Braking Characteristics of the Recreational Snowmobile

The braking characteristics of three typical recreational snowmobiles have been studied. Of particular interest was the sensitivity of the machines to different applied braking loads. The data were collected using a variable-load braking apparatus and stop-action high-speed photography. The results have been described with an empirical equation. It was determined further that the most effective braking was achieved when the track was locked and this particular behavior has also been characterized by an empirical expression.