Entry-Level Sleds

by Joel Kunz

This issue’s topic of choice is a machine style that may be one of the most important decisions a person makes when buying a snowmobile—the first one. It is a decision that can play a role in whether snowmobiling is something a person does often and grows in to or not. The wrong choice in first machine can affect a person’s overall enjoyment of the activity, and there are numerous considerations. Limited horsepower, top-end speed and accessory level are all a part of first machine decisions. Filling the gap between a child’s machine and entry level for a young adult, the industry continues to grow, providing new sleds that are considered entry level beyond just price point. Much like anything snowmobile, the manufacturers have features and functions they call their own and promote.

Once again, I made a call to my local dealership to ask a few questions, which is always a good place to start. Like most things, there are some trade-offs, and that is why working with a professional at your local dealership is best. Your friend at the snowmobile dealership has resources and information that will answer your questions and help you find the machine that is best for you. Following are four machines we chose to cover…enjoy!

F Arctic Cat Blast ZR

Considered by the manufacturer as a “mid-size” machine, the Arctic Cat Blast ZR has a number of standard features, like reverse, that may not be found on all entry-level machines. It is powered by an industry-first design 1-cylinder electric start motor that is compact and lightweight (under 50 pounds). The EFI engine brings 65-hp (397cc) performance to every ride on the lighter weight midsize chassis.

Easy handling and maneuverability is what this ride is all about, with a size that lets more riders capture more thrills. The slide rail suspension has a full 10.7 inches of travel; this responsive rear suspension soaks up any bump on the trail to keep the ride stable and smooth. A three-stage exhaust valve system takes this power to the next level, delivering improved throttle response and better overall engine performance. As a liquid-cooled engine, it thrives in low-snow conditions, and a counterbalance shaft eliminates most engine vibration. The result—a lightweightbut-mighty power source that fuels a ride like no other. The Blast ZR has a 14-inch wide, 121-inch-long track on a 115inch chassis.

Maneuverability is easy with the 37.5- to 38.5-inch adjustable ski stance for the 6-inch-wide single runner trail skis. Altogether, the unprecedented frame design combines with an unrivaled engine to deliver an action-packed ride that’s easier to handle.

F Polaris Indy Evo

This is a snowmobile sized for new riders, with more flotation, a confidence inspiring ride and a price point to reflect that. Compact ergonomics accommodate a wide range of riders without feeling too big or too small. From its optimized seating position to its easy reach throttle, Indy Evo builds confidence in all new riders.

The Indy Evo suspension is engineered for a stable yet effortless ride. The adjustable-stance Independent Front Suspension (IFS) allows the sled to evolve with the rider. A trail-ready sled with power that’s perfectly scaled to new riders’ needs, the speed is electronically limited to 50 mph, and an accessory kit is available to make additional power as skills develop. The rider is positioned for comfort, control and confidence.

The sled is lower and narrower than a full-size sled which provides new or shorter riders a more confident control. Lower seat and suspension height lowers the center of gravity and enhances ride stability. Easy throttle flipper is designed to be comfortably controlled by smaller hands.

The Indy EVO has a 15x121x.91-inch Shockwave track on its 114-inch chassis. It has standard electric start, hand and thumb warmers and low-profile windshield. The entry-level candidate from Ski-Doo is the MXZ Sport. Part of the MXZ line from Ski-Doo, the MXZ Sport is designed to be the ultimate sled for the trail with responsive, motocross-like handling and exceptional agility at the lowest price point in the line.

With advanced suspension innovations used throughout the line and the dynamic 85 horsepower, two-stroke Rotax 600 EFI power, every MXZ Sport delivers the perfect blend of exhilarating performance and superior ride quality at an entry-level price. An industry-first, Smart-Shox semiactive suspension instantly reads terrain and rider input to automatically dial in your suspension to give you the optimal ride in any conditions. The overall chassis length of 115 inches supports a 129x15-inch trail-ready track. The 42.4-inch-wide ski stance is supported by the Ski-Doo RAS 3 suspension and motion control front shocks. The MXZ Sport has standard reverse, heated handlebar grips and electric start. The accessory packages let you make your new snowmobile the ride you want.

F Yamaha SX Venom

The Yamaha SX Venom is a lightweight snowmobile aimed at young, new and returning riders. The fuel-injected, electric start, two-stroke 397cc single cylinder engine is propelled by a 121-inch Camso Hacksaw track. The long travel ‘Dual Shock’ rear suspension, lightweight alloy chassis, Stryke single keel ski and racy styling combine to create a compact sled that bristles with excitement at a very attractive price.

This hi-tech 397cc engine has all the features you’d expect to find in a top-of-the-line sled: computerized ignition (ECM), three-stage exhaust power valve, batteryless fuel injection, electronic oil-injection and electric start. Tuned exhaust with EPTS (exhaust pipe temperature sensor) and a detonation sensor work together for reliable performance. A lightweight, counterbalance shaft handles unwanted vibration to deliver a smooth, wide range of power.

The lightweight chassis is designed to keep weight down; the new alloy uses minimal parts without compromising durability or function. The compact digital gauge displays speed, RPM, fuel level, hours, while light indicators warn against any oil or engine temperature issues. A simple push of a button causes the engine to restart in reverse. The audible ‘back-up’ beeper indicates the reverse system is engaged and continues to beep until the button is pushed again to restart the engine in its forward direction—a simple, lightweight and effective way to back out of a tight situation. Electric start, handlebar and throttle lever warmers come standard.

Price point, standard features, horsepower and accessories all play a role in an entry-level sled decision. With manufacturer price points starting at just over $6,000 to initial price points over $8,000, it all plays a role with the variety of features and expectations in a first sled. Again, your professional dealer can help you make the right decision.