A Beginner’s Guide to Snowmobiling

Becoming a seasoned snowmobile rider takes a little practice, but if you take your time and follow the basic steps, you’ll be a pro before you know it! Our team at CC Cycle aims to be a continuous resource for your favorite outdoor adventures, so we’ve put together this guide for beginning snowmobile riders.  

Get To Know Your Gear

The first step in being a successful rider is gaining familiarity with your machine and your riding gear. Always begin by reading your owner’s manual or having an experienced rider thoroughly show you the ropes. 

You want to have a strong knowledge of each control, feature, and maintenance task. You’ll be surprised how many questions will be answered if you start with the manual! Also take time to get to know the safety features. Take notice of the warning labels on the sled! 

Before your first ride, you should be well prepared for the journey. Wear adequate clothing, gloves, and a well-fitting helmet. 

Be Licensed

Good riders are licensed riders. Take a safety certification course and obtain your snowmobile license to show you are well-equipped to be operating the machine. Most areas require proper safety training and licensing to operate a snowmobile. 

Beyond local regulation, it’s also beneficial to have a license because it can save you money on an insurance policy.

Learn Control While Riding

It can be very tempting to gun the throttle right away, but to become a skilled rider, it’s best to learn control. You have to find the right balance between speed, steering, and shifting your weight. 

As you become more comfortable as a rider, you’ll learn to adjust your weight with the changing terrain and know how to use speed to your advantage.

Always be prepared to apply the brakes! Speeding and reckless driving are the leading cause of snowmobile accidents, so use good judgment and practice often to have the most enjoyable experience. 

Understand Local Laws and Regulations

It’s extremely important to know the rules for the area where you ride. Each province has its own set of regulations that must be followed. Plus, if you plan to trail ride, those specific areas can have separate rules. 

Good riders will research a trail or riding area before they even start the engine. It might seem like a lot to know, but it’s essential for everyone’s safety. Respect private property and have a plan for your ride. 

Stick Within Your Skillset

As you become more confident as a rider and practice your skills, make sure you are well aware of your riding limit. Don’t push yourself too hard or tackle unfamiliar riding conditions. Pay attention to your surroundings and other riders in the area. 

Getting first hand experience is often the best way to learn, so seek out riding courses or friends who have many years of experience! 

Learning to ride a snowmobile is exciting, but may not be as easy as you first anticipate. It requires physical strength and concentration, so take your time and have fun! When you’re ready to ride, we’d love for you to visit us in Barrhead, Alberta, so we can help you find the perfect sled. We proudly serve the Edmonton and Slave Lake areas.