Good Beginner Sled?

[dirtjunkie85]

Hey guys, My family and are thinking of picking up some sleds. however, we would be comepletly new to the sport. I was just wondering what some good snowmobiles were? We are quite experienced with dirt machines but have never owned a sled. What is your all favorite

[vector292]

i'd say get a ski doo safari or citation if your going alone but for 2 up get something big build for touring also are you buying new or used?

[Russell 350X]

Are you looking to buy new or used? What kind of riding do you do? I've been a Polaris guy all of my life...and I've had great luck with them.

Here is my 2003 Pro-X 800
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k6/hondaatc185s200e/35299_466244040504_669475504_6628801_7613847_n.jpg

1998 XCR700...tripple tripple..
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k6/hondaatc185s200e/100_2023-2.jpg

[RIDE-RED 250r]

If you are looking to get newer sleds and hit the open trails, pretty much any brand of newer fan cooled models are great beginner sleds. Doo has a 550cc fan, Cats is a 570 and i believe Polaris' is still a 550cc. I have never owned one, but from what i know of them they are all very capable trail machines and will reach a top speed of around 65-70mph....

Some of the smaller liquid cooled models wouldnt be too bad either, (the 500-600cc models). However, if you can handle higher hp, nothing beats the big-bores! I own 3 sleds (listed in my sig) and i wouldnt trade any of them for something smaller.


Im not in any way trying to steer anyone away from 3WW, but might i suggest checking out Arcticchat.com or Dootalk.com? I am an avid Dootalker and i only suggest this because both forums offer a wealth of information and knowledge from more experienced sledders who are happy to help out and offer advice.

I go by 02800adrenaline over on Dootalk, look me up if you wander over there...


Nice sleds Russell350x! :beer

[1grindking]

imo stay away from cat but doos are good & polaris 500cc liquid. fans get a little finicky when it warms up outside... i ride yamaha & the 500cc or 600cc are pretty reliable but if you really want something that cooks look for a 4stroke there very heavy but with a deep lug track & some momentum you shouldnt get stuck (unless your way off trail) also dont get a yamaha exciter II or cat 580cc they had bugs & there a dime a dozen

[fabiodriven]

imo stay away from cat

That's the best advice for buying a sled. Stay away from Arcitic Cat. I don't know so much about the newer ones, but the old ones were pure junk.

[posty2100]

buy a Ski doo, not sure how new you are looking but the 97ish to 2002 Ski doo ZX chassis 500/583/600 sleds all run great and were bullet proof. Depending on where your from usually like $800-$3000 range for a nice one. The newer REV chassis has a totally new look and ride. I have a 03 Ski Doo Rev 600 and love it. You sit much higher and more forward so its easy to ride and more comfortable. Revs were made 03-07 and $2500-$5000 range. The newer REV XP chassis (08-11) sleds are basically a redesigned REV and are great sleds. $5000 and up usually.

For a beginner sled all you need is a 500-600cc in my opinion. Then get a 800 or 1000 when you feel you need more power/speed. The newer 600 Revs are pretty snappy for a 600 and with clutch kits and some gearing can be really quick.

Every manufacture seems to have their own flaws. None are going to be perfect and ride forever without proper maintenance and replacing worn/broken parts. Buying a used sled I would recommend going over it a lot before buying and make sure they stored it properly during the off season.

Even the newer sleds require a lot of maintenance. I wish they were as turn key and take the abuse as a ol Honda would but thats how it is only riding them 2-4 months out of the year and sitting the rest.

-Kyle