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Buyers Guide

Whether you are buying a new or used snowmobile, our goal is to help you purchase the snowmobile that will give you the most value for your dollar.  We want you to not only make the best purchase possible, but also have the best snowmobile experience with your purchase.

Snowmobiles have been around for almost 100 years.  The technology of snowmobiles gets better every year.  Basically, the newer the better.

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Safety

The #1 rule of snowmobiling is NEVER RIDE ALONE!

For more safety info see: Snowmobile Safety Tips

Reasons to buy a snowmobile

Snowmobile riding season usually takes place November through April.  That’s 6 months worth of riding fun!

  • You can join a local snowmobile club and meet new friends.
  • You don’t ever have to buy a lift ticket to snowmobile!
  • Unlike snow skiing, you won’t get cold waiting for or sitting on a chair lift.
  • Snowmobiles have windshields, heated handgrips and heat for your feet to keep you warm.
  • Snowmobiling is a very safe family sport. Anyone from young to old, athletic to handicapped can ride a snowmobile.
  • Snowmobilers care about our environment.  Snowmobilers leave no trace.
  • Do you get depressed in the winter?  Snowmobilers always have a smile on their face when they are snowmobiling! The scenery is spectacular.

Important things to consider

  • Join your local snowmobile club to optimize your snowmobile experience and learn how to ride like a pro.
  • If you don’t have a valid Drivers License you will need a Snowmobile Operators Permit to operate a snowmobile in Oregon.  To get a permit you will need to take a class sponsored by your local snowmobile club or Oregon State Snowmobile Association.  If your child is old enough to read and comprehend they can usually qualify for a Snowmobile Operators Permit.
  • Helmets are not required for snowmobiles in Oregon but you will rarely see anyone without a helmet.  Helmets not only protect your head, but also help keep you warm.
  • Snowmobile trail maps are available from your local snowmobile club and the Forest Service.
  • Insurance is not required but is highly recommended.  Full coverage is relatively inexpensive and will help to protect your investment.  Even if you don’t want full coverage for your snowmobile, liability insurance is a must!
  • Water cooled snowmobiles can overheat if you are operating at very slow speeds or on hard packed snow or ice.  Overheating will destroy your snowmobile.  Be sure your snowmobile has ice scratchers and learn how to use them.
  • Still have questions? Come to a club meeting (you don’t have to be a member to attend) and ask a question and enjoy all the answers you get from all the “experts” in the club.  It’s fun, possibly hilarious, and you won’t regret it!

Finally, your local snowmobile club spends countless volunteer hours maintaining and grooming the snowmobile trails with equipment and funding provided by the Oregon State Snowmobile Association.  Membership in most clubs is usually $60 a year or less for your whole family and includes a $35 membership in the Oregon State Snowmobile Association.  Volunteering is not required to be a member, but you can still show your support by joining today.  You’ll be glad you did!

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