5 Great Beginner Snowmobiles For 2024-2025
Posted by Christopher Weiland on
Updated: 3/15/2024
Getting into snowmobiling may be intimidating, but buying a new one can be both affordable and give you a warranty to keep you on the snow. The manufactures have done a great job building entry-level snowmobiles and this year feature technology that was only available on top of the line machines years ago.
The Blast has been renamed for the 24/25 season! Arctic Cat entered the mid-size market a few years ago as the Blast series, and it's a hit. It features a 397cc engine and 121" track. It's great for people with a smaller build as it is a more nimble sled to handle and will not be overwhelmed by power. This sled is a limited release as it's only available during Arctic Cat preseason order windows.
The Indy Evo is also great for people with a smaller build. It features a 550 fan as low maintenance, reliable engine. It sits on Polaris's pro-ride chassis with a lower height for a more comfortable cornering and effortless ride. It's by far the most reasonable sled of the bunch.
The Indy Evo is not being produced for 2025. We do not know if it's been discontinued or production haltered for a year due to heavy inventory on dealer floors.
The Indy Sport is a full-size model and great for any adult's first snowmobile. The 550 fan is less maintenance and still plenty of power to keep the fun factor high. This model also sits on a Polaris Pro-Ride chassis, which is well regarded for its maneuverability.
The MXZ Sport was recently rejuvenated and moved up to the G4 chassis in 2021. It's the same one all of the high dollar MXZs were on up until 2023! The MXZ sport features a 600 EFI motor that's easy to start, making for easier starting and less maintenance. This is a tremendous first full-size snowmobile for anyone. It is the highest-priced entry-level sled and packs much more advanced technology and is an excellent bang for the buck!
5. Yamaha SX Venom MSRP $9,499
2025 is the last year Yamaha is selling snowmobiles and will be the last chance to get a new SX Venom. If you aren't a die hard Yamaha loyalist, there is nothing to fear as the SX Venom is identical to the ZR 400. So while 2025 marks the end of this model with Yamaha's exit, it will still be available as an Arctic Cat Snwombile in years to come. It features the same 397cc motor, 121" track and chassis but equipped with Yamaha plastic. A great choice if want one last chance at a Yamaha mid-size snowmobile.
6. Ski-Doo MXZ Neo MSRP $6,849
Ski-Doo made a splash entering the mid size market in 2023 to compete with Arctic Cat’s Blast, Polaris’ Evo and Yamaha’s SX Venom. This model is based on the Gen 4 chassis and is equipped with a detuned 600 efi motor. The Neo has 40hp and the Neo+ has 55hp. These models sit lower to the ground, are lightweight so younger, smaller riders can have a machine they can easily control. These models feature a 120” track and reverse as well.
As we recover from a lean snow winter, these machines will be readily available and should be found at prices below MSRP for the first time since 2019. The used market is also soft and should be able to pick up a lightly used machine for a nice discount! We have a great article on the best ways to find and get the best deal on one of these used snowmobiles here.
You cannot go wrong with any of these entry-level snowmobiles. The Evo, Blast, Neo and SX Venom are smaller and more manageable for teenagers and young adults. The Indy 121 and MXZ Sport are full-sized and are great picks for your first snowmobile as an adult. They are all lightweight and forgiving for novice riders.
One of the best ways to enhance a snowmobile to make the handling predictable and give new riders confidence in all trail conditions is the addition of snowmobile studs. All these beginner models would call for a lower amount of studs making the kits just as affordable as these snowmobiles. To see what stud kit is right for your new snowmobile, check out our guide here.
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