2007 Yamaha Motorsports Apex Mountain Owners Manual - Page 49

E_8fp.book Page 5 Tuesday, March 28, 2006 4:35 PM Riding downhill When riding downhill, keep speed to a minimum. It is important to apply just enough throttle to keep the clutch engaged while descending the hill. This will allow you to use engine compression to help slow the snowmobile, and to keep the snowmobile from rolling freely down the hill. Also apply the brake frequently, with light pressure. downhill leg on the seat and the foot of your uphill leg on the running board. This position will make it easier for you to shift your body weight as needed. Snow and ice are slippery, so be prepared for the possibility that your snowmobile could begin to slip sideways on the slope. If this happens, steer in the direction of the slide if there are no obstacles in your path. As you regain proper balance, gradually steer again in the direction you wish to travel. If your snowmobile starts to tip, steer down the hill to regain balance. WARNING @ WARNING @ Use extra caution when applying the brake during a descent. Excessive braking will cause the drive track to lock, causing a loss of control. @ If you are unable to maintain correct balance, and your snowmobile is going to tip over, dismount your snowmobile immediately on the uphill side. @ Ice or icy surface Operating on ice or icy surfaces can be very dangerous. Traction for turning, stopping, and starting is much less than that on snow. Traversing a slope WARNING @ WARNING @ When you have to operate on ice or icy surfaces, drive slowly and cautiously. Avoid accelerating, turning, and braking rapidly. Steering is minimal and uncontrolled spins are an ever-present danger. @ Traversing slopes is not recommended for a novice snowmobiler. @ Traversing a slope requires you to properly position your weight to maintain proper balance. As you travel across the slope, lean your body to position your weight towards the uphill side. A recommended riding position is to kneel with the knee of your 7-5