Supercharger vs Turbocharger

Dear Ralph;

I am wondering what the pros/cons are of a turbo vs. a supercharger are for a 2010 Yamaha FX Nytro MTX SE 162’’. We are looking at the dealer installed turbo or supercharger. We usually put a 1000 miles on our sleds each year, and ride in temps from 20 below to 30 above. What would you suggest?

We could spend several pages on this subject to cover it properly, but we will try to cover the high points. Generally speaking, a supercharger is going to be an easier install and is going to give you quicker throttle response and more low end torque. Turbochargers are known for their slower response (lag time between punching the throttle and getting the power) but the latest ones seem to have all but eliminated this. The turbo is a more complicated installation, with some motor disassembly as well. Generally, a turbo can make more power through the powerband, but both of the Yamaha dealer-installed systems are going to give you similar peak power of around 175 HP, about 40-45 more HP than stock, and this takes away the power-robbing effects of less oxygen at elevation. Many riders will tell you the turbo will give you less problems down the road, and most all of them will favor the turbo for being more powerful on the snow, especially at higher elevations. Generally, the supercharger will use more fuel and the turbo will be easier to tune. Turbos do seem to crack the exhaust headers more often. Either way, your sled will feel way lighter, climb with greater ease, and let you power your way out of tricky situations that will make you feel like a better rider.