Riding Uphill; Riding Downhill - Polaris 2000 Universal Snow Owner's Safety And Maintenance Manual

Riding Uphill

Hill climbing may be accomplished by using one of two methods, depending upon
the steepness of the hill.
Sidehilling may be used if there are few obstacles on the hill. The operator should
assume a kneeling position (as in Sidehilling), keeping body weight on the uphill
side at all times. Maintaining a steady, safe speed, approach the hill at an angle,
continuing as far as possible in this direction; then switch to the opposite angle and
riding position.
The direct climb method requires extreme caution. The operator should assume
a standing position with body weight kept low and forward, accelerating before the
start of the climb and then releasing throttle pressure enough to prevent track slip-
page.
In either type of climb, the operator must slow down when reaching the crest of the
hill. Be prepared to react to obstacles, sharp drops, or other people or vehicles
which may be on the other side of the hill.
If you are unable to continue up a hill, turn the machine downhill before it
loses momentum. If this is not possible, spin the track just enough to dig
in so the machine won't roll back down the hill. Stop the engine and set the parking
brake (if equipped). Keeping away from the downhill side of the machine, pull the
rear of the snowmobile around, pointing the machine back downhill. Once the
snowmobile is pointed downhill, mount the machine, restart the engine, release the
parking brake, and descend the hill.

Riding Downhill

When riding downhill, keep speed at a minimum. It is important to apply just
enough throttle to keep the clutch engaged while descending the hill. This will allow
use of the engine's compression to help slow the machine, and keep the snowmo-
bile from rolling freely downhill.
WARNING
Use extreme caution when applying the brake during a descent. Excessive brak-
ing will cause the track to lock, resulting in loss of control.
OPERATION WARNINGS
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