How Fast Do Snowmobiles Go?

Snowmobiles can be fun and exciting. They’re one of the best ways to go out and enjoy the snow. Snowmobiles are also easy to use. That’s why they’re a family favorite.

We’re often asked, “How fast do snowmobiles go?” People often love testing the limits of what snowmobiles can do, and how fast they can go.

But there’s not an exact speed that defines how fast all snowmobiles go. There are many variables to consider, such as model, snow conditions, the weight of the rider, and many more.

Keep reading to learn more about all the factors that help determine the average speed of a snowmobile.

Going Back in Time

It all began in Canada during the first years of the 20th century. In 1911, Harold J. Kalenze got his sled patented. Pushed by a propeller, it was a slow and safe way to travel on the snow.

Soon after, in 1915, Ray H. Muscott received a patent for his new invention, the motor sleigh. It quickly moved to America, where it became a raging success, but it was still sluggish.

Then, Joseph Bombardier, introduced the first-ever snowmobile in 1935. Ever since then, manufacturers have been coming up with innovative ways to make snowmobiles go faster and higher.

Nowadays, they’ve become faster, sleeker, and more agile than ever before!

The Need for Speed

Overall, the average fastest speed for a snowmobile is in the range of 95 to 120 miles per hour. Certain models can reach much higher speeds. But that’s tremendously dangerous and should be avoided at all costs.

Manufacturers will usually include speed information for their snowmobile in the specs. To help you get an idea of the top speeds of some common models, read the following:

GPS Speed Readings vs. Standard Speedometers

Almost all speedometers on snowmobiles don’t give accurate speed readings. In fact, the faster you go, the higher the readings get.

For example, you could be riding at 92 m/h, and you look at the speedometer and it shows you going at 100 m/h. In all fairness, manufacturers do this on purpose for safety reasons.

To ensure a 100% authentic reading, you can always get your hands on a (Global Positioning System) GPS speedometer. It can give you a more precise speed reading because it bases its readings on GPS. This is different from the speedometer found on your dashboard, which bases its readings on the speed of the engine.

All GPS speed reading devices nowadays are high-tech, yet quite easy to use. Many provide other features besides giving you speed readings.

Factors that Affect Your Speed

In general, how fast any type of snowmobile can go is determined by its design and forward motion. Yet other factors affect your speed as well.

Read ahead to get to know some of these factors.

Weight of the Snowmobile

It goes without saying that if the snowmobile is heavy, the slower it’ll go. This is because the engine has to work twice as hard to propel the vehicle forward.

Weight of the Rider

Just as with the snowmobile weight, the same goes for the person driving the vehicle. The lighter the rider, the faster the vehicle will go.

Wind Resistance

The wind is one of the strongest and fiercest powers you’ll meet on the slopes. The direction of the wind plays a big part in controlling your speed, especially if it’s overly windy.

In other words, if the wind is at your back, you’ll move faster. On the other hand, if the wind is coming head-on, it’ll slow you down drastically.

Aerodynamic Design

The overall design of your snowmobile regulates whether or not it’s aerodynamic. For example, if the windshield is upright at a steep angle, this can hinder your speed.

Other non-aerodynamic design features can also affect your speed and force you to move slower.

The Landscape

Are you driving your snowmobile uphill? Over grass? This means you’ll be met with a higher resistance than if you’re riding downhill or over light snow or ice.

The level of snow can also affect your speed. If it’s deep snow, you’ll move much slower.

The Weather

Another important factor that controls your average speed is how cold or warm the weather is.

Did you know that cold air is denser than warm air? This is because when it’s cold, air molecules are packed closer together.

So how does this affect your speed? The dense cold air helps boost power. It allows the engine to run more efficiently.

A Reminder to Stay Safe

Here are a few safety precautions to consider before you hit the slopes.

Respect the Speed Limit

Different states and different trails have their own set of speed limits. Remember to not exceed these limits, even if your snowmobile can run faster.

Know the Lay of the Land

Always remember that each trail has its unique landscape and operating conditions. So pay attention to the terrain features. Also, keep an eye out for rocks, trees, and other possible obstacles that could get in your way.

It’s also important to pay attention to fellow motorists and people passing by.

Pay Your Insurance

Before you hit the trails, you should consider insuring your snowmobile. It can come in handy if you’ve been injured or your snowmobile’s been damaged.

The Final Word

So, how fast do snowmobiles go? That depends on you, the driver

There are also a handful of other factors that work to determine your overall speed. The important thing to remember is that every trail you ride on has its designated speed limit. It’s put there to keep you, and other snowmobilers, safe and out of harm’s way.

Riding a snowmobile is a big responsibility. But being responsible doesn’t have to be boring. You can still have lots of fun and enjoy the beautiful snowy slopes while maintaining moderate speeds.