1st off I completely disagree with 5 view of the steering ..... I am sure it has to do more where I was riding as compared to 5's yard.... this sled has very positive steering and was never worried about front end grip possibly to much? I really did like the sled, the pull was strong, Very predictable, good gas milage, great wind protection, perfect handle bar height for standing the only issues for me was the sitting position that should be an easy fix in a minute or 2 (handle bars and tank bag location) of course this is set up for 5 so thats what matters.
Nice to see anther Yamadoodle in the club.....(both with electric start and reverse :) )
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member # 2, Club Founder, Director, 2003.Dash For Cash Club Champion, 2001 Pole position Dash for cash, 2000 Dash for Cash Champion
Sounds like there will be a more favorable report when you are on Northern NH or Maine trails.
I see some red flags in this report. First, a mention of the old sled, Craigslist and the bizarre "I love the LED taillight".
It sounds like you painted a picture of an 8 second sled. That is a two fold analogy, tough to beat in the quarter mile and possibly how long until the bronco bucks you from the seat to the snow.
Personally, I would throw out this memory and wait for Groveton. No worries, it will be what you expected. Fast, reliable, different and completely unique.
So it was purchased sometime back in May I believe, just know I've been looking at it for months and months. Dying to see what it rides like. I'm going to try real hard on this review not to overstate anything. I am being very disciplined to hold my judgement. that said..................... WHAT HAVE I PURCHASED?!??!?!?!!!?!?!!!!
Okay, let's start with this analogy, I'm trying to convince myself that this was like trying to test drive a Z07 Corvette in my driveway. On snow.
I cannot turn and go. that's it. that's my review. it starts. it looks great. the headlight is nice and bright. I can go THEN turn. Or I can turn THEN go. But I cannot go AND turn. You see, in order to turn, your skis must be in contact with the Earth. it doesn't help when you have a 144 track with fresh 1.25" paddles. I have almost flipped this sled twice in my yard by using every ounce of my snowmobile riding skills from all the years of piloting through all kinds of maneuvers, and trying to apply throttle and get the sled to move in the desired direction.
By cracking the throttle just the slightest amount, I might as well remove the skis to get better gas mileage because they are of no use. In panic, I wrote to the Pres to help get rid of Mega-Transfer, to which his only reply was tighten the limited strap. that was not the response I was expecting. I'm not sure this guy ever really found the control he was looking for with the upgraded skis since I don't think they've ever been on the snow when riding.
Ok, you get the idea. As the Pres predicted the motor is amazing, well at least 0-20mph. and I know the brakes work because I then have to apply them 100% because I have to bring this monster to a complete stop before I can change direction and not drive into an oak. It is back in the garage and I will be diving into the manual to understand how these Yamaha Transfer Rods work. To then see if he has this thing adjusted to full transfer. I hate to fiddle with a machine that has been ridden for 8 or so seasons with at least one handling mod done. But it will still be good to see where it is adjusted to start.
I love the LED taillight. I'm trying to find the positives so far. OMG what have I done.. At least I still have Old Faithful. In case this thing needs to go back onto Craigslist after my first real ride. How is it possible with all that weight up front and that long track that this thing isn't front heavy?!??!! this is such a surprise to me! I have been so fearful that this machine would be heavy steering (especially at low speeds), this is a real shocker to me.
I own a factory drag sled.
#5
-- Edited by Johnny Rotten on Thursday 29th of December 2016 03:05:35 PM