7-5
alert, plan ahead, and begin decel-
erating early.
●
Improper use of the brake can
cause the drive track to lose trac-
tion, reduce control, and increase
the possibility of an accident.
@
Turning
For most snow surfaces, “body English”
is the key to turning.
As you approach a curve, slow down and
begin to turn the handlebar in the desired
direction. As you do so, put your weight
on the running board to the inside of the
turn and lean your upper body into the
turn.
This procedure should be practiced at
low speeds many times, in a large flat
area with no obstacles. Once you have
learned this technique, you should be
able to perform it at higher speeds or in
tighter curves. Lean more as the turn
gets sharper or is made at higher speeds.
Improper riding techniques such as
abrupt throttle changes, excessive brak-
ing, incorrect body movements, or too
much speed for the sharpness of the turn
may cause the snowmobile to tip.
If your snowmobile begins to tip while
turning, lean more into the turn to regain
balance. If necessary, gradually let off on
the throttle or steer to the outside of the
turn.
Remember:
Avoid higher speeds until you are thor-
oughly familiar with the operation of your
snowmobile.
Riding uphill
You should practice first on gentle slopes.
Try more difficult climbs only after you
have developed your skill. As you
approach a hill, accelerate before you
start the climb, and then reduce the throt-
tle to prevent track slippage. It is also
important to keep your weight on the
uphill side at all times. On climbs straight
up the hill, this can be accomplished by
leaning forward and, on steeper inclines,
standing on the running boards and lean-
ing forward over the handlebar. (Also see
“Traversing a slope.”)
Slow down as you reach the crest of the
hill, and be prepared to react to obsta-
cles, sharp drops, or other vehicles or
people which may be on the other side. If
you are unable to continue up a hill, do
not spin the track. Stop the engine and
set the parking brake. Then pull the rear
of the snowmobile around to point the
snowmobile back down the hill. When the
snowmobile is pointed downhill, mount
your snowmobile from the uphill side.
Restart the engine, release the parking
brake, and descend the hill.
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