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Dated Material March/April 2014 • Vol 39 No. 6
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© 2014 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. All rights reserved. ®, ™ Trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products or its affiliates. Products are distributed in the United States (US) by BRP U.S. Inc. Offers valid in the U.S. at participating Ski-Doo® dealers on new and unused 2014 Ski-Doo Summit snowmobile (excluding racing models and spring-only units) purchased, delivered and registered between now and March 31, 2014. §3-year Bumper-to-Bumper warranty: Consumers purchasing a Summit model are entitled to receive 3-year BRP limited warranty (Summit Sport 800 P-TEK model is excluded from this offer). Subject to the exclusions, limitations of liabilities and all other terms and conditions of BRP’s standard limited warranty contract, including without limitation the exclusions of damages caused by abuse, abnormal use or neglect. ◊$200 rebate: Summit Sport 800 P-TEK model is excluded from this offer. ‡GREAT FINANCING AVAILABLE: Low financing rates are available on eligible units. Subject to credit approval. Approval and any rates and terms provided are based on credit worthiness. Multiple financing offers available. Minimum Amount Financed $1,500; Maximum Amount Financed $50,000. Other qualifications and restrictions may apply. Financing promotion void where prohibited. BRP is not responsible for any errors, changes or actions related to the financing provided by the financial institutions. See an authorized BRP dealer for details. Promotions are subject to termination or change at any time without notice. See your participating Ski-Doo dealer for all details. Offer may not be assigned, traded, sold or combined with any other offer unless expressly stated herein. Offer void where restricted or otherwise prohibited by law. BRP reserves the right, at any time, to discontinue or change specifications, prices, designs, features, models or equipment without incurring any obligation. Always consult your snowmobile dealer when selecting a snowmobile for your particular needs and carefully read and pay special attention to your Operator’s Guide, Safety Video, Safety Handbook and to the safety labelling on your snowmobile. Always ride responsibly and safely. Always wear appropriate clothing, including a helmet. Always observe applicable local laws and regulations. Don’t drink and drive. 1107870
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Departments
SND Board Messages .................................................... 4-6 Region Reports .................................................................. 13
1600 E Century Avenue, Suite 3 Bismarck, ND 58503-0649 (701) 328-5377 • FAX: (701) 328-5363 www.snowmobilend.org President: Laura Forbes V. President: Sheri Hoffmann Executive Director: Keri Wanner Denise Sanzo: denises@lblprinting.com ADVERTISING DIRECTOR/EDITOR Keri Wanner 1600 E Century Avenue, Suite 3 Bismarck, ND 58503-0649 (701) 328-5377 • FAX: (701) 328-5363 E-mail: info@snowmobilend.org
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Publisher: Editor Graphic Designer: Marketing Specialists/ E-Magazine Designer: Production Engineers: Contributing Writers: Administrative Specialist:
Features
North Dakota Snow Run............................... 7 Club Reports........................................................ 12-13 Product Review.................................................. 10
Cover Photo: Driven, LLC
where to go...
. . . w o n S Think
Brian Gidley Keri Wanner Denise Sanzo Chelsey Thronson Sandy Durisin Clark Scheurman Josh Siferd Keith Moore Keri Wanner Tari Norby
CONTRIBUTORS: We welcome unsolicited materials and letters for possible publication. The Sno-Dak News accepts no responsibility for returns, losses or damage of unsolicited materials. The Sno-Dak News is the official publication of Snowmobile North Dakota. CF41, 9.SNO-DAK NEWS USPS 393-110) is published six times each year in the months of October, November, December, January, February and March at Bismarck, ND 58501. Periodicals postage paid at SUBSCRIPTION: Subscriptions available through membership to Snowmobile North Dakota for $20 per year. Enclose payment and mail to above mailing address. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: SNO-DAK NEWS 1600 E Century Avenue, Suite 3 Bismarck, ND 58503-0649 ADVERTISING RATES Multiple Issue Rates Full Page Spread.....................$1,677.00 Page & 1/3 .............................$1,168.00 Full Page ..............................$861.00 Half Page (H) ...........................$498.00 1/3 Page .............................$369.00 1/4 Page ................ ..............$245.00 1/6 Page Vertical ..................$184.00 Business Card Horizontal ..............$124.00 COPYRIGHT: All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher. Disclaimer: The contents of advertisements which appear in the Sno-Dak NEWS are solely the responsibility of advertisers. Advertiser Index page 15.
Published by Snowmobile North Dakota - An Organization of North Dakota Snowmobile Clubs
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the
r e c i ff o postings Hi everyone, I hope you were able to get some snowmobile riding this winter. In Minot we received some promising snow then it warmed up and then rained. Now if we could get above zero and no wind … it would be a miracle. Enough of the wining, we will be more snow. The Pink Ribbon Ride was a success. Our group got to ride with Cameron with 3C Guiding and Lisa. We had a great time! The excitement of our guide and sweeper getting stuck and then Cameron doing an awesome jump was worth the ride. Lake Metigoshe had enough snow
Hello fellow snowmobilers, Well, here we are again, three trail systems open, temps at or below zero, and not much snow. I have t a l w a y s n ide s e liked winter r P Vice (snow), but the cold (and wind) is starting to wear out its welcome. I just got back from a trip to the Big Horns. I highly recommend it. It was interesting to see the “other” side of riding. Around here, our goal is to put on miles, go places. In the mountains, they ride to find a side of a mountain with no tracks and play all day. Some riders say they don’t consider it a good day if they have to ride more than 20 miles. We say if we don’t get 100 it wasn’t a good day. Polar opposites if you will.
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to ride and it was above zero. If you couldn’t attend you can still donate money to the Pink Ribbon Riders. They are 501(3)c and 84% of the funds raised stay in North Dakota. The funds help men and women that are going through treatment. They will be back next year same time, so mark it on your calendar. GREAT TIMES!!! On February 8th is the State Ride in Walhalla hope to see you there. On February 15th,is Snow Jam in the Fargo area and the International Ride North of the Minot area. I hope you can go to one of the events.
There was a group of guys out there from Wisconsin. They ride the mountains every year. This year their guide, Cameron Chimenti, recommended they take an avalanche class. At first they were a little hesitant. Why would they need such a class? I imagine they were thinking, “that will never happen to us.” That is likely the attitude of most riders from the Midwest who go to the mountains. And every year or two, some of them don’t come home. If you are going to ride the mountains, I hope you realize it is completely different from trail riding in ND. You should have avalanche beacons, that you and your group know how to use, shovels, and probes. Take a class. Mike Duffy with Avalanche 1 did the class out there, and they say he’s the best. I know after the on-snow training, the group from WI was glad they had done it and are going to take the classroom training as soon as they can. You aren’t doing it for yourself, you are doing it for your friends that you ride with and hopefully they are doing the same for you.
Presid As winter ent comes to a close we will be thinking of the summer projects we need to get done before winter again. The SND board will be working over the summer to prepare for the 2014 and 2015 winter. If you have any suggestions please let one of the board members know. Have a safe summer and see you at the 2014 SND Convention in Minot in October.
Laura
That being said, the mountains are a great place to ride. Even if you take your studded machine out there and ride trails. The scenery is beautiful, it is generally warmer out there, during the day anyway, and the snow is plentiful. Until next time, happy trails.
Sheri
Published by Snowmobile North Dakota - An Organization of North Dakota Snowmobile Clubs
s ngr offpioc stie
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March/April 2014
Wow, how time flies. I hope everyone has had the chance to get your sleds out and tear up the trails! We’ve had some great events this year and it’s hard to believe that it’s already March. Thank you to all the staff, board members and volunteers from r around ectowonderful r i D the state that make these e v i ecut eventsEx possible. SND is still working harder than ever to make sure everything is running smoothly. It has been another successful season of the Sno-Dak News and we hope you all enjoyed it too! As always, if you have any new ideas that we could incorporate into the
Cheers to another season of snowmobiling! As we say goodbye to 2013-2014, I’m excited about the opportunities that have developed this season and the new ones yet to come. This season has been exciting to say the least and I want to thank all of you that took the time to contact the office to ask questions about the new programs launched for the season and more. Todd, Tari and I enjoy getting the opportunity to visit with the trail coordinators on a weekly basis to talk snow and the latest trail conditions. We are excited how the Board of Directors has reached out to the office to ask questions and learn how the state snowmobile organization is administered. It’s a win, win situation for all of us and the friendships along the way are the bonus at the end of the day. I often giggle when I get a message at 10 p.m. at night, filled with pictures of the days grooming or when I get messages wondering if the Executive Director obeys all of the rules on her snowmobile while enjoying North Dakota’s snowmobile trails. Of course, you know the answer is YES! ;)
magazine, please do not hesitate to let us know! We are always looking for new ways to enhance this publication and we want to make sure we are getting everyone the most up to date industry news. I would just like to say “congratulations” to SND on its 40th Anniversary! I feel honored to have this opportunity to work for SND. I’ve met some pretty amazing people along the way while doing what we all love to do. This is quite an impressive milestone for our organization and we would like to thank all the clubs throughout the state for everything you do.
Have a wonderful rest of the year, and I hope to see you soon!
Chelsey
E-Mag
Design
er
Thanks to everyone that has asked questions and shared concerns regarding the new funding program. I’m happy to report the conversations have been very positive filled with many ideas on possible changes to the program to make it better in the future, as well as comments on how volunteers think the program will work. Please know SND and the North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department will work hard to continue moving forward with the program to make sure it works in favor of the state snowmobile program and grooming snowmobile trails.
get us your information and we’ll do our best to create an exciting s p e c i a l edition of the Sno-Dak News!
After many discussions and suggestions, I’m excited to announce, for the 2013-2014 season the Sno-Dak News will launch a Special Edition in May of 2014. The special edition will be an e-magazine (not printed) and will feature all of the year end snowmobile information a person could dream of including event information from around North Dakota and more. Plus the feature will transition to spring/ summer recreation! The deadline for ads, pictures and editorial content is April 15th! Please make sure to
The state snowmobile program couldn’t do this without your dedication as volunteers, club officers, Board of Directors and more! All of you are an asset to this program and help make it successful! Here’s to next season!
Thanks for all of your hard work around the state!
Executive Dire cto
r
Keri
Published by Snowmobile North Dakota - An Organization of North Dakota Snowmobile Clubs
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Walhalla Welcomes Snowmobilers
T
he Pembina Hills Trail Riders invited snowmobilers from all over to take a ride on the Northeast Trail system February 8th to enjoy the State Ride. Snowmobilers from North Dakota, Canada and even Nebraska made the trip to enjoy the scenery of the Pembina Gorge and what the trail system has to offer. The brisk temps made everyone bundle up but it didn’t stop anyone from enjoying the day. As snowmobilers filled the parking lot of the Forestwood Inn and Walhalla Inn for the weekend; the Pembina Hills Trailriders and members of the Northeast Trail Association held drawings and a chance to shake to win cash prizes. A radar run was also held northeast of town for riders to take a chance at their fastest time and earn bragging rights for the day. The craziest story came from Nebraska, the winner of a Vacation Getaway package to Walhalla at Hay Days last fall. Rob made the trek to the cold temps to enjoy his winnings, thanks to the Rendezvous Region of North Dakota, Forestwood Inn and Walhalla Inn Super Club & Lounge. What Rob didn’t expect was to go home $500 richer with the high hand in shakes! Needless to say, Rob asked when the 2015 State Ride will be held and where! He’s in luck it’s about 300 miles closer to him! The 2015 State Ride will be held in the Wahpeton area and hosted by the Southern Valley Trail Riders! Congrats Rob and thanks to everyone that helped provide the vacation package! Great job Pembina Hills Trail Riders and Northeast Trail. The trails were amazing and everyone had a blast at the event. Snowmobilers greatly appreciated all of your efforts and we look forward to the association hosting the event again in the future!
The North Dakota
Special Thanks To:...
Snow Run Celebrates 5 Years! In 2009, one of the Snowmobile North Dakota Board of Directors agenda items was to discuss hosting a Pink Ribbon Riders Snow Run in the state. After much consideration it was approved to move forward with the event knowing it would be a great cause benefiting North Dakota breast cancer patients and also help place the state on the map as a snowmobile destination. After a successful first event in 2010, held in Grafton, ND it was agreed to move forward to a goal of five years. The event has since moved halfway across the state to Lake Metigoshe but still carries followers and dedicated participants that want to help and have fun along the way. After five years, North Dakota has helped raise over $180,000 for the Pink Ribbon Riders Patient Assistance Program.
Brintnell Farms Bunke Racing Cameron Chimenti with 3C Guiding Castle Choko Dean & Laura Forbes Family Driven, LLC FXR Gateway Sports, Inc. Gun & Reel Sports, Inc. Halverson Motor Sports Iron Works Welding Jeri Warrenburg JL Spotted Acres Johnson Sport Center Levi Strong , BRP Magic City Driftbusters Montana Kettle Corn Moritz Sport & Marine
The Patient Assistance Program is made available to provide direct financial support for men and women currently diagnosed with breast cancer and undergoing treatment. The program gives financial support to patients in states where the Pink Ribbon Riders fundraise and stay in the states that fundraise. The mission and the program were created to help those in need by people helping people in their own communities.
Night Owl Photography North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department Outback Autobody Quality Truck Repair Red River Snowmobile Club Ridge Runners Simonson Station Stores
For the past few years, the event has brought participants from local, eastern and central North Dakota with participants traveling as far as Plentywood, MT to create awareness and fundraise. All of these amazing individuals continue to show up and help to provide a hand and create laughs along the way. This group has started it’s very own snowmobile family that gathers once a year to be crazy and stick flowers where they don’t belong… place bras on unsuspecting men… turn snowmobiles into turtles… you’ve been served dance offs and a memorable performance by non-other than Tigirlily! The list of thank yous only graces the generosity provided for this event. It never ceases to amaze the amount of support provided throughout the weekend and we are glad each and every one of you is part of the family! Thanks to everyone that helped setup, guide, provided sponsorships and donated! And a special thanks to everyone that opens their wallets for such a great cause! All of you Rock!
Stephanie Soderquist Tigirlily Track, Inc. Vallely Sport & Marine Westlie Crossroads Truck Center XXX Mod Rods
Bunke Racing Gets the
Three-Peat At the International Soo I-500
Moorhead, Minn. (February 4, 2014) –Bunke Racing wins for the third straight year in a row at the Soo I-500
Bunke Racing dominated the track at this year’s Soo I-500, taking the checkered flag after leading for over 372 laps during the grueling 500 lap ice oval race. The second Bunke machine on the track, the #537 sled finished second place right behind the #74 sled. The #74 machine was piloted by Gabe Bunke, team owner and Aaron Christensen, while the #537 had the Faust brothers, Ryan and Travis and rookie racer Spencer Kadlec. “My hat is off to the 537 sled on a well-run race,” said Bunke. “Witnessing their success has been a fun part of having this team.” Post-race Gabe Bunke thanked the many people who worked very hard to help the team win its third straight Soo I-500: “The Soo I-500 is likely the biggest race event for us in a season. This race is a test of speed, handling and endurance. With all these aspects behind the scenes it takes years of testing and experience to get your equipment dialed in at the Soo.” “We cannot thank the team of people and sponsors enough that help us make this happen. First and foremost, Ben Hayes and Tom Rager Jr. from Polaris Racing have been a huge influence on our equipment and crew preparations for the Soo I-500. They have inspired us to take our program up to the next level of competition.” Bunke continued: “For the Soo, our machines get nothing but the best; from our engine package, built by the legendary Larry Rugland at LRM, to the best spark plugs out there with Autolite. We have been lucky to partner with these sponsors who have great products. All of our bearings and bushings get treated with Energy Release, for maximum performance and durability, Woody’s Traction keeps us hooked up with the best studs and carbides around and we use Polaris-engineered lubricants and fuels for all our sleds. ArcticFXgraphics keeps us looking good on the track. All of these elements together have produced a winning team at the Soo.” Bunke went on to thank his team, crew and some of his long time sponsors. “A special thanks to our individual crew members and sponsors who help us with this event. White Pine Lodge in Christmas, Michigan, XLT Performance and XLT Engineering has been with us for many years and we are lucky to have their continued support.” Up next for Bunke Racing is the legendary USXC I-500 in Thief River Falls, MN and then team leader Gabe Bunke, will embark on his first ever attempt at the Iron Dog in Alaska. For more info on Bunke Racing visit www.bunkeracing.com. You can also follow Bunke Racing on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BunkeRacing
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©2011 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, ™ and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates. *Result based on independent third-party dyno test. In the U.S.A., products are distributed by BRP US, Inc. Always ride responsibly and safely. Always observe applicable local laws and regulations. Always wear appropriate clothing, including a helmet. Don’t drink and drive. ©2013 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. , and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates. Always ride safely and responsibly. 1107459 1107792 ® ™
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March/April 2014
Supporting
Snowmobile Access
Kildee Amendment Supporting Snowmobile Access on Public Land Passes House WASHINGTON – An amendment introduced by Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-05) and Rep. Jared Polis (CO-02) supporting the rights of snowmobilers to access public lands passed the House yesterday and was added to H.R. 3590, the Sportsmen’s Heritage and Recreational Enhancement Act (SHARE Act). The amendment states that while the National Forest Service develops a Travel Management Rule dictating how snowmobiles can access public lands, it is the sense of Congress that the Forest Service should continue to allow snowmobiles on federal lands. On the floor of the House of Representatives, Congressman Kildee spoke about his amendment and thanked the House for passing his amendment on a voice vote. “In Michigan, snowmobiling has been and continues to be a great part of our state’s heritage. I am happy that the House of Representatives passed our amendment, which promotes conservation and preserves access to National Forest System Lands for snowmobilers in Michigan and across the nation. The amendment helps to support over a 100,000 jobs – including 4,000 in Michigan alone – that are directly tied to the snowmobile industry, along with the $26 billion in annual economic activity nationally they help to generate,” Congressman Kildee said. In 1972, President Richard Nixon signed Executive Order 11644, requiring the U.S. Forest Service to create travel management plans for the operation of off road vehicles in each National Forest, including snowmobiles. In 2005, the Forest Service finalized its Travel Management Rule for all off-road vehicles in the National Forest System, except for snowmobiles. In 2013, a federal district court in Idaho, in the Winter Wildlands Alliance v. the Forest Service case, ruled the Forest Service must develop a Travel Management Rule by September 2014 that includes snowmobiles in order to comply with Executive Order 11644.
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Club News ROUGH RIDERS
Hello fellow snowmobilers!
seems we used to have way more snow back then. Ok I just dated myself! I guess whatever kind of dance you want to put on, let’s get r done!!!! Jan 30th a few of the club member went to Bighorns at Burgess Junction, Wyoming to meet up with Keri Wanner and Mike Duffy to take the on the snow avy class. We have taken many avy classes in the class room, but never hands on in the snow. There seems to be more and more avalanches all the time. The sleds we have make it better for those chances to occur. Mountain riders need to be educated, if not for yourself but your riding buddy and anyone else you may come upon.
We have had very little amounts of snow to use, then we get rain/sleet shower to destroy what we have. Top it off with at least 50 mph winds and bitter cold, yup North Dakota! I have ridden my snowmobile around my area and maybe put on 10 to 20 miles. My truck and trailer has been on 3 mountain trips and sled finally has been seeing some use. I hope all the rest of you are also being able to get some riding time in. As we had plans on doing fun runs and family get-together’s on the snow, all hopes have been lost for now. We need snow, wonder if the snow dance has been looked at like rap and not like the disco thingy of the past,
After day of on the snow avy class with Mike Duffy and a short ride around Bighorns. We packed up and then drove to Deadwood, SD for our club ride. This is our 2nd annual club ride and has a whole lot more people interested in the event. We met at canyon springs for lunch, bused the wife’s/children that didn’t ride to meet us. Had a great time! Another high note for the weekend is ISOC races and the nightlife of downtown Deadwood. Just plains makes sense for a very fun weekend. Ok getting a little windy again. The club members think I am windy at club meetings also! Have a great snowy ride, be safe and ride on. See you on the snow! Al Hoesel
RED RIVER SNOWMOBILE CLUB Hello from the Red River Snowmobile Club, this winter has started off cold, snowy, and mostly windy. We have had over 40 inches of snow by the end of January but the trails are just starting to open in the area now because of all the wind. Across the river in Minnesota they have been grooming since mid-December but it seems they groom one day and the wind blows that night or the next day and you can’t tell they were ever out there. It is frustrating but last year at
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this time we didn’t even have any snow yet and it turned out great in the end. We had a club trip to Pinehurst Resort near Mahnomen, MN in early January and the riding was excellent in that area. 27 people went and there were no breakdowns or mishaps for the 3 day weekend. Hopefully by the time this issue comes out all of us will have lots of miles on our sleds this year. We have a February club ride north of Bemidji, MN and are planning a March ride but we don’t
know where it will be yet. We will see who has the best snow at that time. We hope to see lots of people on the trails of northeastern North Dakota for the remainder of the winter and drive safely. Steve Magnuson
Published by Snowmobile North Dakota - An Organization of North Dakota Snowmobile Clubs
Club News March/April 2014
MAGIC CITY DRIFTBUSTERS
This winter has proven challenging for members of the Magic City Driftbusters club to get out on the trail and ride. The lack of snow, wind and cold, have all left the trail conditions in the Minot area in tough shape.
The club members have not been deterred, and many still took part in the four area club fun runs. Even though members did not get the chance to ride the trails for all the fun runs, it still appeared to feed the “rider’s soul” spending time with other riders and sharing stories about riding. Our club fun run had great attendance in spite of the weather conditions, one hearty soul did
Dale Deibert Region 1 Update Dale Deibert reporting from Region 1 of Snowmobile North Dakota from the Minot area. Well the winter season sure has been a roller coaster ride with the temperature changes going up and down from -25 degrees to 40 degrees. The temperature changes in a matter of hours and warming up at night and cooling down through the day a number of times. The snow condition was okay the first part of the season, but has melted number of times through midseason.
ride the route on his sled. He was awarded a special prize by the club for his efforts. Club member, Miles Eckert, was a great promoter of our fun run, selling over 200 tickets by himself. Some of you reading this article may have helped Miles reach his goal, by purchasing a ticket or two from him.
of members will be heading out to Island Park, Idaho in late February to spend a week riding.
I think it is safe to say that all Driftbuster members are keeping their fingers crossed that February and March will bring some significant snow our way, and a chance to get a few club rides in before spring gets here. If not, maybe we will see you out on your area trails!
The club is eagerly anticipating the upcoming International Ride, so hopefully mother nature will send a pile of snow our way in time for the ride to take place. While there hasn’t been a lot of riding on our local trails, some club members have taken trips to find the snow, and get some riding in this winter. A large group
Hopefully the later part of the season will be good like last year. The snow has also been low in the Turtle Mountains this winter. A snow storm in late January has improved the conditions in the Bottineau and Lake Metigoshe area a lot. The snowmobile fun runs around the Minot area have been very successful this winter. The Dakota Trailblazers fun run in December had well over 300 entries. The Mouse River Sled Runners of Towner had close to 300 entries on their fun run. The Magic City Driftbusters had over 300 entries for their fun run the first part of January. The Gasmann Coulee Cruisers Fun Run held in mid-January had over 500
entries. I would like to remind everyone to have their snowmobile registered because the fee is the source of funding for grooming and maintenance of snowmobile trails. That is all of now. Hope to see you on the trails.
Published by Snowmobile North Dakota - An Organization of North Dakota Snowmobile Clubs
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Mattr e n d r a G
The 2013 – 2014 snowmobile season saw some program changes this winter, with the most prevalent change being the matrix structure funding. This was in response to the decrease in registrations during the 2011-2013 biennium; the associations across the state adapted well and again I thank you.
As the snowmobile season wraps up I am reminded of the great effort it takes from volunteers across the state to make the state snowmobile trail system operate. I can only imagine the number of volunteer hours that club members and snowmobile enthusiasts dedicate to provide this great opportunity for snowmobilers. Those who hit the trails this winter truly owe it to those who volunteer and I personally thank you for your efforts.
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The good news is registrations are tracking around a 6% increase over last biennium and we will have a better idea where those numbers stand at the end of the season. This increase was due partly in response to the efforts of Snowmobile North Dakota and the North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department with the “Get Registered” campaign. All previously registered snowmobile owners received an insert in the mail or by e-mail with their registration renewal cards from DOT explaining the benefits of registering
their snowmobiles and hitting the trails. A second mailing was done in early January expressing the same message. Also, Midcontinent Communications gave 8,876 free air spots for the Snowmobile Public Service Announcements for the month of December, with the “Get Registered!” PSA receiving 2,893 spots. It was a great effort by all this snowmobile season and it is easy to see the passion and drive by North Dakota snowmobile enthusiasts. Enjoy the rest of the season and remember to take a friend snowmobiling.
Published by Snowmobile North Dakota - An Organization of North Dakota Snowmobile Clubs
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le Pretzels......
...... 9 orts................... ..... 3 Joe’s Sport Ce nter................. ...... 3 Moritz............. ........................ ....... 9 SkiDoo............. ........................ ..... 2 SND Registra tion................. ...... 14 Spearfish Cany on...................... .. 9 Sunbutter........ ........................ ...... 9 Track.............. ........................ ....... 9 Yamaha........... ........................ ... BC Johnson’s Sp
Ingredients: – Meltable candy wafers (one 14-ounce package makes 16 snowmen) – Mini chocolate chips (6 for each snowman) – Light cocoa candy melts – Rolos – Candy corn How to make it Make the nose by cutting the orange section from a candy corn, then slice it in half lengthwise. Roll the piece between your fingers to form a carrot shape. To make your snowman, melt the white candy in a bowl according to the package instructions, then scoop a rounded tablespoon onto a sheet of wax paper. With the back of a spoon, smear the candy into a puddle. Working quickly, stick on the light cocoa meltable candy wafer, add a dot of white melted candy, then place the Rolo on top. Finally, add the candy corn nose and mini chocolate chip eyes and mouth.
E-Magazine Highlights
Calendar March 7th & 8th: Amsoil go, ND Championship Snocross – Far April 30th: Trail Paperwork Deadline 4– Award Deadlines: April 1, 201 e and All “Of the Year”, Hall of Fam due are ns Scholarship applicatio
Bunke Racing Driven, LLC Pre ss Release RMSHA Press
Release
Keith Curtis Rel New York ISO C
ease
Press Release
Yamaha Launch es 2 Snowmobiles 015
Published by Snowmobile North Dakota - An Organization of North Dakota Snowmobile Clubs
15
THE QUICKEST PREDATORS STRIKE OUT OF THE BLUE.
From the shadows comes a rush of sudden movement. Propelled by a 4-stroke, 130 horsepower Genesis engine. Guided by a race-inspired suspension and rigid SRV aluminum chassis. And covered in a skin that conceals the startling performance that lies beneath. Introducing the all-new Yamaha SR Viper. A sled you never saw coming. A ride you’ll never forget. Visit Yamaha-Snowmobiles.com. © 2014 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved.
Visit your nearest Yamaha dealer or PRO Yamaha dealer today. For more on PRO Yamaha dealers, visit yamaha-snowmobiles.com.
PRO YAMAHA DEALERS T’S TEAM YAMAHA 509 11TH ST W BOTTINEAU, ND TSTEAMYAMAHA.COM
REVOLUTIONS POWER SPORTS, INC. 4225 36TH AVE SOUTH GRAND FORKS, ND REVOLUTIONSPOWERSPORTS.COM
VALLELY SPORT & MARINE 2125 ELK DRIVE MINOT, ND VALLELYMARINE.COM
U MOTORS, INC. 217 38TH ST S FARGO, ND UMOTORSINC.COM
VALLELY SPORT & MARINE 2800 E BISMARCK EXPY BISMARCK, ND VALLELYMARINE.COM
SND Officers
SND Staff
PRESIDENT Laura Forbes 45 Rolling Hills Dr Minot, ND 58703 701-839-1050 dlforbes@min.midco.net
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Keri Wanner 1600 E Century Ave, Suite 3 Bismarck, ND 58503 701-328-5377 701-328-5363 (F) keri@snowmobilend.org
VICE PRESIDENT Sheri Hoffmann 4320 Camp Ave Larimore, ND 58251 701-397-5260 nwhoff@polarcomm.com DIRECTOR-AT-LARGE Marty Malachowski 4198 13th St NW Lot 33 Garrison, ND 58540 701-337-2350 lmmala@srt.com
ADMINISTRATIVE SPECIALIST Tari Norby 1600 E Century Ave, Suite 3 Bismarck, ND 58503 701-328-5377 701-328-5363 (F) tari@snowmobilend.org
Beaver Valley Sno-Goer’s Dan Tveito PO Box 394 Linton, ND 58552 701-254-4433
Magic City Driftbusters Laura Forbes PO Box 1094 Minot, ND 58702 701-839-1050
Cattail Snoriders Ben Gullicks 931 142nd Ave SE Galesburg, ND 58035 701-3712165
Marion Snoriders Kevin Isakson 10510 63rd St SE Litchville, ND 58461 701-883-5315
Dakota Trailblazers Sherman Pladsen PO Box 1012 Minot, ND 58702 701-720-9501
May-Port Sno Travelers Greg Thykeson Box 221 Portland, ND 58274 701-371-6582
Flatland Trailblazers Dave Seltvedt 2363 46th Ave NE Harvey, ND 58341 701-324-2698
Minto Area Joy Riders Trevor Slominski PO Box 111 Minto, ND 58261
Gasmann Coulee Cruisers Crystll Kuhnhenn PO Box 14 Burlington, ND 58722 701-833-1697
Moonlighters Snowmobile & ATV Club Randy Bata 9453 104th Ave NE Langdon, ND 58249 701-256-4037
Jim River Driftskippers Gene Leininger 3181 Hwy 281 SE Jamestown, ND 58401 701-320-3631
Mouse River Sled Runners Anthony Best PO Box 523 Towner, ND 58788 701-537-0500 Nekoma Trailblazers Bob Wilhelmi 212 Main St Nekoma, ND 58355 701-949-2781 North Valley Riders Mark Briese 14399 County Rd 3 St. Thomas, ND 58276 701-257-6448
Brian Sauer 1405 9th Ave. E Langdon, ND 58249 701-370-9019 bnc@utma.com
Byron Norsby PO Box 914 Minot, ND 58702 701-728-6688 outbackautobody@srt.com
REGION 4 Shawn Cole 2055 W Main St Valley City, ND 58072 701-840-1663 scole@csicable.net
REGION 2 Mark Shipley PO Box 493 Devils Lake, ND 58301 701-662-6896 marley493@yahoo.com
Todd Rasmusson 6340 Valley Rd Lisbon, ND 58054 701-678-2862 tnrasmusson@drtel.net
Jesse Fritz 20 Country Rd Rugby, ND 58368 701-208-1253 screemn80@hotmail.com REGION 3 Perry Brintnell 12668 57th St NE Fordville, ND 58231 701-331-1096 xcr600pb@polarcomm.com
Clubs
2013-2014
Little Missouri Snowmobile & ATV Club Mike Storley 1491 1st Ave E Dickinson, ND 58601
REGION 1 Dale Deibert PO Box 99 Surrey, ND 58785 701-721-9378 vdeibert@srt.com
TRAIL INSPECTOR Todd Thronson 1600 E Century Ave, Suite 3 Bismarck, ND 58503 701-328-5377 701-328-5363 (F) todd@snowmobilend.org MARKETING SPECIALIST Chelsey Thronson 1600 E Century Ave, Suite 3 Bismarck, ND 58503 701-328-5377 701-328-5363 (F) chelsey@snowmobilend.org
Lake Region Mark Shipley PO Box 981 Devils Lake, ND 58301 701-739-8263
Board of Directors
Northern Exposure Snowmobile Club Nick Parslow 403 Washington St Bisbee, ND 58317 701-793-4956 Northern Lights Trailblazers Joanie Bruggeman PO Box 191 Rugby, ND 58368 701-681-1361
Red River Sno-Riders Kristie Thone PO Box 2295 Fargo, ND 58108 701-277-8709 Red River Snowmobile Club Steve Magnuson 225 Plain Hills Dr Grand Forks, ND 58201 701-746-5370 Ridge Runners Perry Brintnell PO Box 132 Fordville, ND 58231 701-331-1096
Kristie Thone 307 Dakota Ave Horace, ND 58047 701-277-8709 thone13@gmail.com
2013-2014 Roaring 20’s Loren Johnson 61 Green Acres Ave Bottineau, ND 58318 701-228-4272 Rough Rider Snowmobile Association Al Hossel PO Box 4162 Bismarck, ND 58502 701-391-8713
Rural Cass Pembina Hills Trail Riders Snowmobile Club Tod Soeby Jason McSparron PO Box 825 PO Box 58 Walhalla, ND 58282 Casselton, ND 58012 701-549-3711 701-281-3800 Ransom County Driftskippers Shane Radtke 101 Main St Lisbon, ND 58054
REGION 5 Victor Evjen 7604 Brink Dr Horace, ND 58047 701-429-1657 evjen2008@gmail.com
Sargent County Snowmobile Club Aaron Lyon 620 7th Ave Milnor, ND 58060 701-640-1251 Seldom Seen Snowmobile Club Scott Gailfus PO Box 25 Rock Lake, ND 58365 701-370-0524 Sheyenne Sno-Drifters Joel Iverson PO Box 342 Valley City, ND 58072 701-845-2565 Sno-Busters Drew Courtney 9425 103rd Ave SE Oakes, ND 58474 701-490-0824
Southern Valley Trail Riders Association JD Link 17290 78th St SE Wahpeton, ND 58075 701-640-8061 Tri-County Snow Dusters Bev Bachmeier 10517 55th St NE Brocket, ND 58321 Tri-County Trailriders Christian Larson PO Box 55 Park River, ND 58270 701-284-6207 Turtle River Roughriders Brandon Thorvilson PO Box 131 Manvel, ND 58256 218-791-9818 Valley Snow Drifters Gene Loftsgard 125 Manvel Circle Grafton, ND 58237 701-360-0380 Walsh Coulee Cruisers Chad Lindell 701 3rd Ave Adams, ND 58210 701-331-2459 Williston Trail Riders Russel Wyman PO Box 235 Williston, ND 58802 701-570-7355
2013-2014 Ackerman Acres Resort 318 Shelvers Place Devils Lake, ND 58301
Cool Beans 509 Main St Cando, ND 58324 701-968-4505
Action Motor Sports 1417 38th Ave SE Mandan, ND 58554 701-667-4524
Associate Members
2013-2014
Gibbens Law Office 6780 Hwy 17 Cando, ND 58324 701-968-3342
Leevers Foods 323 5th St NE Devils Lake, ND 58301 701-662-4945
Prairie Power Center 606 Main Ave Rolla, ND 58367 701-477-3036
Tesoro of Cando Hwy 281 S Cando, ND 58324 701-968-3653
Crocus View Farms 6931 88th ST NE Rock Lake, ND 58365 701-303-0143
Hampden-Edmore Cooperative PO Box 126 Hampden, ND 58388
Marketplace Motors 332 Hwy 2 W Devils Lake, ND 58301 701-662-7571
The Bar PO Box 7 Lawton, ND 58345 701-655-3505
Bearcat’s Den 1303 3rd Ave Cando, ND 58324 701-739-7792
D Bar P Bumpers 7601 128th Ave NE Glenburn, ND 58740 701-728-6828
HWY MVP 209 Hwy 2 SE Rugby, ND 58368 701-776-5346
Mertz Lumber 715 S 7th S Oakes, ND 58474 701-742-9663
Praskas Hardware Hank 19 S 5th St Oakes, ND 58474 701-742-2034
Beck’s Red Barn Lodge 1003 6th Ave Cando, ND 58324 701-968-4273
Dakota Outdoors 949 2nd Ave N Grand Forks, ND 58203 701-215-0641
Blake Angus Ranch 7495 85th St NE Egeland, ND 58331 701-230-2308
Donna’s Diner 604 Main Ave Oakes, ND 58474 701-742-2013
Indian Triumph of Fargo 2745 Main Ave Fargo, ND 58103 701-277-4584
Mike’s Body, Paint & Glass, Inc. PO Box 328 Towner, ND 58788 701-537-5770
Boehmer Snowmobile Repair 9446 62nd St NE Lawton, ND 58345
Double Deuce Bar & Grill PO Box 73 Edmore, ND 58330 701-644-2267
Iverson Farms 11322 Cty 14 Langdon, ND 58249 701-370-9992
Moritz Sport & Marine 2540 Marina Rd SE Mandan, ND 58554 701-222-2000
K & E Meats 425 8th Ave Cando, ND 58324 701-968-3138
Mostad Insurance 824 3rd St Langdon, ND 58249 701-256-2253
Keller Paving & Landscaping Inc. 1820 Hwy 2 Bypass E Minot, ND 58701 701-852-5030
Napa 803 7th St S Oakes, ND 58474 701-742-2192
C&L Electric PO Box 217 Munich, ND 58352 701-370-1555
Durum House Hwy 281 S Cando, DN 58324 701-968-4582
Calio Bar 108 Calio St Munich, ND 58352 701-682-5360
Earl’s Bar 115 Central Ave Leeds, ND 58346 701-466-2770
Cando Bar & Grill PO Box 682 Cando. ND 58324 701-968-3412 Cando Greenhouse 520 8th St Cando, ND 58324 701-968-4290 Cando Home & Hardware 424 Main St Cando, ND 58324 701-968-3411
Emery Visto Imp. 1009 S 7th St Oakes, ND 58474 701-742-2167 First State Bank Cando 415 Main St Cando, ND 58324 701-968-3331 Floral Depot 420 Main St Cando, ND 58324 701-968-4020
Cando Insur. Agency 416 Main St Canod, ND 58324 701-968-4305 Cando Lumber 518 5th Ave Cando ND 58324 701-968-3210 Computer Express 505 Main Ave Oakes, ND 58474 701-742-2632
Flyway Bar 107 Railroad Ave Webster, ND 58382 Forestwood Inn 504 Sunset Ave Walhalla, ND 58282 701-306-9334 Gary Beck Farm 8050 83rd St NE Munich, ND 58352 701-370-2006
Ken’s Auto Inc. 95 N 2nd St Strasburg, ND 58573 701-776-5346 Kendra’s Kennels 7555 69th Ave NE Cando, ND 58324 701-968-3156 KJ’s Bar 137 Main St leeds, ND 58346 701-4662045 Klemestrud Plumbing, Heating & Air Cond. PO Box 648 Devils Lake, ND 58301 Kvalevog Drywall & Painting 8210 52nd St NE Devils Lake, ND 58301 701-662-4459 Langdon Motor Inn 210 9th Ave Langdon, ND 58249 701-256-3600
Napa Auto Parts 515 College Dr N Devils Lake, ND 58301 Nelson Angus Ranch 8555 72nd Av NE Egeland, ND 58331 701-266-5207 Neuman Drug 412 Main St Cando, ND 58324 701-3531 Nicholas W. Miles PO Box 122 Devils Lake, ND 58301 Nodak Mutual Insur. 405 Main St Cando, ND 58324 701-968-4554 Outback Autobody PO Box 914 Minot, ND 58702 701-837-1890 Pain Reliever 212 Main St Nekoma, ND 58355
Ramsey Service & Repair 10489 57th ST NE Brocket, ND 58321 701-351-0883 Revolutions Power Sports 4225 36th Ave S Grand Forks, ND 58201 701-746-4997 Rolla Arctic Cat Sales 913 Main Ave Rolla, ND 58367 701-477-0826 Roughrider HarleyDavidson 3708 Memorial Hwy Mandan, ND 58554 701-663-2220 Schwan Wholesale PO Box 710 Devils Lake, ND 58301 Shake N Bake 502 Main Ave Oakes, ND 58474 701-742-3036 South Dakota Snowmobile Association PO Box 206 Gary, SD 57237 South Dakota Wheat Growers 600 7th St S Oakes, ND 58474 701-+742-2149
The Glass Shop 319 S College Dr Devils Lake, ND 58301 701-351-3342 Tom’s Lounge 210 Front St Forest River, ND 58233 701-248-3216 Walhalla Inn Box 94 Walhalla, ND 58282 Weber Trucking PO Box 116 Lawton, ND 58345 701-3698 Wheels Inc. 432 36th St S Fargo, ND 58103 701-235-6459 Wild Rice Bar 205 Main Wild RIce, ND 58047 701-239-8970 Wild Rose Foral & Enchanted Events 5002 Main Ave Oakes, ND 58474 701-742-3316 Wright Place Bar & Grill 124 Main St Egeland, ND 58365 701-266-5121
St. Michel Furniture 137 Main Ave S Rugby, ND 58368 701-776-5887 Stenson Farms 6533 99th St NE Rock Lake, ND 58365 701-266-5399 Taras Thrifty White 610 Main Ave Oakes, ND 58474 701-742-3824
TO BECOME AN ASSOCIATE MEMBER
Fill out the form below and mail to 1600 E Century Ave, Suite 3 • Bismarck ND, 58503 Business Name: _________________________________ Phone Number: ___________________________ Main Contact: ___________________________________ Affiliated Club: ____________________________ Address: _______________________________________ Check box if $31 is enclosed City, State, Zip: __________________________________
Soaring Eagle’s Ram Snocross Pro Open class sweep goes to Tucker Hibbert … Andrew Lieders wins the Pro Lite main event MT. PLEASANT, Mich. (Feb. 22, 2014) – Soaring Eagle’s Ram Snocross came to a thrilling crescendo on Saturday night as AMSOIL Championship Snocross, powered by Ram, Pro Open class point leader Tucker Hibbert (Monster Energy/Arctic Cat) completed the weekend sweep with a convincing performance on the massive Soaring Eagle track. And, prior to Hibbert’s victory, firing up the sizable crowd that braved the cold and high winds was a big win in the Pro Lite class by Team LaVallee/Polaris’ Andrew Lieders. Pro Open After pulling a clean Stud Boy Holeshot, Hibbert battled barto-bar with sophomore Pro Open class racer Kody Kamm (Hentges Racing/Polaris) through the finish line table
top and into the corner leading into the uphill section. Hibbert was passed – cleanly – in the back bowl turn by Kamm and led around the track for the first couple laps by the hardcharging young racer. “Kody was riding on the edge,” admitted Hibbert, adding that he made a conscious choice to follow Kamm through the downhill section to “see if Kody tripled” (which Kamm did). With Kamm putting up a 54.7 lap (to Hibbert’s 55.17) on lap two, things were heating up quickly in the 12-lap contest. The situation quickly came to a boil when, on lap four, Hibbert rammed into the back end of Kamm’s sled. Both riders came away without issue, but soon thereafter Kamm would miscalculate the
landing of a large tabletop jump and high-sided, rolling his sled on its side and pitching himself into the sugar-like snow. “It was a bummer for him, he was riding good,” said Hibbert of Kamm. “So from then on I just focused on riding strong and consistent after he crashed.” With Kamm back up and running in 12th place, Arctic Cat’s Cody Thomsen – running blazing fast all night – moved up from 3rd to 2nd and Friday Pro Open finisher Johan Lidman (Warnert Racing/SkiDoo) popped up from 4th to 3rd. Without Kamm (12th) up front the aforementioned racers would spread out evenly, making up the podium the way they stood at the midway point of the race. Hentges Racing/
Polaris’ Justin Broberg rode well to place 4th, followed Christian Brothers Racing/Arctic Cat’s Logan Christian in 5th. Pro Lite Andrew Lieders gave Team LaVallee a huge lift on Saturday at Soaring Eagle, going from a DQ finish on Friday in the Pro Lite class to winning Saturday’s Pro Lite main event. “This was a great group effort tonight – I’d really like to thank my entire team,” said an elated Lieders from the top rung of the podium. “Everybody had a hand in this. It’s just a great, great win.” Starting 2nd (behind Johnstad), Lieders was never challenged after he took the early lead, running up front for seven of the eight laps and winning by nearly five seconds. Giving chase – in the Pro Lite’s best battle of the weekend – were James Johnstad (Judnick Motorsports/Polaris) Johnstad
nailed the holeshot and took the early lead in the race before being passed by Lieders and John Stenberg (Team Bauerly/ Ski-Doo). Johnstad nailed the holeshot and took the early lead in the race before being passed by Leiders at the start of the second lap. And noteworthy in the opening lap was Friday’s Pro Lite winner, Corin Todd(Leighton Motorsports/Polaris), got tied up with Michael George (MFG Racing/Arctic Cat) and went down. Todd would remount in second-to-last place and ran the remainder of the Pro Lite main without a seat (finishing 10th). With Lieders cracking off the night’s fastest Pro Lite laps, Johnstad and Stenberg settled in to 2nd and 3rd, respectively. Pro Lite overall point leader, Andrew Carlson (Carlson Motorsports/Polaris) would move up to 4th place and set his site on the podium – his overall point lead down to a mere
seven after Todd won on Friday and Carlson finished 8th. By lap six Lieders had opened up a 3.5-second lead, while Trevor Leighton (Leighton Motorsports/Polaris) rallied back from a poor start and came out of nowhere to pass Carlson for 4th place. At the same time Stenberg got past Johnstad to take 2nd place. With Lieders pretty much checked out, the fans’ focus turned to Stenberg and Johnstad, who swapped the lead back and forth on the final lap. Stenberg would edge Johnstad at the tape while Leighton placed 4th and Zak Mason (Leighton Motorsports/ Polaris) caught Carlson for 5th. “He passed me, I passed him – yeah, we had a battle out there,” said Stenberg.
2015 Polaris® Snowmobile Lineup Celebrates 60 Years of Terrain Domination® With the All-New AXYS™ Platform Polaris is celebrating 60 years of Terrain Domination® by introducing a 2015 snowmobile lineup featuring the all-new AXYS™ platform that delivers Rider Balanced™ Control for RUSH® and Switchback® riders, the world’s best mountain sleds, and two new long-track INDY® models that deliver exceptional on- and off-trail performance. The 2015 Polaris snowmobile lineup includes models for every type of rider, including hillclimb-winning deep snow models, trail-dominating performance sleds, crossover machines ready to run on- and off-trail, an expanded lineup of utility sleds, and touring models. “It’s exciting to celebrate the Polaris 60th Anniversary year with such a strong lineup of powerful, innovative, terrain-dominating snowmobiles,” said Chris Wolf, Director of Snowmobiles. “The all-new AXYS platform delivers industry-leading handling and performance. The RMKs® are still the best mountain sleds in the world, and now can be truly customized to fit the way you ride. And the new 155” INDY models greatly expand riders’ ability to work and play on- and off-trail with greater control than ever.” Riders can customize their 2015 snowmobiles to suit their riding and style by ordering through Polaris SnowCheck Select. This year’s SnowCheck features TRUE customization for RMKs, and SnowCheck-exclusive models for RUSH, Switchback, and INDY. It’s easy as 1-2-3 for riders to choose their sled, choose their colors, and choose their options. SnowCheck Select models can be ordered from March 3, 2014, through April 15, 2014. Complete details are available at www.TerrainDomination.com. Among the SnowCheck Select models are several 60th Anniversary Limited Edition models, which feature unique Polaris retro graphics packages, special equipment and customizing options. THE ALL-NEW AXYS PLATFORM FOR RUSH & SWITCHBACK MODELS Just five short years after Polaris shocked the world by reinventing the snowmobile with the PRO-RIDE™ chassis on the RUSH model, the brand with 60 years of Terrain Domination is doing it again. Polaris started with a clean sheet of paper to develop the new AXYS platform, which radically raises the bar in the three dimensions that define world-class snowmobiles: control, performance and comfort. AXYS™ is the next-generation, premium performance platform that delivers the ultimate riding experience through:
• • •
Rider Balanced™ Control Unrivaled Acceleration Rider-Centric Comfort
The new AXYS platform includes: an all-new Rider Balanced™ chassis, a completelyredesigned rear suspension, a new 800 H.O. engine, significant reductions in weight from nearly every part of the sled, and new rider-centric designs for comfort, such as integrated storage, LED headlights and a full-color interactive gauge. Polaris is introducing a total of nine new 2015 RUSH and Switchback models built on the new AXYS platform. The 2015 RUSH® models – the 800 RUSH® PRO-S and 600 RUSH PRO-S – set a new standard for trail performance. Polaris Switchback® models are the industry’s best crossover sleds, and with the new AXYS platform, the 2015 models – 800 Switchback® PRO-S, 600 Switchback PRO-S, and 600 Switchback® Adventure – just got better. Polaris is introducing the AXYS platform in two distinct, equally premium trim levels for both RUSH and Switchback models: PRO-S and PRO-X™. Polaris dealers will stock PRO-S models, and PRO-X models are available exclusively through SnowCheck Select. PRO-S models deliver the most precise handling, the flattest cornering on groomed and bumpy trails, and they erase the stutter bumps. PRO-S models have Ripsaw II tracks. PRO-X models, which have Backcountry X tracks with 1.75” lugs, deliver the ultimate big bump control, serve riders with a stand-up riding bias, and they dominate the ditches and moguls. INDY® LINEUP FEATURES TWO VERSATILE NEW 155” MODELS The legendary 2015 INDY lineup offers riders expanded on- and off-trail Terrain Domination® with the all-new 550 INDY® Voyageur™ 155 and 550 INDY® Adventure 155. Both new 155” track models deliver: • Ultimate Deep Snow Flotation • The Best Trail Handling at ANY Speed • Unmatched Hauling & Towing Capability These two INDY models feature three key new elements that produce their superior ride, handling and versatility: • The 155 Articulated Rear Suspension • PRO-FLOAT Skis • Aggressive High-Flotation Cobra 155” Track The 550 INDY® Voyageur™ 155 is the ultimate deep snow recreational utility sled. It provides the segment’s best ride, handling and control on any terrain, at any speed, loaded with cargo or carrying only a rider. The 550 INDY® Adventure 155 is a versatile adventure-touring model that now delivers greatly enhanced off-trail performance and deep snow capability. Like the popular 550 INDY Adventure 144, this new 155” model features the innovative, Polaris-exclusive Adventure Cargo System, and a Lock & Ride® Convertible Passenger Seat that converts the sled between a solo sled and a 2-up machine.
The 2015 INDY lineup includes the unbeatable 1-2 punch of three recreational utility INDY Voyageur™ models, and two versatile INDY Adventure models. There are seven more INDY models for 2015, including the 800 INDY® SP and 600 INDY SP performance models, and the 120 INDY® model for young riders. DEEP SNOW MODELS DELIVER ULTIMATE TERRAIN DOMINATION® Hillclimbers, backcountry riders, and avid mountain riding enthusiasts all achieve Terrain Domination® in winter’s most challenging terrain aboard Polaris deep snow models. These sleds dominate the competition with the ultimate combination of power, strength, light weight, and durability. Polaris deep snow models completely dominated the Rocky Mountain Snowmobile Hillclimb Assn. (RMSHA) circuit in 2013. Polaris racers won 12 RMSHA points titles last season, and won 23 of 24 RMSHA Stock class events. Now that’s Terrain Domination – right from the crate. 2015 Polaris RMK® models beat the competition with innovative, industry-leading technologies such as the QuickDrive® Low Inertia Drive System, carbon fiber overstructure, bonded A-Arms, PowderTrac™ extruded aluminum running boards, and premium Walker Evans® shocks. There is a 2015 Polaris deep snow model for every rider, including: • PRO-RMK® models engineered for steep mountain slopes, big powder and minimal trail running: 600 PRO-RMK® 155, 800 PRO-RMK 155 and 800 PRO-RMK 163. • RMK models designed for all deep snow terrain, including powder, climbing, singletracking, riding in the trees and on groomed trails: 600 RMK® 144, 600 RMK 155 and 800 RMK 155. • ASSAULT® models for backcountry freeriders who love severe, rough, extreme terrain riding: 800 RMK® ASSAULT® 155, 600 Switchback® ASSAULT® 144 and 800 Switchback ASSAULT 144. In 2015, Polaris Deep Snow riders have the ultimate opportunity to truly customize their sled, to build it from the ground up for the way they ride. The 2015 SnowCheck Select program features TRUE customization, including the ability to create their customized combination of chassis, suspension, track, color, and tunnel and rail choices. In all, there are more than 20,000 unique combinations of options. IQ® MODELS ARE EQUIPPED FOR WORK & PLAY The 2015 Polaris IQ lineup includes the 600 IQ® LXT, an extremely versatile sled that’s ready for 2-up duty or sporty solo riding. It has an easily adjustable Lock & Ride® Backrest, comfortable seating for one or two, and the smooth-riding IQ® suspension and powerful 600 Cleanfire® engine. The 600 IQ® WideTrak is equipped to tackle big jobs and deliver great recreational riding. It has the power and wide track to work or play on- and off-trail, and its cargo rack, work light, and underseat storage make it the ideal sled for hauling and towing.
A force to move in a specified direction! By Keri Wanner Driven is a product of dreaming big and trusting yourself. Experiences have taught me to live life to the fullest and to let experiences shape the moments in your life! Fortunately I have had many opportunities to jump on for the ride. A ride, I choose to run like a “raped ape” encouraging others to “Go Big or Go Home”. I give 110% in everything I do and settle for nothing less than an experience that will provide “Driven” results;
results I want to share with you! At a young age, an ATV experience with my Dad helped shape so many moments in my life! We were riding our ATV’s like “raped apes”. At the ripe age of 5, I wasn’t sure how you road like a “raped ape”; but Dad referred to it often, so you can best be assured I’d do the same. While riding on the ice, I turned too sharp and flipped my trizinger on top of me. Dad hurried to my rescue and asked me
if I was ok. As I shook my head yes; he said, “Get back on, let’s go have some fun, you’ll never learn if you don’t keep trying”! An experience that shaped the rest of my life! Over 30 years of riding experience playing in dirt, snow or whatever Mother Nature brings; has shaped my “just watch me” attitude. An attitude that has been applied in every aspect of my life and transitioned into my career. A career working for a nonprofit managing North
Dakota’s snowmobile trails, volunteering for causes and r e c r e a t i o n a l organizations, p r o m o t i n g excitement for the outdoors and working with every sector of the outdoor community imaginable. I am a product of the outdoors with an imagination to take recreation to places it has never been before. Whether I’m managing snowmobile trails, presenting to state legislature, writing and rating recreational trail grants, climbing the highest mountain, raising funds for an excellent cause or promoting an athlete that rides like a “raped ape”; I’m doing it because I’m “Driven”, a force moving in a specified direction and I want to take you with me! Driven, LLC’s key ingredients that are applied to every sector of the company are simple: Be Enthusiastic Be Knowledgeable Be Reliable Be Positive Be Generous These ingredients have developed a recipe for success to help companies, non-profits and recreational athletes that dream big and trust in themselves. The company’s only requirement is to be “Driven”! We don’t work with customers, we shape relationships and establish partnerships with companies and athletes that are moving in a specified direction. Driven, LLC works as team of elite players that lean on one another to grow, help push each other to be better and always remind each other to, “get back on, go have some fun because you’ll never learn if you don’t keep trying”!
The company sets no boundaries but focusses on business products (plans, policies and structure), event management, fundraising, marketing and freelance writing. Driven, LLC is always excited to take on new projects because there is no job too big or small, we will never stop developing and learning, we can always be counted on, we look forward to change and accept it graciously, and we will always go above and beyond expectations. Remember, “If you don’t drive your business, you will be driven out of business.” B.C. Forbes ~ Founder, Forbes; so are you jumping on for the ride?
BRP’S 2015 SKI-DOO LINE-UP
BRP continues its innovation leadership with more industry firsts BRP today introduced at its semi-annual dealer meeting held in Québec City, Québec, the 2015 Ski-Doo snowmobile line that continues to bring industry firsts and innovation to the market. Some 1,200 Ski-Doo representatives from Canada, the United States, Russia and South Korea witnessed the unveiling of the new Ski-Doo Summit X snowmobile with T3 package, the Renegade XRS model and the expansion to more models of groundbreaking technologies like Intelligent Throttle Control (iTC) and Rotax Advanced Combustion
Efficiency (ACE) engines, plus improved systems like the new Response Angle Suspension (RAS 2) front suspension. “The great winter season in most markets has allowed the Ski-Doo brand to expand its market share in North America to record levels by having the technology and products buyers were looking for,” said Yves Leduc, vicepresident and general manager, North America division. “We are seeing the pay-off from our drive to improve the customer experience by providing innovative, reliable, high performing
snowmobiles, as well as accessories and clothing that notably enhance the actual riding experience. The Ski-Doo brand keeps getting stronger as its market penetration in all segments increases every year.” If there is one thing that defines BRP’s approach to its Ski-Doo snowmobile offering, it is a drive to always move forward, as no manufacturer has delivered more innovations to snowmobiling than BRP over the past 12 seasons. That doesn’t change for 2015. For
the
deep
snow
mountain market, the Ski-Doo Summit X model with T3 package delivers the longest standard track and tallest lugs ever offered by an OEM that will take riders even further in powder conditions. Trail riders will appreciate the new RAS 2 front suspension with improved big bump capabilities, improved roll centre and lighter weight, along with a new model, the Renegade XRS sled, for the most demanding crossover riders. And models equipped with Rotax 600 ACE engines get iTC technology added. Plus both 900 and 600 ACE-equipped sleds will see the only finger throttle offered by a manufacturer so riders can choose how they want to experience their ride for more comfort. “The introduction of the 900 ACE engine in many models last season was a tremendous success worldwide and expansion this year will continue to build momentum not only for North America, but also for international markets,” said Chris Dawson, vice-president and general manager, International division. “Expanding this engine to our utility line of snowmobiles gives us a real advantage where buyers can now get all the benefits ACE and iTC deliver in both 600 and 900 versions.”
Keith Curtis Photo credit Ryan Thompson RLT photography
UPDATE The RMSHA season kick-off was the 14th and 15th. Feels like it’s been ages since the season wrap up in April of 2013. Bear Lake was a success and I couldn’t be much happier with the results. I spent the majority of summer/ fall cross training and preparing for the RMSHA races. Thanks to all of you, my machines were dialed and the rest of the performance was on me! I will be keeping you in tune with results for the future events that can be found on www.rmsha.net.
ResultsStock King of the Hill 1st Pro Stock 600 1st Pro Stock 800 1st Pro Stock 1000 1st Pro Open Modified 2nd Pro 800 Modified
Polaris Racers Gabe Bunke & Aaron Christensen Win Their Third Straight Soo I-500; Win is Fifth of Bunke’s Soo Career Brothers Ryan & Travis Faust Team Up to Finish Second for Second Year in a Row
MEDINA, Minn. (Feb. 5, 2014) – Polaris enduro racers Gabe Bunke and Aaron Christensen enhanced their place in snowmobile racing history on Saturday, Feb. 1, by winning their third straight Soo International 500 race on the famed Soo I-500 track in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. The victory was the third Soo win of Christensen’s career, and the fifth of Bunke’s career. For the second straight year, the second-place team was made up of brothers and co-drivers Ryan Faust and Travis Faust driving a sled owned by Bunke Racing. The Fausts were joined by co-driver Spencer Kadlec, a fellow Polaris cross-country racer who in the 2013 Soo race was a co-driver on the winning Bunke Racing team. Finishing third to complete a Polaris podium sweep in the 2014 Soo I-500 was the sled campaigned by Beard Motor Sports with Michael Haynes as the lead driver. The 2014 Soo I-500 was dominated by Polaris race sleds, as the race has been in recent years. Polaris race teams clamed six of the top 10 finishing positions, and 13 of the top 20 finishing spots. The two Bunke Racing sleds were the only sleds to run all 500 laps, and the third-place Beard
Motor Sports team had completed 499 laps when the checkered flag flew. The winning Bunke Racing team had posted the sixth-best qualifying speed, and the Faust brothers qualified ninth. Bunke and Christensen are elite cross-country racers who compete in the Pro classes on the USXC circuit, as do the Faust brothers. Bunke has also raced snocross and ice LeMans in his career, and has competed in the Soo I-500 several times. Later this month he will run for the first time in the Iron Dog cross-country race across Alaska, where he will be a Pro class teammate of Scott Faeo. In recent years, Bunke has begun to position himself for the next stage of his career, his postdriver years. He owns Bunke Racing, which campaigns cross-country and enduro sleds, and his son Taylor is among the drivers racing cross-country for the team. Working with the Polaris Racing staff, Gabe Bunke has been instrumental in recent years in the development of Polaris cross-country and enduro race sleds. Yet the elder Bunke remains at the peak of his game as a driver. Along with winning a thirdstraight Soo I-500 and preparing for the Iron Dog, he is the current points leader in USXC Pro Open points, and is second in Pro Stock points. Gabe Bunke previously was on the winning team at the Soo in 2005 (with co-drivers Josh Davis and Corey Davidson) and 2002 (with Mike Gentz, Jr.).
Photo caption from top: Bunke Racing drivers and crew members gathered around the first-place trophy and winning sled after co-drivers Aaron Christensen (front left) and Gabe Bunke (front right) earned their third consecutive Soo I-500 victory.
BRP AND UNIVERSITY OF LAPLAND DESIGN COMPETITION RETURNS BRP and the University of Lapland in Finland launched today a competition for industrial design students at the University whereby students will design a new on-snow motorised recreational product. “This is the second time BRP has organized this competition. The success of the first edition in 2012 pushes us to deepen our cooperation with the University of Lapland. This is integral to BRP in all areas where we operate,” says Jukka Jokinen, vice-president and general manager of BRP’s Finland facility. Students are motivated to participate by the fact that BRP is a global company and they have the possibility to answer real-life research and development challenges. The winner will be awarded a fourmonth internship at BRP’s Design and Innovation Centre in Canada where international designers develop the powersports products of tomorrow. “The collaboration with BRP is strategic for us. The cooperation allows students to obtain important working experience and industrial design expertise. It is the best practical application for design in the Arctic Circle,” concludes Pertti Aula, industrial design teacher at the University of Lapland. The competition officially begins in September and winners will be announced during the 2015 Arctic Design Week.
Polaris Racers Todd Minnick & Nick Olstad Win 2014 Iron Dog Cross-Country Race Across Alaska on Terrain Dominating 600 Switchback PRO-R Sleds Winners’ Polaris Sleds Deliver Terrain Domination® & Tremendous Reliability MEDINA, Minn. – Polaris racers Todd Minnick and Nick Olstad won the grueling Iron Dog cross-country snowmobile race across Alaska on Saturday, Feb. 22, on a pair of 600 Switchback PRO-R snowmobiles. In the ultimate display of Polaris Terrain Domination®, the pair completed the 2,031mile race across punishing Alaskan landscapes in troublefree fashion aboard durable, dependable Polaris sleds. The team of Mike Morgan and Chris Olds finished third,
also on Polaris 600 Switchback PRO-R snowmobiles, to join the winners on the podium at the finish line in Fairbanks. Five teams on Polaris sleds finished in the top 10. Along with the first- and third-place teams were: • Archie Agnes and Arnold Marks finished sixth, both on 600 Switchback PRO-R models. • Shane Barber and Ryan Sottosanti finished seventh, both on Polaris 600 Switchback PRO-R sleds. • Gabe Bunke and Scott Faeo finished 10th, both on 600 INDY sleds.
Three more Polaris teams finished in the top 20: In 11th place was the team of Archie Beetus and Ryan Folsom, both riding 600 INDY snowmobiles; in 13th was the team of Kyle Conner on a 600 Switchback and Jerrod Vaughn on a 600 Switchback PRO-R; in 16th was the team of Tyler Delimont and Larry Jones, both on 600 INDY models. Two teams of racers on Polaris sleds successfully completed the race for the first time. In 21st place was the team of Doss
Daley and Cory Easterling, both on 600 Switchback PRO-R sleds. Finishing 22nd on Polaris 600 Switchback sleds was the team of Michael Fuller and Eddie Kinn. The win was the second Iron Dog victory on Polaris sleds for the team of Minnick and Olstad, who won together in 2009. Olstad was also on the winning team in 2005. Minnick, 34, and Olstad, 31, are both from Wasilla, Alaska. Minnick was racing in his 12th Iron Dog, while Olstad was racing in his 10th Iron Dog. The 2014 Iron Dog victory is the 14th Polaris win in 30 Iron Dog races – the most of any manufacturer. It is also the fourth win in the past six years for Polaris. Chris Olds and Tyler Huntington won as teammates aboard Polaris sleds in 2010 and 2011, and Minnick and Olstad won in 2009. Winners Took Lead and ‘Never Looked Back’ The 2014 race started in Big Lake, Alaska, on Sunday, Feb. 16. The Pro teams raced to Nome, where the midway banquet was held on Feb. 19 before racing resumed Feb. 20 with the Pro teams charging for the finish line in Fairbanks. Morgan and Olds were the race leaders at the midway point, and Minnick and Olstad arrived in Nome in third place. Minnick and Olstad proceeded
to set an incredibly fast pace and ran trouble-free over the second half of the race to earn the victory. “We passed the second place team at Unalakleet,” the fourth checkpoint in the second half of the race, Minnick said. “Then we passed the first place team at Galena [the sixth secondhalf checkpoint]. As soon as we took the lead, we never looked back. We started the final day of racing with a 21-minute lead and won with a 23-minute lead, so we actually stretched it out just a bit. Switchbacks Deliver Unmatched Performance & Reliability Minnick said the winning team’s 600 Switchback PRO-R sleds delivered outstanding performance and bulletproof durability in the rough racing conditions. “This was our second year on Switchbacks and we absolutely love them,” he said. “It’s an absolutely unbelievable sled for this particular race. They’re extremely reliable and friendly to ride over all the different terrain conditions we experienced. They’re by far the best sled available for this race.” Upon reaching Nome, the midpoint of the race, teams were allowed to service their sleds, but Minnick and Olstad had little to do. “The only things we did was tighten chains, tighten tracks and change carbides. Some
teams on other [brands of] sleds had to change their carbides several times, but we were able to maintain ours for half the race. So at Nome, we just gave the sleds a spit shine and sent them back out,” he laughed. “That was about all we did.” Minnick said race conditions were as rough as most Iron Dog observers had ever seen. “There was zero snow for the most part,” he said. “It was dirt, rocks, water, you name it – definitely the most grueling Iron Dog to date. Very marginal snow conditions.” Plus, racers had to traverse mile upon mile of frozen tussocks, large tufts of grass that, when frozen, can resemble boulder fields. “It was hundreds of miles of straight dirt, ice, and tussocks,” Minnick said. “I don’t think there’s anything worse than tussocks, just frozen hard. Honestly, you could be going 10 miles an hour and you’re out of control, just waiting to get cartwheeled off your sled, which happened to some guys.” But he and Olstad found the Switchbacks with their 136” tracks and terrain dominating suspension crossed that unforgiving terrain smoothly. “It was like riding a combination a couch and a Cadillac,” Minnick said. “There is no better-riding sled for that terrain, and the same can be
said for when there’s snow. It’s really a win-win situation.” Minnick said he and Olstad plan to return for the 2015 Iron Dog on Polaris snowmobiles. “Absolutely, without a doubt. We hope to run the same program – hopefully with the same results,” he said. “Think of it: We logged over 2,000 miles, about 36 hours of running time, and the only thing we did was change the ski carbides. These Switchbacks were just phenomenal.” Bio Info for Polaris Pro Race Teams The third-place team was comprised of Morgan, 28, who is from Nome and was running his fifth Iron Dog, and Olds, 42, from Eagle River, Alaska. Olds was in his 13th Iron Dog and was on back-to-back winning teams on Polaris sleds in 2010 and 2011.
Both members of the sixthplace team, Agnes and Marks, are from Tanana, Alaska. They were in seventh place at the midway point of the race. Agnes, 38, was racing as a Pro in the Iron Dog for the second time, and Marks, 31, was running in his fourth Iron Dog as a Pro. The seventh-place team of Barber and Sottosanti was in eighth at the midway point. Barber, 39, of Willow, Alaska, was in his 10th Iron Dog, and Sottosanti, 36, of Wasilla, was in his sixth Iron Dog. The 10th-place team consisted of Bunke,37, of Moorhead, Minnesota, and Faeo, 30, of Wasilla. Faeo was racing in his second Iron Dog as a Pro, and Bunke, a Midwest crosscountry and enduro racing star, competed in the Iron Dog for the first time in his career.
The 11th-place team included Beetus, 27, of Hughes, Alaska, who was in his second Iron Dog, and Folsom, 32, of Fairbanks, who was a Pro-class rookie in this year’s race. The 13th-place team was comprised of Iron Dog rookie Conner, 24, of Willow, Alaska, and Vaughn, 30, of Anchorage, who was in his second Iron Dog. The 16th-place team consisted of Anchorage racers Delimont, 25, an Iron Dog rookie, and Jones, 28, who was racing in his second Iron Dog. On the 21st-place team was Daley, 25, of Anchorage, and Easterling, 27, of Wasilla, and the 22nd-place team consisted of Fuller, 48, of Chugiak, Alaska, and Kinn, 31, an Iron Dog rookie from Corvallis, Oregon.
Polaris Snowmobile Racers Dominate Snocross, Win Multiple Oval Titles at Eagle River World Championship
Corin Todd, Ryan Springer Win 2 Snocross Titles Apiece; Blaine Stephenson Wins 4 Oval Finals MEDINA, Minn. (Jan. 24, 2014) – Polaris snocross racers Corin Todd and Ryan Springer each won two finals and Blaine Stephenson won four finals on the legendary ice oval during the 51st Eagle River World Championship Snowmobile Derby, held Jan. 16-19 in Wisconsin’s Northwoods. Polaris snocross racers demonstrated total Terrain Domination® by winning both Pro-class finals, both Pro Lite finals, and two more class titles. Corin Todd, Ryan Spring Sweep in Snocross Finals In snocross racing at Eagle River, Leighton Motorsports racers dominated the Pro classes
as teammates Corin Todd, Zak Mason and Trevor Leighton all finished in the top five in both finals. Corin Todd was a twotime champ, winning both the Pro Open World Championship (W.C.) and the Friday Night Thunder Pro Open final. Trevor Leighton finished second in the W.C. and fifth on Friday night, while Zak Mason was second on Friday and fourth in the W.C. James Johnstad (Judnick Motorsports) took third in the W.C. and fourth on Friday night, and Bobby LePage (Cottew Motorsports) was fifth in the W.C. Polaris racers filled the podium after the two Pro
Lite finals, both of which were won by Ryan Springer (Carlson Motorsports). He was followed in the weekend Pro Lite final by Cole Cottew (Cottew Motorsports) in second, Luke Wollenberg (2 Three 7 Motorsports) in third, Nickolas Lorenz (Lorenz Racing) in fourth, and Jake Geeseman (Geeseman Racing). Springer won the Friday Night Thunder Pro Lite final and Wollenberg took second and Geeseman finished third. David Blunt (Team Blunt) won the Plus 30 final, leading a 1-2-3-4 Polaris finished that included Scot Adams (JTA Racing) in second, Brian Staab (Twisted Throttle Racing)
in third, and Bob Heizman (Twisted Throttle Racing) in fourth. Blunt was also third in Pro-Am Plus 30. Nickolas Lorenz won the Sport final and Cole Cottew took second as Polaris racers took seven of the top 10 spots. Michael Gagliano (Team G Motorsports) was second in Plus 40; Jakki Farmer (Farmer Racing/ Fort Fremont Racing) was second in the Women’s class; and Jordan Carlson (Upperacing) won the Novice final, followed by Devin Katzman (Eagle Disposal Racing) in second and Steve Walter (Walter’s Racing) in third. Five Sleds With Polaris Engines in Championship Field Five Polaris-powered Pro Champ race sleds qualified for the 12-man World Championship. Joey Fjerstad (Joe Fjerstad 16x Racing) finished fifth, Brandon Johnson (Wahl Bros. Racing), Holt, MN, was sixth, Jordan Wahl (Wahl Bros. Racing), Greenbush, MN, was seventh, and Nick Van Strydonk (T&N Racing),
Tomahawk, WI, finished eighth. Van Strydonk etched his name deeper in Eagle River history at the end of the first segment of the championship when he picked up the tail of his sled and pushed the vehicle from turn three, through turn four and across the start-finish line. The sled had blown a belt, and rather than accept a tow and withdraw, he pushed it across the line to remain eligible to compete. The crowd cheered the 2012 Eagle River World Champion on as he struggled with the machine on the ice oval. He pushed it over the line and his crew changed belts so Nick could keep racing. In TLR Cup points after Eagle River, Van Strydonk is in third, followed by Johnson, Jordan Wahl, Joey Fjerstad, and Dustin Wahl in fourth through seventh, respectively. Blaine Stephenson Earns Four Eagle River Titles Blaine Stephenson (Stephenson Racing) of Hutchinson, MN, won four finals on World Championship weekend,
including two Formula 500 finals (one held during Friday Night Thunder), Limited 600, and Limited 500. Polaris racers finished 1-6 in the Formula 500 final during Friday Night Thunder, as Stephenson won and was followed by Brian Healey in second and Troy Schmitz in third. Eight of the top nine finishers in the Sunday Formula 500 final were on Polaris sleds, with the same three racers – Stephenson, Healey, and Schmitz, respectively – finishing 1-2-3. AJ Lange earned a spot on the podium with his second-place finish in Limited 600. All eight finishers in the F-500 Sport final won by Tanner Lyberg were on Polaris sleds. Lyberg was joined on the podium by Tyler Lyberg in second and Billy DeVault in third. Polaris racers who won Junior class titles were: Danick Lambert, Sorel, Quebec, Junior F-500, 14-15; Brennen Sather, Detroit Lakes, MN, Junior F-500, 11-13; and Jacob Ricci, Wausau, WI, Junior Novice, 10-14.
2014 Waconia Ride-In
The 2014 Waconia Ride-In that was held in late January came with significant anticipation. After all, the entire snow-belt was experiencing a good old fashioned winter. Read cold temperatures and plenty of the white stuff that did not melt between snowfalls. For the “Waconia crew” this meant days and days of snow clearing and site preparation. No problem because we knew that our full slate of events would go on, without weather interruptions like last year when the warm weather forced cancellation of the trail ride. NO – this year was going to be full on! Moreover, with Yamaha as the featured brand and a few Yamaha powered cousins (Roll-o-Flex & Sno Jet) thrown in for good luck, there was much buzz as the magical weekend approached. As it turned out, the weather was a factor --- but it was the cold and wind that played its hand unlike the previous year. Saturday, it was cold but bearable for the swappers, racers and the 540 machines on the trail ride. It was odd to make the rounds and hear someone next to you say HI, but not recognizing the person because of the facemask or hood obscuring their face. No problem, really, because the Ballroom was warm and noisy with those that were warming up and ogling over the special display sleds. On display were nearly 20 examples of Yamahas, from their 1968 inaugural year through the early 1980’s. With their stellar racing heritage, you can imagine the significant race machines for all to see. Notables included the “Giant Killer”, aka. the 1971 SR433 that captured the 1971 World Championship in Eagle River in a contest of speed often described as the most exciting race in snowmobile history. You see, a young Mike Trapp battled head-to-head with Yvon Duhamel’s 797 Ski Doo Blizzard, and the little Yamaha prevailed in a race with thirteen lead changes! Another display included five Yamaha racers owned by Leon Koch of Crivitz, Wisconsin. Also, I overheard more than one observer comment that the 1978 SSR on display is the prettiest snowmobile ever built. Meanwhile, on Saturday night, temperatures were dropping and the Northwest wind picking up. The local TV station weather forecasters were scaring their audience with exaggerated claims of “dangerous wind
chill” and unanimous in stating that “travel is not advised”. Yes, on Sunday it was cold and yes, attendance in the judged show was down. The ORA oval racers soldiered on out on the Lake Waconia ice, with registrations up by 15% compared to the year before. However, the winds created blizzard conditions and eight of the scheduled 44 races were scrapped for safety reasons. Event organizers moved up the awards ceremony by an hour to allow everyone to get homeward bound a little early. If you would rather see than read about Waconia 2014, check out this great YouTube production. You can almost feel the Polar Vortex when watching: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hGwTB1GP88E A great family story came to light on Sunday afternoon. A bit away from the show, we spied a family of four standing in front of pine trees and a collection of four restored Yamahas. I saw ponytails and thought, WOW – these are teenaged girls on an outing with their parents. As it turned out, we met a lovely family from Southern Minnesota. It was Mom who told the story of her father owning the local Yamaha dealership. Her future husband happened to purchase a new Yamaha from her father. A daughter was introduced and a result was this 2014 family photo shoot. Dad restored the machines in front of them, including the one that he purchased that fateful day. Even the girls seemed to be “handling” the situation. I heard that at first, they stated that the matching vintage Yamaha snowmobile suits that they were wearing were “dorky”. That was until several other people told them that they looked great in their vintage Yamaha attire. Now all of a sudden it was hip to be cool at the Waconia Ride-In. 2015 will mark our 25th year! We will honor the two Minnesota manufacturers in a theme titled MINNESOTA ICONS. Set the dates of January 23, 24 and 25th, 2015 on your calendar. Expect to see Polaris and Arctic Cat side-by-side. Bring your favorite Minnesota Icon and let’s have some fun! Keep current at: http://www.mwvss.com
Yamaha conquers new heights with 2015 Snowmobile lineup (Pleasant Prairie, WI)— Yamaha announced its largest 4-stroke snowmobile product line today with nine new models in the SR Viper line, including four Limited Edition models only available during the Spring Power Surge program. “We made a commitment to our dealers last year that we would continue to bring new product to their showrooms every year for the next five years,” said the head of Yamaha’s North American Snowmobile team, Peter Smallman-Tew. “This is the second year of that plan, and we are excited to offer new SR Viper models for the deep snow market and some new product for the trail rider as well.” Mountain Three new SRViper M-TX models headline the new product launch. The deep-snow sleds are packed with design features riders demand—adjustable, narrow ski stance on the new SRV-M front suspension, 2.6-inch lugs on the legendary Power Claw track, short mountain seat to accommodate rider movement and a tall, vertical steering post. Consumers have options in shock package as well as track length. The SRViper M-TX 162 and 153 both come in the SE package, with FOX FLOAT 3 front shocks, while the M-TX 153 sports coil springs over HPG front shocks. The Phazer M-TX returns with its lightweight 2-cylinder engine and agile boondocking chassis setup. Crossover Yamaha adds a new twist to the burgeoning crossover segment. These models are defined by their versatility and capabilities in a wide range of terrain and conditions. This is where the X-TX family has led the market, with its 141 and 144inch track lengths. The new SRViper S-TX DX is built on the same 141-inch platform as the SRViper XTX SE, but it takes versatility a step further, with its modular rear bumper system. “The S-TX gives owners even more choice in the kind of sled they want,” explained Smallman-Tew. “The modular rear bumper comes stock with a cargo rack, but the accessories team will offer a host of additional pieces that fit right in. Saddlebags, additional racks and even an accessory passenger seat make the Viper S-TX DX a true crossover sled.” The S-TX DX is rounded out by the DX, deluxe feature package: tall windshield, comfort-tuned coil spring suspension, heated seat and the large wedge bag behind the seat.
The super-nimble Phazer X-TX marks its sophomore year on the market with a color change to black and Yamaha Blue. Trail Yamaha’s 2015 trail sled offering returns to the snow with some key new components. All SRViper trail models ride on a pair of new, Yamaha-exclusive Deep-Keel Tuner skis. The ski is specifically engineered to deliver the same great ride on the Viper series as they do for other models. The SRViper R-TX SE and L-TX SE return with their 129 and 137-inch, respectively 1.25” lug Rip Saw II tracks, FLOAT 3 front shocks and sport-tuned suspension calibrations. The SRViper R-TX DX and L-TX DX feature new names from ‘14 to better indicate their comfort-minded component package. Yamaha continues to be the exclusive brand for Electric Power Steering in 2015. The Apex SE and Apex models combine the big power of the 4-cylinder Genesis Top Performance engine with EPS for the ultimate big power cruiser. If ultimate power isn’t your thing, take a long hard look at the RSVector and RSVector LTX. Year in and year out, the Vector models, with their ultra reliable, fuel injected triple, comfortcalibrated suspension package and power steering find themselves on industry top ten lists for best sled on the market. The Phazer R-TX, with its torquey 500cc twin, returns to the line as well. Multi Purpose The touring and work crowd will find top–tier features like electric power steering, ample storage space and comfortable suspension calibrations in the 2015 Yamaha line. The RSVenture GT and TF both return, the latter with a slightly longer track length for greater fresh snow flotation. The brawny RS Viking Professional and distinctive Venture MP also appeal to the more utilitarian snowmobile customer with their ample storage capacity and standard tow hitches. The youngest sledders in the group will enjoy the fresh graphics package on the SRX 120, powered by a rugged and reliable 123cc Yamaha engine. New LE models Yamaha also announced an expanded Spring Power Surge program that runs through April 15, 2014. “We have built a robust spring deposit business over the years by offering incredibly strong warranty and finance combined with high quality exclusive items like custom jackets and bags for customers who come in and make a commitment to their dealers,” said Smallman-Tew. “But we saw an opportunity to expand our spring business by offering unique, limited edition snowmobiles during the Spring Power Surge. Our new LE line offers snowmobilers an opportunity to order a head-turning sled that also boasts component upgrades.”
There are four LE models available during the Spring Power Surge program. The SRViper M-TX 162 LE carries the same track and chassis package as the in-season SE model, but carries upgraded FOX FLOAT 3 EVOL shocks on the front suspension for added performance in the rough mountain environment. The SRViper X-TX LE boats a host of upgrades over the SE model by virtue of its deep-snow component package. Like the M-TX models, the X-TX LE boasts the vertical steering post, short mountain seat, single-keel mountain skis and a 15 x 144 x 2.25-inch Power Claw track. The X-TX LE maintains the trail width 42-43” ski stance. The SRViper L-TX LE offers buyers an additional measure of deep snow performance with a 1.75-inch Back Country track. However, the L-TX LE keeps the coupled Dual Shock SR 137 rear suspension for excellent on-trail comfort and performance. The final model in the LE offering is the R-TX LE. Unlike the other limited edition models, the R-TX LE will have a pair of color options: LE Yamaha Blue and Orange and a more competition-minded White and Yamaha Blue color scheme. Both models have the new Dual Shock SR 129 Race rear suspension with a pair of clickeradjustable shocks and beefy torque arms. Up front, both colors will feature FOX FLOAT 3 EVOL RC shocks with both compression and rebound clicker adjustability. There will be two tracks available on the R-TX LE, however. The Yamaha Blue and Orange model spins the 1.25” Rip Saw II track, while the White/Yamaha Blue sled will rock a 1.7” Snocross track for those who crave competition. All LE models are only available by putting a deposit down at your local Yamaha Snowmobile Dealer before April 15, 2014. For more information, including full specs and feature information, visit Yamahasnowmobiles.com or stop in at your Yamaha Snowmobile Dealer. Connect with fellow snowmobilers at facebook.com/YamahaSnowmobilesUSA.