My last visit to Montana, for the 2024 Snow Shoot, held a particular significance. It was my final opportunity to test Yamaha snowmobiles in this specific context. Nonetheless, my standout choice from this manufacturer for its latest model year turned out to be the 2025 Sidewinder X-TX LE EPS.
For many, the Yamaha manufacturer holds significant meaning… and rightly so. It has a rich history, and many enthusiasts have lengthy anecdotes to share about it. However, the date of June 28, 2023, must be considered a pivotal moment in the snowmobiling universe. Yamaha’s withdrawal from this field of activity sent shockwaves.
We cannot remain indifferent to the disappearance of this manufacturer after model year 2025. We will assess the aftermath, but for now, we are helpless witnesses to the decision of this leisure vehicle giant.
A Distinctive Emblem
What better way to put the final touch than to add a badge with the inscription “Final Edition” on its last lineup? That’s what the Yamaha snowmobiles of 2025 will feature for their final run. This confirms that it’s truly the end and that they are putting an end to 57 years of history. This also represents the 20,476 days during which Yamaha has been in business in the snowmobiling field.
It all began with the SL350 in 1968 and will end with a lineup dominated by turbocharged four-stroke Sidewinder models. Between them, we find models like the Enticer, Exciter, Phazer, and Vmax. We’ve also witnessed several generations of exciting and innovative SRX models, along with many other dreams realized by snowmobilers.
My Favourite: The Yamaha Sidewinder X-TX LE EPS 2025!
You might have thought that Yamaha wouldn’t put much effort into presenting new features for its final run. If so, you were partly right. Indeed, it’s obvious that we shouldn’t expect the arrival of a new engine or a completely renewed chassis. However, they did make some efforts to perfect what was already more than acceptable. You can read the details of all the Yamaha 2025 novelties in our article on the subject.
My favourite for 2025 hasn’t undergone many changes for the upcoming season, except for the addition of electronic power steering. This feature has been the hallmark of Yamaha for several years. In fact, it even pioneered the ATV activity in 2006 with this addition to the Grizzly model.
It’s difficult to say if we absolutely need power steering. Just like cars without EPS decades ago, they were entirely drivable with just good old muscle power. A vast majority of snowmobilers have been using their vehicles for years without electric power steering, and many will continue to do so. However, if you have disabilities or weaknesses that make driving a snowmobile without power steering difficult or even impossible, it could be of great assistance to you.
Feels Like a Good Old Pair of Slippers!
When I take the handlebars of the Yamaha Sidewinder X-TX LE EPS 2025, it feels like stepping into familiar territory. It’s just so enjoyable to ride! Plus, it offers unmatched comfort. It has aged well over time, and we’ve experienced moments of nostalgia while at its controls. Even today, we still can’t believe that we’ll have to turn the page.
An Engine That Demands Respect!
The perfect word to describe the turbocharged Genesis 998 cc engine of the Sidewinder X-TX LE EPS is “respect”! Many have praised this engine since its arrival. But one thing stands out with this engine, and that’s how it demands your utmost courtesy. Power builds up quickly, but smoothly! To such an extent that this engine is certainly not intended for beginners or novice riders. When I navigate from one turn to another, it accelerates faster than I anticipate beforehand. Even though I consider myself an experienced snowmobiler, I must be cautious because things happen very quickly.
Great Similarities With the Sidewinder L-TX LE
When you visit Yamaha’s official website, you’ll be tempted to see significant similarities between the X-TX and L-TX models. I can confirm that you’re not mistaken. The major difference lies in the length of the track. My favourite, the Sidewinder X-TX LE EPS, features an uncoupled rear suspension and a 146-inch track. This results in a snowmobile that allows us to venture into ungroomed terrain… with some judgment from its rider. It’s far from possessing backcountry skills, but it provides good support for moving on ungroomed snow.
Combining the best of trail bite with off-trail flotation and traction, the 146 in by 1.6 in Cobra track contributes to the versatility of the X-TX LE. The 146 inches of length combined with the unique Cobra lug pattern give the X-TX a good balance between cornering grip and straight-line acceleration with flotation in deep snow.
The uncoupled rear suspension with dual shocks offers us the best of both worlds. It also features a mountain-style front arm with special 146-inch rails. The shock pivot is added to the decoupled front arm to ensure smooth transfer. This allows for excellent manoeuvrability both in and out of powder. This combination enables us to lift the front skis with surprising ease.
A Story to Tell
In conclusion, Yamaha’s final run is certainly not good news, and we all agree on that point. Nevertheless, let’s remember that we were at least able to give it a try, and we’ll be able to pass on our stories to future generations.
