6 Things to Look for When Choosing a Snowmobile

If you’re looking for a snowmobile, finding the right one to meet your needs is essential. Buying this type of vehicle is a fairly significant investment, so you need to choose one that you’ll get plenty of use out of. That’s the case whether you’re purchasing one out of necessity or simply for recreation. Several types of snowmobiles are available, each with its own set of features, but not all of them are suitable for your purposes, your riding style, and where you’ll be riding. Keep the following factors in mind while searching for a snowmobile to help you find the best one for your specific needs and expectations.

1) Engine Type and Size

One important point to consider is the engine size and type. Engines with more power can give you more speed and muscle in deep snow, but they can also be a double-edged sword. Bigger, more powerful engines are typically heavier, so they could bog you down a bit. In general, you’ll find two types of engines on snowmobiles: two-stroke and four-stroke. While the former are smaller and capable of generating a good amount of power for their size, the latter are often more powerful and fuel efficient but heavier.

At the same time, you’ll find a range of engine sizes from 120cc to more than 800. Those on the lower end of the spectrum tend to be slower, and they’re great for younger or smaller riders. Higher-capacity engines are recommended for older, more experienced riders. The experts at Karl Malone powersports can help you decide with engine and other features might be best for you.

2) Suspension

Suspension is another aspect to think about. Snowmobiles are usually equipped with either A-arm or telescopic front suspension. A-arms often provide better handling and cornering at higher speeds. On the other hand, telescopic front struts may handle better in deep snow or at lower speeds. They’re sometimes lighter as well. They also have a simpler design and are easier to maintain. Some people feel that they ride smoother too, but that may also depend on the type of terrain you’re riding on.

In terms of rear suspension, most models have either torsion springs or air shocks. Torsion springs are usually easier to maintain and cheaper to replace than air shocks. They can provide better weight transfer and traction as well. Air shocks, though, offer more adjustability, and snowmobiles with this type of rear suspension may not be as likely to bottom out as those with torsion springs. Air shocks can also be more customizable.

3) Track Length and Lug Depth

Track length and lug depth are also key features to look into when you’re buying a snowmobile. Track length affects flotation, and both of these aspects can impact traction. Deeper lugs are best for loose, powdery snow and rougher areas whereas shallower lugs are recommended for packed snow and maintained trails.

Longer tracks work better for deep snow and climbing slippery hills whereas shorter tracks are designed more for maneuverability and riding in relatively flat areas. There’s also a middle ground here for people who ride on all types of terrain and in all types of conditions. Additionally, keep in mind that wider tracks are best for hauling and towing because they help to distribute weight more evenly.

4) Weight

Snowmobile weight is an important factor to consider as well. For the most part, lighter snowmobiles are easier to maneuver, and controlling them may not wear you out quite as fast as heavier models. That being said, they’re not always as stable, and they may not have the grip you need to navigate rough areas and plow through loose snow and underlying debris. Heavier models can give you more traction and stability, but they may not be as maneuverable.

Several factors affect the weight of a snowmobile. Those include the engine size as well as any extra hardware and features they’re equipped with. Remember that the amount of weight you put on the snowmobile factors into the equation as well. If you’re planning to haul or tow heavy loads, a lighter snowmobile with less equipment and features may not be able to handle the job. You may need a heavier model for that type of use to ensure the weight is distributed more evenly.

5) Fuel Efficiency and Capacity

Consider the fuel efficiency and tank capacity of different snowmobile models too. As mentioned, four-stroke engines are usually more efficient than two-stroke engines. Tank capacity generally ranges from eight to twelve gallons. Larger fuel tanks add more weight to a snowmobile, especially when they’re full, but they also mean you can go farther between fill-ups. They may also mean you don’t have to take as much extra fuel along with you when you ride. Having a higher fuel capacity and more efficiency may be helpful if you happen to get lost in the middle of nowhere and need a little extra leeway to get back on track as well.

6) Safety Features

Finally, think about safety features and other options while you’re shopping for a snowmobile. Something as simple as a windscreen can protect you against wind, snow, branches, and flying debris. Though taller windscreens offer more protection, they can also affect visibility. Try to find a nice balance between the two. LED headlights are brighter, so they can help you see better at night and in dangerous conditions. They’ll make you more visible to others as well.

Emergency shut-offs are also crucial. They’re mandatory in many areas. Some snowmobiles have shut-off buttons that have to be pressed manually. Others have tethers that attach to their riders. If a rider falls off, the tether pulls out, and the snowmobile automatically shuts off. Although both offer added safety, tether shut-offs may be better. After all, there’s not always enough time to manually press a button or flip a switch if the snowmobile flips or you fall off of it. Certain other features are also available, including heated grips and seats, GPS, Bluetooth connectivity, avalanche airbags, and floatation devices that automatically deploy to keep you from sinking if you break through ice.

Finding the Right Snowmobile for You

Whether you’re buying a snowmobile for work or play, you need to find one that fully meets your needs. Numerous models are available, but not all of them are the same. Consider the points mentioned here to help you choose the right one, and don’t hesitate to reach out to the experts for extra assistance.