A snowmobile includes a side panel that is mounted to the snowmobile's frame
about
a generally vertically extending side panel axis. In a closed position, the side
panel protects and encloses a lateral side of the snowmobile's engine. In an open
position, the side panel facilitates easy access to the engine. The side panel
includes a lower leg support that includes a knee rest, a lower front leg support,
and an inner leg support. The lower leg support improves the rider's comfort and
ability to actively position himself on the snowmobile. The snowmobile also includes
a rewind starter operatively connected to the engine. The rewind starter is accessible
through a hole formed in the side panel.
