And the tradition of excellence continues… Let’s be honest, even though we keep hammering away, Yamaha has a tradition of excellence in all areas they are involved in. They have a very enviable reputation and their success is based on a wealth of experience. 2021 Yamaha Sidewinder X-TX LE 146 Test
Even though the competition offers versatility in the engine department for their trail snowmobiles, Yamaha is back once again with their turbocharged 4-stroke engine to equip their hybrid snowmobiles. They are aware that they are not in the race when it comes to weight, but they are trying to convince us that the surge of horsepower makes up for it. Yet, the haters remain reluctant to include the Yamaha Sidewinder in the 50/50 category by sticking to their guns.
Of course, it takes a skilled off-road rider to master all that power and extra weight, but when you’re able to dominate this beast, the results are impressive. It’s probably in this effort that Yamaha upgraded its Sidewinder X-TX last year from a 141-inch track to a 146-inch track. Flotation has greatly improved in this area, much to our delight.
For 2021, Yamaha returns with an almost unchanged Sidewinder X-TX LE 146 aside from its new Stryke skis. There’s no need to review our past criticisms of the Tuner skis, which caused performance that wasn’t up to par for a snowmobile like the Sidewinder. Therefore, this change was long overdue.
This new single-keel ski replaces the double-keel Tuner skis. This new ski from Yamaha has the ability to change the handling characteristics by using different shims in the ski support that change the load on the rubber block in direct relation to the steering support. These shims modify the comfort and effort on the handlebars according to the different snow conditions. It is recommended to use more rear shim in spring and soft snow conditions to provide more bite to the keel, while balancing the steering effort with the front shim. In more difficult conditions, the shims can be adjusted to suit performance preferences and riding style.
These new Stryke skis give us a lot of confidence and control on the Sidewinder X-TX 146 2021. From the miles we’ve logged with this change, we can say that handling in many trail conditions has been dramatically increased with this new addition for 2021. Our snowmobile kept its course more easily in straight lines and turns, while allowing us to push this snowmobile with much more confidence on the trail. This is probably what was missing to take this snowmobile to another level. However, the heaviness adds to the fatigue factor on a long ride, and it is especially noticeable at the end of the day.
The Sidewinder X-TX LE 146 features the ARCS (Advanced Roll Center Suspension) independent trail-oriented double-wishbone front suspension with a 42-inch ski position and 1.5-inch QS3 shocks. An uncoupled Versattak rear suspension is surrounded by a 15 x 146 x 1.6-inch Cobra track.
This 1.6-inch Camso Cobra track is perfect for the hybrid nature of this snowmobile. It provides the traction we need in any condition and allows us to occasionally slide the rear at will when we use controlled braking and throttle. The Cobra 1.6 track does exactly what it was designed to do. In off-trail mode, it allows us to maneuver through deep snow with confidence, and on trails, it gives us the bite and grip we need without destroying the work done by the resurfacer.
The same mechanics that made the reputation of this snowmobile returns once again in 2021. This 998cc engine really develops more than 200 hp and has a particular and almost orgasmic sound. When it starts up, there is no doubt about this 3-cylinder engine and its ability to make us stand up on our feet. It’s also when we get on the handlebars and exploit its full capabilities that we realize we have something special under the hood. In a straight line, this Sidewinder pulls hard and even very hard. You have to be well hung up to handle all that dynamism. It’s recommended to let off the throttle when taking a curve and if you’re able to do so, push the throttle back in until the next turn. This is such a fun snowmobile to ride that it’s no wonder it attracts a lot of attention.
This version comes standard with a heated bench, which we think should be a standard feature, just like the heated grips and thumb are. Of course, this feature comes in handy when hiking on the trail rather than on off-road trips which are usually done standing up. However, this little tickle is very pleasant especially on colder days and provides that little bit of comfort for the buttocks.
We love the overall look of this snowmobile. Its pointed nose at the front provides the aerodynamics to power through the wind, and the overall shape of its hood provides the deflection needed to counteract the cold that might afflict us. The aerodynamic lines help improve airflow around the engine and clutch to prevent overheating. The rounded shape of the sides allows for a sporty ride by shifting our body to one side or the other without hindrance, regardless of the rider’s size.
The short seat offers the comfort so sought after for a snowmobile of this category. The foam molds to your buttocks for a comfortable ride over long distances. Its height is excellent for a quick transition to a standing position when the need arises. This seat offers us the desired mobility at all times.
The windshield, almost non-existent, is questionable. It looks good and completes the package very well, but offers almost no protection for the rider on colder winter days. However, Yamaha offers windshields among its accessories that are more adapted to the need.
We always have a good feeling when we get the chance to ride a Yamaha snowmobile. Admittedly, this manufacturer is relatively conservative in its decisions, but it offers us vehicles that are always up to our expectations. When we are experienced snowmobilers, we have a clear idea of our wishes and desires. With this snowmobile, we have exactly what we want. Aside from those predominant orange graphics and a darker blue than Yamaha has been known to do in the past, the Sidewinder may look a lot like the 2020 version. The answer is partially true, but this 2021 snowmobile has a little something extra that makes it an even more enjoyable riding experience and defines it as a snowmobile that everyone should consider once again.
Think about it, the 146 2021 Yamaha Sidewinder X-TX with the 998cc Genesis three-cylinder turbo not only has the most power you can buy in a production snowmobile, but it’s also, in our opinion, the most exhilarating snowmobile you could ever buy. It’s fast, it’s strong, but it’s also totally manageable depending on how much control we can assign to our thumb. Power is delivered for those who want that little extra something that sets the most seasoned riders apart.
