Yamaha SXV70H, Owner'S Manual

Page: 48 / 98

7-7
Riding downhill
When riding downhill, keep speed to a min-
imum. It is important to apply just enough
throttle to keep the clutch engaged while
descending the hill. This will allow you to
use engine compression to help slow the
snowmobile, and to keep the snowmobile
from rolling freely down the hill. Also apply
the brake frequently, with light pressure.
WARNING
@
Use extra caution when applying the
brake during a descent. Excessive
braking will cause the drive track to
lock, causing a loss of control.
@
Traversing a slope
WARNING
@
Traversing slopes is not recommended
for a novice snowmobiler.
@
Traversing a slope requires you to properly
position your weight to maintain proper bal-
ance. As you travel across the slope, lean
your body to position your weight towards
the uphill side. A recommended riding
position is to kneel with the knee of the
downhill leg on the seat and the foot of the
uphill leg on the running board. This posi-
tion will make it easier for you to shift your
body weight as needed.
Snow and ice are slippery, so be prepared
for the possibility that your snowmobile
could begin to slip sideways on the slope. If
this happens, steer in the direction of the
slide if there are no obstacles in your path.
As you regain proper balance, gradually
steer again in the direction you wish to
travel.
If your snowmobile starts to tip, steer down
the hill to regain balance.
WARNING
@
If you are unable to maintain correct
balance, and your snowmobile is going
to tip over, dismount your snowmobile
immediately on the uphill side.
@
Ice or icy surface
Operating on ice or icy surfaces can be
very dangerous. Traction for turning, stop-
ping, or starting is much less than that on
snow.
WARNING
@
When you have to operate on ice or icy
surfaces, drive slowly and cautiously.
Avoid accelerating, turning, or braking
rapidly. Steering is minimal and uncon-
trolled spins are an ever-present dan-
ger.
@
U8EK11.book Page 7 Thursday, April 25, 2002 5:10 PM