powder testing yamahas 03 mountain viper
Amsnow
In Our Opinion
During our second day's ride, we had with us an '02 SX Viper that had a 151-inch long track kit under its skin. What did the off-the-cuff non-official comparo tell? The Mountain Viper's tall handlebar, narrow ski-stance and deeper-keeled skis make it a puff of air to ride in the deep, or when sawing mountains in half or etching ribbons in the snow. Yet, we also enjoyed the converted SX Viper, allowing it to do what it does best - each had its purpose. This all leads to setup, function and design.
What was reinforced from our Mountain Viper preview is simple. Setup is critical. With suspensions out of tune and clutches and carbs set for sea level, we couldn't come close to liking the Mt Viper. Proper suspension configuration for trail, mountain or powder are vitally important for both the rider and the sled. This Mountain Viper went from frog to prince in a matter of an hour. Pay attention to sled set up, for you will learn, oft times, it is not the sled's fault it is weak.
The Mountain Viper is a boondocking flick-it-here and flick-it-there son-of-a-gun. Thread it through the trees, surf through the powder, cut a hill in half and roller coaster through a gully and enjoy it. For those of you who are looking for a mountain sled that will deliver pleasure for all conditions, ride the blue Mountain Viper and try to come up with a line that better define's your grin than mine.