Off-trail snowmobile is gaining popularity, sparking numerous discussions. But is it always justified? Today, we’ll explore some realities and provide insights from those who live for this sport.
You’re Always Stuck!
I won’t lie to you, some days are not glorious. The truth is, like most extreme sports, the learning curve for off-trail snowmobile is long and challenging. However, once accustomed to your machine and the conditions, a rider can spend their days without getting stuck. It’s a matter of momentum and risk management. Once the basic techniques are mastered, most people can navigate through non-extreme terrains with ease.
It’s Hard to Get Unstuck!
Without a mentor and without experience, getting your snowmobile stuck can be a big problem. However, most mountain snowmobilers quickly learn how to flip their snowmobile to free it. With a bit of experience and knowledge sharing, getting stuck becomes a thing of the past.
The worst-case scenario is when the snowmobile is stuck on a flat surface cluttered with stumps or obstacles, rendering flips impossible. In this case, your shovel becomes your best friend.
You Regularly Break Your Snowmobiles.
After over 70 off-trail snowmobiling outings, I haven’t encountered any major breakdowns on my machine. Additionally, I’ve only experienced a few superficial scrapes. Am I lucky or just cautious?
My reality is similar to that of most of my riding companions. Based on our experience, major breakdowns are indeed rare, especially for riders who take good care of their machines. I won’t hide that cosmetic damages are quite common. Scratches on the plastics, minor impacts on the bumpers, broken belts, and a few broken studs are part of our reality.
A prudent rider can avoid many problems by steering clear of certain terrains when the snow cover isn’t ideal. Moreover, maintenance plays a crucial role in preventing breakdowns. Also, exercising judgment when operating the throttle can prevent many issues. While accidents can still happen, they are rarer than one might think.
You Need a Powerful Machine for Off-Trail Snowmobile
Many people believe that to venture into the backcountry, you need an extremely powerful machine. However, it’s possible, even enjoyable, to ride off the beaten path with a machine ranging from 60 HP to 165 HP.
The flotation capacity of modern snowmobiles contributes significantly to the experience. While a more powerful snowmobile may navigate faster or handle very steep terrain, the techniques remain the same regardless of your engine size.
I’ve spent many years off-trail riding, and some of my best experiences have been on slightly less powerful machines. Nothing compares to the sensation of carving through deep snow in a state of weightlessness. It’s an exhilarating feeling you won’t tire of.
In Conclusion
While off-trail snowmobile may seem intimidating from an external perspective, it quickly becomes evident that it’s more accessible than it appears. You’ll find a community of passionate riders happy to share their knowledge. Our outings unite us in both enjoyment and challenges, forging strong memories and friendships. I hope this text helps demystify some apprehensions about off-trail snowmobile. Who knows, maybe it will convince you to give this superb sport a try for the first time!
