A few weeks ago, we took possession of the 2016 Yamaha SRViper S-TX 146 DX. We are going to run a long-term trial all season long within our partnership with Yamaha Canada and web magazine SledMagazine.com.
Personally, I think that the 2016 Yamaha SRViper S-TX 146 DX offers all the characteristics needed by pilots who enjoy long distance riding. Perfect for me, I like long rides !!! Effectively, during the last seasons, I rode over 400 km per day on half of my rides. So, I am very happy to have the chance to pilot this snowmobile.
It is now time to analyze the features of this model that I find very well adapted to Québec buyers.
Unique characteristics of the 2016 Yamaha SRViper S-TX 146 DX
The 2016 Yamaha SRViper S-TX 146 DX offers distinguishing features like :
- Only this model is equipped with a RipSaw track of 146x15x1.25 in. / 370,8 x 38,1 x 3,1 cm, which suggests good off-trail floatation and good performance on trail. This is the longest track on the market in the crossover category.
- Its unique trunk includes an auxiliary tank of 16,3 liters directly connected to the main reservoir. A waterproof compartment easy to reach is also included. Under this waterproof compartment, there is also room for tools and spare belt.
- This model offers standard heated seat with control switch of three heat levels (HI-LO-OFF).
- There are two 12V outlets, one at front and one behind the seat, along with a RCA plug at front to connect or recharge any electronic device.
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- The S-TX 146 DX can be transformed into a true touring snowmobile. Effectively, if you buy the optional passenger heated seat, the footrests, the preload blades and even the hard saddlebags, you get a comfortable and reliable 2-up snowmobile.
Many other standard equipments appreciated by long-distance fans are offered on this snowmobile :
- A tall windshield with two mirrors for effective protection and increased comfort for the pilot, an electric start and a reverse push button.
- A dual deluxe digital gauge that includes odometer, trip meter, speedometer, clock, oil level indicator, coolant overheat warning light, coolant temperature indicator, fuel level indicator and reverse.
Performances
The 2016 Yamaha SRViper S-TX 146 DX is equipped with the high performance 4-stroke Genesis engine. This triple liquid-cooled engine of 1049 cc is already proven. Since I have piloted snowmobiles equipped with this engine during the past two seasons, I really liked its reliability, its fuel economy and its performances at all speeds. It should be well-suited for the S-TX 146 DX.
The SRViper S-TX 146 DX is equipped with Yamaha YVXC clutching, one of the most reliable and durable clutch system in the industry.
This snowmobile is also equipped with Hayes Brake system. Combined with a large disk of 20 cm and a track of 146 in./370,8 cm, I can’t wait to check out its efficiency.
Handling
The SRViper S-TX 146 DX is built on the SRV chassis of 146 in./370m,8 cm, a development of the 141 in./358,1 cm chassis. It differs from other Yamaha platforms by its lightweight and by the fact that the pilot is located close to the snowobile center of gravity. This makes the SRViper models more maneuverable and more comfortable mostly on uneven terrain.
It is equipped with deep-keel Tuner II skis that should improve trail handling by reducing darting. Each keel has its own wear-bar and moreover, Yamaha offers four types of bar configurations depending on the effect you are looking for.
Ski stance is adjustable. It allows the pilot to adjust the ski stance from 42 to 43 in. / 106,7 to 109,2 cm (center to center) as needed.
At front, we have the SRV suspension with High Pressure Gas shock absorbers and springs. At rear, the Dual Shock SR 146 suspension is also equipped with HPG shock absorbers. A suspension that satisfied us last year in its edition of 141 in./358,1 cm.
Additional features
For long distance riding on many days, we added the Yamaha saddlebags (SMA-8JP73-00-00) that can also fit many other SRViper models. They are large and easy to install.
To conclude, I will say that I can’t wait to present my first impressions on this model in my next article. We are going to check out its performance on trail and off trail in various snow, weather and trail conditions and this, all season long.
Special thanks to our partner Yamaha Canada and P. Labonté et fils, 5 Stars Yamaha dealer in Mont-Joli www.plabonte.com/actions/showHome .
All season long, you will be able to follow our analysis of the 2016 Yamaha SRViper S-TX 146 DX on this web site www.sledmagazine.com and on Facebook at facebook.sledmagazine.com. I will share with you my first impressions in my article to be published soon.
