GET TO KNOW YOUR MOUNTAIN SNOW BIKE
The following information pertains to a deep snow/mountain snow bike. This
type of snow bike is longer and narrower and has a higher center of gravity when
compared to a typical trail snow bike. These features make riding the
backcountry a safer and more enjoyable experience.
The mountain snow bike is slower, has a larger turning radius and will overturn
more easily than a trail snow bike. The skis are designed to float and provide
more lift than trail skis. The track features paddles that pack and shovel snow
rather than dig in and grip the snowpack.
Because Timbersled mountain snow bikes feature tall track paddles, the rear
suspension rails and sliders will sit above the snowpack on a groomed trail.
Always deploy the scratchers and limit high speed operation when trail riding.
Always practice riding your mountain snow bike in a safe, open, flat area before
attempting your first ride in mountainous terrain. This is especially important for
low-elevation riders who are not accustomed to riding a snow bike designed for
deep snow.
Do not ride in mountainous terrain until you are comfortable riding and
controlling your snow bike in deep snow.
• Practice turning, leaning and braking, both on the trail and off the trail. When
you’re comfortable with these maneuvers, practice more advanced
maneuvers in deep flat snow.
• Learn techniques from more experienced riders.
• Practice placing your feet in different locations on the floorboards to learn
where your balance point is while performing turns and other maneuvers.
• Practice traversing through deep snow, which is when you will often need to
steer by leaning your body weight in the desired direction while turning the
skis slightly in the opposite direction.
• Practice using proper throttle control to maintain vehicle momentum and
adequate track speed in deep snow. Everyone gets stuck at some point in
time. If you know your snow bike is becoming stuck, try to turn downhill as
much as you can before the snow bike comes to a stop.
GET THE FORECAST
Make a riding plan based on the current avalanche
and weather forecast. It is important to remember that
overnight weather conditions may have created unsafe
riding terrain that was considered safe the day before.
Visit www.avalanche.org or scan the QR code. Follow
the page links to locate current avalanche reports and
conditions for your area of operation.
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SAFETY