Kinds of Snowmobiles

A snowmobile is categorized as a motorized transport, similar to a motorcycle, that relies on sleds to glide across snow and ice. The rear tread uses a wheel setup similar to that of a military tank, with two large wheels holding a high-grip tread while smaller, interior wheels guide the tread as it rotates. This modern design of snowmobiles has been passed down from previous versions for commercial or military use on snow and ice. Since its patent in 1954, the snowmobile has become more synonymous with personal, recreational use.

  1. Polaris

    • Polaris Industries Inc. began manufacturing the first recreational snowmobiles for consumers in 1954. Still the largest producer of snowmobiles, Polaris also features several other recreational terrain-specific vehicles. The North American snowmobile manufacturer divides its models among the Adventure, Crossover, Performance, Deep Snow, Luxury and Utility classes for riders to easily decide which machine best suits theirs individual needs.

    Bombardier

    • Bombardier Recreational Products has made a signature line of special-terrain vehicles, but the larger company history is quite extensive. Manufacturing everything from business jets to railway systems and train cars, Bombardier has been an innovation company with employees who have created some unique products for both civilian and military use. The Ski-Doo and Lynx lines of snowmobiles offer riders differing options for specific purposes. The Bombardier Ski-Doo comes available in nine basic model types, with fully customizable options and engines. The Lynx series only has two available models, but these models are only available in select countries.

    Yamaha

    • As a longtime manufacturer of road and off-road motorcycles, Yamaha began producing snowmobiles for the consumer market in 1968. This particular snowmobile, the SL350, was the first snowmobile with slide valve carburetors and featured a two-stroke, two-cylinder engine. The current lineup of snowmobiles available from Yamaha spreads 17 different models over the Trail, Cross-Country, Mountain and 2-Up Touring Utility classes.

    Arctic Cat

    • Arctic Cat Inc. shares a similar history to that of Polaris Industries Inc. Both companies started life manufacturing sleds under the Hetteen Hoist and Derrick name. As the company grew, partners split and created the split companies of Arctic and Polaris. The current lineup of Arctic Cat snowmobiles features 47 different models, ranging from heavy-duty to kids. The categories of Performance, Crossover, Family Trail/Youth, Mountain, Touring and Utility separate these models and assist riders in choosing the right sled for their particular needs.