2005 Yamaha Rs Venture By Rancosto on - Updated Oct 15, 2011
A friend of mine had bought this snowmobile used in 2006. I got to try it during our sledding trip to Colorado. As a fan of Arctic Cat and Polaris, I was a bit prejudiced and inclined to find faults. The first one I had found when helping my buddy to unload this sled: it was HEAVY! It did look nice and impressive though, I had to agree – as good as new, and the overall built was very neat.I got to ride this snowmobile solo and 2 up, and I have to say that it had a lightweight feel on the trail, but it was a bit tipsy, especially when 2 people riding. Suspension adjusts easily for 1 rider or 2. Gas mileage was good, about 18-20 mpg. I liked that the sled was easy to start and had a smooth, quiet run; however, my friend had reported later that he'd experienced problems with both: difficulty starting when it's cold and higher noise level, so I guess these things can change with time. He also had to install an extra cooler to stop engine overheating. I have heard engine overheating mentioned by other Yamaha riders, so it might be something common for this sled. Keeping all this in mind, I don't think I would buy this model.
About The Author:
Yamaha RS Venture, 2005
I don't think I would buy this model either. I would not be comfortable with the tipsy part or hard to start when it is cold? Snowmobiles are suppose to be driven in the snow and cold.
I would be so nervous that the snowmobile would tip over. Thanks for sharing.
At least you were able to try this snowmobile to know that you would not purchase this brand....it sounds like a fun snowmobile to ride though!!
I've never been on a snowmobile, it sure does sound fun though!
My sister in law had a terrible accident on a tipsy snowmobile. They are built for snow and icy weather, so the fact they have cold starting issues is a sign this product design was not well thought out. People rely on these heavily in areas where snow and isolation can create life threatening situations. I'll pass...
Thanks for warning us about this snowmobile. These sound like they have many problems. I can't believe a machine that is made for the snow has a hard time starting in the cold. I hope Yamaha solves this problem.
Thanks for your sharp observation on this vehicle.
A snowmobile difficult starting in the cold? Now THAT'S odd!
I have always wanted to try snomobiling but haven't ever gotten the chance.
Cool! Buy one, and spend your next winter vacation in North Dakota. We may not have giant mountains, but we have over 3000 miles of groomed trails, and about 500 ungroomed, plenty of them through interesting country!