Currently, the minimum age to drive a snowmobile in Quebec is set at 16 years old and under certain conditions. It’s safe to say that our beautiful province is quite “restrictive” when compared to neighbouring provinces. Ontario has set the age to drive a snowmobile at 12 and in New Brunswick, 14.
At what age do you think snowmobiling should be allowed?
Conditions and legal framework for 16-17 year olds
There are certain conditions for a person under the age of 18 to drive a snowmobile in Quebec. First of all, like all snowmobilers, they must hold a valid driver’s license. In addition, the rules of learner driver, with a companion, zero tolerance, etc… All these rules also apply to riding on snowmobile trails. As an added bonus, the Off-Highway Vehicle Act stipulates that training must be taken for 16- and 17-year-olds. The latter is a 4-hour online training, necessary for this age group.
When we draw a parallel with the “famous scooters” on the road, we notice a certain absurdity or unfairness. Thus, from the age of 14, teenagers can use the road network. With the many dangers omnipresent without any supervision after a few hours of training. Of course, mopeds with engines of less than 50cc limit the ardour. As well as reduced top speeds.
Snowmobiles, on the other hand, can be very (too) powerful for beginners. So you have to frame it in a logical way with certain points, for example;
- Consider age to determine how much power can be used.
- Daytime driving only and always in the presence of an accompanying adult.
- Limit the maximum speed to 50 km/h (instead of 70 km/h)
Photo source: https://classicsnowmobiles.blogspot.com/2016/01/1976-ski-doo-340-tnt.html
In our “young days”…
I still remember when we had the chance to go to the maple sugar shack on a snowmobile with my grandfather. It was always an exciting moment with a big smile. To hear the roar of the mechanics and that characteristic smell of the 2-stroke engine. Feel the accelerations and a few bumps/jumps as the snow blades pass by the wind. I have precious memories of those first snowmobile “feelings” that have been with me for all these years.
One day, there came a time when my grandfather said to me: “If you can go snowmobiling on your own, you can drive”. An instruction that did not fall on deaf ears. I learned to observe how to do it and finally, to start a 1977 Ski-Doo TNT 340 with “cord crank” and with “primer”. So, around 8 years old, I was allowed to walk around the sugar shack and a little in the surrounding fields. A safe place and close to the family in case of a mechanical glitch or an unfortunate pirouette. This is perhaps the best way to instill a passion for this motorsport.
It was very safe to ride an old snowmobile when I was young. Today’s “old” snowmobiles are much more powerful and faster. These are still snowmobiles from the 1990s and 2000s with high performance. It is therefore necessary to frame or choose a more suitable recent model. In fact, there has been a lot of choice in recent years from different manufacturers.
An interesting offer from manufacturers
Manufacturers now offer several options for new enthusiasts;
Arctic Cat:
Let’s start with Arctic Cat, which offers the ZR 120 and ZR 200 models that are well suited to younger riders. These snowmobiles have docile mechanics, small dimensions and a limited top speed. On the downside, there are no speed dials. They are therefore “illegal” on trails currently with the legislation in force.
BLAST
Then there’s the BLAST family unveiled a few years ago. With dimensions 3/4 of the size of a standard snowmobile, this is well aligned with new snowmobilers. A 397cc single-cylinder 2-stroke engine and a power of 65 horsepower. Just enough for an easy start for a beginner. With good supervision, it is an interesting snowmobile for the first few seasons.
Ski Doo
On the Ski-Doo side, there are several models. First of all, there are the MXZ 120 and 200 manufactured in partnership with other manufacturers. A good way to share production costs with a reduced market niche.
Then, we are treated to the many variations of models with the 600 EFI engine. Producing 40 horsepower (NEO), 55 horsepower (NEO+) and 85 horsepower (Sport). Several options that allow you to evolve with the driver’s experience.
Polaris
Polaris offers 2 models; the INDY EVO and the RMK EVO. With the 550 fan engine, the power of 55 horsepower is adequate. The dimensions are contained which helps to feel at ease for a beginner. As it evolves, it will also be possible to add a more efficient set. When the driver has more experience and according to these skills.
Yamaha
Finally, Yamaha, which shares a lot with Arctic Cat, also has an offer for new snowmobilers. The Snoscoot (equivalent to the ZR200) is aimed at the youngest. Then there’s the equivalent of the BLAST at Arctic Cat. The VENOM/LITE family with 397cc engines completes the offer.
For the sustainability of snowmobiling
We need to ensure the sustainability of snowmobiling, and to do so, we need to bring in new enthusiasts. We have had this discussion several times with snowmobile manufacturers over the past few years. As a result, snowmobile manufacturers are making continuous efforts. They now deliver new models for “young people” or beginners.
It’s safe to say that manufacturers have done their part to ensure that snowmobiling continues. Now, it’s up to the government and, above all, the FCMQ (Fédération des Clubs de Motoneigistes du Québec) to work together to allow the next generation to start earlier.
