Owner`s manual

7-3
ESU01272
Riding your snowmobile
Getting to know your snowmobile
A snowmobile is a rider active vehicle, and
your riding position and your balance are
the two basic factors of maneuvering your
snowmobile.
Riding your snowmobile requires skills
acquired through practice over a period of
time. Take the time to learn the basic tech-
niques well before attempting more difficult
maneuvers.
Riding your new snowmobile can be a very
enjoyable activity, providing you with hours
of pleasure. However, it is essential to
familiarize yourself with the operation of
the snowmobile to achieve the skill neces-
sary to enjoy riding safely. Before operating
the snowmobile, read this Owner’s Manual
completely and understand the operation
of the controls.
Pay particular attention to the safety infor-
mation on pages 3-1–3-3. Please read all
warning and caution labels on your snow-
mobile. Also, read the Snowmobiler’s
Safety Handbook that is supplied with your
snowmobile.
Learning to ride your snowmobile
Before you ride, always perform the pre-
operation checks listed on pages 8-1–8-3.
The short time spent checking the condi-
tion of the snowmobile will be rewarded
with added safety and a more reliable
snowmobile. Always wear the proper cloth-
ing for both warmth and to help protect you
from injury if an accident occurs.
Become familiar with operating your snow-
mobile at low speeds, even if you are an
experienced rider. Do not attempt to oper-
ate at maximum performance until you are
totally familiar with the snowmobile’s han-
dling and performance characteristics.
Set the parking brake and follow the
instructions on pages 7-1–7-2 to start the
engine. Once the engine has warmed up,
you are ready to begin riding your snow-
mobile.
To start out and accelerate
1. With the engine idling, release the
parking brake.
2. Apply the throttle slowly and smoothly.
The V-belt clutch will engage and you
will start to accelerate.
WARNING
@
The operator should always keep both
hands on the handlebar. Never put your
feet outside the running boards. Avoid
high speeds until you have become
thoroughly familiar with your snowmo-
bile and all of its controls.
@
Braking
When slowing down or stopping, release
the throttle and apply the brake gently—not
suddenly.
WARNING
@
●
Many surfaces such as ice and hard-
packed snow require much longer
stopping distances. Be alert, plan
ahead, and begin decelerating early.
●
Improper use of the brake can cause
the drive track to lose traction,
reduce control, and increase the
possibility of an accident.
@
U8FU10.book Page 3 Thursday, April 8, 2004 6:27 PM