Well, it’s happened a few times now, where I’ve been identified as the one riding the Tundra. I didn’t mind it much, but I will admit that the first thought that came to mind was whether or not I could find a paper bag to fit over my helmet.

This isn’t a knock against the venerable Ski-Doo Tundra, because this machine is one that many people depend on for their lives or livelihood. If Timex would have made a snowmobile, it would have been the Tundra! It takes a lickin’ and keeps on tickin’. The Tundra’s success comes from its simple design and functional features, thus making it a perfect fit for the remote places the Tundra is used in. But that also means its reputation isn’t exactly an exciting one.

My perception of the Tundra changed at the 2010 Ski-Doo launch, where I found myself riding the new, redesigned Tundra. Surprisingly, I fell in love with it. To be clear, it wasn’t the only sled I fell in love with at the event, as there were other new rides like the 2010 XP RS, or the new Renegade Backcountry. What surprised me was that with everything else to see and experience, the Tundra was one of the machines that stood out to me the most.

Part of my experience riding the Tundra was the terrain and the amount of snow we had to carve up. There wasn’t a big mountain to climb, or hard packed snow; instead it was all flat-land boondockin’. I admit that the experience wouldn’t have been nearly as much fun if it was a simple trail ride, but off the trail I actually found myself giggling like a school girl!

The narrow stance and the new ergonomics make carving out a powdery turn super easy. The neat thing was how slow you could go, and pull this machine side to side in endless hooks. In fact, this machine makes ‘bustin’ pow’ so easy it would be the perfect sled to learn this skill on, and how to make this move second nature. Plus, when you run out of talent and windup on your side, or stuck in the white stuff, the Tundra is light enough to dig out all by yourself. 

Of course, carving powder wasn’t a top priority when Ski-Doo redesigned the Tundra for 2010. Deep snow performance was high on the radar, but in the utility paradigm, and not necessarily for “sporting” purposes. The engineers wanted to keep the durability, deep snow attributes of the pogo-style telescoping front end, but mated to the DNA of the XP line. What they came up with is the REV-XU platform. They did this with a pretty unique front clip that locates the front suspension and ties it into the XP derived chassis. This clip is also the essential piece needed to allow the design of the telescoping front suspension and the sloping front plastics which give the Tundra its deep snow abilities.

It’s clear that much of the XP DNA has invaded the Tundra’s lineup. Everywhere you look you’ll see XP sourced parts. This not only updates the Tundra, but also saves manufacturing costs by sourcing off the XP line. Smart!

Other cool bits and pieces include articulating rear slide rails, and a full wraparound aluminum bumper to help go over, around, and through anything in the backcountry.

I may never ride the Tundra in its intended environment like north of the Arctic Circle, actually on the Arctic Tundra. I’m glad I had the chance to experience the Tundra in the conditions that I did, and from now on, I’ll look at the Tundra with a whole new attitude. And guess what! I’m fine with being seen riding this fun little snowmobile. No more paper bags for this guy! …I still draw the line at a scooter though. 

www.osm-mag.com