Axys to Sidewinder. Whos done it?

old700

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Who on here is on a Sidewinder that came off of a 2 stroke recently? I've been debating going with a Yamaha for years, as the continuous engine rebuilds I have been dealing with has finally got to me. I am currently on a 16 163 Axys that in 3600km just went in for its second motor earlier this week. I've rode some Nytros and Vipers, N/A and boosted around central AB (All 144" tracks) but never in the mountains. I am m not a big hill or chute guy, but will poke at the big stuff here and there. Mainly more technical, tighter tree, drainage's, and love the natural wind lips the mountains bless us with. That is the kicker, the jumps and drops is what has always kept me off the 4 strokes. Is the Sidewinder the sled that gets me out of the 2 stroke market? Thanks for any insight, going to go through a leg over a machine on the showroom floor this weekend and look at one.
 

bjd68

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I am on a doo 850 and went on the power tour by yamaha and have to say I loved the sidewinder ! yes it is heavier and in the technical stuff u will notice the difference but if u can handle a bit more weight I think its like anything u will just get use to it !

Also the power is addicting! One other thing I noticed is it was hard to keep the front end down but that most likely could be just some needed suspension adjustments !
 

Trukker

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I went from a 14 XM to a 18 Sidewinder . Took me a bit to get use to the power of the 4 stroker and weight is well disguised . They have the geometry figured out so it is quite nimble in the trees .

Just need to do a few minor mods and I'll love it even more
 

Catman10

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Came off a turbo Pro and couldnt be happier, there is more weight but when you drop a few pds off and setup the suspension they are awesome, I no longer wonder about my engine, when its time for my next oil change my buds will be on thier next set of pistons! Trust your gut you will not regret it.
 

Xmrider163

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I came off my 14xm to my 2018 Sidewinder and have been having a blast in fact the most fun I have had on a sled. The power is addicting.

Your most likely going to notice the difference in weight which can be lowered with a few basic mods and setup for your style of riding. But like others have said it’s well balanced.

I’m sure Yamaha will be doing a Demo Tour this year aswell and it’s where I got hooked. I wouldn’t have bought one without this tour plain n simple because of all the 4Stroke weight comments.

Ride one for a day or even 2 in a row if you get the chance and give it a fair shot you might just join the 4Stroke team.

Brock Hoyer, Cody Matechuk, Scott Francis launch these things off tons of drops and jumps. Wouldn’t be scared there.

And your little Pokes here and there will be changing haha once you find out the potential and how this thing climbs. Your tree lines will be getting steeper and deeper? Especially if you have the talent to ride in such an area.
 
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smc

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I’ve owned skidoo for most of my life. I have about 4 hrs of seat time on a sidewinder. It was a blast to ride in deep snow, skis in the air whenever you want. the extra weight isn’t really noticeable until you get stuck. Then your back starts protesting.
 

Andrew.renegade1000

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13xm 154 and a turbo nytro 174 with over 300hp to my 2017 sidewinder , never looked back, I’m not a big guy by any means and I have zero problem riding this sled hard all day. I tree ride a lot and I love it ! Easy to drop a little weight if you want and with just a straight pipe you can pick up 20hp and drop a few easy pounds! Don’t hesitate
 

bjd68

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Just sold my 850 and am in the market for most likely a sidewinder! Just wondering if it’s worth spending the extra coin on getting a 18 over a 17? It was just the drop and rolled chaincase for 18 correct ?
 

Lund

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Just sold my 850 and am in the market for most likely a sidewinder! Just wondering if it’s worth spending the extra coin on getting a 18 over a 17? It was just the drop and rolled chaincase for 18 correct ?

That is the biggest difference, yes.
 

Xmrider163

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Just sold my 850 and am in the market for most likely a sidewinder! Just wondering if it’s worth spending the extra coin on getting a 18 over a 17? It was just the drop and rolled chaincase for 18 correct ?

Drop/rolled chaincase, Intake Vents, Lighter brake rotor and QS3 shocks with Lockout if you get LE model. And storage bags aswell.
 

Kibbels

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I would do 18 or 19... I like the drop & roll pops up better imo. There is a 2018 162 LE Hi Vis @ Sundre Yamaha for $15k!! Excellent price.... but the 19 hands down for colour!!
 
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