I was on the friday 1 pm ski doo demo ride in minocqua. I rode the GSX SE with the air suspension, 1200. Very nice, and I got there a little early and one of the techs showed me how easy it is to change the oil. very easy. and 1200 doesn't have any external oils lines to fail. Have to take muffler off, but easy with the long spring puller. It steered nice on the icy corners due to a little extra weight over the skis. Great low end torque, and fast and smooth across the lake.
Rode the 600 E-tec with the R motion, but of course trails were perfectly smooth, so I couldn't see what this suspension is capable of. Drove the Ace powered renegade, and it has lotsa low end torque, faster than i thought, top speed about 75. Had a nice ride, just about as nice as the air ride gsx... I also drove the GTX SE, the 2-up with the air ride suspension... I dunno, it's a Renegade with a big windshield and a couple lunch boxes on the back.. I think I liked this the best. I saddlebag alot, and finally, I could carry plenty of stuff. I'd take off the passenger hand grips, I kept snagging them with my boots and for sure would trip over these and fall flat on my face shield as everyone at the hoop n hollar would be watching my dismount!! The GTX is probably just a tic heavier than the GSX, it's still fast and handles great..
Now, the air suspension... The red GSX SE 800 E-tec was broken down, from a previous post here I guess it was the air suspension.. That's my biggest fear, that the air suspension is going to be troublesome. I'm not brand loyal at all. I'm trying to find a sled that rides as nice as the air ride ski-doos--but without the extra cost, possibly unreliable air ride suspension..
I'm grateful that the manufacturers are giving demo rides. It's still going to be a tough decision!!! Let us know what you guys and gals find out there!