Precision handling
The 2011 Yamaha Apex boasts a brand-new ski designed specifically to work in conjunction with the EPS system. The ski has a new shape, new keel and new runner, all designed to reduce resistance from the snow surface making steering more accurate to improve cornering performance.

With the electronically-controlled EPS, engineers were also able to dial the optimum amount of assist to decrease steering effort. They increased steering offset by 15 mm to improve straight-line stability to the slight detriment of responsiveness in corners.

Specific suspension
The base and SE models receive a new Mono Shock II rear suspension that enhances grip from the 128-inch Ripsaw track, which has a tough time handling the extra power of the latest Genesis engine. In addition to superior durability, the new fully-clipped track improves floatation.

2011 Yamaha Apex X-TX (Photo: Yamaha)

The standard Apex features 46-mm HPG aluminum shocks with adjustable preload, while the SE gets the famous Fox Float 2 air shocks up front (lighter than the original Fox Float units) and the new Fox Mega Float shock (200 lb/cu in) in the back. The Fox shock excels at limiting body roll when entering corners and provides more comfort than a traditional shock. The air suspension also eliminates all of the heavy coil springs and helps reduce unsprung weight by 2 kilos per shock.

The Apex X-TX premium cross-country snowmobile benefits from a Dual Shock CK 144 derived from the Nytro X-TX. The 6-degree tipped up rails in the back contribute to optimum floatation in deep snow while improving precision during active riding on the trails. Based on what we saw during our test ride of the 2009 Nytro X-TX, the tipped up rails perform like a traditional suspension with 121-inch track on the hardpack (corner entry is easy) and like a 144-inch unit off the trails.

Bottom line
Yamaha never sits still. Just look at their new 2011 Apex lineup: faster, more comfortable and especially more rider-friendly than ever. Let's not forget that Yamaha factory rider Matt Weidinger broke the world record for distance travelled in a span of 24 hours with the trail-blazing, EPS-equipped Apex on February 17, 2010. Bravo!