Description
A thermostat is, along with air intake, among the most vital upgrades to make to any snowbike.
Freezing ambient temperatures plus snow exposure keep the engine from properly warming up, which can cause your EFI to stay in warm-up mode, overfuelling the engine, which means making it run like crap, burning way too much gas, and accelerating engine wear or even risking damage.
A thermostat will help the bike heat up to and maintain the hot 90C/195F temperatures it was designed for. And the C3 thermostat is the one for you!
•Premium materials and innovative design you'd expect from C3
•Pipe thread ports in all models designed specifically to accept accessories like the C3 Heated Handlebars (recommended - bundle!) and Trailtech TTO Temp Gauge
•Reliable and consistent operation
•Bleed hole plus bypass line (included) ensures slow circulation until thermostat opens - then the cooling system is unobstructed and can make full use of radiators if needed, like on warm spring days
•Unmatched customization, versatility, and fit+finish
•Industry exclusive "del-ring" redundant backup seals
A full "factory-custom" model is available for many popular bikes:
•Docks right to your engine and is barely bigger than the fitting it replaces
•Closest to cylinder, accurate temperature reading
•Easiest and most polished installation possible - no cutting or messing around with hoses
Check the tabs above for more
Please note that the "default image" on this webpage is a housing that's used on 2014-22 YZ450F, which of course may not be what you end up ordering. That is to say, don't be concerned if the thermostat you receive doesn't look like that one.
FAQ
What thermostat should I get for a ______?
At the top there's a brand selector, with every model listed where we have a purpose-designed direct-fit kit. If your bike is listed, you can choose it there and select your options.
If your model is not listed, please choose "my model is not listed" and check the "Generic Guide" tab here for guidance on the other options.
What opening temp should I get?
With a 90C / 195F 'stat, the bike will typically run 80C - 90C (180F - 195F) all day which is totally ideal, just like summer months. It's great for performance and reliability; there's no reason not to. Thus I always recommend 90C / 195F.
We're not big 2-stroke guys, but often those folks prefer a little cooler, like 80C / 175F.
Another situation where you might consider a 80C 'stat is on a highly modded big-bore bike that you know produces tons of extra heat.
Does the thermostat fit a Trail Tech temp gauge?
Yes! Every model was designed around the Trail Tech probe. Highly recommended accessory.
Can I leave it on in the summer?
Honestly, there should be no reason not to. We personally ride our bikes with 90C thermostats for enduro riding year-round, along with dozens of other customers.
That said, everybody's bike and riding situation is different, so to be safe, we do recommend that you restore your cooling system back to factory for dirt riding.
If that's not in the cards, another option is to disassemble the thermostat housing and replace the thermostat element with an o-ring. The proper size o-ring is a #214 (1"ID x 1-1/4"OD 0.139" Cross Section) which is widely available at hardware stores and, in conjunction with our exclusive "del-ring" redundant seal, will give you the trustworthy connection you're looking for. We have some in stock here if you can't find any locally, just reach out!
ONLY ATTEMPT disassembling the thermostat if you are confident in your competency performing detailed mechanical tasks, including working with our tight-tolerance spiral snap-ring. ONLY INSTALL the reassembled thermostat if you are sure that the spiral snap-ring is 100% properly seated.
My 2010-2013 YZ450F has the same engine as a 2014, can I use that kit?
Strictly speaking, no, the thermostat is not compatible. That is because the engine mount is juust in the way. That said, we have had plenty of customers who chose to make it work with some modifications to the engine mount bracket.
We can't "wholeheartedly" recommend it, but you may wish to go this route! If you're not comfortable with that, the Generic Straight with 22mm housing and 17mm return is your best bet.
Can I bundle with CenterFlow heated bars?
Yes! Check here.
I am looking for the Thermostat Product Update
Find it here.
Can I get a spare __ degree thermostat to try?
Yes, find it here.
I am looking for a Thermo Bob
Thermo-bob or Thermobob is a brand name who sells thermostats. Some people call all thermostats "thermobobs". The C3 Thermostat can replace a Thermo Bob
Installation
CATH1594 Install
(KTM 250/300/350 etc)
The housing used in CATH1594 thermostat kits uniquely replaces a certain KTM OEM component, which means the install method is probably different from what you're used to! Please read the procedure below.
Videos
Generic Guide