Mid-season review of the Yamaha Sidewinder S-TX DX 146 2018
It is time to give you our mid-season review of the 2018 Yamaha Sidewinder S-TX DX 146.
I'm happy to try this snowmobile because I had the chance to try the same configuration in the SR Viper S-TX 146 DX 2 years ago. I was thinking last year that it would be interesting to try this snowmobile, but with the Sidewinder's powerful turbo engine. This year, Yamaha granted my wishes by introducing the Sidewinder S-TX DX 146 2018 to its trail snowmobile line.
After more than 1200 km, the Sidewinder S-TX DX 146 2018 continues to reveal its secrets. Because of its 146" track, it is classified in the crossover category. Personally, I really like this long track which provides an excellent traction. It is particularly effective in a trail covered with fresh snow. It is a very efficient and comfortable trail snowmobile. We don't feel tired even after long days riding. The driving position is very comfortable and the seat height is ideal. Indeed, we can adopt a multitude of positions according to our driving style. From a very forward position in aggressive driving to a more backward position on the seat in moderate driving. The height of the handlebar also allows us to ride standing up when the situation requires it and the transition is done naturally.
It is delivered with all the equipment needed for long rides. I particularly appreciate the extra fuel tank located in the trunk connected to the main tank. It gives us an impressive capacity of 53 liters which gives us an excellent autonomy and eliminates the need to bring a can of gasoline that we never know where to fix. The new LED headlights are very effective. Of a very white color, this lighting is very effective during night rides and it makes us more visible during the day. I also appreciate the height of the high windshield which protects very effectively from the wind without affecting visibility or the style of the snowmobile. The two mirrors attached to it are well positioned and offer excellent visibility. The heated seat is working really well in very cold weather.
As you can see, so far I am very satisfied with the Sidewinder S-TX DX 146 2018. But you know what? I saved the best for last. The power of the engine!
This Genesis 998cc turbocharged three-cylinder injection engine was introduced last year by Yamaha for its Sidewinder range. It is still the most powerful engine on the market by far. All this power is consistent at all speeds without any delay. When you press the accelerator, you quickly feel the torque and the strong acceleration. This engine is very well suited for the Sidewinder S-TX DX 146 2018 and its long 146 inch track. This combination provides excellent traction and spectacular acceleration. Every time I ride, I'm really impressed by this engine.
During the running-in period, we did not have any problems or breakages. We performed the first maintenance around 1000 km at the Yamaha 5 star Platinum dealer associated with this trial, P. Labonté et fils of Mont-Joli. https://www.plabonte.com/actions/showHome. Since then, no problems.
You can follow the review of this snowmobile throughout the season on the magazine's website https://motoneigistes.ca as well as on the Facebook page of SledMagazine.com (facebook.motoneiges.ca). The next article will be the complete review that you will be able to read in the coming weeks.
Have a good season, be careful!
