing is a blast to drive, handles like its on rails, amazing corner to corner power, soaks up moderate bumps with ease and good on the water. im hoping the sliders stay on the wear line as they were there in the first hundred miles even with four extra wheels. The front shocks could use a bit of improvement in heavy moguls however overall i couldnt be happier with this sled!
vcrash

 

[raginyamaha]

didnt know being good on water was a requirement.. lol

 

[Mad Russian]

YAMAHA