Short term test: Yamaha Sidewinder L-TX LE 50th 2018
For a weekend, I had the pleasure to try the Yamaha Sidewinder L-TX LE 2018 on magical trails in Charlevoix. With its beautiful colors celebrating the manufacturer's 50th anniversary, the snowmobile has much more than just a "beautiful dress" to offer. Discover with me this snowmobile that offers power, agility, and pleasure.
The beautiful Sidewinder in front of a breathtaking landscape.
First of all, it is important to tell you that I really loved my 2 days with Sidewinder. This snowmobile, which is above all focused on performance and agility on the trail, offers good ergonomics and comfort during long hikes. I had a smile under my helmet all the time!
Now, let's talk about the impressive mechanics of the Sidewinder. This fabulous 3-cylinder turbocharged engine produces more than 180 horsepower, providing breathtaking acceleration and exhilarating revivals. No lack of power!
To have this performance, the manufacturer has developed a system that reduces the pressure loss in the air intake when gases are released. With the use of several sensors well located, time delays are reduced compared to a "traditional" turbocharged system. The result is an engine that delivers its full potential consistently. In addition, the most noticeable gain is fully felt during revivals immediately after a turn. I still have chills!
In order to give this excessive power to the track, a set of YSRC pulleys is used and was specially made for the Sidewinder. The clutch is easily done and it’s very linear. It allows an excellent feel to the handlebars and offers the full potential of the mechanics. In addition to reacting quickly, the system also promises to optimize belt durability. However, I find the system a little bit intrusive with the sounds it makes when the gases are released.
With such serious mechanics, it is not surprising to find a super-efficient suspension. Yamaha has installed the wonderful FOX QS3 on this model. These suspensions perform very well and also allow a quick 3 position adjustment to suit all types of driving and snow conditions. The FOX QS3 provides significant comfort in position 1 and can become very rigid in position 3. Position 2, on the other hand, is a compromise between the two.
With the skis on this snowmobile, it is easy to go where you want easily. For the track, the L-TX model is equipped with the 137 " track, which I think is the most efficient in successive bumps, as well as for sharp acceleration and cornering. The combination of skis, suspensions, and track provides an intuitive and performance-oriented driving experience. The pilot feels safe and feels in full control in all circumstances.
Before concluding my report, I would like to talk about 2 aspects that I loved about the Sidewinder. So the first one is its amazing look. With the 50th anniversary colors, it's certainly the sexiest Sidewinder I've ever seen. Don't you think?
The second point is certainly the seat that gave me an excellent comfort and especially the heating function that I loved. It was really a "must" for the 2 days when temperatures were below the -30°C.
The SledMagazine.com team would like to thank RPM Rive-Sud for making this short-term trial possible. We invite you to visit this dealer located in Lévis.
