2026 Ski-Doo Summit X 850 Turbo: Deep-Powder Domination
Some sleds look good on a spec sheet. Others earn their reputation in the backcountry. After putting real days on the 2026 Ski-Doo Summit X 850 Turbo in Revelstoke, deep snow, steep terrain, and everything in between, it’s clear this sled isn’t about numbers. It’s about how capable and predictable it feels exactly when it needs to.
What’s New for 2026
The 2026 Summit X hasn’t been completely reimagined, but what Ski-Doo has done is some thoughtful engineering that riders will feel on snow:
- Lighter, more agile chassis: The 2026 Summit X is up to 14 lb lighter thanks to changes like a shorter tunnel and heat exchanger, lighter snow flap, and optimized components, all without sacrificing strength or durability.
- Updated front suspension components: High-strength aluminum A-arms and refined shocks reduce unsprung weight and improve responsiveness.
- Refined steering and handling: Newer carbon and geometry tweaks across the deep-snow lineup focus on control and predictability, so the sled feels more confident in technical terrain.
- Rotax 850 E-TEC Turbo R engine remains the powerhouse: A factory-built 2-stroke turbo putting out up to 180 hp, breathing strong up to high elevations.
- Optional tech upgrades: A large 10.25″ touchscreen display with built-in GPS and group-ride features make long days in unfamiliar zones easier.
On the Summit X Expert, Ski-Doo has a 32-inch ski stance option with Twin Link steering, a setup aimed at increasing sidehill accuracy without sacrificing overall balance, especially noticeable in steep, technical terrain.
Track & Suspension: Why the 165″ Matters
A 165″ track with 3.25″ paddles is not a casual choice. It’s a deliberate tool for riders who chase float and range over pure flickability. On deep days in Revelstoke, that extra surface area keeps the sled sitting up in powder instead of digging in, which translates to more fun and less fatigue.
In tight tree riding or steep climbs, the momentum the long track carries is a tangible advantage.
On low-snow days, you do notice the length. It’s not as quick to pivot, and it rewards anticipation over reaction. But even there, the Summit X remains predictable, you just have to ride with intention.
Already this sled has taken me to snow incredible places:
- Ridge top at Boulder on New Year’s Eve, standing under clear skies and fireworks
- Adventures to an abandoned gold mine
- Deep powder laps with friends like Nadine Overwater and Allan Hudson, for the La Nina Charity Ride
- Most important of all, being able to double my three year old while I followed my eight-year-old up to Boulder Cabin and into the trees. Those moments remind me that capability isn’t just about performance – it’s about trust.
The Verdict
For riders who want more than just a sled, one that invites exploration, the 2026 Ski-Doo Summit X 850 Turbo with 165″ track is a standout. It’s lighter, more agile, and more capable in deep snow than ever before, with thoughtful engineering that rewards both confident throttle and careful line choice.
“Masterful performance in steep terrain provide a dominating advantage for riders looking to elevate their adventure beyond the previous limits.”
With the 2026 Summit X already pushing mountains and expectations, the 2027 Ski-Doos on the horizon promise even more innovation, power, and mountain confidence.
