How to Buy a Snowmobile

Almost all snowmobiles are currently equipped with two-stroke engines that are noisy and pollute heavily. This may change dramatically in the next few years, with quieter, cleaner engines becoming the norm. If you're shopping for a new machine, ask your dealer what you can expect in the near future before you shell out $5,000 to $11,000.

Instructions

    • 1

      Decide what you'll be doing most often. There are snowmobiles designed for deep snow, for racing, and for comfortable touring.

    • 2

      Review the various engine sizes, rated in cubic centimeters. Midsize machines usually have 500- to 600-cc engines. Large machines have 700- to 900-cc engines.

    • 3

      Understand that larger engines usually mean more horsepower and speed but also more weight and difficulty. A novice probably won't have the skills necessary to operate a large machine.

    • 4

      Explore the trade-offs of various models. A touring machine with a reverse gear is comfortable and easy to use, whereas a high-performance model is exciting but demanding to operate.

    • 5

      Ask about modification options. For example, it may be possible to change the machine's skis for better handling in deep snow.