We received about 5" of snow and I thought it was a great opportunity to break in the belt a bit. I Have a nice field directly across from my place that is relatively free of rocks and other debris. The temp was about 27, The snow was very powder like, not wet and sticky.
The vibrations were very apparent (maybe more so than before the push arm). I did notice that not only was the vibration coming from the handle bars but also I felt vibration through my feet. This occurd at slower rpm levels. After I got the sled to around 5200 and 6000 the vibration seemed to disipate a bit. I rode around at these speeds for about 3 miles, on and off the throttle and occasionally would slow down using the brake. After the 3 miles of putting around I did start to get on it a bit. Seemed to have VERY crisp response. In addition I really thought that the power delivery was very smooth. The sled didn't hesitate at all. I thought it was pretty good considering the "break-in" fuel was in the system. As far as cornering goes. The sled turns on a dime at slower speeds. At faster speeds I did notice that the sled had a small amount of inside ski lift. No different than my 800 REV last year (2003). Considering the issue that has been discussed about the "pushing" I think that these USI ski's TOTALLY eliminated that problem.
As far as operating ranges are concerned my sled is still (not for long) utilizing stock clutching. The sled engaged at 3800 (approx) and seemed to settle in at about 7300 on the big end. I did notice on a few occasions that the sled went up to 7400-7500 and settled back to 7300. This is apparently the clutching issue that has been dicussed on numerous occasions.
I like the feeling of the sled. It feels like it's balanced pretty well. I think that by adding the silencer I did shave a bunch of pounds which really helped this sled get rid of the "nose heavy" feeling. In addition I ordered the SLP airbox which will further reduce nose weight. My first ride impression is that the Fusion is more Comfortable than my REV. Althought the REV seemed very forgiving I always felt smashed up against the cowaling. I even installed the knee gaurds. Don't get me wrong on this, I really need to ride to $hit out of the Fusion to give a Apples to apples comparison. For the record I'm 6' and top the scales at just under 230lbs. I like the moveable handle bars but have to be honest, I will probably set'em and leave em'
After the ride I did some checking, this is what I found:
1) A very LArge amount of oil spillage/splatter under the "Y" pipe. I checked to make sure the pipe was secure (it was) but This may have been a result of my Silencer replacement( moving the pipe around) . I even had oil splatters on the inside of my Hood
2) The clutches were SMOKIN' hot. I did check the primary and noticed that the belt still had about 3/4 of an inch before it came to the top of the clutch . I, fortunetly, have a very good friend that will correct this issue. He has done a great job with any sled I have ever given him. In my opinion there is a TON of room for, not only dependability but also performance. I have read a bunch about the EPI kit and have come to the conclusion that they are selling a kit that focuses on Belt longevity and proper clutch temp.
Everything else looked intact and secure.
All in all I'm satisfied with the sleds ergo's. I'm very disappointed with the vibes. I like the power delivery. I'm concerned with the Gas milage, although my REV 800 only got approx 12-14 (depending on the riding,snow, etc. etc. ). Clutching shouldn't be an issue (on a new sled) but I would still be changing it with aftermarket even if it didn't have the heat issue. I'm a bit pissed with oil issue but this may be the result of my tickering. I like the seemless shift from forward to reverse. It works perfect.
Current Financials:
Sled: $6800
Ski's: $370
Silencer: $250
Push/torque: $150
Studs: $350
Airbox: $300
Clutching: ????
Currently I'm at $8220. I have a decent running sled but still needs a little more work. :frech32:
