2018 Yamaha Sidewinder S-TX DX: Pre-ride Analysis

In 2017, Yamaha presented a brand-new snowmobile lineup: The Sidewinder. Equipped with a Genesis Turbo engine that develops more than 200 HP, this lineup’s models literally made quite an entrance onto the trails

For 2018, as we could have guessed, Yamaha increased the Sidewinder presence within its fleet. It is, in fact, one of those models that will be the subject of this pre-ride analysis: the 2018 Sidewinder S-TX DX 146.

The S-TX DX 146 option is no stranger to us as we tested the 2016 SR Viper S-TX DX 146.

With that in mind, one of the features that stands out on this model is the rigid trunk at the rear of the tunnel. This trunk also holds a 16L backup fuel tank which is directly connected to the fuel supply system for a total capacity of 50 L. As fuel is an essential element when we plan a ride, the 2018 Sidewinder S-TX DX 146’s autonomy has undoubtedly increased. We will be able to evaluate the distance that we can cover with this model in between two refills.

Engine

The Genesis Turbo engine is currently the most powerful on the market. Its performance has been extensively described on www.sledmagazine.com over the past months. Here, with a longer platform, we want to see if the additional traction on the 1.2” x 146” in Ripsaw track will make a difference compared to models with a shorter track, mainly when the bottom of the trail is covered with loose snow. On the other hand, a longer track can also reverberate due to increased understeer. Another interesting aspect will be to see the effect this longer track has on fuel consumption. At first hand, we would imagine that it will increase, but on the other hand, the tracking gain could make it decrease. These are all the aspects we will be able to test for you throughout the season.

Equipment

Here is what is included:

• Mid-high windshield
• Two 12-volt plugs (one on the sideboard and one at the back)
• Electrical visor plug (RCA type)
• Heated seat
• Complete digital dials

However, as opposed to the 2016 SR Viper S-TX DX, mirrors are not included. 

Comfort for Two

Even though the Sidewinder S-TX DX is designed for solo riding, we can easily convert it into a touring machine. In fact, the charge blades are already installed and all the anchor points for the passenger seat (SKU SMA-8LN49-00-00) are also present. The second 12-volt plug allows you to plug the seat’s heated handles. Also, the passenger will be in control of the intensity of the heated handles and seat… Oh yeah, the passenger seat is heated!

This is not all, we can also complete the Sidewinder S-TX DX 146’s transformation into a touring model by adding the rigid side cases. Once again, the mounts for the cases are already installed. With all the add-ons, this model becomes a powerful snowmobile that allows two people to go on vacation for a couple of days without any worries.

Of course, we hope to try this set up during the season.

Comfort and Handling

Over the past years, we tested several models built on the SRV Chassis and equipped with Genesis engines. During the tests, we have always found that the best possible combination, in regard to driving quality experience, was inevitably the 146” version. This is usually verifiable for the Yamaha and its corresponding cousins in the Arctic Cat snowmobile lineup.

We cannot wait to see if this tendency will carry on for the Sidewinder family. In fact, throughout the season, we will be able to test the S-TX DX 146 in all kinds of conditions and different contexts. At the end of the season, we will be able to make a conclusion based on our observations.

In short, it is an amazing opportunity for us to test a snowmobile that has a lot of potential. Let’s hope now it will be able to meet our expectations!

Have a good season!