What a dirt bike needs to become a snow bike

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People often ask us what does the bike need to convert it into a snow bike?  Most people are either building their own bike or are looking at buying one that is already built.  They always want to know what are the “must haves” on a snow bike.   I started riding snow bikes in 2008 and I have been renting snow bikes for the last 10 years.  I currently have 13 snow bikes and probably have owned over 40 different bikes in the last 20 years.

Let’s first start with the bike.  Most people choose a 450cc race bike.  It has the best power to weight ratio and has the best transmission for snow biking.  You definitely want a bike with an electric start as trying to kick it over while being off balance can sometimes be very difficult.  Also, being able to start the bike while standing next to it is very helpful.  Trying to climb on the bike when you are standing in 5 feet of snow is not easy.

Here is a short list of “must haves,” and a list of most common added items.

  1. Thermostat helps keep the bike warm and from over fueling.
  2. Spare fuel tank, you do not want to run out of fuel.
  3. Fan on the radiator, you do not want your bike to run hot!
  4. Temperature gauge, you want to know what temperature your bike is always running.
  5. Heavy duty fork springs the bike will ride horribly you do not have at least heavy springs.
  6. Headlight, often you will find yourself coming out at night and without a light is very hard.

Here is a list of what we ride on our bikes.  We found C3 makes the best products for snow bikes.

  1. Hand guards always riding in the trees will save your hands and fingers.
  2. Heated handlebars for $200 I don’t know anyone that would not pay $200 when your hands are frozen.
  3. Engine jackets just help control the temperature of the bike.
  4. Radiator guards are always smashing through the trees.
  5. Comfortable seat you are sitting down most of the day unlike a dirt bike.
  6. Rack to carry gear, we carry jump pack shovels saws, straps, tools, and a track pack at minimum.
  7. Over size foot pegs normal peg become clogged with ice

Here is a short list of other parts most added.

  1. Aftermarket ecu helps keep bike from over fueling and you can changes tunes in bike
  2. Valving in front shocks, does make it ride even better.
  3. Voyager display
  4. Exhaust shields.
  5. Handlebar muffs
  6. Aftermarket exhaust