Snowmobiling is one of the most intimidating off-road sports because the wrong conditions can be tricky to navigate. However, the best snowmobiles for beginners have features that take the stress out of riding.
Additions like throttle limiters, adjustable suspensions, and trail-rated tracks make these sleds perfect for young or novice riders and provide a stress-free snowmobiling experience.
In this article, we’ll discuss the best snowmobile for beginners, plus tips on how to go about choosing the right kind of sled for you. We’ll even throw in some advice on where to store your new snowmobile.
Top Snowmobile Models for Beginners
We’ll examine four beginner-friendly snowmobile models, each boasting unique features and performance capabilities, gearing you up for winter fun. They include:
- Yamaha SRX 120
- Arctic Cat ZR 200
- Ski-Doo MXZ Blizzard
- Polaris 550 INDY EVO 121
#4: Yamaha SRX 120
Yamaha SRX120R, Image Courtesy of yamahamotorsports.com
Kicking off our list with the best snowmobile for younger enthusiasts, the Yamaha SRX 120 is specifically designed for young riders.
This snowmobile is equipped with a reliable 123cc engine, ensuring spirited performance and long-term reliability. Its lightweight design makes it an excellent choice when traversing groomed trails–especially when paired with its easy-to-use controls.
The fully functional slide-rail torsion spring rear suspension and a double-wishbone front suspension ensure precise and predictable handling, making it an ideal entry-level snowmobile.
- Starting Price: $3,699
- Maximum Speed: 8 MPH
- Notable Features: Halogen lamp, electric ignition, coil-over shocks
#3: Arctic Cat ZR 200
Arctic Cat ZR 200, Image Courtesy of arcticcat.txtsv.com
The Arctic Cat ZR 200 stands out as a great option for beginners because it is completely trail-certified by the Snowmobile Safety and Certification Committee (SSCC), giving you more access to trails nationwide.
Plus, the ZR 200 is loaded with safety features, such as the torque-sensing driven clutch, which allows for a smoother experience while riding uphill or in the sitting position. The ZR 200 also features a 192cc, 4-stroke engine, which is more powerful than the Yamaha SRX, so it’s suited for riders who are a bit older (teenagers).
- Starting Price: $5,599
- Maximum Speed: 30 MPH
- Notable Features: Turn-key electric start, tether switch, standard brake disc
#2: Ski-Doo MXZ Blizzard
Ski-Doo MXZ Blizzard, Image Courtesy of ski-doo.brp.com
Up next is the Ski-Doo MXZ Blizzard, a superior choice for novice riders seeking additional power. The Blizzard is equipped with a 600R E-TEC engine that delivers a solid 125 horsepower. This performance is both accessible–yet, manageable for beginners.
The MXZ Blizzard boasts advanced RAS X front suspension and rMotion X rear suspension systems, ensuring a comfortable ride across different trail conditions. Its ergonomic design and industry-leading rear suspension system make it easy to handle on trails, even for beginners.
- Starting Price: $13,999
- Maximum Speed: 128 MPH
- Notable Features: Electric start, reverse capability, heated throttle grips
#1: Polaris 550 INDY EVO 121
Polaris 550 Indy EVO, Image Courtesy of polaris.com
The Polaris 550 Indy EVO 121 is an ideal snowmobile for beginners because it’s light, simple, and compact. It doesn’t go over the top with excessive features, and the user interface is super easy to learn.
In addition, this powerful snowmobile has custom skis that improve its overall handling, and adjustable-stance Independent Front Suspension (IFS) that can be customized to fit riders of all skill levels. Plus, it comes on the patented Polaris PRO-RIDE chassis.
- Starting Price: $7,999
- Maximum Speed: 70 MPH
- Notable Features: Standard electric start, push-button reverse, speed limited to 50 MPH
Beginner’s Guide to Snowmobile Types
As you may have noticed, there are a few different types of snowmobiles, just like there are different kinds of ATVs or other off-road vehicles. Trail snowmobiles, mountain sleds, and utility sleds all have different purposes, and one may be better suited for your riding style than others.
Type #1: Trail Snowmobiles
Beginners often find entry-level snowmobiles, such as trail snowmobiles, to be an attractive option, given their emphasis on stability, user-friendliness, and comfort. These sleds typically feature lighter frames, less aggressive track profiles, and more comfortable seating.
Whether you’re gliding on well-traveled trails or exploring ungroomed ones on deep powder days, trail snowmobiles provide the ideal riding experience for the new rider.
Type #2: Mountain Sleds
Engineered for deep snow and steep landscapes, mountain sleds are typically not advised for beginners because of their high skill ceiling. However, renting mountain sleds can be an excellent way for beginners to gain experience and understand their handling preferences before making a purchase. You should make sure you take a proper safety course before riding a mountain sled in deep snow.
Type #3: Utility Sleds
These sleds are ideal for beginners who want to explore both trails and deep snow, but they’re also popular among experienced riders because they are lighter and easy to handle. Remember to choose sleds with power levels under 600 ccs to ensure the snowmobile is manageable while you’re developing your skills.
Buying a Used Snowmobile: Tips and Considerations
A new snowmobile can be expensive, so many beginners opt for a used snowmobile. Sourcing a used snowmobile can be as easy as checking:
- Online platforms (Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, etc.)
- Local clubs
- Rental fleet sales
- Dealers during the off-season
- Auctions or estate sales
But before you make that purchase, you should always ask for the full service history (if available), check for signs of damage or corrosion, test the engine compression, and confirm the odometer reading.
Lastly, be sure to utilize pricing guides such as Kelley Blue Book or NADA Guides to ensure the price of the snowmobile reflects its true market value.
Even Beginners Need Proper Snowmobile Storage
Once you’ve decided on a beginner-friendly snowmobile, you’ll need a place to store it, especially during the off-season. You might be tempted to store it outside, after all, it’s built for tough winter conditions, what’s a little sun going to do?
For starters, overexposure to heat, UV rays, rain, and dust can lead to corrosion, rust, and other cosmetic or mechanical damage. That’s why keeping your snowmobile indoors during the summer is important. Most people store them in their garage, but if you don’t have space, you should consider an alternative storage solution.
There are plenty of places around you that offer local snowmobile-friendly storage. For example, Neighbor.com, a vehicle storage marketplace, will connect you with hosts in your area with garages, private units, or other areas of their property for rent! Plus, Neighbor’s hosts have been pre-qualified, so you know you’re storing your snowmobile in a safe and budget-friendly unit.
