With an awesome mix of trail, utility, and touring attributes, the 2015 Ski-Doo Expedition LE 900 ACE is unlike any other sled in the industry. It's essentially the ultimate Grand Touring model in Ski-Doo's comprehensive lineup (notwithstanding the exclusive SE model that was available for a limited time last spring). A wide array of luxury and rugged features arrive on top of a remarkably capable and comfortable machine.

Simply put, the Expedition LE is one of the most competent and versatile sleds on the market, albeit a niche product. Its new-for-2015, 4-stroke 900 ACE engine is fuel-efficient, smooth, quiet, easy to exploit, and generous in low- and mid-range torque. BRP only needs to fine-tune the ride-by-wire system and make it more precise for this model to become the leading choice of two-up touring enthusiasts, which right now would be the new 2015 Arctic Cat Pantera 7000.

Photo: Ski-Doo

A closer look at the Expedition LE 900 ACE
While the value-minded Expedition Sport ($10,639) is based on the lighter and narrower REV-XP chassis to help keep the price down, the more upscale Expedition LE ($14,239) rides on the wider and longer REV-XU utility platform. The SC-5U rear suspension not only accommodates a massive 20”x154”x1.25” track, but articulates to allow the track to rise up and spin over obstacles when reversing, or locks out when towing. Up front is a Motion Control shock package with double A-arms connected to new Pilot DS 2 skis that improve handling.

Let's go back to the new Rotax 900 ACE, which is the big news this year. Compared with the 600 H.O. E-TEC and 1200 4-TEC, this inline triple-cylinder uses advanced combustion technology to deliver 90 hp along with excellent fuel economy (approx. 10L/100km) and ultra-low maintenance. Its industry-exclusive Intelligent Throttle Control (iTC) ride-by-wire technology (the throttle block can be rotated to be used as either a traditional thumb throttle or unique finger throttle) offers three operating modes including Sport, Standard, and ECO. A Learning Key is included, and with a standard 650-watt magneto, the Rotax 900 ACE puts out plenty of juice for accessories.

Elsewhere, the 2015 Ski-Doo Expedition LE 900 ACE offers two-up modular seating, so you can easily get the right mix of passenger and cargo capacity -- without tools. While the rider benefits from heated grips, a multifunction digital gauge, and a 23” windshield for excellent wind protection, the passenger enjoys the comfort of an adjustable backrest as well as heated and shielded grips (they flip up and out of the way when riding through trees).

Final word
Not too many riders will actually want or need a machine like this one, but those who buy it will find a serious sled that offers everything for any job and any conditions (groomed or ungroomed trail, light or heavy snow). Let it be known that the 2015 Ski-Doo Expedition 900 ACE finished 10th in Moto123.com's top 10 best snowmobiles of 2015.