Are Snowmobiles Going To Get More Expensive if Tariffs are Imposed? 

This is the question of the hour and frankly it cannot be answered at this time. However, here is what seems to be the situation. Big dollar, resource-based items like steel and aluminum produced in Canada are likely to be the first targets for tariffs. 

Items of a more household nature may be slower to be affected and who knows, may not be affected at all. It would make sense cars built in Canada may be pretty high on the list to have tariffs imposed. As a result, I would suggest keeping an eye on automobiles as they could ultimately be a clue to answering the first question regarding snowmobiles.

Will US Tariffs on Snowmobiles Result in a Retaliatory Response From Canada?

I would be shocked if any tariffs imposed on Canada do not result in a retaliatory tariff response. This has been reported in the main stream media since the first discussion of tariffs emerged earlier this year. 

This seems likely and could mean the price of Canadian and Mexican made snowmobiles headed for the US will go up as will American made snowmobiles destined for Canada. I am drawing from what is being said in the general media. None of this may come to pass. At least let’s hope it doesn’t.

Will the Price of Used Sleds Go Up?

This is one of the most interesting issues in this situation. It makes sense used sleds should be in higher demand if tariffs affect new sled pricing. In the mid 00’s there was a huge cross-border, used sled business going on between Canada and the US. The situation was somewhat different though as it related to the value of the US dollar compared to the Canadian dollar. Nonetheless any increase in the flow of used sleds crossing the border (either direction) would appear capable of putting upward pressure on the used market.

What Impact Could Tariffs on Snowmobiles Have on Dealers?

Clearly, if imposed, tariffs and retaliatory tariffs will hurt the retail sales of new sleds. However, there is a caveat. Canadian buyers buying Canadian made snowmobiles may not be hit with price increases and it would seem logical US buyers of US built sleds should experience the same situation – no price increases from tariffs.

How Much of The Tariff will be Passed on to the Retail Customer?

This may be the biggest question in this whole deal. Unfortunately, the answer will be determined by each OEM. You’ll know when we in the enthusiast press know. 

This is just a very narrow snap shot of what might be going on in the sno-mo-biz as it relates to tariffs. I have posited no answers here – just hypothetical descriptions of what could happen. 

We want to give our readers and viewers a clearer view of what tariffs ultimately mean and what may be happening in the immediate future. 

Stay tuned and we’ll bring you all the latest info as it rolls out and what to expect as we head into the 2026 Model Year.

The Shredder gets significant updates for nearly every chassis component to raise the game in deep snow riding while the rest of the line benefits from important upgrades and feature expansion plus a focus on entry-level with the Core Package.

“With the 2026 Lynx models, you’ll see evidence of our dedication to bringing both new, innovative ideas and our constant improvement strategy – which has led to market leadership in Scandinavia, and is now taking hold in North America,” stated Hannu Härkönen, Global Product Manager, Lynx Snowmobiles. “From big things like redesigning Commander and Shredder models to smaller ones that solve irritants like the flippable snow flap, we make sure to bring the best performance in all aspects to the market.”

The Commander RE gets the most up-to-date Radien² chassis with LED lighting, cutting edge styling and the 10.25-inch Touchscreen Display that includes Group Ride functionality in North America without a cell phone or network connection. More new components to boost the ‘go anywhere performance’ include a 4-piston brake system, new arched A-Arms, heated seat and flippable snow flap that stays out of the way when reversing. The leading crossover sled in Europe is ready to show North Americans what they’ve been missing.

Shredder models enter 2026 with a multitude of changes targeting even more deep snow capability with the renowned ‘Built Tough’ Lynx DNA. The chassis gets a shorter tapered tunnel, shorter heat exchangers and elevated, reshaped running boards that all add up to less weight. The reworked PPS³-DS rear suspension uses a new rail profile and new geometry for improved sidehilling characteristics, while lighter and narrower Blade DSS skis, new LFS-DS front suspension and Twin Link steering give riders more control in all situations. Even with all these significant changes, riders can still count on premium features like the best Kashima Coated KYB shocks packages to be offered on Lynx Shredder RE and DS models.

Toughness, durability and performance are at the core of every Lynx snowmobile. The Core package is what Lynx delivers from the start – it includes high-quality KYB shocks, coil over springs that offer long life and less weight, backup rewind starters and reliable fuel efficient Rotax engines. The performance features like legendary suspension designs and ergonomics for active riding are all there too, so calling this ‘standard’ just doesn’t fit. For 2026, this package is now available on all Lynx models with the same Sisu spirit, at an affordable price.

The connected experience jumps another level as any model equipped with the 10.25-inch Touchscreen Display adds Group Ride functionality in North America. This allows riders to track their friends without a cell phone or a network connection in addition to seeing embedded topographical maps and snowmobile trails,* and using breadcrumb tracking to find their way home. Using the BRP GO! app takes it another step with an even richer experience and more functionality, such as turn-by-turn navigation.

More key changes for the 2026 Lynx lineup include the Brutal RE moving to the Radien² platform with powerful LED lights, new aggressive deep snow style running boards giving riders more foot traction and a 4-piston brake system for extra stopping power. The Rave RE adds a new LFS-R front suspension giving more capacity and stability that adds confidence. It also comes with a black color option and the added choice of the Rotax 850 E-TEC Turbo R with its 180 horsepower. Finally, the Xterrain adds choices with the availability of a Limited package offering more comfort, the 10.25-inch Touchscreen Display, a passenger kit, and Rotax 600R E-TEC and 900 ACE Turbo engine options.

BRP Inc. is a global leader in the world of powersports products, propulsion systems and boats built on over 80 years of ingenuity and intensive consumer focus. Through its portfolio of industry-leading and distinctive brands featuring Ski-Doo and Lynx snowmobiles, Sea-Doo watercraft and pontoons, Can-Am on and off-road vehicles, Alumacraft and Quintrex boats, Manitou pontoons and Rotax marine propulsion systems as well as Rotax engines for karts and recreational aircraft, BRP unlocks exhilarating adventures and provides access to experiences across different playgrounds. The Company completes its lines of products with a dedicated parts, accessories and apparel portfolio to fully optimize the riding experience. Committed to growing responsibly, BRP is developing electric models for its existing product lines. Headquartered in Quebec, Canada, BRP has annual sales of CA$10.4 billion from over 130 countries and employs close to 20,000 driven, resourceful people as of January 31, 2024.

Snowmobiling in Scandinavia is fundamentally different than trail-based riding here in parts of North America and Lynx snowmobiles are designed to accommodate full-throttle roosts on ungroomed trails. The PPS³ suspension uses lots of travel but does not employ coupling, which means the RAVE RE will wheelie through rough terrain with skis off the snow. The sled responds to rider fore and aft movements telepathically. Frankly, the uncoupled nature of the PPS³ system creates a near “dirt bike-ish” response to rough trails.

Some may ask if the 3500mm PPS³ suspension on the RAVE RE 600 is overly stiff on North American trails and you need to understand this: PPS³ is not rMotion. Its set-up is almost bottomless, but in a firm sort of way from half travel to full compression. However, the sensation is not “stiff”. It is more of a precise feeling as the PPS³ eats everything from deep rollers to square edgers, to high-speed G-outs. PPS³ is unlike anything you’ll ride in the sno-mo-biz at this time in history.

Yes, an rMotion has a generally plusher response to junk trails. Strangely though, in rough terrain, the PPS³ suspension provides what can best be described as a more controlled and accurate response. How does this play out with the LFS+ front suspension used on the RAVE RE? Since PPS³ is uncoupled, you may be inclined to think it would produce inside ski lift. After-all, wasn’t ski-lift the reason virtually every skid this biz under 137 inches uses coupling? True story. However, the RAVE RE has a neutral response to cornering inputs and stays mostly flat on corner entry and exit.

A word of caution – the RAVE RE likes throttle. In simple terms drag the brake to the center of the corner then pivot using lots of throttle. On exit shift your weight rearward and dial up the power. BTW, the Blade XC+ skis on the RAVE are Lynx proprietary boards and have long, deep center keels that keep this sled slicing white top with little understeer.

The Rotax 600R E-TEC mill is essentially the same power-pack used by Ski-Doo in a plethora of models. Interestingly, our test pilots feel the engine delivers more urgent power – especially from mid-range to WOT.

We all agree the easy for-aft weight transfer (wheelie) response to throttle inputs gives the rider the sensation of extra-strong acceleration. Is the RAVE RE faster than a similarly powered MXZ? Can’t say for certain right now but it sure feels like it.

There’s some nice stuff the Lynx RAVE RE carries standard. Try KYB PRO 46 HLCR Kashima coated shocks, ultra-cool indirect lighting on both sides of the hood, cast toe hold close offs and a slightly narrower seat-to-gas tank junction thanks to its Radien² platform design.

What can’t be quantified in words though is the allure the Lynx brand continues to carry and cultivate. When you show up on a Lynx RAVE RE 600R, heads will definitely turn, and you can’t put a price on that.

These are riders who prioritize high speed suspension response and near-perfect handling in the bumps just as much as raw acceleration and top speed. After all, why ride bumps with gargantuan power if the sled’s chassis can’t handle it? The RAVE RE’s 850 E-TEC twin has proven to be more than adequate.

If there’s one thing we can unequivocally say about the RAVE RE, it’s that the Radien² chassis can handle everything the most powerful snowmobile engines in the industry can dish out. Accelerating through whoops or stutters, the RAVE tracks straight and true, daring the rider to hold the throttle open longer, trusting the suspension to perform beyond the incredible.

The front end is very much Ski-Doo but the skid frame is pure European, using the PPS 3 uncoupled 137-incher the Lynx is most identified for.

With the throttle held open, the sled lifts its head and grazes the bumps with the skis while the Pippola suspension simply sponges up the junk. It’s a unique, unforgettable experience to ride a sled that performs like this! Its uncoupled skid has great flotation and offers a higher level of handling quickness.

A reasonable question aimed at a 600 version might be: “Why give riders less power instead of more?” At first glance, the answer may be about lower price. After all, a 600 will have a lower MSRP than an 850 – but we think there’s a bigger reason. Simply, it’s about the RAVE RE reaching a bigger market.

There are tons of avid snowmobilers who love the Lynx cachet but just don’t want an 850. The fact is, the ROTAX 600R E-TEC is a very strong performing 2-stroke and because of the prowess of this chassis, makes a great marriage with it.

Another indicator of the above is last year’s recalibration of the RAVE RE’s shock package. To be fair, the original RAVE’s shock calibration was firmer than most North American riders were used to. Last year the valving was modified so the bottom part of the travel was softer – not a lot, but still softer.

The sled was much nicer for all-day riding – and it didn’t lose its high-speed damping ability. Suddenly more people were interested!

Since being introduced to the North American market in 2022, the Lynx brand has captured the imagination and interest of hard-core riders across the continent with their built tough performance.

The Scandinavian heritage carries a never quit rugged independence known as Sisu that’s coupled with high performance designed for where groomed trails don’t exist.

This combination has an undeniable appeal – which is crystallized in every Lynx snowmobile.

Models available are:

• Rave RE 850 E-TEC with Ice Ripper XT 1.5”
• Rave RE 600R E-TEC with Ice Ripper XT 1.5”
• Xterrain RE 850 E-TEC with PowderMax 2.0”
• Xterrain RE 900ACE Turbo R with Ice Cobra 1.6”
• Brutal RE 900 ACE Turbo R with 16” PowderMax 2.5”
• Brutal RE 900 ACE Turbo R with 20” PowderMax 2.35”
• Brutal RE 850 E-TEC with 20” PowderMax 2.35”
  Low Altitude Calibration Deep Snow Models:
• Shredder RE 3700 850 E-TEC with PowderMax 2.5”, SHOT
• Shredder RE 3900 850 E-TEC with PowderMax 2.5”, SHOT
  High Altitude Calibration Deep Snow Models:
• Shredder RE 3900 850 E-TEC with PowderMax X-Light 3.0”, SHOT
• Shredder DS 3900 850 E-TEC with PowderMax X-Light 3.0”, SHOT

Dealers will be receiving limited quantities of models they ordered starting in September. Customers are encouraged to shop early to assure they get the snowmobile they want.

About BRP – BRP Inc. is a global leader in the world of powersports products, propulsion systems and boats built on over 80 years of ingenuity and intensive consumer focus. Through its portfolio of industry-leading and distinctive brands featuring Ski-Doo and Lynx snowmobiles, Sea-Doo watercraft and pontoons, Can-Am on and off-road vehicles, Alumacraft and Quintrex boats, Manitou pontoons and Rotax marine propulsion systems as well as Rotax engines for karts and recreational aircraft, BRP unlocks exhilarating adventures and provides access to experiences across different playgrounds. The Company completes its lines of products with a dedicated parts, accessories and apparel portfolio to fully optimize the riding experience. Committed to growing responsibly, BRP is developing electric models for its existing product lines and exploring new low voltage and human assisted product categories. Headquartered in Quebec, Canada, BRP has annual sales of CA$10.4 billion from over 130 countries and a global workforce of close to 20,000 driven, resourceful people.

That intro has been true for over 50 years without much debate whatsoever. Here’s what will be interesting in Long Branch, Minnesota this coming weekend. 

Last season’s Hay Days was one of the strongest showings of the sport of snowmobiling in a few decades. To say the weather doesn’t affect Hay Days attendance would be a huge understatement. I don’t mean the weather for the day of the event – I mean the weather from the previous snowmobile season. In the case of last year’s Hay Days, pretty much the entire snowmobile market had an amazing winter, and it translated into a strong Hay Days event.

This past winter was – by many enlightened observers, possibly the worst (lack of) snow year in recorded history. From the Atlantic and Maritime states and provinces through the central trail systems of the mideast to the expanse of the midwest and into the mountains, there was so little snow some buyers of new iron last year – actually more than some – didn’t even spin their tracks. The east’s iconic Quebec trails were snow-starved and run into the dirt while the western US market dealt with less snow than anyone we know has ever seen. In a word – how about three words – it was painful.

So here we sit on the cusp of another Hay Days. Our review of the site plan looks promising with exhibitor counts appearing respectable. What we or anyone else can’t predict is how big the crowd will be this weekend. 

For sure, a lot of last year’s attendees cleaned the place out of carbides, oil, studs, helmets, suits and of course late model current and non-current sleds. After all, most riders this time last year actually needed to spend sizeable jing to replenish their stashes of consumable parts, garments and accessories in preparation for what was supposed to be another big snow year.

The question we ask is this: What is the temperature of the snowmobile marketplace as the 2024 edition of Hay Days rolls out this weekend? We’ll all know the answer to that important question when the gates close on Sunday night. Hay Days is the most influential predictor of the market year after year.

So, without further adieu, here’s wishing an awesome Hay Days weekend kicking off a winter that turns back the hands of time and provides snow in feet, not inches, everywhere you and the team here at SUPERTRAX and SNOWTRAX ride. 

WHEN: September 7th and 8th, 2024
WHERE: 38740 Oriole Ave, North Branch, MN
INFO: haydays.com