A Beginner's Guide To Snow Biking
Snow biking is an increasingly popular and exhilarating activity where riders take a modified off-road motorcycle through snowy terrain.
What Is A Snow Bike? A snow bike is a dirt bike frame, engine, and suspension paired with a ski that replaces the original wheels. Using a conversion kit like the ones made by Timbersled, riders can easily swap between the ski and wheels for different terrains, making it a versatile powersports vehicle.
How Is A Snow Bike Different Than A Snowmobile? Snow bikes are more compact and lightweight than snowmobiles, giving riders access to tighter trails and greater agility for a more exhilarating ride.
Where Can A Snow Bike Go? Once the conversion kit is installed, snow bikes can navigate fresh powder, sidehills, and more. The possibilities are endless!
What Are The Basics Of Snow Bike Riding? Many of the riding techniques for snow biking are similar to those for dirt biking, but riders need to be aware of the differences in terrain and the use of a ski.
Situational Awareness, riders need to stay aware of their surroundings and adapt to changing terrain. Hazards such as ice, buried stumps, and wildlife can be present, so situational awareness is key.
Know How To Stop When stopping on a snow bike, avoid placing your feet on the ground as the bike sits higher off the ground than off-road motorcycles. It's also wise to try to stop with your snow bike facing downhill for easier restarts.
Know How To Handle Getting Stuck If you get stuck, alert your group and take it slow. Fatigue increases the risk of injury and reduces riding endurance. Stomp the snow underneath the snow bike and ski in the direction you want to go to make it easier to get back on the trail.
Snow biking is a thrilling activity that has gained popularity in recent years. Snow bikes are versatile, lightweight, and allow riders to explore terrain that may be inaccessible with traditional snowmobiles. If you're interested in trying snow biking, it's important to be aware of the differences in terrain and handling techniques. Remember to prioritize situational awareness, know how to stop and handle getting stuck, and most importantly, have fun out there on the snowy trails!