What position should you aim for while riding a snowmobile for optimal balance and control?

Aiming for a position with bent knees and a straight back while riding a snowmobile is essential for maintaining optimal balance and control. This stance allows the rider to absorb shocks from uneven terrain effectively and gives them better stability during turns. By bending the knees, the rider can shift their weight more easily in response to changing conditions, enhancing maneuverability.

Having a straight back keeps the center of gravity aligned, which is crucial for maintaining balance. When a rider's posture is correct, they can respond quickly to the snowmobile's movements, whether accelerating, decelerating, or navigating through obstacles. This position also helps with proper weight distribution, which is key for controlling the snowmobile's handling and traction.

This is in contrast to the other positions, which may compromise balance or control. For instance, dangling feet can lead to instability, while leaning back with locked arms can limit the rider's ability to maneuver effectively. Moreover, having feet on the ground with weight shifted is unsafe during movement, as it increases the risk of falling and decreases overall control.