I am brand new to the whole snowmobile experience. I rode my best friends sled for the first time only 3 weeks ago. I would like to get one of my own and do some riding next winter. What I am looking for are some tricks and tips for safe and effective riding. Any good advice would be appreciated. Thanks!

[quote name='NREMT' date='Feb 27 2008, 09:06 AM' post='3710816']
I am brand new to the whole snowmobile experience. I rode my best friends sled for the first time only 3 weeks ago. I would like to get one of my own and do some riding next winter. What I am looking for are some tricks and tips for safe and effective riding. Any good advice would be appreciated. Thanks!
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The best advice I can give you is to start out small and slow. I don't know if you are planning to buy used or new, but start with something that is fan cooled and as small as possible. 370 cc is more then enough. You need to learn the basics before you get into something too big. If you start with used machines, it shouldn't cost you too much to trade up a little each year. I would recomend using a reputable dealer. You are less likely to get a lemon. Don't get talked into buying something like a 600. It will be way beyound your capabilities. You probably shouldn't ride alone, but choose your riding buddies wisely. If guys won't slow down and give you a chance to learn, they are idiots. Find someone else to ride with. You would be safer on your own than with Yahoo's like that. It's not a race and it's not all about speed. It's about enjoying the Great Outdoors and seeing places that you could never see at any other time of the year.

It will take you 3-4 years to really get the hang of it. Many of us have been sledding all our lives. Latch on to some sensible old timers. Check out the local clubs. Lots of great guys there. I can't stress enough to lay off the big stuff. I have over 30 years under my belt and see no need for anything over 500 cc. Good luck.

Join a club! There is years of experiance at your fingertips!
Read this forum!
I agree that you don't have to go crazy with big bore sleds, you can grow into that if you choose.
See if you can buy used low mileage, not from a dealer (cheaper).
Take someone that knows sleds with you.
See how many miles you do and that will tell you if you need to upgrade.
I spend more on trips/gas/food than on sleds, but I am a nut and travel all winter.

Did a say join a club?!

Good Luck! We are here for you.