SnoWest March 2025

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MARCH 2025

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SPECIALIZED LUBRICANTS ENGINEERED FOR WHAT YOU RIDE AND HOW YOU RIDE SPECIALIZED LUBRICANTS ENGINEERED FOR WHAT YOU DRIVE AND HOW YOU DRIVE

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WHERE YOU GO, IT’LL GO. An industry-first 32 in. ski stance enables the 2026 Ski-Doo Summit X with Expert Package to go where other sleds simply can’t. It features a new super-short tunnel design, a new confidence-boosting Twin Link steering system and 180 hp of factory-backed, turbocharged Rotax 2-stroke power. Attack the most challenging technical terrain with unmatched precision and unshakable confidence.

BUILD YOURS AT SKI-DOO.COM

SKI STANCE

©2025 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, TM and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates. In the USA, products are distributed by BRP US Inc. †All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. BRP reserves the right to discontinue or change specifications, prices, designs, features, models or equipment without incurring obligation. Some models shown may include optional equipment. Products performance may vary depending on external factors. Read the operator’s guide and safety instructions. All adult snowmobile models are meant to be used by drivers of age 16 and older. Observe applicable laws and regulations. Always wear appropriate protective clothing, including a helmet. Riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix. Always ride responsibly and safely. See your authorized BRP dealer for details and visit https://www.ski-doo.com.

MARCH 2025

THE AUTHORITY FOR WESTERN SNOWMOBILING

FEATURES

14 SUMMIT X SHEDS WEIGHT

Ski-Doo Makes Front To Rear Improvements

20 LIMITED EDITION, UNLIMITED PLEASURE Polaris LE Line To Define Quality

26 LYNX SHREDDER KEEPS GETTING BETTER

Changes For 2026 Make It More Suited For Deep Snow

34 DEEPER UNDERSTANDING

The Relationship Between Risk & Reward

DEPARTMENTS 6

STAFF

8

SNOWDUST

38 PRODUCTS REVIEWED 45 ADVERTISER INDEX 46 SNOWDUST

COVER

The 2026 mountain lineup is here and ready to go. What will you be riding?

CONTENTS

Chris Smith spotting his next move in blower snow.

Rider: Jason Ribi Photo: Rob Alford @alfordrob on Instagram 4 SNOWEST MARCH 2025

Progressive is committed to protecting you on your sled. We offer basic liability protection, comprehensive and collision coverage, and more, so you can ride wherever with maximum peace of mind.

Quote now to take full advantage of snow season and get exploring!

Scan to get a snowmobile quote online in as little as 3 minutes PROGRESSIVE.COM or 1-800-PROGRESSIVE

Progressive Casualty Ins. Co. & affiliates. Coverages subject to policy terms and conditions.

Not available in all states. Prices vary based on how you buy.

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SNOWDUST

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RIDER: JEREMY HANKE PHOTO: ROB ALFORD @ALFORDROB ON INSTAGRAM SNOWEST MARCH 2025 9

SNOWDUST

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RIDERS: ANDY COURNOYER, CHRIS SMITH, RILEY EDWARDS PHOTO: ROB ALFORD @ALFORDROB ON INSTAGRAM SNOWEST MARCH 2025 11

SNOWDUST

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RIDER: BROC GENTA PHOTO: TRISTIN IRONI FOR SNOWEST SNOWEST MARCH 2025 13

SKI-DOO 2026

SUMMIT X GETS LIGHT, EXPERT TURNS TIGHT SKI-DOO MAKES FRONT TO REAR IMPROVEMENTS

BY STEVE JANES

Ski-Doo is offering two notable changes for 2026 on its mountain line of snowmobiles. You can either opt for a game-changing 32-inch front end on the Summit Expert or a quick-responding lightweight rear with the Summit X. These subtle changes go a long way in separating the strengths of each of these two snowmobiles. The X is a simple, easy-to-ride snowmobile that goes absolutely anywhere in the mountains. The Expert is an aggressive, precise-handling snowmobile designed for the rider who likes to rodeo.

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Both models will also see significant changes in weight reduction and will introduce shorter/lighter tunnels. But before we get to the short of things, let’s focus on the front and rear suspensions.

First the front—Ski-Doo introduces an all-new Twin Link Steering System that is simply designed to be as light as the pitman arm system while delivering the precise control of the rack steering system. The 32-inch ski stance requires less lean angle to reach sled balance on edge; which means it

can hold a steeper sidehill with less effort and less wash out.

The vertical ski movement on one side doesn’t affect the other, delivering better handling and control.

If you’re thinking a 32-inch stance is going to be tippy, you’re wrong. The Expert delivers a stable ride, both on and off the trail. There’s no washout or role in the corners and there’s an elevated level of stability on the sidehills. Also, the narrower skis will compact the snow closer to the track which will increase snow density where the track can use it.

This makes the base a little more supportive.

The Twin Link System reduces bump steer and has less free-play in the handlebars. The skis are more predictable to control making it the perfect snowmobile for attacking technical terrain features. You also have an expanded turning radius which can come in useful in tight trees.

This new front end is a perfect match with the tMotion XT rear suspension which features a rigid rear arm and a fullrod track that delivers an exactness in handling and control.

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SKI-DOO 2026

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SKI-DOO 2026

This combination allows the Expert to deliver a super technical ride in deep snow and terrain.

For Summit X riders, the tMotion is still there but it’s fitted with a lightweight coil-over shock for additional weight savings and a bit more travel. The reduced weight allows the snowmobile to react instantly to rider input.

The rear suspension is cleaner and comes with a lighter PowderMax Ultra-Light with FlexEdge 16x154x3-inch track for additional weight savings.

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The Summit X may not have received the Twin Link Steering or the 32-inch front, but it did gain lighter aluminum A-arms. It is the lightest Ski-Doo on the mountain.

The Summit X, Expert and Freeride all have a new lightweight frame and super-short tunnel which allow each model to shed 14, 8 and 6 pounds, respectively.

SHORT & COOL

For all three mountain models, a new frame was designed to accommodate a super-short tunnel which not only allows the mountain sleds to lose some weight but also eliminate rear-end drag. On the 154s, the tunnels on all three mountain models were shortened by nearly two inches. For the X and Expert, the heat exchanger was shortened by 9.4 inches while the Freeride saw a 3.2-inch reduction. On the 165s, the tunnels on all three models were shortened by 2.4 inches. The X and Expert received

a 13.7-inch reduction in the heat exchanger while the Freeride received a 4.3-inch reduction.

The shorter heat exchangers actually bring more weight distribution to the center of the chassis which provides superb balance. The shorter heat exchanger also translates to less material (and antifreeze) which leads to weight reduction. The heat exchanger has been designed to improve cooling while reducing ice-buildup inside the tunnel. Ski-Doo engineers also explained that the materials in the tunnel are a little thinner and will allow for better cooling even with the shorter heat exchanger.

To wrap things up, the tunnel also has a lighter snow flap and taillight which also helps to reduce tail-end drag

GAUGE TECHNOLOGY

Finally, Ski-Doo has improved its 10.25-inch display to add live location sharing off-line. It also offers trail maps without

the need of cellular connection. Now you can keep track of those riding buddies who have the same technology on their sled, as well as have a constant view of where you’re at and where you’ve been.

As we rode the 2026 Ski-Doo mountain sleds, we were very impressed on how these changes actually delivered a better ride and rider experience in deep snow. The sleds turned easier, were better at maintaining their lines and rode smoother.

The combined weight savings and improve handling and cooling make the Ski-Doo mountain line the best it has ever been. d SNOWEST MARCH 2025 19

POLARIS 2026

LIMITED EDITION BRINGS UNLIMITED PLEASURE POLARIS LE LINE TO DEFINE QUALITY

BY STEVE JANES

Polaris engineers are really stuck between a rock and a hard place. They have designed perhaps the best line of mountain sleds ever to tackle the deep snow and steep slopes. They have shed pretty much every ounce off their mountain line that they possible could. And they have produced enough power to take them to the top of any mountain that holds snow.

SO, WHAT’S NEXT?

While riding the new 2026 models in West Yellowstone, Mont., this spring, Nels Eide, product manager for Polaris Snowmobile, was quick to point out some impressive new features for the Limited Edition models of the Pro RMK and RMK Khaos line while assuring SnoWest readers that Polaris is still aggressively looking to improve the mountain line and maintain its standing of having the best mountain snowmo20 SNOWEST MARCH 2025

bile in the industry.

The most notable changes for the 2026 line found on the four LE models that represent the flagship of the Polaris brand may not necessarily affect the performance of the ride, but will improve the quality for the rider.

Exclusive on the LE trims of the Patriot Boost Pro RMK 155, Patriot 9R Pro RMK 155, Patriot Boost RMK Khaos 155 and Patriot 9R RMK Khaos 155 will be new products developed for Chris Burandt and the most aggressive mountain rider. This includes Burandt Edition front and rear bumpers, along with the Burandt Edition Handlebar Bag. The front bumper features a lightweight, compact design made to handle the hits from those pesky small trees that crop up like weeds in a forest. The bumper has a wider profile to provide better protection to the nose of the snowmobile. It is built sturdy to resist bending when you need to go over the

top of the smaller trees. It’s built to resist punishment when you are carving your way through willows or sagebrush.

The rear bumper is designed to be 40 percent stronger than last year’s stock bumper and is built sturdy to withstand the re-entry hits, hop-overs and rear impact.

Both bumpers are better designed to provide a more accessible grip when you need to tug on one end or the other.

Where last year there was an emphasis in shaving seven pounds off the mountain models, this year the emphasis was in making the models more durable and functional.

MORE STORAGE

With the addition of the Burandt Handlebar Bag, the four LE models will have much more convenient storage options for the rider. The front bag, that mounts to the forward-facing side of your handlebars, is specifically designed to house

an extra set of goggles and a secure neoprene pouch for your cell phone, and still have a little extra room for gloves or other personal items. The rear bag, which mounts to the driver side of the bars, has ample room for gloves, goggles, water bottles, snacks, tools or anything else you may need quick access to.

The beauty of these bags is how they are mounted and how quickly they can be removed so you don’t have to leave them outside with your snowmobile. They are fitted with a quick-detach Fidlock attachment system that makes them easy to install and remove.

When you combine the storage space available with these bags plus the compartment behind your 7S Display gauge, you really don’t need to carry a tunnel bag. However, the Burandt Edition Tunnel Bag is always a popular accessory for your sled.

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POLARIS 2026

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POLARIS 2026

INDUSTRY-LEADING 7S DISPLAY

The LE models will also feature the popular 7S Display with expanded private and public land information that functions without cellular connection. Not only do you have greater mapping and route planning options, you can also use the technology to connect with your riding buddies so you can keep track of where everyone is on the mountain.

This technology has been purpose-built for snowmobiles and is simple to operated.

Each of the four LE models offer two track options for the 155-inch length—the 275 Series 8 and the 325 Series 9.

The Series 9 is a 3.25-inch track and is about six pounds 24 SNOWEST MARCH 2025

heavier than the Series 8 2.75-inch track.

Although the Series 9 is heavier, you wouldn’t know that by how fast these snowmobiles climb up on top of the snow. Both tracks work exceptionally well, partly due to the Pro RMK rear suspension found on the Pro sleds and the RMK Khaos suspension found on the Khaos sleds. The approach angles on these suspensions match perfectly with the Polaris tracks to climb out of the hole quickly and generate a forward thrust instantly.

Finally, the feature that caught our eye on the four LE models was chrome-outlined graphics. Polaris will offer two unique paint and graphic packages for the LE models.

The Pros feature a dark blue paint with orange and red

lines and chrome lettering. The Khaos features a little less dark blue and a little more orange to go with some red lines and chrome lettering. But it’s the chrome that really makes these graphic packages pop out.

The catch with the LE models is that they are only available during spring snow check season so you need to act fast to reserve on. However, many of the accessories are available as options on fall orders.

So, for 2026, the emphasis has been put on comfort and convenience. But when you’re already the baddest thing on the mountain, perhaps it’s a pleasant change to occasionally pamper your clientele. d SNOWEST MARCH 2025 25

LYNX 2026

LYNX SHREDDER KEEPS

GETTING BETTER CHANGES FOR 2026 MAKE IT MORE SUITED FOR DEEP SNOW

BY STEVE JANES

Although it is still considered the new kid on the block for this part of the world, the Lynx mountain line of snowmobiles is undergoing some significant changes to make the Shredder DS and RE more practical in the North American market. Lynx has figured out that the Shredder needed to adapt to the different snow conditions in high elevations. With lighter snow, more emphasis needed to be placed on flotation.

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Lynx still wanted to maintain its signature riding style of being aggressive in the bumps, but add a bit of playfulness for powder riding. So, they focused their efforts on reducing weight.

At first glance, since Lynx shares the powerplant packages and initial chassis design with Ski-Doo, one would think it would have a similar feel in the snow.

You’re wrong. The ride and handling of the Lynx is uniquely different. And for the most part, this comes with the Lynx

third generation PPS-DS rear suspension and, in particular, the location and function of the rear suspension front shock.

True to the long-standing design of the rear skid to take big hits and buzz over grueling terrain, the front shock in the skid is positioned higher and more horizontal, and is longer. However, for 2026 some of the location of suspension mounts have been moved to reduce trenching and improve its ability to climb on top of the snow to make the Shredder

better suited for deep snow riding.

Since Lynx engineers were trying to make a better mountain suspension, they had to make adjustments in the chassis, tunnel and running boards to get the full advantage of a lighter and more efficient rear suspension.

There are actually two versions of the PPS3-DS rear. Although on both versions, the rails are straight (eliminating the rear tip-up that’s better suited for trails). This delivers better flotation

and more predictable handling on side hills. The Shredder DS (the deep snow Shredder) has lighter rails due to bigger windows in the side holes. The Shredder RE rails are solid and have long rail reinforcement to be better suited for the big hits and tail walks.

New springs and shock calibration ensure the suspension works flawlessly on the mountain, whether it be on the rough trails going in or the deep snow going up.

The new skid also has a smoother,

shallower angle of attack up front that will allow the track to get up on the snow much faster than last year’s Lynx.

The rear shock package features 46mm diameter KYB Kashima shocks with three-way adjustability in the rear shock.

The improvements to the rear skid were just the first step in making the Lynx better suited for North American riders. A new tunnel design that is shorter, slimmer and narrower allows the rear suspension to travel better through SNOWEST MARCH 2025 27

LYNX 2026

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LYNX 2026

deeper snow. The tunnel actually tapers in the end so that the farther back it is, the narrower it rides. A new slim snow flap and rear taillights are also designed to reduce any potential drag.

Lynx has also raised the location of the running boards to provide a little better clearance in the deep snow.

Although the height of the boards is very similar to Ski-Doo, the grip design and pattern is more aggressive with larger openings to eliminate snow buildup.

An ultra compact seat makes it easy to get from side-to-side on the Shredder.

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Since changes were being made to the tunnel, Lynx also took the time to design a shorter heat exchanger to shave some weight and reduce snow buildup inside the tunnel. This deepsnow-optimized cooling system shifts more weight forward due to the shortened rear radiator to improve the balance of the snowmobile.

Another great feature added to the 2026 Shredder line is the Twin Link steering system that creates a more predictable ride and a tighter steering radius. This system matches well

with the LFL-DS front suspension that comes with a new lightweight spindle and improved Blade DSS skis. The skis are narrower, lighter and more predictable that last year. The front shock package features KYB Pro 40 EA-3 R Kashima shocks.

With all these changes, the Shredder RE is 11 pounds lighter than last year (dry weight 472 pounds) and the DS is just over five pounds lighter (dry weight 445 pounds). Both the RE and DS come with SHOT starting.

Both Shredder models are offered in

the Rotax 850 E-TEC or 850 Turbo R engines. The Shredder RE is available in 146x15x2.5-inch PowderMax or 154x15x3inch PowderMax X Light track options.

The Shredder DS comes with either a 154x15x3-inch or 165x15x3-inch PowderMax X Light track sizes. (The 165 is only available on the Turbo R.) The 10.25-inch touchscreen display comes standard on both the RE and DS Turbo R sleds. The display features built-in GPS with the new Group Ride features that allow you to track your riding buddies who have similar tech-

nology. The 10.25-inch display is optional on the aspirated 850 E-TEC sleds.

One other new model that Lynx is introducing to its North American market is the Commander.

Although this model really doesn’t have the mountain DNA like the Shredders, it has been the top selling European sled so we thought maybe you’d at least want to see what it was all about.

The Commander is a crossover utility snowmobile that has some sporty features that will make it popular for those riders who like to travel with a lot of gear.

Lynx has positioned it as a “high performance pickup truck” for snowmobiling.

The Commander has a Rotax 900 Ace Turbo R engine that delivers massive torque. It features a two-speed gearbox to offer full power at either high speeds or heavy towing. It has a 20-inch-wide track with 1.75-inch lugs and an Easyride+ rear suspension. It is built on the Radien2 platform.

Comfort features include a heated seat, premium LED headlights, Kashima KYB Pro shocks and the 10.25-inch touchscreen display. d SNOWEST MARCH 2025 31

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN RISK & REWARD

BY MANDY FABEL

That day started perfectly. We were riding with a group of skilled riders in several feet of fresh snow. After lunch, we headed to higher terrain, taking a more exposed slope one rider at a time.

I was about fifth in line with two more riders below me.

Partway up, I caught sight of a wall of snow rushing towards me, triggered by another rider who had reached the saddle. There was no time to outrun it. I released my handlebars and pulled the cord on my avalanche airbag. I heard the bag inflate just before being torn from my sled and rag-dolled down the slope.

Seconds of chaos turned into complete stillness as the avalanche locked my body in place. My arms and legs were pinned, and I could feel the weight of snow on my chest. Opening my eyes inside my snowmobile helmet, I was met with darkness. I forced myself to stay calm and take inventory. No pain. And steady breathing…for now. I knew that statistically speaking I had seven to 12 minutes to be rescued.

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Abruptly, my thoughts drifted to my newly pregnant belly and the news we had so proudly shared with our families just days before. My eyes closed again, this time consumed by a wall of shame.

My mind entered a spiral of questions. Had I lost consciousness at all?

What would my breathing window be?

And my biggest question of all, “What kind of mother am I going to be if I just tried to kill both of us?”

STOP. I could hear my rational brain clawing back control from my reactive brain. Don’t think, just breathe. In the stillness my mind drifted to the four women we had told they were about to become grandmothers. I suddenly felt a warmth around me as I imagined these four women praying for their unborn grandchild. It’s hard to explain this sort of peace amid chaos, but I undoubtedly felt their prayers of protection.

My first glimmer of hope came as I opened my eyes and started to notice small specks of light filtering through the snow above me. This had to mean I SNOWEST MARCH 2025 33

wasn’t buried too deeply. I still couldn’t move, but the odds of being rescued had just shot up significantly. I knew my husband Brian and friend Todd had been at the bottom of the slope and had seen the avalanche. They had the equipment and training to perform a rescue, and I knew they would do everything they could to get to me.

Within a few minutes I could hear the beeping of an avalanche beacon.

Because I was close to the surface, they quickly exposed my face to get me fresh oxygen. They could then unbury the rest of my body and pull me out. Our other riding partners joined us and eventually found and retrieved my buried my snowmobile. Humbled and shaken, we ended our day and headed home.

On the drive home, I considered giving up snowmobiling. At least for my pregnancy and maybe even forever. This probably sounds quite logical. But let me put it another way, “On my drive home I considered giving up chasing joy in the mountains with people I love and trust.”

As a mom, I believe it is my duty to care for and protect my child. And I can tell you that my riding has indeed changed since my son was born. No injury and certainly no death is “worth it” for that single day in the mountains.

But that is the wrong equation.

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Because I also believe my job as a mom is to be the very best version of myself to and for my son. And the best version of me has a deeply innate piece that is fueled by chasing adventure in the mountains. By seeing sunsets over a beautiful landscape. By trying hard in a way that takes physical, mental, and emotional resilience. And yes—by taking real risks that have real consequences.

There is no equilibrium in life where you can take exactly the right amount of risk to return the perfect amount of reward. This is the reality of true adventure. It is what makes the experiences meaningful, and the relationships rooted in trust and interdependence.

I hope it is never said at my funeral, “She died doing what she loved.” I want my last days to be spent getting in trouble for doing wheelies on a motorized wheelchair at a nursing home. But I do hope that someday (many decades from now), my son will be able to stand up at that same funeral and say with certainty, “She lived doing what she loved, and she taught me to do the same.”

Final note: Buy avalanche rescue gear, know how to use it, and take an avalanche course. It is never a first line of defense, but you sure want it to work when it is your last.

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PRODUCT REVIEW

THE FASHION

CATWALK FXR COMBINES FUNCTIONALITY WITH STYLE

BY BRADY L. KAY

We’re not a judgmental group of riders, at least that’s what we like to think when we get together to ride. Sure we have a little fun with Ski-Doo versus Polaris debates as well as heated “conversations” about brand loyalty between Ford and Chevy, but no one I ride with seems to notice or care if someone is wearing gear that is not from the current year. If it’s warm and it protects you, you’re good to go.

However, what does attract a few stares in our group is the violation of brand crossover. If someone shows up wearing a helmet, coat and boots that are from three different companies, whoa, lookout! I like to joke that the short 38 SNOWEST MARCH 2025

distance from the trucks to our sleds has turned into a snow gear fashion catwalk. Everyone admires (or mocks) with strong opinions as if we were all sworn in as certified fashion police as we make our way down the runway.

Okay, so maybe our group is a little judgmental, but that’s half the fun of getting together with friends. With that said, going with FXR Racing gear has never failed me – both in the mountains as well as on my group’s catwalk. FXR gear protects me from the elements with a comfortable fit and reflects a professional look that far exceeds my actual riding ability. I subscribe to the, “If you look good, you ride good,”

philosophy, yet no amount of gear will keep me from making bad decisions and burying my sled.

This season I was once again FXR from head-to-toe, starting with my Blade Carbon helmet down to my Helium Dual BOA boots. The 100 percent carbon fiber shell provides an ultra lightweight helmet that fits comfortably and meets and exceeds global safety regulations. As for the boots, the BOA dual zone increases flex and durability and is rated to negative 76 degrees Fahrenheit with 800g insulation. Side note, I hope to never be in temps that extreme to confirm the rating.

What truly completed the look was my Maverick Lite FXR black/blue monosuit that ties in perfectly with my Attack insulated gloves. The FXR Dry Vent system ensures the monosuit breathes well while keeping the snow out. I absolutely love the look of the all-black monosuit with blue and yellow accents throughout that offers a conservative look with just a splash of color. Yep, going all-in with FXR is the way to go. Even my Atmosphere base layer monosuit, and Boost Lite socks and balaclava are all from FXR. It’s important that I’m never labeled as a brand crossover kind of guy, right? (www.fxrracing.com) d SNOWEST MARCH 2025 39

PRODUCT REVIEW

CAN YOU HEAR

ME NOW?

ROCKY TALKIE RADIOS KEEP BACKCOUNTRY RIDERS CONNECTED

BY ROY SPARKS

Getting off the trail is the best part of mountain riding, but before you get into the deep stuff you better make sure you’re prepared. Next to having an avalanche beacon, a radio to communicate with those in your group is a must since it doesn’t take much to get separated. Whether for safety or for fun, it’s always best to stay connected and Rocky Talkie helps you do just that.

For backcountry explorers, the 5 Watt Radio (MSRP: $180) is built for those who crave adventure beyond the trail. Complete with a shatterproof LED screen and thermoplastic protective covering, the radio is designed to be durable. Another key feature that pairs well with backcountry 40 SNOWEST MARCH 2025

riding is the extended range offered. The radio transmits the highest GMRS power (5-watts) permitted under FCC regulations. The max range is over 35 miles; however, 2 to 8 miles is typical in backcountry terrain. It’s also ideal for accessing 11 weather channels and NOAA weather alerts, as well as dual-channel monitoring and transmitting.

We recently tested a pair of Rock Talkie radios and experienced crystal-clear audio. We were able to keep the actual radio inside our backpacks and just use the option waterproof handheld mic. With the rotating clip the mic attaches easily to coat pockets or backpack straps for quick access and glovefriendly push-to-talk use. (www.rockytalkie.com) d

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PRODUCT REVIEW

NOT YOUR AVERAGE

HEATED GOGGLE

TEMPEST OPTICS GIVES YOU A SUPER POWER

BY BRADY L. KAY

If you could have any super power, what would it be?

Telepathy? Super Strength? Invisibility? For me the answer is easy: the power to ride in any condition or temperature and never have my goggles fog up on me. Impossible? It’s a dream no longer.

After decades of backcountry riding and constantly swapping lenses or entire sets of goggles throughout the day because of visibility issues, I feel I’ve gained a true super power with Tempest Optics. Yes, I’m fully aware that heated goggles are not new, but I’ve never experienced anything quite as advanced as what Tempest is offering.

For starters the goggles look like a traditional goggle with no cables, wires or battery packs in sight. Second, the goggles are heated automatically with no on/off switch. You simply put them on and ride and when the first hint of fog begins, the fully automatic lens heating 42 SNOWEST MARCH 2025

system warms the inner lens surface to prevent fogging.

Again, there are no external battery packs or power cords to worry about and it truly is fully automatic. Temperature and humidity sensors are used to ensure that heat is applied only when needed...and the best part is I can easily ride a full day on a single charge.

One other feature worth noting is the ability to swap magnetic lenses when needed. There are a total of nine neodymium magnets to ensure a correct alignment with a positive attachment every time so changing out lenses is a breeze.

The original “OG” goggle with a green mirror lens is my new go-to, with a rose lens on standby if light conditions change. The triple-layer face foam provides excellent comfort and fit; after a full season I could never give up my super power and go back to regular goggles ever again. (www.tempestoptics.com) d

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protect your winter adventures

WITH SNOWMOBILE INSURANCE As winter sports enthusiasts, we eagerly await the snowy season for the adrenaline rush of snowmobiling. The feeling of the cold air rushing past, the sight of the unspoiled white landscapes—it’s a winter wonderland waiting to be discovered. Amidst the excitement and adventure, it’s essential to ensure that you’re properly protected with snowmobile insurance. Here are a few reasons why snowmobile insurance is a wise decision.

Peace of mind The most significant benefit of snowmobile insurance is the peace of mind it brings. Knowing that you’re covered in case of unexpected events allows you to fully immerse yourself in the winter experience. Focus on the breathtaking landscapes and the adrenaline rush of riding, without the nagging worry of potential financial setbacks.

Family and friends Policies can provide off-premises and permissive use, allowing you to confidently have friends and family drive your snowmobile occasionally. You also have the option to add minor operators as drivers, so you can rest easy knowing that you have the right protection if something goes wrong.

Protect your snowmobile Your snowmobile is a valuable investment that deserves protection. With comprehensive and collision coverage, you can rest easy knowing that repair or replacement costs will be covered in the event of certain damage, theft, or accidents. Keep your ride in top condition without breaking the bank.

Personalized protection Since no two snowmobilers are alike, snowmobile insurance lets you choose your own coverage options. You can customize your policy to include things like accessory and custom parts/equipment coverage to provide protection if you’ve made enhancements or upgrades to your snowmobile.

This way, you can be sure that your insurance plan matches your specific needs.

Be prepared for the unexpected Accidents can happen, even to the most experienced riders. Snowmobile insurance offers liability coverage, protecting you from the financial implications of thirdparty injuries or property damage, up to specified limits.

You can relax and have fun in your winter activities, whether riding on trails or exploring the backcountry, when you have the right protection.

Homeowners insurance Homeowners insurance may provide some coverage for your snowmobile, but it often has limitations and can have a more costly deductible. A dedicated snowmobile insurance policy ensures that you’re adequately covered specific to your needs.

Confidence for financing Obtaining insurance coverage for your snowmobile is often a requirement from lenders if you have financed its purchase. Not only does snowmobile insurance fulfill this obligation, but it also provides peace of mind by safeguarding your financial interests.

Have fun in the winter with confidence, knowing that you have the proper coverage for your situation. Invest in snowmobile insurance and ensure that your thrilling escapades remain just that—thrilling, safe, and unforgettable. Let the snow-covered landscapes be your playground, and let insurance be your safety net.

Scan to get a quote in as little as 3 minutes Progressive Casualty Ins. Co. and affiliates Coverages subject to policy terms and conditions.

Go to progressive.com to learn more.

PRODUCT REVIEW

YOU CAN RIDE, BUT YOUR CANS CAN’T

BY ROY SPARKS

Clearly the Trail Bev name indicates the focus of the upperMidwest company, but protecting your beverages applies to backcountry riders as well. Trail Bev manufactures beverage can protectors to save your cans from damage while you ride wheelers, dirt bikes, side-by-sides, ATVs, UTV, snowmobiles, snow bikes, or basically during just about any outdoor activity.

We were curious to see how effective it would be in the mountains so we ordered a set and went all-in by going the custom route. We added “SnoWest” to the top of ours, but if you didn’t want to go custom, the state logos are a great way to either showcase your state or your favorite place to ride.

The snowmobile mount allows you to quickly lock the 44 SNOWEST MARCH 2025

holder over your tunnel and then just add beverages and you’re ready to go. When we ride our beverages get pounded, dented, or can explode due to riding over rough (but super fun) terrain. Patent pending Trail Bevs are designed to protect your cans while you ride so you never have to worry about losing cans due to exploding.

With its patent-pending twist-lock design your cans stay secured inside. These are your typical 12 ounce regular or standard cans and fit most of your favorite soft drinks and domestic beers (except Coors, which uses its own size). For the full lineup showcasing the variety of different sizes be sure to visit www.trailbev.com. d

ADVERTISER INDEX

COMPANY NAME

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320 Guest Ranch............................6 www.320ranch.com AMSOIL Inc...................................... 2 www.amsoil.com BRP Inc............................................. 3 www.ski-doo.com FXR Racing....................................48 www.fxrracing.com Kolby Offroad Triumph Idaho Falls........................6 www.kolbyoffroad.com Powertech Diesel LLC..................37 www.powerlabsdiesel.com Progressive Insurance............. 5, 43 www.progressive.com Starting Line Products................. 41 www.startinglineproducts.com Tracks USA.....................................45 www.tracksusa.com

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RIDER: RILEY EDWARDS PHOTO: ROB ALFORD @ALFORDROB ON INSTAGRAM SNOWEST MARCH 2025 47

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