Hello, need advice - Snowmobile Forum: Your #1 Snowmobile Forum

Snowyjunglist · 06-19-2009, 11:48 AM

I'm new to snowmobiling and need some help on find a nice used ride. I live in Colorado and wanted to use it for trail riding, nothing too insane. I don't want to spend too much on my first one, but I also don't want something thats going to break down all the time. Where do I start?

**RJ Gleason** · 06-19-2009, 12:06 PM

Any sled that has been well maintained will be suitable.
Usually a good idea to get the brand that has the closest dealership/parts supplier.

xc sp 500 rider · 06-19-2009, 12:06 PM

how much are you looking to spend, i would look on craigslist

polaris rider · 06-19-2009, 12:21 PM

for a new rider, i would recommend a 440cc or 500cc... both have enough speed, so you wont get bored with it, but there not crazy fast

xxxthebxxx · 06-19-2009, 05:39 PM

Something with not too many miles would be good, and I wouldn't say get a sled below the '90s. Because you live in Colorado, and I know you will be trail sledding, but maybe a long-track sled would be better in case you come across deep powder?

Snowyjunglist · 06-19-2009, 07:39 PM

What should I look out for when I go check one out?

polaris rider · 06-19-2009, 07:45 PM

bring a compression guage, Ideal compression ss 150, but down to about 120 is fine, as long as numbers are 10% of eachother... Look at the track, make sure all bearings are good.. basically jsut look it over real well, if it looks beat on, then the engine probably isnt to strong, Start her up cold.. see how many pulls it takes, make sure all guages work, headlight works, etc.

Basicaly just look at its overal condition, and you should be able to tell how it was maintained

**BC_Dan** · 06-20-2009, 12:32 AM

Like xxxTHBxxx said.. Powder snow in Colorado will make trail sleds wish they had their mommy. Look for something with at least a 136" track with at least 1 1/2" lugs. The newer sleds are less maintenance than the older ones. I would look for a Polaris Edge RMK with at least a 600 cc engine with a 144" track or an Arctic Cat M6 with about the same track. The longer track with deeper lugs will mean you will spend a LOT less time stuck. Stuck sucks.

It really depends on how much you have to spend, there are a lot of sleds for sale at good prices, the price will probably go up a bit toward the start of the season.

Good luck in your search!!

xc sp 500 rider · 06-20-2009, 09:32 AM

and check the clutch for wear or hairline cracks make sure there is no bends or cracks in the tunnle.