Have you wondered how to drive a snowmobile? You have reached the right place. Driving a snowmobile is not exactly like driving a bicycle. However, it is not extremely hard either. With our basic tips you will find out exactly how to do it the right way.
In this article we have prepared a few important points on how to drive a snowmobile the right way. Regardless of where you are, be it the vast wilderness of the arctic or a public park behind your garden, you should check what the law says about driving a snowmobile. In some countries you might need to be over 18 years of age and have a valid licence.
Other countries might be more lenient so make sure first you are not breaking the law. If you decide to explore the magnificent landscape of the arctic, hire a local guide who knows his/her way around. Despite its unparalleled beauty, it can be a treacherous place.
Before You Drive a Snowmobile
If you are about to drive a snowmobile for the first time, you should always go with a driving instructor. It is not wise to go on your own and especially off trail. This is because it might take you some time to get used to the snowmobile and how it behaves on the snow.
Make sure you understand where the levers are and what they are used for. Often the gas throttle is on right handlebar and the brake is on the left handlebar. This however, depends on the brand of the snowmobile.
Often the sound of the snowmobile engine is too loud to communicate with others. You will not hear a thing just the engines. What should be done beforehand is to agree on some basic hand signals or gestures so that everyone can easily communicate with each other. In place should be signals for GO, GET READY TO STOP, STOP and WAIT.
Make Yourself Comfortable
Before you hit the road (snow in this case) you should feel comfortable sitting on the snowmobile. You should not be stiff but rather relaxed. Do not sit too far from the handlebars stretching your arms. Neither should you sit too close to the front as that is a very awkward position.
The only exception is when you go up the hill where you need to move your body weight forward. Your legs should stay within the foot guard or foot rack except for some advanced techniques. More about that later.
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How to drive a Snowmobile
If it is your first time driving a snowmobile, you should drive on trail. Even on trail you will soon realise that it can be a little bumpy ride. Another reason to stay relaxed as being stiff will only tire you out quickly.
You and your group should stay in one line. Do not try to overtake each other. This is particular important for off trail scenarios where staying lined up is practical and safer. Imagine travelling on snowmobiles through the arctic tundra and you and your buddies are spread out 40 meters (130 feet) wide.
The arctic tundra is a remarkable but also a treacherous place. Often times you will go over an icy landscape where the ice underneath might not be strong enough. Being spread out only increases the risk of running into difficulties.
Keep an appropriate distance when you are traveling in one line. You must have wondered: How much does a snowmobile weight? The snowmobile can weight up to 300 kg or 700 pounds depending on the model.
When you take the hand off the gas throttle and apply the brake, it will not stop instantly. It is recommended to keep at least 20 meters or 66 feet gaps. This way you can react to what is happening in front of you. Also, make sure you keep your hands on the handlebars with at least one finger touching the brake.
This leads us to another point. Pay close attention to your surrounding area. It might sound like a trivial comment but when you are driving a snowmobile, the surrounding terrain changes quickly. Most snowmobiles are automatic so you do not have to worry about changing the gear. Not having to constantly change the gear will give you enough time to judge the terrain in front of you.
Did you know that snowmobiles can go as fast as 150 mph (240 km/h)? Some modified snowmobiles used for racing can go even faster, around 200 mph (320 km/h).
How to Turn a Snowmobile
Now you know how to drive a snowmobile, but do you know how to turn? When driving the snowmobile, you can do so sitting down or standing up. When you want to turn in one direction you have to turn the handlebars in the direction you want to turn. However, in most cases that will not be enough.
You have to use your body weight to help the snowmobile turn. For example, if you are planning to turn left you have to turn the handlebars left and at the same time move your body to the left as well. Some advanced techniques include moving your both legs to one side of the foot rack and using your entire body weight to turn the snowmobile.
To better visualise it, imagine what the windsurf position looks like. Do not forget to hold on to the handlebars at all times to remain in full control of the sled. Now you know it is not that dissimilar to steering a bike, right?
How to Drive Uphill and Downhill
When driving the snowmobile up the hill, you should use the same technique of weight shifting. That is, if you are moving uphill your body has a tendency to fall back. In this case you need to lean forward to counter the kinetic forces.
It could be a really steep hill (which we do not recommend in your very first beginnings) which means, moving your body forward might not be enough. You will need to move your legs all the way to the back of the foot rack and move your chest and head over the handlebars. Imagine doing push ups and you will get the idea.
One common mistake beginners often make is to drive slowly half way up a steep hill and then accelerate. In order to make it to the top, you will need to gather momentum on the foot of the hill and maintain that momentum all the way to the summit.
For going downhill, the opposite logic applies. That means that your body has a tendency to fall forward and you should move your body back to put more weight on the back end of the snowmobile.
When performing these tasks do not forget to breathe properly. Again, this might sound like a trivial remark but it is actually one of the common mistakes among many beginners. When you are not breathing adequately your body is not getting enough oxygen supply, which can then lead to a loss of concentration.
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In Summary
There you have it! We hope we answered some of your questions about how to drive a snowmobile. You will be now able to take this knowledge with you and put it to practise. Do not forget to protect yourself from the elements and put on enough clothing.
While it is cold on foot it gets even colder on top of a snowmobile. Believe us, we have been there! You should pay extra attention to covering your fingers with warm gloves and also your face.
These are the body parts that often get neglected. Staying warm while driving a snowmobile will make your experience an unforgettable one.