This engine is extremely smooth and quiet. It delivers a quality feel and a throaty exhaust note that's very pleasant to the ears. The powerband is steady, while mid-range torque is massive. Powerful and efficient, the Genesis 120 propels the RS Venture beyond 150 km/h in a surprisingly short amount of time considering the machine's weight. Despite being 100-lb heavier, it feels just as quick as the RS Vector. Throttle response is instantaneous and the engine never hesitates. Considering how smooth, quiet and torquey it is, the Genesis 120 is perfectly suited for a grand touring snowmobile like this one.

The Venture Lite features the smallest 4-stroke engine in the entire industry.

Meanwhile, the Venture Lite features the same 499-cc, twin-cylinder engine as the Phazer, boasting a DOHC, 5 valves per cylinder as well as an impressive compression ratio of 12.4:1. This engine is derived from the YZ250F off-road bike; that's why Yamaha incorporated short-skirt forged pistons and ceramic-coated aluminum cylinders. While it's the smallest 4-stroke engine in the entire industry, output is rated at 80 horsepower at 11,250 rpm. Never has a snowmobile engine revved so high.

Despite its small displacement, the Venture Lite generates just enough mid-range torque to easily move two occupants and their gear. At 85 km/h, the engine revs at around 10,000 rpm and yet, I felt less vibrations than at idle. On the other hand, if you require additional power when riding with a passenger, the powerplant will become noisy and irritating over a long period of time. For sure, at legal trail speeds, it proves very pleasant and responsive when it counts.

Different positions
The RS Venture offers a more traditional riding position thanks to a very low, long and soft seat. There's plenty of room for the rider and passenger. Since coming to market in 2005, the RS Venture had been featuring a fixed backrest with no possible adjustments. It was slightly reclined, which constantly made the passenger slide forward. However, the new model adds a pair of small handles to adjust the height and angle of the backrest. The seat itself is reasonably soft, which helps cushion most trail bumps.

The little Venture Lite got plenty of praise for its riding position similar to an ATV's. Knee fatigue is considerably reduced and the back remains more upright than on a traditional sled. The passenger also sits closer to the rider, which improves synchronized leaning upon attacking corners. The seat is extremely well sculpted and comfortable. Both models also feature dual-intensity hand warmers and a trailer hitch-capable bumper.

Illustration of synchronized leaning.