Updated:3/15/2024
Getting into snowmobiling may be intimidating, but buying a new one can be both affordable and give you a warranty to keep you on the snow. The manufactures have done a great job building entry-level snowmobiles and this year feature technology that was only available on top of the line machines years ago.
1. Arctic Cat ZR 400 $9,399
The Blast has been renamed for the24/25 season! Arctic Cat entered the mid-size market a fewyears ago as the Blast series, and it's a hit. It features a 397cc engine and 121" track. It's great for people with a smaller build as it is a more nimble sled to handle and will not be overwhelmed by power. This sled is a limited release as it's only available during Arctic Cat preseason order windows.
2. Polaris Indy Evo $7,999
The Indy Evo is also great for people with a smaller build. It features a 550 fan as low maintenance, reliable engine. It sits on Polaris's pro-ride chassis with a lower height for a more comfortable cornering and effortless ride. It's by far the most reasonable sled of the bunch.
The Indy Evo is not being produced for 2025. We do not know if it's been discontinued or production haltered for a year due to heavy inventory on dealer floors.
3. Polaris Indy Sport $10,499
The Indy Sportis a full-size model and great for any adult's first snowmobile. The 550 fan is less maintenance and still plenty of power to keep the fun factor high. This model also sits on a Polaris Pro-Ride chassis, which is well regarded for its maneuverability.
4. Ski-Doo MXZ Sport $9,899
The MXZ Sport was recently rejuvenated and moved up to the G4 chassis in 2021. It's the same one all of the high dollar MXZs wereon up until 2023! The MXZ sport featuresa 600 EFI motor that's easy to start,making for easier starting and less maintenance. This is a tremendous first full-size snowmobile for anyone. It is the highest-priced entry-level sled and packs much more advanced technology and is an excellent bang for the buck!
5. Yamaha SX Venom MSRP $9,499
2025 is the last year Yamaha is selling snowmobiles and will be the last chance to get a new SX Venom. If you aren't a die hard Yamaha loyalist, there is nothing to fear as the SX Venom is identical to the ZR 400. So while 2025 marks the end of this model with Yamaha's exit, it will still be available as an Arctic Cat Snwombile in years to come.It features the same 397cc motor, 121" track and chassis but equipped with Yamaha plastic. A great choice if want one last chance at a Yamaha mid-size snowmobile.
6. Ski-Doo MXZ Neo MSRP $6,849
Ski-Doo made a splash entering the mid size market in 2023 to compete with Arctic Cat’s Blast, Polaris’ Evo and Yamaha’s SX Venom. This model is based on the Gen 4 chassis and is equipped with a detuned 600 efi motor. The Neo has 40hp and the Neo+ has 55hp. These models sit lower to the ground, are lightweight so younger, smaller riders can have a machine they can easily control. These models feature a 120” track and reverse as well.
As we recover from a lean snow winter, these machines will be readily available and should be found at prices below MSRP for the first time since 2019. The used market is also soft and should be able to pick up a lightly used machine for a nice discount!We have a great article on the best ways to find and get the best deal on one of these used snowmobiles here.
You cannot go wrong with any of these entry-level snowmobiles. The Evo, Blast, Neo and SX Venom are smaller and more manageable for teenagers and young adults. The Indy 121 and MXZ Sport are full-sized and are great picks for your first snowmobile as an adult. They are all lightweight and forgiving for novice riders.
One of the best ways to enhance a snowmobile to make the handling predictable and give new riders confidence in all trail conditions is the addition of snowmobile studs. All these beginner models would call for a lower amount of studs making the kits just as affordable as these snowmobiles. To see what stud kit is right for your new snowmobile, check out our guide here.
FAQs
The Evo, Blast, Neo and SX Venom are smaller and more manageable for teenagers and young adults. The Indy 121 and MXZ Sport are full-sized and are great picks for your first snowmobile as an adult. They are all lightweight and forgiving for novice riders.
What is the sled of the year in 2024? ›
Each of the last 33 years, the Snow Goer Snowmobile Of The Year award recognizes innovation, fresh thinking and market impact. The 2024 Arctic Cat ZR 600 137 embodies all of that and more.
What is the Ski-Doo 2025 reveal? ›
Ski-Doo engineers and product specialists then shared details about the 2025 Ski-Doo lineup, with one of the most notable announcements being the new front end and RAS RX front suspension, designed to increase steering precision, reduce chassis roll and ultimately match the performance of the sleds back suspension.
What is the fastest 2024 snowmobile? ›
With the fastest, fiercest snowmobile on the planet, you'll be untouchable. The ZR® Thundercat is the ultimate ride for the speed demon in your family. With a Thundercat, there's no settling for second best.
What is the best most reliable snowmobile to buy? ›
Yamaha: Top Choice for Most Reliable Sleds
Known for their robust, reliable engines, Yamaha snowmobiles offer riders peace of mind, knowing their sleds can withstand the rigors of both trail and off-trail adventures.
What's the number one selling snowmobile? ›
Ski-Doo was originally supposed to be called "Ski-Dog," but thanks to a spelling error in the 1950s, the brand's unique name was born. Today, Ski-Doo is, by far, the most popular brand of snowmobiles in the United States.
What is new in Polaris 2024 snowmobile? ›
The Series 9 325 track is joined by other SnowCheck-exclusive features including the factory-mod power of the Patriot 9R and the turbocharged Patriot Boost. As the newest engine, the four-stroke ProStar S4 offers enhanced efficiency and durability across INDY, Voyageur, and Titan snowmobiles.
What's new for Skidoo 2024? ›
The 2024 Summit X with Expert Package reveals winter's full potential with the REV Gen5 platform, dynamic power of the 850 E-TEC Turbo R and rider-inspired features that push riders to elevate their game beyond what they ever thought possible.
How many miles does a sled last? ›
Lower-mileage snowmobile models may travel up to 10,000 miles with no significant problems. High-mileage machines can hit between 12,000 and 20,000 miles with proper maintenance.
Is Yamaha making snowmobiles in 2024? ›
The 2024 model year will be the final for available production in the European market, while North America's final production will be the 2025 model year. In 1968, Yamaha released its first snowmobile, the SL350, by applying small engine technology which it developed in the motorcycle business.
The distance of how far a Sea-Doo personal watercraft (PWC) can go on a tank of gas varies widely depending on its fuel consumption, tank capacity, riding speed and weather conditions. Generally speaking, the average PWC can go around 60-120 miles on a tank of gas, and the average PWC uses 3-4 gallons of gas per hour.
What is the oldest Ski-Doo? ›
It was in 1959 that Bombardier marketed its very first snowmobile. The product, initially baptized Ski-Dog in reference to sleds pulled by huskies, is known today as Skidoo, due to a printing error.
What is the lightest snowmobile in 2024? ›
Compact, agile and quiet, the Widescape WS250 is a snowmobile like no other. At 200 lbs (90kg), it is the lightest snowmobile on the market. Always standing instead of sitting, riders enjoy an active, immersive and totally new winter riding experience.
What snowmobile has the most power? ›
Sidewinder SRX LE is the highest hp snowmobile because of its outstanding features, comfort, performance, and handling. Let's discuss features and comfort in detail. The snowmobile is powered by the 998 Genesis Turbo engine delivering unmatched power, making it the highest achiever in the industry.
What is the fastest snowmobile made today? ›
The Ski-Doo MXZ X 850 has a recorded top speed of 128 miles per hour, while the Polaris Switchback Pro-S 800 caps out at 105 mph, and the Arctic Cat ZR 6000 EL Tigre is a bit slower at 88 mph. The Polaris Assault 800 tops off at 112 mph, and Ski-Doo 850 has a top speed of 118 mph.
What is better 2 stroke or 4-stroke snowmobiles? ›
4-strokes are more fuel-efficient, have near-complete combustion, resulting in fewer emissions and better performance. 4-strokes are great for long-distance trail riding because of the liquid-cooled engines and better gas mileage.
What is the first thing you should do before starting your snowmobile? ›
Point the machine in a safe direction. Position yourself to control the machine when it starts. Set the parking brake. Make sure the throttle is not frozen.
What makes a snowmobile hard to start? ›
Your starting issue could be damaged gaskets, worn-out piston rings, a scored cylinder or piston, a bad crank seal or reed valve, or a damaged head gasket. Using a compression tester or contacting a place that can service your snowmobile will be the best way to go if the problem looks too serious.
What is the best snowmobile for kids? ›
And they're also great options if you're looking for a beginner-friendly snowmobile that your child will be able to grow into.
- Ski-Doo Mini Z. ...
- Arctic Cat Snowmobiles. ...
- Polaris Snowmobile. ...
- Yamaha Venture MP. ...
- Always Seek Expert Help if in Doubt.
