Crossovers, hybrids, dual-purpose... Whatever you want to call them, snowmobiles designed for both on- and off-trail expeditions win over many enthusiasts with their versatility and potential.

As one of five members of the Renegade series, the entry-level, value-minded 2014 Ski-Doo Renegade Sport offers a choice of two Rotax engines while promising responsive trail handling, good bump capability, and commendable deep-snow performance with its long track. That being said, it has yet to receive the more modern and more agile REV-XS chassis like other Renegade models.

Photo: Ski-Doo

Getting to know the 2014 Ski-Doo Renegade Sport ACE 600
Like the name suggests, this machine is powered by a liquid-cooled, 600cc, 4-stroke, 2-cylinder Rotax engine with electronic fuel injection (unlike the carburetor-fed 550F). While very clean and fuel-efficient (8.5 L/100km according to BRP testing), this 60hp engine was designed with the recreational rider in mind; it's about 60% less powerful than average. And at 470 kg, the Renegade Sport ACE 600 has an unfavourable power-to-weight ratio of 7.83 lb/hp. On the plus side, the engine benefits from a new eDrive 2 drive clutch for 2014.

The 15”x137” Cobra track of the 2014 Ski-Doo Renegade Sport ACE 600 is relatively long, but mostly works to create a neutral balance between manoeuvrability and stability. It also features standard 1.25” lugs for a nice compromise between grip and drag-free acceleration.

The 2014 Ski-Doo Renegade Sport ACE 600 rides on a dual A-arm front suspension that connects to aggressive Pilot 5.7 skis spread 42.4” apart. It provides 9” of travel, an average amount in the 2014 crossover segment, while the SC-5M rear suspension with HPG shocks supplies 13.4” of travel, just below average. The latter does allow occasional off-trail stints and accommodates larger riders.

Meanwhile, the REV-XP platform soldiers on with a mix of strength and reduced weight, and its ergonomics allow for multiple riding positions.

Other 2014 Ski-Doo Renegade Sport ACE 600 highlights
The console houses an analog speedometer and tachometer, plus a digital information screen. The seat was designed with comfort in mind, and has a 7-litre storage compartment underneath. Hand and thumb warmers come standard, as does electric start, while mirrors and a hitch are optional.

Available in Black with yellow accents only, the 2014 Ski-Doo Renegade Sport ACE 600 starts at just $10,199, a major bargain when compared with other crossover sleds.