Types of Snowmobile

Like cars, snowmobiles are now made in a variety of types.  The names change slightly with each manufacturer, but the ideas are the same.  Here’s a look at those types.

1. Youth: Just like it says, these are lower-powered snowmobiles designed for kids.  They’re quick enough for the trail so your kids won’t be lagging behind.  They just don’t have too much power for a youngster to control.

2. Performance: These are high-powered sleds, usually single-person snowmobiles designed for speed, cornering and having the ultimate experience.

3. Trail: Versatile, all-around sleds with good power and comfortable suspensions.  They’re designed for longer rides on groomed trails.

4. Touring: These are large, roomy and comfortable snowmobiles, usually a seat designed for 2-3 people.  Larger gas tanks and storage are included.

5. Mountain: These sleds have more aggressive treads and lighter weights, designed for climbing significant grades.

6. Utility: Designed to help you get work done, they’ve got power to pull a sled and wider tracks to keep digging even when they’ve got a load onboard. These are outstanding snowmobiles for grooming trails.

Top Snowmobiles in Each Category

These snowmobiles are a good place to start your search for the type that best suits your riding style and needs.

Youth: Arctic Cat F120, Ski-Doo Mini Z.

Performance: Arctic Cat XF1100 LXR, Polaris Switchback Adventure 600, Ski-Doo MX Z X-RS 800, Yamaha Apex SE.

Trail: Arctic Cat Trail Sportster, Polaris Turbo IQ LX, Ski-Doo MXZ TNT 600 E-Tec, Yamaha FX Nytro RTX.

Touring: Arctic Cat TZ1 Turbo LXR, Polaris Turbo IQ LXT, Ski-Doo Grand Touring Sport ACE 600, Yamaha RS Venture.

Mountain: Arctic Cat ProClimb M800, Polaris 800 Pro-RMK, Ski-Doo Summit 800, Yamaha Nytro MTX 153.

Utility: Arctic Cat Bearcat Z1 XT LTD, Polaris 600 IQ Wide Trak, Ski-Doo Skandic SWT, Yamaha RS Viking Professional.

Prices

You’ll also find snowmobiles in a range of prices for new models.  You can find a good youth sled for under $5,000.  Snowmobiles for trail riding, utility and mountain climbing range in prices from $6,000 to $9,000.  Touring models tend to be a bit higher because of their longer track and comfort features like better suspension, seat and hand warmers, and other amenities.  The top touring snowmobiles are more than $10,000.  Performance snowmobiles feature the greatest acceleration, suspensions built for cornering, and aggressive treads.  The top performance models start at about $8,000 and range above $10,000.

Summary

The right sled for you is the one that fits the way you intend to use it.  For versatility, trail snowmobiles are best.  If you’ve got more specific needs, shop the new and used snowmobiles of the type you want in order to get the most satisfaction from your time on the snow.

To help you store your snowmobile and enjoy it next season, there are a few tips you need to know.

When The Winter Season Ends

Tip 1 - Climate Controlled Storage

When you get ready to store you snowmobile, you need a place that's climate controlled. There are many storage companies that offer this type of service so utilize them. However, you must be willing to pay for your snowmobile to be stored. However, if this is not practical or you don't have the kind of money it may take, then try to find a storage area that isn't susceptible to the wide range of temperature change. You don't want condensation to build up on any snowmobile part.

Tip 2 - Using WD-40

As you get ready to store your snowmobile, spray it down front to back, top to bottom with WD-40. Your snowmobile parts will stay lubricated while the snowmobile is not in use during those warmer months.

Tip 3 - What To Do With Your Fuel

There's great debate about whether or not you should leave the fuel in the tank or drain it out. Some snowmobile owners say that a full tank of gas in the sled is likely to cause condensation and corrosion. They also say that gas that is still in the tank for length of time will loose its effectiveness. However, other people say that having a drained tank prevents fuel deterioration. Some snowmobiles will use an oil mix. If the mix is in the tank for an extended period of time, the mixture can separate and clog other snowmobile parts. If you are unsure of what to do, read your owner's manual to see what the producer suggests is best.

Tip 4 - Look At Your Mechanics

Be sure to completely look over the mechanical parts on your snowmobile as you prepare it for storage. Be sure that everything is as it should be. That means each nut and bolt is tight, you repair damaged or missing parts and repair your snowmobile before you store it. You'll also want to take out the spark plugs and put a minute amount of two-cycle engine oil into each spark plug cylinder. This keeps the cylinder from getting rusty. Take an old rag and stuff it into any snowmobile openings like the exhaust pipe. This does two things: minimize condensation and keep rodents from making a nest. Remove the seat to your snowmobile.

When The Winter Season Begins

Tip 1 - Reinstall Your Spark Plugs

Make sure, before you install the spark plugs once more, to pull the rope to start the snowmobile. You want to do this so that the spark plug cylinder is suitably lubricated. Now install the spark plugs. You may also want to purchase new spark plugs each year and install those instead of the older ones.

Tip 2 - Checking Fluid Levels

All your fluid levels will need to be checked prior to your taking the snowmobile out. Anything that's near low or on empty will cause major damage to the snowmobile's engine.

Tip 3 - Paint Touch-up

If you have scratches or nicks on your snowmobile, touch them up with rust-resistant paint. If you don't, there's a strong possibility that the area will get larger and could become rusty or corroded.

Tip 4 - Add Wax

Before you get rearing to go, add one layer of wax to get the most out of your snowmobile and don't forget to reattach the seat correctly.

When you follow these eight before and after snowmobile storage tips, you will have years of enjoyment. Don't forget to read over your owner's manual and use it as a reference guide so that you are doing what is right by your snowmobile before you store it for seven to eight months.

If you are uncertain about anything, an expert can help you out. Be mindful that this can cost a lot of money each season and is quite unnecessary because you can do it for yourself. Just remember to slow down so you don't overlook anything and find a place to store your snowmobile for the remainder of the year.

Tip 1 - Plan Your Trip

When you are thinking about doing anything that involves staying outside in the winter for long periods of time, you need to plan out your trip. Make sure to do research on the area you plan to vacation and get the conditions of that area. Be sure you know how much snow is on the ground, what route you want to take (let someone else know as well) and determine how much experience the group you plan to travel with has. Make sure you have all the necessary equipment you need to stay safe in this type of weather. It's not advisable to do any overnight winter camping with young children because they may be more vulnerable to the elements than you are.

Tip 2 - Warm Clothing

It's vitally important that you wear warm clothing to keep frostbite and hypothermia at bay. Taking precautions such as purchasing thermal clothing is essential. Make sure to wear plenty of clothing layers. Wear layers of loose clothing because each layer will provide insulation from the nipping cold. Using layers of clothing instead of thick winter clothing helps for times that you do begin to get hot. You can remove the clothing you need to cool down without getting too cold. Remember that dehydration will be an issue if you don't cool down. Find the balance of clothing that keeps you warm without dehydrating you. Keep this in mind as you pack: the winter clothes you bring aren't meant to warm your body; it's meant to keep the natural warmth of your body from escaping.

Tip 3 - Winter Camping Gear

One of the most essential items you'll be bringing on any kind of camping trip is the sleeping bag. However, if you plan to do any camping during the wintertime, you're going to want a special type of sleeping bag. Make sure that the sleeping bag you buy can handle the lower temperatures. By doing so, you'll be able to stay warm during the overnight hours into the morning time. Be sure to bring along a foam pad that will keep the cold ground away from your sleeping bag. Think of it as an extra layer of clothing between you and the bitter cold snow. When you do both of these things, you're ensuring that you won't get frostbite and hypothermia. You'll also want to bring along a gas-powered stove so that you can cook and stay warm. Make sure that you have the proper fuel with you. Remember that firewood is great to get a hold of in the summertime. Yet, the wintertime can be brutal and likely no usable firewood will be around.

Tip 4 - Foods To Bring

Make sure that you pack the amount of food you need for everyone in the group. You already know that s'mores is the most popular food to be eaten on camping trips. However, you still need foods that are nourishing to your body. Most people tend to eat less in cold weather so be sure foods you bring are appealing. The best thing to bring is dried food in lieu of fresh food. Fresh foods like fruit have water in them, which can freeze in cold weather. Consider foods such as granola, cheese and oatmeal.

If you want to go snowmobiling and camp out too, then it's in yours and everyone's best interest to plan ahead. If you fail to properly plan, you'll panic and succumb to the cold. Make it an enjoyable experience for you and your family. Plan, plan some more and go over everything on the list more than once to make sure you have everything you need for the trip to survive.

Five Tips On Purchasing a Used Snowmobile

Tip 1 - Look Around First

As with anything you buy used, never settle on the first snowmobile you encounter. It's best to look around at what's available, look at the models intently, check them out and decide which of those models is going to work for you best. Before you hop on over to the seller's home, make sure to inspect a friend's snowmobile to get a feel of what you need to look for. Imagine a friend is a stranger you plan to meet and grill them on questions about the snowmobile. This can help you to not overlook things when you are asking questions and you won't be making any rash decisions about the snowmobile.

Tip 2 - You Start It Cold

Advise any person who you will be visiting in regard to a snowmobile not to warm it up or start it before your arrival. Let them know that you would like to see how it starts after it's been sitting for awhile, cold. If its been warmed, there's no real certain way to tell how the engine does. If you plan on going on a test ride, bring along your snowmobile gear.

Tip 3 - New Snowmobiles Against Used Snowmobiles

Before you spend money on your choice of used snowmobiles, go to a local snowmobile dealer and look over their models. Figure out how much you should be spending. After all, you don't want to purchase a used model at new price. You also get an idea of what a snowmobile is supposed to look like. With that being said… have a look at the used snowmobile. Are there any damaged spots on the snowmobile or chipped paint? You want to make sure that there has been no damage to it such as skis out of alignment. Be aware of the cosmetics of the machine.

Tip 4 - Ask Questions

It's imperative that you ask the seller questions that you have in regards to the snowmobile. What are some of the questions you need to ask? They are:

- What was it used for? (If the snowmobile was used for racing, this can add stress to the engine and other parts so be mindful of this fact.)
- Ask about the snowmobile model? (Snowmobile models may have manufacturer defects and mechanical issues. The seller may want to be free of it for this very reason. Ask them about it.)
- How often was it used? (If it was used a lot, you're going to have to replace mechanical aspects on it sooner.)
- Has it been previously damaged or wrecked? (You certainly don't want to purchase any used snowmobile that's been damaged because there is a possibility of something going wrong later down the line. Look for scraps or cracks that would indicate an accident.)
- Are there any mechanical failures and replacements? (Don't purchase any snowmobile equipment in which it seems it is hesitating or having problems. Even if the price is within your range, you could pay more later on.)

Tip 5 - Test Rides

Before any decision has been reached, it's time to test ride the snowmobile. Here, you'll learn about the brakes. Do they engage as they should or do they seem touchy? Make sure you have enough brake fluid, as this can determine how it engages. You also want to look at the color of the brake fluid. Is it an amber color? If not, then the snowmobile's brakes have had problems. Look for other snowmobiles if this seems to be the case.

When you are purchasing a used snowmobile, it can seem like a daunting experience. Yet, with research in your hand, you can choose the used snowmobile you like and trust with ease and know that the investment you make is a wise one. Just stay levelheaded and keep looking. You will find the snowmobile right for you.

A Beginner To Snowmobiles

If you are just beginning to snowmobile, it's probable you don't own any equipment just yet. Should this be the case, then you'll need to rent snowmobiles along with the equipment from the resort. Experts, working for the resort, are usually on hand to give you a tour of the snowmobile equipment and learn how you need to operate it safely.

Advanced Users of Snowmobiles

It's not uncommon or unheard of for vacationers to ship their snowmobiles to the resort they plan on staying at. However, one good reason you should leave your snowmobile at home, is to learn about the new snowmobile equipment that the resort has. This means if you are interested in it, you've already got a feel for how it will drive and work, which can help you save money if you find you really don't like it after all.

Renting Snowmobile Equipment

Again, a new snowmobile rider won't have the equipment he/she needs to ride a snowmobile. For them and avid users who choose to rent, the ski/winter resorts have the necessary equipment you need including:

- Boots
- Gloves
- Waterproof suits
- Helmets

Renting vs. Buying - What's Actually Best In Terms of Snowmobiles

Should you buy or should you rent your snowmobile? Actually, this is really up to you. If you plan to snowmobile from now on, then it's likely you'll want to purchase your own machines. However, if you only plan to do it once or twice a season, then it is better, money-wise, to rent snowmobiles each season (if you plan to snowmobile each winter season at the resort).

No doubt, even experienced snowmobile riders who do have their own machines, find that renting a snowmobile is less expensive than dragging their machines to the resort. Rental equipment is usually insured and the rider pays a deductible in case they should have an accident.

Guides To "Guide" You On The Trails

When you rent a snowmobile from a resort, you can get an experienced guide, employed by the resort, to take you and others out along the scenic route so that you can get a taste of the trails. They know the trails very well and can customize tours so that you get the kind of ride you want.

Beginner Guide Tours

Most beginner snowmobile riders will go on tours that have smooth, straight trails

Experienced Guide Tours

For experienced riders, you can choose a more thrilling ride through the landscape.

Both beginners and advanced riders will have the peace of mind that they'll get the experiences they want and pay for. Something they could not get if they tried to do the trails on their own.

Experienced Snowmobile Riders and Their Snowmobiles

Many experienced snowmobile riders may opt to have their own snowmobiles with them on vacation and that's doable. After all, you can ship it to the resort and/or drag them on a trailer to the resort.

There are many reasons a snowmobile rider will opt to use his/her own machine including the inability to get used to the new equipment quickly and by the time they master it, the vacation could be over. This is the most common reason an experienced rider will bring his or her own equipment.

An experienced rider may be willing to pay for the shipment and insurance of their snowmobile, which can cost about or more than the rental cost of the equipment. The snowmobile rider must choose if it is really necessary for him/her to take along his or her own equipment in lieu of renting one from the resort.

Thousands of people have discovered the wild and wonderful world of snowmobiling. This sport combines the beauty of nature with a burst of excitement. Grab the handlebars of a snowmobile, give it a little gas and let the snowy landscape whiz by.

If you are new to this sport, there are a few things to consider before starting out on the trails. Topping the list is the right kind of equipment. Every sport carries a certain amount of risk, which is why it's wise to invest in some safety equipment.

A helmet is an absolute must to protect against any head injuries. Waterproof and insulated gloves are important since your hands are needed on the controls. Having stiff and cold fingers may make it more difficult to manipulate the throttle or the brakes which are located on the handlebars.

Goggles will protect your eyes from snow splashes and the sun. Plus, you will want your vision as clear as can be to avoid any obstacles on the paths. For an added measure of safety, many snowmobilers pack a kit with a thermal blanket, food items, water and a first-aid kit.

Once you're all dressed and packed for your first ride, sit on the snowmobile and get the feel of it. Hold the handlebars; your arms should rest comfortably without straining to touch the controls. Your feet need to be placed under the stirrups. These straps give you added balance, enabling you to stay on the snowmobile especially on the turns.

The controls are located on the handlebars. The thumb of your right hand operates the throttle and the brake lever is on the left side. You may need a bit of practice to get the feel of opening the throttle, but once you manage that the fun begins.

In some ways, snowmobiling is like riding a bike; you need to keep your balance in a similar way and lean to the inside of a turn. The handlebars are used for steering, but like with a bicycle, your speed should be decreased going around a turn, especially since you're on snow.

Get a feel of braking the snowmobile. It's easier to stop on softly packed snow than on snow crusted with ice. You may need to pump the brakes slightly to come to a full stop on more slippery surfaces. It's wise to always be aware of the conditions on the trail and to be ready to brake accordingly.

If you fall off the snowmobile, keep in mind that it happens to everyone at some point! That's why one of the first pieces of recommended equipment is a helmet. To minimize injuries from a fall, it's a safe practice to keep a distance of at least 150 feet from you and other snowmobilers on the trail. If you feel yourself falling, instead of struggling to remain on the snowmobile, roll with the feeling. If you fall in a relaxed state, the odds of injury may be diminished.

First-timers and beginners should consider renting a snowmobile. This will give you time to experience the sport and will minimize start-ups costs. Going on a guided snowmobile tour with an instructor is also an excellent way to get started on this winter adventure. After a few outings on a snowmobile, you will be wishing for snow every day!

It's best to start with the basics, like cleaning off the snowmobile. Besides removing any dirt and debris, a clean machine will help you make a better evaluation. You will be able to see any stress points, buckling or cracks. Let your eyes and your hands wander over the snowmobile, especially checking for any loose parts.

When executing your snowmobile maintenance plan, pay special attention to the skis and runners. Whether the skis are steel or plastic, there shouldn't be any holes or deep gouges in them. Occasionally, the runners can get bent, but this is fixable by using a vice to straighten them out.

The next step in the preparation process involves some mechanical ability, but anyone can tackle these items. All you will need are a few tools and the owner's manual nearby as reference.

Wipe all the grease fittings on the machine, carefully cleaning off any corrosion that may have developed. You will then be adding new automotive grease to these fittings, filling them until the older grease oozes out. Be sure to do this to all the fittings; check the owner's manual to see the exact locations.

If the gas wasn't drained out at the end of last year's season, now is the time to do it. The snowmobile won't run well on gas that's been sitting for months and when you're out on the trails you will want the best performance you can get.

Spark plugs should be removed and replaced. Refer to the owner's manual to determine the correct plugs to use. If you purchased the snowmobile from a private owner, don't assume the spark plugs are the right ones. Take a moment to verify it from the manual. Although cleaning the spark plugs might be an alternative to putting in new ones, to get the most out of your snowmobile, go for the new plugs.

The starter rope should be examined for any fraying. If it doesn't look in great condition, replace it now. It's always advisable to carry a spare rope with you on the trails, so buy two and keep one for a spare.

Check the battery terminals, clean them and add water to the battery if it's low. The carburetor should also be cleaned, especially if the machine has been idle for a while. Use a quality carburetor cleaner and pay special attention to the inlet needle. This has a tendency to get stuck either in the open or shut position. In the open position the engine will flood but if the inlet needle stays closed there won't be a proper amount of gas to fuel the engine.

Check the throttle and make sure it moves freely. If this control should stick in a fully or partially open position, the snowmobile may be recklessly powered forward and could cause serious injuries. The throttle is spring-loaded which means it's designed to return to an idling position when you take your hand off it. This is an essential part of operating a snowmobile and needs to be thoroughly checked.

A safe snowmobile maintenance plan well executed will give you the most enjoyment with the least amount of risks.