Wondering how to include your kids in a snowmobile trip without risking their safety? This guide from Adventure Motorsports offers expert advice on snowmobiling with children. If you have any questions about snowmobiles, please feel free to contact us! Adventure Motorsports is your local snowmobile dealer in Monroe, WA, serving those in Tacoma and Mt. Vernon.
Gearing Up
Gearing up for a snowmobile trip is always an important step of the process, but it becomes even more important when children are involved. First, you will need to select a snowmobile helmet that fits your child properly, along with insulated riding gloves and boots. We also recommend a waterproof snowmobile suit paired with a moisture-wicking base layer.
Keep in mind that the weather can change without warning, and pack plenty of extra layers in case your child needs a change of clothes. If your snowmobile did not come with heated grips or wind deflectors for the passenger seat, consider adding them to keep your child warm.
Choosing Where To Sit
There are three main options for seating kids on a snowmobile:
In the Front
One option is to seat your kid in front of the snowmobile operator. This position is illegal in some areas, as it can be unsafe in the event of a collision. However, riding with your child in the front provides better protection from windchill and allows for closer supervision. If you choose to position your child in front of the operator, make sure they know not to touch the controls!
In the Back
The taller your child gets, the less practical will be for them to ride in front of the snowmobile operator. If you have a 2-up sled, your child can ride in the passenger seat behind the operator. Alternatively, you can add a passenger seat to your single-seater. Remember that riding with more than one person in a single seat is considered unsafe and is illegal in some areas.
In a Caboose
Another choice for snowmobiling with children is to put them in a caboose towed behind the vehicle. We highly recommend using a fully enclosed caboose rather than an open trailer for this purpose. This is a safe and comfortable option, but you may want to check on your kids more often when using a caboose, as you will be unable to communicate during the ride.
Ensuring a Smooth Ride
Snowmobiling with passengers of any size may necessitate some adjustments to ensure a smooth ride. To compensate for the added weight, you may want to increase the cam setting on the rear torsion springs until your snowmobile settles the same amount as it does when riding solo. You can also invest in a heavier spring designed to handle more weight.