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Pros and cons of Tundra LT vs Expedition Sport for a trapline sled

9.3K views 8 replies 8 participants last post by  Ontrapper  
#1 ·
I am now contimplating the Expedition sport when I originally thought of getting the Tundra LT for a trapline sled. I have an old skandic that does not do well in deep snow and plows through it and gets stuck easily. I think a lighter newer machine will help a lot. What are the pros and cons to between these 2 sleds? I like the price of the Tundra. I like that the Expedition has a wider stance. Other than that is one better than the other really to justify the price difference? Was thinking of the 600 Ace motor as I plan on holding onto it for 20 years hopefully. Still might consider the 550F though if I go with the Expedition to make it more affordable. Any thoughts?
 
#2 · (Edited by Moderator)
I highly recommend the thread by Wolverinebait comparing these two sleds. You could not ask for a better insight.

I went from a 550f Tundra Sport to a 600 ACE Expedition Sport and I couldn't be more pleased at the upgrade.

If you rarely ride a trail, and always cruise at relatively low speeds, there isn't much between them.

I have not seen anyone go from an Expedition Sport to a Tundra, lots of guys go the other way.

Maybe that's the only answer you need?

Good luck!
 
#3 ·
The front end is really the only difference. If you take the passenger seat off the Expedition, the difference in weight is 6 lbs. If you like making new trails through the tight and narrow/stumps ect then you want that pogo front end. If you have established traplines trails that you always use, then the wider and smoother A arm Expedition is what you need. The gearing and everything else is the same. This comparison by Wolverinebait is the best you'll find
http://www.dootalk.com/forums/topic/534238-tundra-lt-600-ace-vs-expedition-sport-600-ace-side-by-side/
 
#5 ·
I just went through this argument myself and ended up going with a tundra lt ace. The main reason was because of the floatation of the tundra. I found it doesn't dig in when carving through the trees at a slow pace. I have established trap lines but at the same time I can't help but dropping my sleigh and go carving through the trees whenever we get a good dumping of snow. Even running my established trails I do not find the tundra tippy at all despite what people say. Think most of the problem with tippyness comes from rider error. Which ever one you decide on definetly get the 600 ace. Got more power for towing at low speeds and the fuel economy is awesome. I've have yet to have a problem with a cold start (-35°c) or tipping the sled on its side (buried it screwing around in the trees and had to dig it out haha). Hope this helps. But you cant go wrong with either of the sleds.
 
#6 ·
I just went through this argument myself and ended up going with a tundra lt ace. The main reason was because of the floatation of the tundra. I found it doesn't dig in when carving through the trees at a slow pace. I have established trap lines but at the same time I can't help but dropping my sleigh and go carving through the trees whenever we get a good dumping of snow. Even running my established trails I do not find the tundra tippy at all despite what people say. Think most of the problem with tippyness comes from rider error. Which ever one you decide on definetly get the 600 ace. Got more power for towing at low speeds and the fuel economy is awesome. I've have yet to have a problem with a cold start (-35°c) or tipping the sled on its side (buried it screwing around in the trees and had to dig it out haha). Hope this helps. But you cant go wrong with either of the sleds.
I'm with you Ontrapper. Where I'm trapping I'm usually in thick woods. The narrow ski stance is a big plus. I also think I would be bending a-arms hitting beaver stumps or other things. I'm with you I don't find my Tundra LT as tippy as everyone else. Of course I grew up on a 1963 Ski Doo Chalet. They were also narrow.

The 600 ACE in my eye is the only way to go. Great mileage, Quiet, No maintenance! Just start and ride! I've got a 550 gas hog. Good engine but very hard on gas and the smell bothers me now after running an ACE!
 
#7 ·
Same here, trap in thick forest, and feel the a arms would be damaged in the places i make new trails. Often running over small trees and brush when opening new area.
I would like the Expo for open trails and groomed trail riding, and might get one when i get older an can't keep up with the tundras nimble handleing.

Expo has a shorter handle bar riser and wider, slightly higher seat.
Best comparision i could make is the expo is like riding a quad, and tundra is more nimble like a dirt bike.
Depends if you like to ride a machine or just sit and go along.
 
#8 ·
I agree with the two above. I own a 2015 Tundra Xtreme which i think is an awesome combo for bush and open country. My Buddy has a 2013 Tundra LT with the 600 Ace and i really like it. The 600 power has to be ridden a little different but is exactly what you want in the tight trails. The "tippy" part is to your benefit in the trees and cutting new trails for the trapline, It takes about 5 miles or less to get used to it. If your riding already established trails then maybe the Expy is good but You can't beat the pogo suspension in the underbrush, nothing to hang up on. I am currently selling my wife's trail sled to buy a new Tundra LT Ace for her. The new ones with the mode switch will probably be even better. Just my 2c.
 
#9 ·
I agree with the two above. I own a 2015 Tundra Xtreme which i think is an awesome combo for bush and open country. My Buddy has a 2013 Tundra LT with the 600 Ace and i really like it. The 600 power has to be ridden a little different but is exactly what you want in the tight trails. The "tippy" part is to your benefit in the trees and cutting new trails for the trapline, It takes about 5 miles or less to get used to it. If your riding already established trails then maybe the Expy is good but You can't beat the pogo suspension in the underbrush, nothing to hang up on. I am currently selling my wife's trail sled to buy a new Tundra LT Ace for her. The new ones with the mode switch will probably be even better. Just my 2c.
The mode switching on the 600 has to be one of the most useful things on the sled. When I'm checking my establish trails being able to switch it to eco mode and pull a sleigh while only sipping gas is a huge benefit. Then hitting the ponds switching it to sport mode to deal with slush and open water when you need a little extra power. One thing I suggest on either sled is to definitely stud the track. And if you get an expedition you will need the brp wide ski skins to help with the floatation.