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6 Factors to Consider when Purchasing a New Snowmobile

Oct. 17 2019 Tips and Information By Mandy Witt

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6 Factors to consider when purchasing a new snowmobile


With snowmobiles getting more customizable each year, there are numerous things to consider before pulling the trigger on a new machine. Kyle Skoug, Powersports Specialists at Power Pac in Marshfield, recommends thinking through 6 key areas for a more productive conversation with your dealer.


1. Sled use – Seems simple but you need to consider how you’ll use your machine. Will you use the snowmobile mostly on-trail or off? Are you a heavy, performance trail rider or a casual trail rider? Speed demon or joy rider? These things will help narrow your choices for model and track length. Best all-around bang-for-your-buck machine is the Polaris Switchback with a 137-inch track. It’s versatile and has great handling for trail riding, good shocks for a smoother ride and corners well. If you’re a more aggressive rider, a Polaris INDY 129 is a great option. " The shorter track allows for maneuverability and has a stiffer suspension for less body roll and better precision-riding. " Are you a novice rider? The Polaris INDY 600 is a great option as it’s easy to control and reasonably priced.


2. Track and paddle depth – If you are planning on spending most of your time on groomed trails, you’ll want to go with a shorter track and shallower paddles. A 137-inch track is ideal in this area with shallow paddles. If you need to ride ditches and off-trail to get to your local trail system, a Polaris RUSH or INDY with a 120-inch track are good options. " If you spend more time in deeper snow or travel West to sled, you’ll want a longer track and paddles. " The Polaris RMK with 155- inch track or the Polaris ASSAULT with a 144-inch track are worth taking a look at.


3. Engine type: 4-stroke vs. 2-stroke – 4-stroke is great for an on-trail sled. It’s a more expensive engine up-front but requires less maintenance and will last longer. It will require an oil change about once a year and you don’t have to worry about carrying oil with you. A 2-stroke engine consumes oil but is more affordable, snappier, and weighs considerably less than a 4-stroke. However, the 2-stroke will require a bit more maintenance.



4. Passenger – You’ll want to consider how often you’ll have  a passenger, if at all. Polaris has a great Lock&Ride® system which allows you to take a passenger seat on and off the machine when you need to. If you’re always riding as a two-up, check out the Polaris TITAN or Yamaha VENTURE.



5. Budget – Right now, you can get really budget-friendly used sleds for about $5K which is easy on the wallet. As for new sleds, the sky is the limit. Polaris has a great " snowmobile builder tool on their website " that allows you to customize your sled and get an idea of the price you are looking at for the features you want.



6. Don’t forget the accessories – Consider the types and length of rides you’ll be doing and plan ahead so you can get the accessories you need when purchasing your sled, especially if you are financing. A tall windshield and travel bags are a must for longer rides. Hand-guards and a two-up seat are also key things to consider. There are also great options to keep phones charged and warm (a cold phone battery is a dead phone battery), and many other bells and whistles.



The powersports experts at Power Pac in Marshfield are ready to walk you through ALL the options for your new or used sled.


Happy trails!