AmSnow.com is now SnoWest.com
This 4-stroke rocket shines in the straight, steep climbs but requires more rider input to stay in the tracks of other sleds or to make tight turns in the trees. If you are in a boondocking, tree-loving crowd, be ready for a workout. We eased that workout by adding slightly higher handle bar risers for more leverage. And, while the grab bar on the handlebars is often removed, we suggest you leave it on for this sled. Having taller handlebar risers standard would be nice for future models as the increased leverage improved the capabilities in technical conditions. The 153 Sidewinder loves fresh deep snow and making its own line through the trees, but the 162 is even better! And, as of 2019 Yamaha will only be offering the Sidewinder M-TX LE in a 162.
Make sure your clutch is balanced too. At the beginning of the season we blasted through a couple belts, but after a shop balance this problem was decreased dramatically. Remember, this sled is producing a lot of torque and over 200 HP!
Holding on to that power all day is not for the faint of arm strength. But nothing will pass the herd on a wide-open range, or beat your buddies up an uphill climb like this cruise missile.