Suspension and chassis innovations
Chassis Potential
In Yamaha snowmobiles the engine layout and chassis play specific roles in the machine's "rigid body properties" (strength, rigidity, inertial moment efficiency, etc.), in other words the machine's "stability." In terms of the human body, this role can be likened to that of the "trunk" in maintaining a stable body posture against forces like gravity. On the other hand, the suspension has the role of maintaining good "mobility" by balancing the machine's movements. In terms of the human body, you could call it a role similar to that of the "four limbs" in enabling the bodily movements like running fast and jumping high or far.
In fact, as important components of machine stability and mobility, the chassis and suspensions of Yamaha snowmobiles are loaded with innovative technology. In the process, these components are developed not only for their individual functions but also with an eye on how they function together as parts of the whole.
Yamaha snowmobile suspensions and chassis are designed to control the machine movement to achieve ideal rigid body properties, and then they are given highly precise settings. No matter how well trained the four limbs of an athlete's body may be, they can't perform to potential unless the core of the body is stable. In the same way, the suspension and chassis of a snowmobile have to be built and refined to achieve the right balance that enables high performance.
To meet the needs of users in different environments and different types of use, Yamaha offers a lineup of models designed specifically for trail, mountain or cross-country riding. Just as athletes specialize in different events like long distance, sprints, throwing events and the jumps, and have different physiques and muscle types, Yamaha designs its different models with specifications that best fit their specific uses. For example there are "dual shock" rear suspension systems that have two shock absorbers, one in the center and one at the rear, offering a wide range of coupling adjustment to let riders enjoy riding aggressively over bumpy surfaces. Then there is the Yamaha exclusive "Mono Shock" system designed to absorb smaller shocks effectively for sporty and comfortable trail riding. Working with these two base systems, Yamaha develops the different models of its lineup with shock absorbers, dampers and geometry that is constantly evolving to meet the demands of different riders and terrain, much as a marathon runner trains primarily the slow-twitch muscles and a sprinter the fast-twitch muscles.
