If you've been struggling with the handling on your sled lately, installing a post forward kit ski doo enthusiasts recommend might be the single most effective way to change how your machine feels in the snow. It's one of those modifications that doesn't necessarily add horsepower or make the engine louder, but it completely alters the geometry of your riding position. If you spend any time in the backcountry or even just aggressive trail riding, you know that where you stand on the boards makes all the difference.
For years, the "rider forward" design has been the gold standard for snowmobiles, but factory setups are often a compromise. Manufacturers have to build a sled that fits a five-foot-five beginner and a six-foot-four veteran at the same time. Because of that, the steering post usually ends up in a "middle-of-the-road" spot that doesn't always work for technical riding.
Why the Steering Position Actually Matters
When you're out there carving through deep powder or trying to hold a sidehill, your leverage over the sled is everything. If the handlebars are too far back, you're forced into a defensive posture. Your weight sits further back on the rails, which can cause the nose to lift or the sled to "wash out" when you're trying to keep a line.
By using a post forward kit ski doo riders can shift the entire steering column forward by a couple of inches. It doesn't sound like much on paper, but in the real world, it's a massive shift. It allows you to stand further forward on the running boards while keeping your arms at a natural, comfortable reach. This puts more of your body weight over the "sweet spot" of the chassis, making the sled much more responsive to your input.
The Difference Between Models
Depending on what you're riding, the impact of this kit varies. If you're on an older XM platform, a post forward kit is almost a necessity for mountain riding. Those sleds had a more "laid back" steering feel compared to the newer generations. Moving that post forward on an XM makes it feel like a completely different machine—more modern, more flickable, and way less fatiguing on your shoulders.
Now, if you've moved up to the Gen4 or Gen5 platforms, Ski-Doo has already done a great job moving the rider forward. But even then, some people find they still want more. If you have long legs or just a very aggressive riding style, you might still feel like you're "behind" the steering too much. That's where the aftermarket kits come in to bridge the gap.
What's Actually in the Kit?
Usually, when you buy a post forward kit ski doo setup, you're looking at a few specific brackets and blocks. You aren't replacing the whole steering column (usually), but rather changing where it connects to the frame. Most kits come with a new upper mounting block and sometimes a bracket for the lower steering post.
- Upper Steering Blocks: These move the top of the post toward the front of the sled.
- Support Brackets: To ensure everything stays rigid under the extra leverage.
- Spacers and Hardware: Since you're moving things, you'll need specific bolts to make it all fit tight.
Some kits go even further and include a new steering post altogether, but those are generally more expensive and a bit more involved to install. For most of us, the bracket-style kits do the trick perfectly without breaking the bank.
Is the Installation a Headache?
I won't lie to you—it's not a five-minute job, but it's definitely something you can do in your garage on a Saturday afternoon. The biggest hurdle is usually getting to the parts. You'll have to pull off the hood, the airbox, and maybe even the gas tank depending on the specific model and kit you choose.
The trickiest part for most people is dealing with the cables. When you move the post forward, you're effectively stretching the throttle cable, brake line, and wiring harness. Most post forward kit ski doo designs account for this and move the post in a way that doesn't require longer cables, but you'll likely have to reroute them. You want to make sure that when you turn the skis from lock to lock, nothing is binding or pulling tight. There's nothing scarier than your throttle sticking because a cable got pinched after a mod.
The Performance Gains in the Real World
Once you get it out on the snow, the first thing you'll notice is how much easier it is to initiate a sidehill. Because you're standing further forward, you aren't fighting the sled's natural tendency to level out as much. You can lean into the hill, and the sled responds to your hips and feet rather than you having to "muscle" the bars.
It also helps a ton with downhill turns. If you've ever felt like the sled wanted to go straight when you were pointed downhill in the deep stuff, it's usually because your weight is too far back. Pushing that steering post forward keeps you over the front of the sled, giving the skis (or the spindle area) more authority in the snow.
It's honestly one of those mods where you'll wonder why you didn't do it sooner. You'll find yourself less tired at the end of the day because you're working with the sled's physics instead of against them.
Are There Any Downsides?
No mod is perfect, right? If you're a shorter rider, moving the post forward might actually make the sled feel too big. If you have to reach too far, you lose your leverage and end up with sore arms. It's all about finding that balance.
Also, if you do a lot of seated trail riding, a post forward kit ski doo might feel a bit weird at first. It pushes the bars away from the seat, so you might find yourself leaning forward more than you're used to. But let's be real—if you're looking at this kit, you''re probably not the type of person who spends all day sitting on the plush seat anyway.
Choosing the Right Kit
There are a few big names in the industry that make these, like Skinz or Rasmussen's setups. When you're shopping around, look for kits that have solid reviews regarding fitment. You don't want something that requires you to drill a bunch of holes in your frame if you can avoid it. Most of the high-quality kits are "bolt-on" and use existing mounting points, which is a huge plus for resale value later on.
Check if the kit includes a new pivot riser or if it works with your stock one. Sometimes, combining a post forward kit ski doo with a slightly different riser height can really dial in the ergonomics perfectly. It's all about personal preference and how you like to stand on the machine.
Final Thoughts on the Upgrade
At the end of the day, snowmobiling is a very physical sport. Anything you can do to make the machine fit your body better is going to make you a better rider. A post forward kit ski doo is a relatively inexpensive way to modernize the feel of an older sled or fine-tune a brand-new one.
It takes a little bit of wrenching and some patience with cable routing, but the payoff is huge. You'll get better control, more confidence in the technical trees, and a sled that feels like an extension of your body rather than a heavy piece of machinery you're trying to taming. If you're on the fence, just go for it. Your shoulders and your riding buddies (who will have to keep up with you) will definitely notice the difference.