Used '03 RX1-what to look or watch out for?

[xcsp]

A guy in my snowmobile club is considering a used '03 RX1-ER, said to have less than 2,000 miles on it.

Can anyone tell us what he needs to know about these 1st year sleds?


Thanks in advance for the help!!

 

[YammyRX1]

There are a few similar threads on here about what to look out for when buying a used RX-1. Most guys are recommending to check the jack shaft bearing and do the sway bar upgrade for better handling but overall a very reliable sled that gets good mileage and needs little maintenance. I also recommend saddle bags (no seat storage) and mirrors if it does not have any.

 

[Len Todd]

They made 117 improvements on the '04 based on what they found wrong the '03s. They have made several dozen more significant improvements on newer RX-1 based on what they learned from the '04s. So, ... I personally would not even consider an '03, even with only 100 miles on it.

 

[Sled Dog]

They made 117 improvements on the '04 based on what they found wrong the '03s. They have made several dozen more significant improvements on newer RX-1 based on what they learned from the '04s. So, ... I personally would not even consider an '03, even with only 100 miles on it.

Yea but they were minor in nature like the jackshaft collar update and the hand and thumb warmers having to be set each and every time you start the sled. Other than the oil burning issue which is caused by poorly designed piston rings it will most likely burn or more like use oil something in the tune of 1 liter for every 300 to 500 miles. If the price is right go for it. Convert I believe still rides and loves his 03 and he keeps up with the best of them on the trails.

 

[Sled Dog]

There are a few similar threads on here about what to look out for when buying a used RX-1. Most guys are recommending to check the jack shaft bearing and do the sway bar upgrade for better handling but overall a very reliable sled that gets good mileage and needs little maintenance. I also recommend saddle bags (no seat storage) and mirrors if it does not have any.

That would be the jackshaft collar update not the bearing.

 

[RedRocket]

I personally would not even consider an '03, even with only 100 miles on it.

Give me a break, because of a few updates...

The 04 is not exactly a brand new model. Besides the fact that it's carb'd and has a crappy stock track means nothing.
Oh I get it, because you have an 04 RX-1 it must be the best...

My 03 RX-1 is completely stock with no upgrades to the suspension or engine and it has 3,100 trouble free grinning miles. I added studs to help with traction and added foam to the seat to raise the seat height. It handles fine and takes the bumps very good when set up right. I would prefer fuel injection but have no problems with a carb'd sled.

Otherwise, check for burning oil, the rear suspension for cracks, look for any mods, and if the track has been changed ask about the jackshaft collar update.

 

[Len Todd]

I figured there would be some crying from the '03 owners. But, ... I am entitled to my opinion. Waaa!

And, ... I do have an '04. But it is far from the best out there. But, ... I do know that I do not have oil burning issues, I did not have to change links and sway-bar, I do not have carb problems on steep hills, I did not have broken slider supports on the secondary, I did not have to change front suspension springs, etc. etc. and the list goes on.

I also know that I would much rather have FI versus these finicky carbs, and I would like something a lot lighter. So I am NOT married to my sled and it is far from being the best one out there. For me, it just was better than the '03s!

But, if I ticked anyone off, it was not my intention. Besides, being ticked off is your personal choice. Not mine.

Bottom line: I seldom buy a first year production model. I am tired of being the product tester. That AC 660 that I have cured me of this. Heck, I even waited almost two years for the Duramax to settle down after the '07.5 model year change. ;-)

 

[RedRocket]

I do know that I do not have oil burning issues, I did not have to change links and sway-bar, I do not have carb problems on steep hills, I did not have broken slider supports on the secondary, I did not have to change front suspension springs, etc. etc. and the list goes on.

I too do not have any of the problems listed, just because it's an 03 does not mean you are guaranteed to have these issues. That's all I'm saying...

 

[abj87]

My 03 burns no oil as well. The problems they do have seem to be minor. Manufacturers in general make changes every year, most of the time to reduce cost.

 

[bluecanuck]

I will not enter an argument cause I am converting from Skidoo and 2 strokes so I am still learning on my Yamaha crash course. I will throw in I would have preferred an 04 or 05 due to the updates but in my area they were demanding $1000 to $1500 CAD more for these machines many with more miles and in worst shape. So I settled on the 03 LE ER, saved some cash, updated the stuff that mattered to me for around $400, and now understand the workings and ins and outs of the machine. If you are not into this sort of thing and can find a good deal on a newer one in your price range go for it. But I think most will agree that you should not be scared of a well cared for 03.

I hope I do not eat my words this season but most of what I have read back this up compared to other makes and models and their short comings. Let's face it sleds are money pits but it is hard to beat Yamaha for fit, finish, and resale.

 

[the kitchen]

My 03 did burn oil, one quart to 300 miles. Kinda stunk when I had the only 4 stroke in the pack but was the only one stopping befor we got back with oil light on and yes I caried a quart with me at all times.
I will tell you the sleds motor was bullet proof. Loved the sled but wanted to upgrade my ride. When you ride hard parts break, 8000 miles and I ride hard and was towed once, blew out all three rear axcel wheels.
If it is a money holding you to an 03 it will treat you fine.

 

[Mikey]

I would like to see A list please.

They made 117 improvements on the '04 based on what they found wrong the '03s.

117 seems VERY high.

 

[Len Todd]

It would have been nice to have the entire list. However, all they did was publish the fact that there were 117 changes made and their brochures focused on the significant changes oil problem fix, the 11mm stabilizer, and the exhaust system weight being reduced, etc..

So, ... I believed them. Seeing how the new rings was one of the claimed changes, I bought one. Glad I waited. The oil thing alone would have driven me nuts.

 

[Bob Miller]

I have an 04 Warrior and it uses about a Quart of oil every 400 miles. I presently have 11 k miles on it. Have my eyes on a FI RS 1000 triple LTX.
Lighter, more manuverable, better gas mileage, and no more oil consumption

 

[drg650]

After reading this post I had too add my 5 cents worth. I have a 03 and I have two friends that have 04’s.On the oil topic they burn just as much oil as mine.1 liter to every 600 miles or so. So if I know of two 04’s that burn oil I am sure there is more. Yes the 03’s had little stupid fix’s like sway bar links and having too turn down the hand and thumb warmers every time you start the sled.but making remarks on staying clear of the 03 is a little harsh. they are all great sleds.If you find a great deal. and the sled is clean. buy it. you wont be dissaponted.I got 10,000 miles on my 03 and I love it. planning too keep it for another 10,000.