Need help on possable new purchase

[YamaHank]

Looking at switching from Skidoo 1200 TNT's (16) to a new 18 RTX sidewinder. Have driven the 137 models and they seem nice but up in the air over the reliability issue. There seems to be a lot of threads on this site with typical Cat type issues, the little things that go wrong that you never even think of with BRP. Would like some input from guys that have them and had a 1200 in the past. Not looking to modify, just have a nice experience without being dealer bound all the time. Any help would be great.

Curious why you would go 129 over 137? What didn’t you like when you drove one? I think you should consider the longer track to get all this power to the ground. I’ve owned a 137 viper and 129 viper. The 129 spun the track like crazy and that engine was 75 hp less than the SW.

 

[SumpBuster]

Never ever a cat fan (the uninformed friends think the sidewinder is really a yamaha, so I don't get trashed.....lol), but after many adjustments, different skis, and a new turbo bolt (no clue where that inner one went), I have to say it's an absolute blast, and a pretty strong sled. Flies flat, takes bumps well, handles decent, and goes like hell!! Not even belt dust in 900 miles. I like it. A lot!
I will say I rode ski doo for 20 years and liked them too....very good quality control, and rotary valve engines were great, suspensions kinda sucked, but I had fun.
I do not believe Doo''s quality is what it was years ago. Technology is great, though. Seen too many ruptured front end tubs. jmo

 

[WinterWolf]

Curious why you would go 129 over 137? What didn’t you like when you drove one? I think you should consider the longer track to get all this power to the ground. I’ve owned a 137 viper and 129 viper. The 129 spun the track like crazy and that engine was 75 hp less than the SW.

The 129 will hook up just fine if you stud it right...I have an 18 RTX 129 and Love it...no issues with hooking up. My buddy has the same sled, but in a 137 version, and he has no advantage over my 129 whatsoever.

 

[stevewithOCD]

IMHO the SideWinder is all about the motor. I can't really add any significant info regarding your choice between the 1200 vs. the SW that hasn't already been said from the guys who've already posted. That being said.....

View attachment 142713

DISCLAIMER:

TY does NOT condone recreational surfing on a Great White shark while shooting a Tommy Gun.
So to avoid PETA & the Gun Hating Liberals, it would be much easier to buy a Sidewinder!

 

[Rich Kay]

People eating tasty animals... PETA . Ask Nancy Pelosi If she has any armed security within three feet of her at all times!

 

[swampcat]

People eating tasty animals... PETA . Ask Nancy Pelosi If she has any armed security within three feet of her at all times!

I just threw up a little in my mouth. 141 or XTX for off trail. LTX or 137 for crossover adventure duty, or RTX 129 for tight trail use. Your conditions may vary.

 

[Rich Kay]

I just threw up a little in my mouth. 141 or XTX for off trail. LTX or 137 for crossover adventure duty, or RTX 129 for tight trail use. Your conditions mat vary.

I understand....

 

[yamadoo]

DISCLAIMER:

TY does NOT condone recreational surfing on a Great White shark while shooting a Tommy Gun.
So to avoid PETA & the Gun Hating Liberals, it would be much easier to buy a Sidewinder!

We may not 'CONDONE' but do understand and will respectfully, of course, observe the joy/excitement experienced while surfing on a great white shark with deepest reverence.
Always thinking of how this reminds us of the feeling we experience while RIDING our sleds!!!!!!!

 

[sxr70001]

It always gets a little crazy around here at this time of year. Especially now that snow is just around the corner for most.

 

[Longtimesledder]

Thanks to all that replied. What does everyone think of a XTX 137? Might suit better for conditions I ride in.

 

[Moodeyblue]

Thanks to all that replied. What does everyone think of a XTX 137? Might suit better for conditions I ride in.

I have had a 2017 ltx se 137 for 3000 kms and loved it. Flatest handling 4 stroke I have ever owned going back to the rx1 days and it would rival my 2000 SRX for flatness as well. Easily buries the speedo to 110 mph and no belt issues at all.
I have sold this and excited about my new SRX when it arrives.

Im sure the XTX would be great as well. Maybe even lighter than the ltx se?

 

[stevewithOCD]

Is the XTX 137 a mountain sled?

 

[WinterWolf]

Is the XTX 137 a mountain sled?

I wouldn’t think so with a 137 inch track length...but maybe I’m wrong??? It’s a crossover no??