Ski doo elite side by side snowmobile for sale

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What's the hottest off-road product on the market these days? There is little question that it is the super sporty, high performance side-by-side ATV's like the Polaris RZR, Arctic Cat Prowler and the Can-Am Commander.

These top sellers disappear off dealers showroom floors faster than leather jackets at a Harley rally. Which leaves us wondering where are the sporty, high-performance side-by-sides in the snowmobiling world?

The last stab at this market was the re-introduction of the Ski-Doo Elite in 2004/5. It was billed at the time as the safest, yet the most powerful Elite ever. Project leader and developer Charles Bombardier was quoted at its launch, “You drive it like a car and you feel completely safe in its cocoon.”

Which may explain the Elite's quick demise—snowmobilers, not unlike ATV'ers, aren't looking for a ride reminiscent of a Lazy-Boy on skis—they want to feel the adrenaline pumping excitement of a side-by-side Razor.

Ski-Doo originally introduced the two-seater Elite model way back in 1973. The hope was that the Elite would, in fact, appeal to the “elite,” or a more well-heeled, upscale snow riding clientele. The heavy sled was designed to give a smooth ride while offering “nimble” handling despite its clumsy twin tracks and wide twin ski stance. This Elite model sported a rear-mounted 635cc fan-cooled twin engine. It came with side-by-side seating that mimicked the “pony” cars of the day complete with 4-speed console mounted shift transmission lever located between the seats.

Ski-Doo originally introduced the two-seater Elite back in 1973. Photo courtesy Ski-Doo

By the 1975 model the Elite's engine had been scaled back to a 436cc Rotax twin but the amenities upgraded to include a speedometer, tach, electric fuel gauge and, to appeal to the more urbane of the day, a cigarette lighter. However, in 1976 the Elite was discontinued and wasn't revived again until several years later. This time the 1978 Elite came with a 444 liquid-cooled twin engine—gone were the bogie wheeled suspensions, now replaced by Ski-Doo's new Torque Reaction slide suspension system, promising to give the sled a smoother ride and better handling. Upgrades available included a CB radio (10-4 good buddy), a ski rack and AM/FM radio.

The Elite hung around until 1983 when it was once again axed from the Ski-Doo production run. The Elite remained mothballed until its resurrection in 2005. This time a more sporty model was introduced with a Rotax 4-stroke 1/5-litre liquid-cooled engine, a airplane cockpit inspired “steering wheel” complete with heated grips, lockable front trunk and twin SC-3 rear slide suspension. But again Ski-Doo seemed to be playing to the snowmobiler who was seeking more “creature comforts” than sporty performance and side-by-side riding excitement. It still came across as your “father's Oldsmobile” – more “snow car” than “performance sled.”

We haven't heard or seen anything of the Ski-Doo Elite since. So is there a performance side-by-side snowmobile lurking somewhere in the back rooms of one of OEM skunkworks studios? Obviously Ski-Doo would be the natural choice to infuse some energy back into this possibly lucrative side-by-side snowmobile market.  A performance market just waiting to be discovered?

Remember, many laughed when the ATV world introduced the first side-by-side's back in 2007 and now they are the hottest thing on four wheels. Note to Ski-Doo: Maybe the Elite name isn’t the best choice for a high performance side-by-side snowmobile this time around—though the BRP EDGE (with apologies to Polaris) sort of has a nice ring to it?  

2004 Ski-Doo EliteBuy It Now: $6,800.00

Engine size (cc):  1500
Type:  Touring
Exterior color:  Silver
Engine type:  4-Stroke
Electric start:  Yes
Reverse gear:  Yes

RARE, 2004 Ski Doo Elite. This machine is in perfect condition and has low mileage with only 544 mile on it. Only issue is a crack in the rear view mirror (shown in pictures) It has always been kept inside and I also have a very rare cover for it. Cover is shown on it , in the pictures. I also have the cloth top for it to protect even more from the elements. Never used it and you will also see pictures of that with the tag still on it. Also included is the travel luggage bag for the back (rare). I still have the manual which is also included. Also, just replaced the very expensive battery.  I am really torn about selling this machine but don't get a chance to use as much as I should. It is the most comfortable ride you will ever have on a snowmobile and it turns more heads than you can imagine ! Everyone will approach you about it everywhere you go to ask about it. I heard Ski Doo only made 500 of these and won't make them again.

Below is additional info on machine from Ski Doo:

A brainchild of the Bombardier Advanced Concepts and engineering team, this ultra-fun 2-passenger cruiser is a modern version of a snowmobiling classic. Combining timeless styling with luxurious comfort features, it is the perfect machine to cruise through winter’s wonderland with friends and family. Designed as the perfect touring machine, it utilizes a unique side-by-side seating design to deliver the most comfortable ride on snow. The spacious windshield provides a clear, panoramic view, while protecting the riding compartment from the elements for a more pleasurable ride. There’s even a spacious storage compartment that allows you to bring luggage, food and supplies for long outings and overnights.

The Elite is the most passenger friendly snow machine ever created. Front row seating provides an unobstructed forward view, and makes it easier to communicate. The comfortable, full seats feature seat belts.

The unique twin track design provides ample traction and stability. It is powered by a state of the art Rotax® 4-Tec™ 1500cc 4-2troke engine with three in-line cylinders and top fuel efficiency. So not only do you enjoy maximum stability and control, you’re treated to superior responsiveness every time you punch the accelerator. Top of the line convenience features such as electric start, reverse and a power outlet for cell phone or GPS, as well as stylish instrumentation, complete the package. One ride is all it takes to realize the Elite is unquestionably the ultimate 2-person recreational snow machine for outdoor enthusiasts. There’s truly nothing like it.

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