I teach snowmobile safety courses, and we always teach riding with someone. That said, I usually ride alone as my schedule and areas are hard to find companions for. For gas, rule of thirds is great. One third to reach destination, one third to return and one third reserve. Trip planning is HUGE! Specially up here. Time is precious in arctic conditions. File it with a responsible person, let them know when you return, and agree on a set time to call the authorities if you don’t return or check in. Bring shelter, dry warm clothing, a way to make water and some food. You’ll need energy to keep warm if you need to build shelter or even just to keep the furnace burning in your body. Signalling devices are important, too. Gotta be extra safe and careful going solo.
Love your videos Dave. At the top of my list are a shovel, various ropes, axe (that is sharp) to get you unstuck, right side up if you tip over, and to make a shelter. If you have to walk a long distance to town or cabin, an extra base layer incase you need to rest or make camp (if you sweat, you die), snow shoes, headlamp/head torch with extra batteries because it can be so dark you can't see your hands. A tarp is a good thing to have if you make camp and you can turn it into a bag with your basic survival stuff that you pull behind you or make into a backpack (using your trusty rope). I prefer wind proof torch lighter over all those survival type fire starters which are harder to use along with a couple of fire starter pucks - if you are hyperthermic and your hands are too cold to function, you want to establish a fire as easily and quickly as possible. Keep your lighter in an inside pocket. Always stick to the established trail and if given an option, pick the trail along the tree line and not in the middle of the lake where it is colder. Stay hydrated, the colder you get, the more you will pee - I store a plastic flask inside my coat and a thermos of tea in the cargo box - the Inuit stop regularly. I pre-cut granola bars (peanut butter ones for the fat) into bite size pieces and place it in a baggy / left pocket so that I can pop one at a time and thaw it out in my mouth for an easy snack while driving or have unhand as survival food. If your snowmobile tips to a side and you can't quite upright it by yourself, cut down a tree and wedge it in front and behind each spindle. Secure the tree with your various ropes to each arm/spindle, climb on top of the overturned snowmobile and up onto the tree and start to rock it until it right-sides up (this can take a few minutes). My hands are prone to being cold, so I always keep an extra pair of gloves shoved into my bib that are toasty warm because cold hands won't warm up cold gloves. Hot packs are amazing - I sewed pockets into my clothing where I'm prone to getting cold (kidney area and hips) and I store them there for when I leave the tree line for the arctic to get back to town - on the really cold and windy days, it's like riding in a hot tub. I keep about 3 day's supply of hot packs in my cargo box because people have gotten stuck in 3-day blizzards and froze to death out on the barren lands. If you are pulling a bogan, place a piece of plywood on the floor of your bogan. On the underside, secure wooden crosspieces to the plywood. If you get stuck in slush, you can use the plywood as a ramp to get out of the slush back onto the hard packed ice. I'm a 130 pound female, long-line trapper driving a 900 Skandic.I don't always have someone with me and I have lived out there for 3 months at a time and have also stayed in tents before my husband and I established cabins. There is no such thing as misadventure - only poor planning.
Responding to a subscriber comment about tips for riding alone. You should always ride with someone, but sometimes you just have to head out alone. In this video, I share my ten tips for sledding solo.
For sure. Being more aware in general, taking a few minutes to think things through up front can save a ton of trouble down the road. Thanks for watching and commenting!
Sometimes you can’t turn around and have to go further though… especially when there is a crevasse and thick forest. Reverse does more harm than good so you have to go forward.
Great advice Dave, when I am going sledding alone I try to keep my trips a little shorter and save longer trips or trips to new areas when I can get others to ride with me.
One thing I would definitely add is the importance of a metal foldable shovel- I like the army surplus shovel with a serrated edge one and pointed tip, also a strap if your pulled out by a random snowmobile, and some water.
Great tips Dave. This is my first year riding. My wife and I ride on one sled and always alone simply because none of our cottage neighbours ride. We stay close to home base and never leave the main trail. Having said that I still get a little anxious when we ride for fear of a breakdown. I hope I overcome that feeling before long. So far we’re really enjoying it and your videos have certainly educated me.
HI Muskoka. If you're like me, you'll probably always worry a little. Best you can do is keep the sled in as good shape as you can, plan for break downs, then just go for it. Sure, you may break down, but honestly, unless you beat the crap out of them, these machines run pretty solid. They make them for people who beat the crap out of them. Go for it.
Good video. I have a large extended family and we all used to go together when I was a kid. Uncles and cousins all faded out of the sport leaving just my favorite cousin and I for a couple decades. Now that some of them are older with their own kids they are coming back. (Nothing makes me happier of course.) So my long winded point is that they are basically newbies. There is only so much I can remember to tell them. BUT your channel gives me an additional place to point them to for information. What did we ever do before RUclips? 😉
This video is perfect timing for me. I don't think the guys I ride with are going to be able to ride this year. So I've been contemplating going by myself. The season is too short to sit back and wait for someone to ride with. Very good tips. Thank you.
Hello Dave, another great subject matter, really enjoy the overall content and different subject's you cover on your channel. Even though many of us think about thing's to have with us when riding alone, i think we need to keep a list hanging by the door on our way out, it doesn't take much to forget something when your main focus is getting out for a ride. Again another great video.
Whatever I need to survive overnight . 3 ways to start a fire including fat wood. Extra clothes. Tarp paracord emergency blanket flashlight bottle water. Thermos full of hot tea. Basic tools baling wire. Plugs fuel line. Axe or saw. Tow rope. Plus all stuff you said. I go overboard but I ride alone 90 percent of time and during middle of week trails are pretty empty. Basic first aid kit too. Even just for the aspirin and deep cut in fingers when get stuck. .
I'm a new snowmobiler. My family doesn't like to snowmobile and I don't have any friends, (I even have 3 older sleds) so I went riding on the mountain (~9,000 - 10,000') by myself for the first time. There is no cell service. There were only 3 other vehicles in the parking lot, but no sign of any riders anywhere. Temps were 15-20 deg F and light to moderate snow. At first I stayed in the trees on an ungroomed path but a well traveled path by other sleds. It was an obvioius trail and easy to follow. That part of the ride was very pleasant but then I found myself out of the trees and in the open. Everything was white, almost like a whiteout, it was snowing harder and the wind was picking up all in a short amount of time and it was extremely difficult to determine the correct path. I eventually stopped because there was no obvious main path. When I looked around to try and figure out where I was I saw running water on each side of me. Somehow I had managed to ride into a mountain stream. Kind of freaked me out and I did my best to not get stuck and get the heck out of there and locate my old tracks. I always thougth I would stay on the trail and if something happened I could walk the mile or two back to the vehicle. The weather in the mountains can change rapidly and if you ride alone you really do have to expect and prepare for the worse. I didn't have anything on me. Not even the tools to change a belt. Made me realize I need to get a Garmin inReach and larger tunnel bag/more storage to put survival items in.
Thanks Cory. Glad you liked it. I've had a little bit to get out and play a bit. We're getting a lot right now, I've shovelled a couple of times, but we're supposed to warm up and get rain tomorrow. Hoping they're wrong. If they are, I'll be riding for sure.
Recently riding alone, I buried my 01 skidoo in deep stuff I had no business being in alone. Hours passed, It was now getting dark, no cell service, I'm at least 5 miles to the closest house, I was exhausted, couldn't move the sled another inch and the belt was just about done. As I was about to loose the last of my hope, I spotted the most beautiful (4" round by a perfect 10 ft length) hardwood branch that was leaning against a tree right next to where I was stuck. A borrowed, large stone from a nearby wall and the hardwood branch made the perfect fulcrum. I was able to lift the back of the sled enough and hold the branch with one armed while I threw enough branches under it to get out of there. I was forced to repeat this several times over the next 500 ft to get back on the main trail. I learned a lesson that night. Be safe everyone! I just learned of the nifty lift from the my old sled guy. I should buy one so I can stop riding with that 4x10 ft. branch.
I def would say avoid riding at night by yourself unless you're just going for a quick boot in your backyard or close to home. There's less riders at night. Tough to look over your sled even with a good flashlight ( which is highly recommended if u do go out at night). Also it can get even colder at night. Might not be too much of a difference but that sun can warm u up a bit. And def have matches, lighter and a bit of paper in case u need to start a fire.
Hello brother from Newfoundland Canada..I take my best buddy with me ,my 10yrl. We've had some close calls but I always make sure we're not far walking distance from a vehicle!!
Great video I would say get mechanically inclines with how your sled works so if something does go wrong and it’s a trail side fix you know how to do it!
Dave, If you haven't already, maybe an episode on power supplies. My wife just bought me one that can charge your phone up to 10x on a single charge. Also, has three solar panels attatched for charging the power supply on the go if need be. Great videos!
Good video. I too ride alone on occasion. My wife bought me a SPOT. Works great, not cheap but well worth it since cell coverage on my trails is 50% at best.
When I go sledding, it's almost always with my brother or friend. I've taken the sled out a few times by myself but never that far. I always top on gas and oil before I go even if I know I'm probably not going far but for some weird reason my brother doesn't. He always takes risks thinking he has enough gas to get him to where he's going and back and it sometimes bites him in the ass. He always has gas cans at home to use but doesn't always fill up! Just a couple weeks ago we went out to the nearest town and I had filled up at home, but he was thinking he would just fill up at the gas station. Turns out they were closed and he was running on fumes by the time we got back.
Throwing a 12v charger on your sled is easy, and eliminates the phone battery problem. Personal locator for sure though as it eliminates the worry about cell coverage.
I have a video on installing a 12v outlet. Don’t forget, If you have a sled without a battery, like my 670, you only have power if the sled is running. Thanks for watching!
Great video, Dave. Id love to see a video where you go over some of the best sledding destinations and snow tours here in ontario. I’ve read of a few such as the R.A.P tour, but i’d love to see a video looking at all of the best ones!
Hi Nic. Thanks. Glad you enjoyed it. I always take suggestions like this down, and I do them when I can. If winters continue the way they are, I will need to get a trailer. Usually I ride on the Bruce, and would like to do something on some of the sites and sledding destinations and resources around here. Thanks for the suggestion.
Hey Dave! Love your videos, don't have a sled yet, bought my kids a Yamaha 120 srx 2 years ago to gauge their interest (4 and 6 then) and they are really growing into loving the sport, i think I'm picking a sled up next season, and have loved watching you videos to learn a bit more about the sport. keep em Coming! -Jacob
Good tips, I almost always ride alone as well. How do like the REV vs your 670? They seem like decent sleds, but the old ones are definitely easier to work on....
Worlds apart. It’s a far better machine. Lighter, easier to ride. Throttle response is unbelievably better. Estart! No primer...everything about it is better
Self rescue kit. Over a 100' of rope. Inexpensive ratchet cable winching device. Saw adequate to cut a 3" tree.shovel, small snoshoes. Then you can pull your machine off a downhill tree..or turn it upright....etc...with minimal exertion.....alone. U need enough rope to reach a convenient tree.
I ride alone and all excellent tips most important ones is have a phone and always tell someone your going riding and what trails your taking eta ect! When I back woods ride off trail I bring a hand saw along also! On my old 440 fanner I strap one on the inside of the hood on exhaust side its saved me on some tight places to cut a limb out of the way were it was almost impossible to turn the sled around! But that I guess depends on what kind of areas you ride. I go in some real tight places once in a while exploring and making trails thru the snow for the deer to escape the predators easier!
@@MyOldSled I ride groomed trails with f3 700 ski doo, but I actually like riding in the back woods better on my old fanner its more fun going on old logging roads and trails exploring where no one goes. I live in north eastern Wisconsin a few miles from Michigan border!
You’re welcome to post a pic of you machine and your area on my Facebook page. You all get to see where I ride, always great to see where you guys ride.
Larry W keep in mind predators will use those same trails to get at the deer. Two way street. Some areas have much smaller herds due to wolves using trails and woods roads as highways now. Also, saws are great. I keep one in my bag, and an ax on my machine.
@@MyOldSled I got a 05 Yamaha RS Venture 1000. It has 614 miles on it, it's basically brand new. It was sitting for 9 years though, in a garage luckily. I got it for only $500! I figured the carbs were going to need a rebuild at the least and a bunch of fuel system stuff because of ethanol gas, but the year they stopped using it was the year before Ethanol gas was available in those locations, so I ended up replacing the battery and putting fresh fuel in and it runs great. It's in immaculate shape, the skis look like they just came out of the package. Plus it had a cover they never even used, OEM for the sled brand new in box. Now we just need some snow so I can go ride it!
Another tip to avoid riding alone, if you own 2 snowmobiles, invite someone who has ridden in the past OR someone new to the sport and may like to try snowmobiling. I have several sleds so I tend to invite family members who do not own a sled but want to go or try. I also have several helmets that the family member can use. I keep my speeds down for the guest and choose loops where we could stop to grab a view, a bite or potty break.
Another Great video Dave! Do you do much OFSC snow tours? it would be nice to see possibly your reviews / experience on the tours you do where you went where you eat / Gas up etc..
Thanks Bruteman. I haven’t yet. I’m planning to do some of that type of content around the Bruce Peninsula. We’ll see what Mother Nature has in store for us.
Hey Dave awesome videos I don't know if you have one out there or not but I was wondering if you would mind doing a video on how to start you're sled using the extra cord you have in your tool kit on the clutch??
This is my first season, I ride alone out from my backyard and so far have done 600 miles, half done after dark. My rules are: Gas and oil (2 stroke) topped off, familiarize self with trails during daytime on weekend when there are other riders, limit speed on straights, first aid and essential tools, headlamp and fully charged phone & wallet, make sure you can walk back in at least 3 hours and have the gear to do so. I wear a backpack with everything I would take on an 6 hour hike. Bring a hat, you don't want to walk back with a helmet.
Hey Dave, really great informative videos. I am new to the sport as well buying my sled toward the end of last season. Recently while replacing my carbides I noticed the skis are worn along the runners with some spots completely worn down. Will this adversely affect handling? The sled only has 250 miles on it although all my riding was done late March last year so it was a little rough. What are some signs that a ski should be replaced? Going out this weekend for the first time this year so I guess I'll see how it goes. Thanks again for all the useful information.
Without seeing them it’s hard to tell, but when you say completely worn down, I would say yes, it could affect handling. It could also create a weak point in the ski.
Thanks. I'll be riding with experienced riders this weekend so I'm sure they will be able to give me an opinion once they take a look. Thanks for taking the time to answer. Great vids.
@@MyOldSled Oh yes. I live in central Idaho. The mountains always have snow. Im new to sledding and have only done it 3 times. I bought a new sled my first one ever and Im 60 yrs old. It is so much fun. I cant believe I went this long in life to do this. I live alone so this subject of riding alone was very appropriate for me. Im going riding with a club next week and they are going on a 100 mile round trip deep into the mtns of Idaho. All your videos are so informative . Thanks for making them.
Hey Just a quick question Being new to sledding this year I was wondering what are your thoughts on ice scrachers and do you use them as you seem to ride trail and sometimes icy areas I am thinking on instaling a set on my A arm as I'm not that crazy about inhaling a set of cables in my track Maybe a video on the subject might be cool :)
@@MyOldSled I found a set at royal distributing that clamps on your A arm and I'm thinking on giving those a try I like that idea better as I'm not crazy about drilling hole either in my mint shape sled as is yours :)
@@MyOldSled That's what I like to hear. Last summer I bought an old 1985 Honda 250 to fix up and I can see a "My Old Quad" spinoff would be great for you.
Typical, maybe 20 or 30miles...depends. As far as season...the first couple of years I lived up here, I was riding every day, the last couple of winters we’re hardly had any snow... I’m really hoping I can get out more soon.
I don’t ride on rivers or lakes because i don’t have to. If you arent on ice, you cant go through. If i had to, i would stop and look for dark spots, preferably from a high elevation, running water is more likely to cause weak spots than a lake. I would have a set of ice picks, and keep them outside my jacket where i could reach them. I would look ahead and determine where i will be exiting, so i dont need to stop. I would maintain a steady speed, not stopping or accelerating suddenly, and i would watch for cracks and pressure ridges that can catch the ski.
Hey TT. I was kidding around, but seriously, Carp makes a good point about practice. If you’re riding around your house, it’s a good way to get a feel for the machine. Get a feel for how it brakes, how much distance it takes to stop, try getting it in some deeper snow and see how it feels vs what it’s like on ice or hard pack. For some people, even around the house could be in the bush depending i where you live. Where I am, I can go a mile from home and still be a long way from help. Read and watch what you can find on the right way to do things. When you get more comfortable, you can try more advanced techniques.
@@MyOldSledlol I'm sure, the topic was kinda fresh in my mind from groomer meeting. I always take my gear but a newer club member got stuck n walked a mile to get signal in his steel toes lol. Beautiful day for riding here! Got a nice 100 miles in
Been riding for 25 years in the Sierra nevada's 40,000 plus miles , sheriff Dept snowmobile search and rescue member and also groom and maintain 100 miles of trails with a Pisten Bully PB400 so winter is my thing !!! Oh and president of the local snowmobile club almost forgot that 1st year doing that lol!!
It’s an honour that you enjoy the vids... well I’m always humbled when someone subsribes / watches, but that’s a lot of experience. Obviously there are some areas that it’s more dangerous than others to ride alone....
Hi Michael. I did actually start the video by saying you should always have someone with you when you ride, and have mentioned that in some of my other videos. It isn't really a matter of smart, sometimes it's just a matter of necessity. Some people work out in winter conditions alone, they may not be near a club or know people who ride, other people just like to be out alone. It's exactly because I am aware of the many things that can happen that I think it's important to take the time to make sure you plan for anything on occasions you do find that you're out there solo. Many adventure sports like hiking, sailing, climbing are all much safer with a buddy system, and if you choose to go solo, its important to plan carefully. Thanks for taking the time to comment.
@@MyOldSled Hi Dave, I hear what you're saying. I think we want the same thing. We just want people to be smart and be safe. I'm sure you're aware people new to snowmobiling are not aware of all the dangers. You making them aware of those dangers, probably has saved some lives. So keep up the good work you're doing.
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I teach snowmobile safety courses, and we always teach riding with someone. That said, I usually ride alone as my schedule and areas are hard to find companions for. For gas, rule of thirds is great. One third to reach destination, one third to return and one third reserve. Trip planning is HUGE! Specially up here. Time is precious in arctic conditions. File it with a responsible person, let them know when you return, and agree on a set time to call the authorities if you don’t return or check in. Bring shelter, dry warm clothing, a way to make water and some food. You’ll need energy to keep warm if you need to build shelter or even just to keep the furnace burning in your body. Signalling devices are important, too. Gotta be extra safe and careful going solo.
Love your videos Dave. At the top of my list are a shovel, various ropes, axe (that is sharp) to get you unstuck, right side up if you tip over, and to make a shelter. If you have to walk a long distance to town or cabin, an extra base layer incase you need to rest or make camp (if you sweat, you die), snow shoes, headlamp/head torch with extra batteries because it can be so dark you can't see your hands. A tarp is a good thing to have if you make camp and you can turn it into a bag with your basic survival stuff that you pull behind you or make into a backpack (using your trusty rope). I prefer wind proof torch lighter over all those survival type fire starters which are harder to use along with a couple of fire starter pucks - if you are hyperthermic and your hands are too cold to function, you want to establish a fire as easily and quickly as possible. Keep your lighter in an inside pocket. Always stick to the established trail and if given an option, pick the trail along the tree line and not in the middle of the lake where it is colder. Stay hydrated, the colder you get, the more you will pee - I store a plastic flask inside my coat and a thermos of tea in the cargo box - the Inuit stop regularly. I pre-cut granola bars (peanut butter ones for the fat) into bite size pieces and place it in a baggy / left pocket so that I can pop one at a time and thaw it out in my mouth for an easy snack while driving or have unhand as survival food. If your snowmobile tips to a side and you can't quite upright it by yourself, cut down a tree and wedge it in front and behind each spindle. Secure the tree with your various ropes to each arm/spindle, climb on top of the overturned snowmobile and up onto the tree and start to rock it until it right-sides up (this can take a few minutes). My hands are prone to being cold, so I always keep an extra pair of gloves shoved into my bib that are toasty warm because cold hands won't warm up cold gloves. Hot packs are amazing - I sewed pockets into my clothing where I'm prone to getting cold (kidney area and hips) and I store them there for when I leave the tree line for the arctic to get back to town - on the really cold and windy days, it's like riding in a hot tub. I keep about 3 day's supply of hot packs in my cargo box because people have gotten stuck in 3-day blizzards and froze to death out on the barren lands. If you are pulling a bogan, place a piece of plywood on the floor of your bogan. On the underside, secure wooden crosspieces to the plywood. If you get stuck in slush, you can use the plywood as a ramp to get out of the slush back onto the hard packed ice. I'm a 130 pound female, long-line trapper driving a 900 Skandic.I don't always have someone with me and I have lived out there for 3 months at a time and have also stayed in tents before my husband and I established cabins. There is no such thing as misadventure - only poor planning.
Hey thanks very much Monica. Glad you enjoyed them and thanks for sharing your experience.
Playing with yourself 😂 lol you made my day 🤣
it made me sub and laugh
+1
Responding to a subscriber comment about tips for riding alone. You should always ride with someone, but sometimes you just have to head out alone. In this video, I share my ten tips for sledding solo.
I find that when riding alone i tend to be more self conscious and dont put my self into situations where i could get hurt
For sure. Being more aware in general, taking a few minutes to think things through up front can save a ton of trouble down the road. Thanks for watching and commenting!
It’s because you know it’ll be a racket and a half if you get stuck or hurt
Sometimes you can’t turn around and have to go further though… especially when there is a crevasse and thick forest. Reverse does more harm than good so you have to go forward.
Great advice Dave, when I am going sledding alone I try to keep my trips a little shorter and save longer trips or trips to new areas when I can get others to ride with me.
One thing I would definitely add is the importance of a metal foldable shovel- I like the army surplus shovel with a serrated edge one and pointed tip, also a strap if your pulled out by a random snowmobile, and some water.
Great tips Dave. This is my first year riding. My wife and I ride on one sled and always alone simply because none of our cottage neighbours ride. We stay close to home base and never leave the main trail. Having said that I still get a little anxious when we ride for fear of a breakdown. I hope I overcome that feeling before long. So far we’re really enjoying it and your videos have certainly educated me.
HI Muskoka. If you're like me, you'll probably always worry a little. Best you can do is keep the sled in as good shape as you can, plan for break downs, then just go for it. Sure, you may break down, but honestly, unless you beat the crap out of them, these machines run pretty solid. They make them for people who beat the crap out of them. Go for it.
Good video. I have a large extended family and we all used to go together when I was a kid. Uncles and cousins all faded out of the sport leaving just my favorite cousin and I for a couple decades. Now that some of them are older with their own kids they are coming back. (Nothing makes me happier of course.) So my long winded point is that they are basically newbies. There is only so much I can remember to tell them. BUT your channel gives me an additional place to point them to for information. What did we ever do before RUclips? 😉
Hi Plymco. Thanks. RUclips is a great learning tool.
This video is perfect timing for me. I don't think the guys I ride with are going to be able to ride this year. So I've been contemplating going by myself. The season is too short to sit back and wait for someone to ride with. Very good tips. Thank you.
Thanks Jeff. Glad you found it helpful.
Hello Dave, another great subject matter, really enjoy the overall content and different subject's you cover on your channel. Even though many of us think about thing's to have with us when riding alone, i think we need to keep a list hanging by the door on our way out, it doesn't take much to forget something when your main focus is getting out for a ride. Again another great video.
Thanks IOM. Glad you enjoyed it. Just editing my new one.
Whatever I need to survive overnight . 3 ways to start a fire including fat wood. Extra clothes. Tarp paracord emergency blanket flashlight bottle water. Thermos full of hot tea.
Basic tools baling wire. Plugs fuel line. Axe or saw. Tow rope. Plus all stuff you said. I go overboard but I ride alone 90 percent of time and during middle of week trails are pretty empty. Basic first aid kit too. Even just for the aspirin and deep cut in fingers when get stuck. .
mikeopt opt better to be prepared than to be sorry.
Good choices Mike.
Great video it also pays to check in when you reach your destination a simple text, I also ride alone at times.
Thanks for watching and commenting John.
Solid tips! Very excited that you're still posting, love your content!
Thanks Nighthawwk, that’s awesome that you like it.
I'm a new snowmobiler. My family doesn't like to snowmobile and I don't have any friends, (I even have 3 older sleds) so I went riding on the mountain (~9,000 - 10,000') by myself for the first time. There is no cell service. There were only 3 other vehicles in the parking lot, but no sign of any riders anywhere. Temps were 15-20 deg F and light to moderate snow. At first I stayed in the trees on an ungroomed path but a well traveled path by other sleds. It was an obvioius trail and easy to follow. That part of the ride was very pleasant but then I found myself out of the trees and in the open. Everything was white, almost like a whiteout, it was snowing harder and the wind was picking up all in a short amount of time and it was extremely difficult to determine the correct path. I eventually stopped because there was no obvious main path. When I looked around to try and figure out where I was I saw running water on each side of me. Somehow I had managed to ride into a mountain stream. Kind of freaked me out and I did my best to not get stuck and get the heck out of there and locate my old tracks. I always thougth I would stay on the trail and if something happened I could walk the mile or two back to the vehicle. The weather in the mountains can change rapidly and if you ride alone you really do have to expect and prepare for the worse. I didn't have anything on me. Not even the tools to change a belt. Made me realize I need to get a Garmin inReach and larger tunnel bag/more storage to put survival items in.
Thanks for sharing. Valuable experience to read.
Great video Dave, thanks for the tips! Now just hoping we get enough snow here to actually get out on the trails.
Thanks Cory. Glad you liked it. I've had a little bit to get out and play a bit. We're getting a lot right now, I've shovelled a couple of times, but we're supposed to warm up and get rain tomorrow. Hoping they're wrong. If they are, I'll be riding for sure.
Recently riding alone, I buried my 01 skidoo in deep stuff I had no business being in alone. Hours passed, It was now getting dark, no cell service, I'm at least 5 miles to the closest house, I was exhausted, couldn't move the sled another inch and the belt was just about done.
As I was about to loose the last of my hope, I spotted the most beautiful (4" round by a perfect 10 ft length) hardwood branch that was leaning against a tree right next to where I was stuck. A borrowed, large stone from a nearby wall and the hardwood branch made the perfect fulcrum.
I was able to lift the back of the sled enough and hold the branch with one armed while I threw enough branches under it to get out of there. I was forced to repeat this several times over the next 500 ft to get back on the main trail. I learned a lesson that night.
Be safe everyone!
I just learned of the nifty lift from the my old sled guy. I should buy one so I can stop riding with that 4x10 ft. branch.
Hi Bob, Thanks for watching and commenting. Glad you finally got unstuck. Its surprising how much of a challenge that can be
I def would say avoid riding at night by yourself unless you're just going for a quick boot in your backyard or close to home. There's less riders at night. Tough to look over your sled even with a good flashlight ( which is highly recommended if u do go out at night). Also it can get even colder at night. Might not be too much of a difference but that sun can warm u up a bit. And def have matches, lighter and a bit of paper in case u need to start a fire.
Hello brother from Newfoundland Canada..I take my best buddy with me ,my 10yrl. We've had some close calls but I always make sure we're not far walking distance from a vehicle!!
Great video I would say get mechanically inclines with how your sled works so if something does go wrong and it’s a trail side fix you know how to do it!
Hi Daniel. Great idea. Definitely builds confidence when you get more comfortable with your machine, especially if you’re riding an older sled.
With sleds with batteries you can use the same connect as battery tender as usb plug
Dave, If you haven't already, maybe an episode on power supplies. My wife just bought me one that can charge your phone up to 10x on a single charge. Also, has three solar panels attatched for charging the power supply on the go if need be. Great videos!
Good idea. Thanks
Very good tips on riding alone, and I had a chuckle from your quick humor!
Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it.
Good video. I too ride alone on occasion. My wife bought me a SPOT. Works great, not cheap but well worth it since cell coverage on my trails is 50% at best.
Personal locators are a really good idea for people who ride alone. Fast Find Ranger is a bit more up front, but no monthly fee.
Super, simple but powerful.
this year in yukon we already have first "victim", wasn't even far from town and not extremely cold.
?
When I go sledding, it's almost always with my brother or friend. I've taken the sled out a few times by myself but never that far. I always top on gas and oil before I go even if I know I'm probably not going far but for some weird reason my brother doesn't. He always takes risks thinking he has enough gas to get him to where he's going and back and it sometimes bites him in the ass. He always has gas cans at home to use but doesn't always fill up! Just a couple weeks ago we went out to the nearest town and I had filled up at home, but he was thinking he would just fill up at the gas station. Turns out they were closed and he was running on fumes by the time we got back.
Yeah, even if you don’t get into trouble, who wants to waste their whole ride worrying about it?
@@MyOldSled Absolutely.
Throwing a 12v charger on your sled is easy, and eliminates the phone battery problem. Personal locator for sure though as it eliminates the worry about cell coverage.
I have a video on installing a 12v outlet. Don’t forget, If you have a sled without a battery, like my 670, you only have power if the sled is running. Thanks for watching!
@@MyOldSled Ahh true I didn't think of that. If the sled breaks down you would be without power. My '05 Rev doesn't have a battery either.
Mine has e-start...that was one of my must-haves when I bought my newer sled. My 670 doesn’t. Which model do you have?
@@MyOldSled MXZ 600 HO Trail - but I replaced the shocks with HPGs
Nice sled.
Love your content. It's very inline with my skill level and how I ride.
Thanks Roddy
Great video, Dave. Id love to see a video where you go over some of the best sledding destinations and snow tours here in ontario. I’ve read of a few such as the R.A.P tour, but i’d love to see a video looking at all of the best ones!
Hi Nic. Thanks. Glad you enjoyed it. I always take suggestions like this down, and I do them when I can. If winters continue the way they are, I will need to get a trailer. Usually I ride on the Bruce, and would like to do something on some of the sites and sledding destinations and resources around here. Thanks for the suggestion.
I enjoy riding alone. You can go at your own pace, and it's very contemplative.
Hey TWLML420. Thats a great point.
this guy deserves more subs
Hi Brenda, Thanks, and thanks for watching.
Hey Dave!
Love your videos, don't have a sled yet, bought my kids a Yamaha 120 srx 2 years ago to gauge their interest (4 and 6 then) and they are really growing into loving the sport, i think I'm picking a sled up next season, and have loved watching you videos to learn a bit more about the sport. keep em Coming!
-Jacob
Thank you Jacob. Glad you enjoy them.
i do most of my riding alone too, great tips,
Thanks Reid.
I can’t recommend a Garmin inReach highly enough. For any outdoor activity.
I was in marquette over the summer and thought of you because I believe you live just over the border
Hi. Marquette is on Lake Superior, I am right between Huron and Georgian Bay.
1:00 LOL whyyyyy??!
Good tips, I almost always ride alone as well. How do like the REV vs your 670? They seem like decent sleds, but the old ones are definitely easier to work on....
Worlds apart. It’s a far better machine. Lighter, easier to ride. Throttle response is unbelievably better. Estart! No primer...everything about it is better
Great tips! A video on the various locators, and service contracts might be helpful. IE spot, GPS w emergency services, sat phone etc!
Thanks for the suggestion Jeff.
Do they still sell satellite phones and where is a good place to buy one anybody know??
Self rescue kit. Over a 100' of rope. Inexpensive ratchet cable winching device. Saw adequate to cut a 3" tree.shovel, small snoshoes. Then you can pull your machine off a downhill tree..or turn it upright....etc...with minimal exertion.....alone. U need enough rope to reach a convenient tree.
I ride alone and all excellent tips most important ones is have a phone and always tell someone your going riding and what trails your taking eta ect! When I back woods ride off trail I bring a hand saw along also! On my old 440 fanner I strap one on the inside of the hood on exhaust side its saved me on some tight places to cut a limb out of the way were it was almost impossible to turn the sled around! But that I guess depends on what kind of areas you ride. I go in some real tight places once in a while exploring and making trails thru the snow for the deer to escape the predators easier!
Hi Larry, thanks for the comment. Always fun to hear what kind of riding other people are doing.
@@MyOldSled I ride groomed trails with f3 700 ski doo, but I actually like riding in the back woods better on my old fanner its more fun going on old logging roads and trails exploring where no one goes. I live in north eastern Wisconsin a few miles from Michigan border!
You’re welcome to post a pic of you machine and your area on my Facebook page. You all get to see where I ride, always great to see where you guys ride.
Larry W keep in mind predators will use those same trails to get at the deer. Two way street. Some areas have much smaller herds due to wolves using trails and woods roads as highways now. Also, saws are great. I keep one in my bag, and an ax on my machine.
Nice video short and sweet just picked up my first sled for this season
Hey Sam. Sorry for the delay..Congratulations! What did you buy?
@@MyOldSled I got a 05 Yamaha RS Venture 1000. It has 614 miles on it, it's basically brand new. It was sitting for 9 years though, in a garage luckily. I got it for only $500! I figured the carbs were going to need a rebuild at the least and a bunch of fuel system stuff because of ethanol gas, but the year they stopped using it was the year before Ethanol gas was available in those locations, so I ended up replacing the battery and putting fresh fuel in and it runs great. It's in immaculate shape, the skis look like they just came out of the package. Plus it had a cover they never even used, OEM for the sled brand new in box. Now we just need some snow so I can go ride it!
Another tip to avoid riding alone, if you own 2 snowmobiles, invite someone who has ridden in the past OR someone new to the sport and may like to try snowmobiling. I have several sleds so I tend to invite family members who do not own a sled but want to go or try. I also have several helmets that the family member can use. I keep my speeds down for the guest and choose loops where we could stop to grab a view, a bite or potty break.
Definitely a good tip. Everyone should buy several sleds!
Hi Dave , great job and thanks!
I'm new to your channel always watch ya but just subscribed I have the exact sled as you it is my baby I absolutely love it thanks for videos!
Hi Aaron. Welcome to the channel and thanks for watching.
Another Great video Dave! Do you do much OFSC snow tours? it would be nice to see possibly your reviews / experience on the tours you do where you went where you eat / Gas up etc..
Thanks Bruteman. I haven’t yet. I’m planning to do some of that type of content around the Bruce Peninsula. We’ll see what Mother Nature has in store for us.
Hey Dave awesome videos I don't know if you have one out there or not but I was wondering if you would mind doing a video on how to start you're sled using the extra cord you have in your tool kit on the clutch??
Hi moose. Yep, I did one a long time ago. ruclips.net/video/HR79ELZ3NWw/видео.html
@@MyOldSled great thanks so much Dave
New to the channel excellent tips passed along thank you
Glad you found them helpful. Thank you for watching.
Great thorough advice for riding alone1
Thanks Michael. Glad you enjoyed it.
This is my first season, I ride alone out from my backyard and so far have done 600 miles, half done after dark. My rules are: Gas and oil (2 stroke) topped off, familiarize self with trails during daytime on weekend when there are other riders, limit speed on straights, first aid and essential tools, headlamp and fully charged phone & wallet, make sure you can walk back in at least 3 hours and have the gear to do so. I wear a backpack with everything I would take on an 6 hour hike. Bring a hat, you don't want to walk back with a helmet.
Hey welcome to the sport. Good rules.
Must be flat terrain with little snow and few trees
Nice I like your new sled
Thanks Damon. I think I’m going to as well.
Hey Dave, really great informative videos. I am new to the sport as well buying my sled toward the end of last season. Recently while replacing my carbides I noticed the skis are worn along the runners with some spots completely worn down. Will this adversely affect handling? The sled only has 250 miles on it although all my riding was done late March last year so it was a little rough. What are some signs that a ski should be replaced? Going out this weekend for the first time this year so I guess I'll see how it goes. Thanks again for all the useful information.
Without seeing them it’s hard to tell, but when you say completely worn down, I would say yes, it could affect handling. It could also create a weak point in the ski.
Thanks. I'll be riding with experienced riders this weekend so I'm sure they will be able to give me an opinion once they take a look. Thanks for taking the time to answer. Great vids.
Maybe bring a come-along to help pull out your stuck sled
Good idea..
Thanks. .You always have some good information.
Thanks for watching Steve. Any snow where you are?
@@MyOldSled Oh yes. I live in central Idaho. The mountains always have snow. Im new to sledding and have only done it 3 times. I bought a new sled my first one ever and Im 60 yrs old. It is so much fun. I cant believe I went this long in life to do this. I live alone so this subject of riding alone was very appropriate for me. Im going riding with a club next week and they are going on a 100 mile round trip deep into the mtns of Idaho. All your videos are so informative . Thanks for making them.
Nice. Good for you! I was in my late 40s. Glad you like the videos. Tell your riding buddies about the channel.
so is that the area u live? up by pike bay?
Hey
Just a quick question
Being new to sledding this year I was wondering what are your thoughts on ice scrachers and do you use them as you seem to ride trail and sometimes icy areas
I am thinking on instaling a set on my A arm as I'm not that crazy about inhaling a set of cables in my track
Maybe a video on the subject might be cool :)
I am landing on installing a set as I am road running so much. I don’t want to drill holes in my sled if I can avoid it, but I probably can’t...
@@MyOldSled I found a set at royal distributing that clamps on your A arm and I'm thinking on giving those a try I like that idea better as I'm not crazy about drilling hole either in my mint shape sled as is yours :)
Thanks for this video! I can't belive you only have 4.8k You deserve 100k+
Gotta start somewhere.
Tell your friends about the channel! :)
@@MyOldSled It would help if you did some off season stuff. I'm sure you can come up with a bunch of ideas.
I’m planning to TGB. I have a couple of projects I want to do on the 670, and I may do some atv stuff...
@@MyOldSled That's what I like to hear. Last summer I bought an old 1985 Honda 250 to fix up and I can see a "My Old Quad" spinoff would be great for you.
Great advice.
Glad you liked it SG.
How many miles would your typical ride be? What would you put on in a season? Thx
Typical, maybe 20 or 30miles...depends. As far as season...the first couple of years I lived up here, I was riding every day, the last couple of winters we’re hardly had any snow... I’m really hoping I can get out more soon.
I often am riding alone and I am not on true groomed trails (rural Alaska) what do you do with rivers, ice, spontaneous open water?
I don’t ride on rivers or lakes because i don’t have to. If you arent on ice, you cant go through. If i had to, i would stop and look for dark spots, preferably from a high elevation, running water is more likely to cause weak spots than a lake. I would have a set of ice picks, and keep them outside my jacket where i could reach them. I would look ahead and determine where i will be exiting, so i dont need to stop. I would maintain a steady speed, not stopping or accelerating suddenly, and i would watch for cracks and pressure ridges that can catch the ski.
Btw, lucky, id love to see Alaska.
Great tips, Thanks.
You’re welcome Karen. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Доброе утро 🙋 лайк от души 👍🍀
Above all else,be mechanically inclined and know your machine well so you can make a trail side repair and get back home(you and the sled).
Good tip for sure.
Only thing you forgot was to pack extra beer and a snickers
Great vid man. Thx
Thanks Chimney! More on the way. One uploading, one shot. Thanks for watching
If you don’t want your phone to die, put one of theirs hand warmers that you put in your gloves in the same pocked as your phone
Playing with yourself priceless I needed a laugh.
By myself...
There is no substitute for proper maintenance and inspections
Definitely an important part of the sport.
Can you do a video on riding at night
Yep. Thanks for watching and for the suggestion
Good tips.
Thanks for watching. Glad you liked it.
What should I where while snowmobiling?
Hi Nash. Here you go. It’s an older video, sorry but should help.
ruclips.net/video/g61qAfpyg_U/видео.html
154" is a good solo machine..I hardly ever get stuck
I did yesterday...stuck real good. :)
Phazer II Mt Lite is light enough I know I can get unstuck anywhere by myself
I’m a new sub can you make a review on your rev?
Hi manna. Sure. I have an idea for a video that I can fit that into. Just editing another one now. welcome to the channel.
My Old Sled Nice I really appreciate the response,I currently have a 98 Indy 440 and I’m looking into buying a rev mxz next year!
What if I'm riding solo around my house I'm 13 can you give me some tips
Take that thing outside before you break something.
I tell my 11 year old to practice. Practice carving, turning, weight transfer, throttle control, braking, sliding, etc. Watch videos of riding tips.
Hey TT. I was kidding around, but seriously, Carp makes a good point about practice. If you’re riding around your house, it’s a good way to get a feel for the machine. Get a feel for how it brakes, how much distance it takes to stop, try getting it in some deeper snow and see how it feels vs what it’s like on ice or hard pack. For some people, even around the house could be in the bush depending i where you live. Where I am, I can go a mile from home and still be a long way from help. Read and watch what you can find on the right way to do things. When you get more comfortable, you can try more advanced techniques.
@@MyOldSled ok thank you love your vids
@@MyOldSled ok thank you so much
A gun. Tow strap and some energy bars and. Beef jerky. Lol
love that watch! haha
Me too...
1.00 😂😂😂
THAT SAVE HAD ME DEAD XDDDDDD
It sounds like our personalities are similar, I always play with myself too…I mean by myself…😂
Number one tip Dont go out alone!
That was actually my first piece of advice. Unfortunately, it just doesn’t work out that way.
#1 stay on trail.
#2 don't ride alone if possible
Water and food
Big Mac and ice coffee
I ride balls to the wall all the time no supplies but at the same time I’m never to far from civilization
Hi Ryan. The video is more about useful items you can carry. Lots of times I go out for a ride with nothing but my cell phone...
Haha 0:58 😂
My first suggestion, just from the thumbnail, dress warmer than you need to!
Hehe I don’t always put all my gear on to take a pic or shoot a video. I always wear quality gear when I ride.
@@MyOldSledlol I'm sure, the topic was kinda fresh in my mind from groomer meeting. I always take my gear but a newer club member got stuck n walked a mile to get signal in his steel toes lol. Beautiful day for riding here! Got a nice 100 miles in
Playing with myself I laughed so hard
Always a good thing to make some one laugh.
@@MyOldSled I haven't laughed like that in forever
How about DON'T not worth it don't want to die doing something I enjoy , at least not yet !!!!
Like I said, always best to ride with someone, but when it’s not practical, mitigate whatever risk you can. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Good video by the way !!
Thanks Wes. It bothers me when I hear about people dying snowmobiling. Hopefully the message gets across and makes someone think.
Been riding for 25 years in the Sierra nevada's 40,000 plus miles , sheriff Dept snowmobile search and rescue member and also groom and maintain 100 miles of trails with a Pisten Bully PB400 so winter is my thing !!! Oh and president of the local snowmobile club almost forgot that 1st year doing that lol!!
It’s an honour that you enjoy the vids... well I’m always humbled when someone subsribes / watches, but that’s a lot of experience. Obviously there are some areas that it’s more dangerous than others to ride alone....
Anyone who thinks it's smart to ride alone, doesn't know enough about snowmobiling (and all that can happen) to be talking about it to begin with.
Hi Michael. I did actually start the video by saying you should always have someone with you when you ride, and have mentioned that in some of my other videos. It isn't really a matter of smart, sometimes it's just a matter of necessity. Some people work out in winter conditions alone, they may not be near a club or know people who ride, other people just like to be out alone. It's exactly because I am aware of the many things that can happen that I think it's important to take the time to make sure you plan for anything on occasions you do find that you're out there solo. Many adventure sports like hiking, sailing, climbing are all much safer with a buddy system, and if you choose to go solo, its important to plan carefully.
Thanks for taking the time to comment.
@@MyOldSled Hi Dave, I hear what you're saying. I think we want the same thing. We just want people to be smart and be safe. I'm sure you're aware people new to snowmobiling are not aware of all the dangers. You making them aware of those dangers, probably has saved some lives. So keep up the good work you're doing.