3 minute read
So, You Need A Snowmobile
The Klondike Snowmobile Association is a volunteer, non-profit organization formed in 1981 to represent snowmobilers in the Yukon Territory of Canada. Our mission is to “protect, develop and enhance the sport and recreation of snowmobiling in the Yukon.”
Two- or fourstroke? Long- or short-track? Utility or crossover?
Snowmobile shopping can be overwhelming for a beginner; however, just a little bit of knowledge is all it takes for patterns to emerge and sense to be made.
The first question for a beginner is what do you want your snowmobile to do? Manufacturers produce several different models, each designed to be good for specific things.
Dreaming of deep powder? You’ll want a mountain sled. Expanding your quest for the perfect ice-fishing spot? A utility model
will fit you well.
A quick visit to the websites of major manufacturers will show the various categories on offer, and models within each will be specifically designed to do exactly what the category name suggests.
Once you’ve narrowed down the models, you’ll have a choice of engines. You’ve heard snowmobilers talk about how they miss their 340 and how they like that 850. Snowmobile engines go by cubic centimetres of displacement, so they’re just saying an old sled with a 340cc engine, and a new model with an 850cc engine.
We recommend that beginners start with smaller engines, as they’re cheaper and easier to handle, plus the lighter weight will help when you get it stuck. Once you’ve added a few seasons of experience to your bag of tricks, you’ll also have a better idea of what you need and want—at which point those bigger engines may have a place in your yard.
Speaking of engines, two-
stroke or four-stroke? Modern two-stroke snowmobile engines have improved immensely in recent years, and most are now clean and economical direct-injection engines. These are popular because they’re lightweight (you will get stuck), powerful and
James Connor stops to take in the beauty of his surroundings while riding on the Ridge Road Heritage Trail near Dawson City recently
A group of friends and KSA members ice fishing on Coal Lake, a few years ago
PHOTOS: James Connor
quick to respond. Four-stroke engines are also an option on many models. These are generally more expensive to buy, heavier and less powerful. However, they’re quiet, long-lasting and cheap to operate.
Next up: track size. Snowmobiles come in a variety of track lengths and, generally speaking, shorter tracks are faster, lighter and corner better, whereas longer tracks offer superior flotation in deep snow and absorb the bumps better through the moguls. Again, it’s all about choosing the compromise that best fits your typical mission.
Still interested? Some online reading will be time well spent, and our local snowmobile dealers will be happy to walk you through some of the pros and cons of the different choices they offer.
One last thing to consider before choosing a sled is if it’s new or used, just like buying a car. New snowmobiles from local dealers will offer good selection, with the latest features, plus a warranty. On the other hand, there’s a variety of used snowmobiles available through all of the usual classified ad sources, and these are often a substantially cheaper alternative for those on a budget.
Once you have snowmobiles figured out, don’t forget about you! A proper helmet and eye protection are required. So is warm clothing, a survival kit and a good shovel. If you’re new to snowmobiling, consider taking safety courses and plan to go with moreexperienced snowmobilers for your first few rides.
Whether you’re considering snowmobiling or you’re ready to ride, right now, you can find a ton of great information on the websites of local snowmobile clubs and associations. Please consider joining your local snowmobile club— because their volunteers work hard for you and will greatly appreciate your support. Plus, they offer great membership benefits and discounts on fuel, parts and more! To learn more about snowmobiling here in the Yukon, check out the Klondike Snowmobile Association at ksa.yk.ca. n
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