Since 2000, the Apex lineup (known as the RX-1 prior to 2006) has been producing Yamaha's highest-performing snowmobiles. Thanks to a complete redesign three years ago and notable improvements ever since, the Japanese manufacturer managed to change the way fans of ultra-high performance snowmobiles designed for the trails perceived them. These riders used to find Apex models too heavy and far less agile than 2-stroke machines.

The new 2009 Apex GT offers electrifying performance in both straight lines and twisty trails.

Power to spare
I recently rode a 2009 Apex GT (which features the best suspension among all Apexes) to get a better grasp of the latest advancements to Yamaha's thoroughbred. Since their original introduction, Genesis powerplants have never ceased to amaze us. The Genesis 150 of the Apex GT is no exception, blowing the competition with exceptional performance and effectiveness. Despite generating only 150 ponies, this engine seems even more powerful thanks to a surprising torque delivery around 7,000 rpm.

Riding feel is supreme thanks to immediate throttle response during accelerations. Vibrations are kept to a minimum, which makes the machine smoother and more comfortable on the trails. Some will find the engine a bit too loud, while high-performance enthusiasts will be enthralled by its captivating sound which, in my opinion, is on the same level as 2-stroke, high-performance snowmobiles of the 1990s. These sleds really tarnished the sport.

Ideal riding position
The riding position offered by the Apex puts the rider higher, more upright and closer to the front than on a traditional snowmobile, which kind of feels like a cruiser-type motorcycle (arms and legs stretched forward). The more standard position (again using motorcycling terms) contributes to ride control and comfort by reducing rider fatigue and making twists and bumps easier to deal with. The high-rise saddle is not as high as the Nytro's or Phazer's, though, which both place the rider in a "ready" position to attack jumps while soaking up the landings and big bumps. Rather, the Apex represents a compromise between a traditional snowmobile and sportier, snowcross-type machines like the Nytro.

The Apex puts the rider higher, more upright and closer to the front than on a traditional snowmobile.