2008 Yamaha Motorsports RS Venture Owners Manual - Page 38

Operation cles and other traffic. You should practice control of the throttle and brake, and master turning techniques in this area before trying more difficult terrain. Set the parking brake and follow the instructions on page 30 to start the engine. Once the engine has warmed up, you are ready to begin riding your snowmobile. As you approach a curve, slow down and begin to turn the handlebar in the desired direction. As you do so, put your weight on the running board to the inside of the turn and lean your upper body into the turn. To start out and accelerate 1. 2. With the engine idling, release the parking brake. Apply the throttle slowly and smoothly. The V-belt clutch will engage and you will start to accelerate. EWS00210 WARNING The operator should always keep both hands on the handlebar. Never put your feet outside the running boards. Avoid high speeds until you have become thoroughly familiar with your snowmobile and all of its controls. Braking When slowing down or stopping, release the throttle and apply the brake gently-not suddenly. EWS00220 WARNING G G Many surfaces such as ice and hardpacked snow require much longer stopping distances. Be alert, plan ahead, and begin decelerating early. Improper use of the brake can cause the drive track to lose traction, reduce control, and increase the possibility of an accident. This procedure should be practiced at low speeds many times, in a large flat area with no obstacles. Once you have learned this technique, you should be able to perform it at higher speeds or in tighter curves. Lean more as the turn gets sharper or is made at higher speeds. Improper riding techniques such as abrupt throttle changes, excessive braking, incorrect body movements, or too much speed for the sharpness of the turn may cause the snowmobile to tip. If your snowmobile begins to tip while turning, lean more into the turn to regain balance. If necessary, gradually let off on the throttle or steer to the outside of the turn. Remember: Avoid higher speeds until you are thoroughly familiar with the operation of your snowmobile. Riding uphill You should practice first on gentle slopes. Try more difficult climbs only after you have developed your skill. As you approach a hill, accelerate before you start the climb, and then reduce the throttle to prevent track slippage. It is also important to keep your weight on the Turning For most snow surfaces, "body English" is the key to turning. 32