Hello there fellow snowmobile enthusiasts! I hope that your season has started off on the right side of the snowflake! For us, 2009 been exceptional so far! We have been blessed not only with stellar weather conditions but also with talented and committed volunteers. They have molded Mother Nature’s contribution into the magnificent trail systems that we all enjoy so much. Riders can now travel from town to town on extended overnight tours or explore the local networks of club trails that have been groomed to perfection. Either option is sure to please riders of all experience and skill levels.With so many trails to choose from, how do we decide which routes to take? There are always the usual deciding factors such as desired destination, trail condition reports and the length of the ride but rider experience and skill level should always top the list. Maps are great for identifying direction but they lack the information that describes the type and style of trail. Local clubs or online message boards will often be able to advise visitors which routes they might like to explore.
If you are riding with a small group of experienced riders, the fact that route has an abundance of steep hills or tight corners might not be much of an issue. However, if the rider’s are new to the sport, they may prefer to stick to the wider and less dramatic systems until they build confidence and skill level. The length of the ride is another important detail to consider. Planning a ride that can be cut short when new riders or youth are involved can be a wise decision. It is also helpful in the event of a mechanical problem. Having to tow a sled is not something that most people look forward to but knowing that you are towing 5km instead of 50km can make the task less overwhelming.
New riders will sometimes feel like they have to “keep up” with the group. This can create unnecessary anxiety and will only promote a negative image of the sport. Whenever possible, new riders should be positioned with others that are gaining experience as well. A group of novice riders supported by a few with more experience is an excellent way to get started. The atmosphere will encourage confidence and skill development.
Before a new rider can start enjoying snowmobiling, they should be sure to have proper gear. This does not mean that they have to go out and invest thousands in suits and clothing, but they should make sure that they are properly equipped. The same boots and socks that are worn to the office every day are not considered “appropriate” for snowmobiling. Boots that are rated for -80’C may not be necessary either. Most new snowmobilers will start riding on milder days. That means that over-dressing can easily occur. The trick is to stay warm & dry without limiting mobility and movement. Be sure that gear is comfortable in a sitting position as well as standing. Garments that are too tight or too loose will be ineffective in allowing for mobility and heat retention. From helmets to boots, get what fits and what is comfortable. Make sure that fabrics are wind and water resistant.
Helmets must fit and should be free from air leaks or gaps that will allow slivers of cold air in. There are several brands and styles that are now available and personal choice does play a large role when it comes to comfort. Some units include heated shields while others use direct venting to keep moisture from collecting on the inside of the shield.
If a new rider is going to gain skill and ability on a snowmobile, starting on the roughest ride in the fleet may not be the best plan. Sleds that have poor suspension or worn out components such as carbides and tracks can put the new rider at a higher risk of loosing control not to mention, they may not enjoy the experience at all. Starting off with an older sled is fine as long as it is in good working condition. As riders get more comfortable with the sport, they will naturally learn about which sleds might suit them best but until then, a reliable ride is absolutely necessary.
Once new riders have the right gear, equipment, group to ride with and trail to enjoy, the next step is seat time. Like with any new skill, practice makes perfect. By observing the snowmobilers up ahead, new riders can pick up various styles and techniques which can speed up the learning curve. Watching videos on various types of riding can also be very helpful.
Another way to build skills in new snowmobilers is to participate in activities that draw from similar abilities. Tasks that develop reaction time, coordination and balance are excellent for building skill. Any sport or activity that engages the mind and body will help. Even something as simple as an aerobics class, public skating or even a game of basketball can boost ability levels.
If a new rider finds that they are tensing up or becoming nervous while riding, they should relax by stopping, stretching and taking a few deep breaths before continuing on. Tension can cause impulsive reflex responses rather than controlled and deliberate movements. Concentration and focus will ensure safe snowmobiling as well as reduce stress and anxiety.
The best way that any new rider, young or older, male or female will gain skill is with experience and that takes time. Some riders will pick up the skills quickly while others may take considerably longer. The rider’s natural ability to judge distance, momentum and the performance boundaries of their sled are significant factors in the length of time required in learning to ride. “Good” riders are not necessarily the fastest in the group. A “good” rider is someone that is capable of riding safely and in control at all times in any snow, weather or trail condition. Accidents happen when riders try to exceed their own ability level or the ability level of their snowmobile. Real skill evolves over time naturally when riders make consistent efforts to practice good riding techniques.
