45SLEDHEADSCONTROLLED MOMENTUM
Momentum is important in all aspects of
riding. More specific to technical riding is con-
trolled momentum. Too much and we’re risking
a crash or not being able to maneuver around
an obstacle. Not enough and we’re simply not
going to make it and probably end up stuck.
Controlled momentum is finding that balance.
It’s like combining aggression and precision. It is
also a skill being able to understand when you
don’t have enough momentum and need to turn
out or implement Plan B. An important element
riders often forget about that is very helpful in
regards to controlled momentum is the brake.
If you come into a situation a little too fast,
you can always tap the brake to achieve more
will constantly be changing a little bit so you
have to be active and seek it out with small
movements. This is relative for riding neutral
(right foot on right running board and left foot
on left running board) as well as wrong foot
forward (left foot on right running board with
right foot hanging off machine or right foot on
left running board with left foot hanging off
machine). Stepping a bit farther back in this
position will put more weight on the rear track
shock, allowing it to compress and hold the
snowmobile on edge easier.
Taking this a step farther (literally) is what
you are doing with your “off” foot when riding
wrong foot forward. This “off” foot can be very
helpful. When timed with a quick application
of throttle, pushing off the snow will help pro-
pel your sled out of a hole. If you watch some-
one sidehill through the trees, you will notice
them planting that “off” foot and using it quite
frequently. There is a little bit of planning and
awareness involved.
For example, don’t step too close to a tree.
If you do, you will end up in a treewell. To pre-
vent this, recognize where the soft zone around
the tree is and plan to take a step just before
that and land just beyond it for your next step.
Another advantage to your “off” foot is con-
trolling how far on edge your snowmobile is.
A lack of momentum got this rider stuck.
The result of standing too far forward and los-
ing your edge on the mountain.
James Gallegos helping a client with his body
position.