Michigan Snowmobiler and ORV - October 2022

Under the Helmet: Schwartz Racing

Karl Schwartz, since 8 years-old has grown up in the sport of racing and now as team owner is passing this legacy on.

Behind the Scenes @ the

Introducing the people and events that make this week long extravaganza in oval ice racing so exciting.

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A family owned business that started as a farm market, has grown to be the nation’s largest open and closed trailer retailer.

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*Rate Restrictions: Valid only for Choice Privileges members (program enrollment is free). The reservation must be made on ChoiceHotels.com/Michigan-Hotels at participating hotels and must be made at least 7, 14, 21 or 30 days in advance, which will vary based on the hotel for which a reservation is being made. Subject to availability, the rate starts at 15% off Best Available Rate, is non-cancellable, non-changeable and non-refundable. Your credit card will be charged for the total reservation amount within 24-48 hours of booking. This rate has a seven (7) night maximum length of stay. Rooms at this discount are limited. Offer is not available to groups and cannot be combined with any other discount. Choice Hotels reserves the right to change or discontinue this offer at any time. Eligibility restricted to U.S. and Canadian residents. Members must book direct at ChoiceHotels.com/Michigan-Hotels or call 1-888-228-5050. All Choice Hotels properties are independently owned and operated. **Guarantee applies to Third Party Website standard rates for a Choice single or double occupancy room that are at least 1% and $1.00 less than the Choice rate. Claims must be submitted within 24 hours of booking and 48+ hours prior to 6 PM check-in time the day of hotel arrival. Other terms also apply; see www.choicehotels.com/legal/best-rate-rules for full terms and conditions. ©2019 Choice Hotels International. All rights reserved.

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Gaylord

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East Jordan 8-9

Paradise 12 Deer Park 12 Cadillac 13

Epoufette 14

Grand Marais 15 Fenton 15

Drummond Island 16

Curtis 16

Newberry 22 Calumet 27

Naubinway 27 Hulbert 28

Marquette 29 Elmira 29

White Pine 29

Twin Lakes 29

White Lake 32

Sault Ste Marie 33

Grayling 33

Lake Gogebic 34

New Lothrop 35

Grand Traverse 35

Copper Harbor 38 McMillan 41 Greenland 41 White Cloud 41

Midland 41

Seney 42

Mass City/Rousseau 42

Indian River 43

Irons 43

Manistique 44

Houghton Lake

from the editor

Since the snow melted last spring, everyone of us has visualized that one great ride from last winter and started looking forward to the next snowfall. Mine was with my husband and son. We were on a long, clear straight away around St. Ignace. The weather was amazing and I probably pressed on the throttle a bit more than

needed, but man was that an awesome feeling. The trees along the trail had snow hang ing on the branches, the groomer had just been through and the trail couldn’t have been in better shape.

If you happened to have to walk anywhere, your boots squeaked as you walked. It was sunny, super clear, crisp and nearly perfect. Makes me love being a Michigander every

time I think of that day.

I know in group rides, many folks like to be the leader of the pack, but I like to ride last. I like to know all the people in front of me are okay, nobody gets left behind and we always group up at the crossroads to check in with each other. Just the DNA of my brain. On this trip we stopped at the Buckhorn Inn at Trout Lake for a warm up and delicious lunch.

For this ride, the only thing that could have made it better is if my daughter, my brothers and nieces and nephews could have been with us. So if you have a favorite ride like mine, tell us about it. You can pro vide photos and stories to Michigan Snowmobiler by emailing us at publisher@ michsnowmag.org. We would love to hear from you.

As always at Michigan Snowmobiler and ORV, we hope this issue has our readers dreaming of

fun! We look forward to seeing everyone at local events, chapter meetings and volunteering in support of Michigan Snowmobil ing and ORVs. To find a local chapter in your area, visit the MISORVA web site. From the home page, scroll down to the map of Michigan with the nine different districts listed, then click on your district for a listing of clubs in that area. If looking on-line is not your style, stop in and see us at the Novi Snow Show on November 4, 5, and 6. We will do our best to have a complete listing of local club names and addresses on site.

Until our next issue, be safe, enjoy the trails and remember to keep our veterans and first respond ers in your thoughts and prayers.

As alway, you can reach out to us at Michigan Snowmobiler at publisher@michsnowmag.com

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Long Riders

BY JIM DUKE CONTRIBUTING WRITER

After a postponement last year due to the coronavirus pandemic, on February 12th 2022 hundreds of participants and spectators braved the bitter cold temperatures to bear witness to the running of the 30th annual event and snowmobile ride. At pre-

vious events, the number of registrations have totaled over five hundred and from the number of vehicles with trailers lining both sides of state highway M-94 for a half-mile or more in each direction, it would appear this year’s event has, once again achieved a similar record.

Considering the longevity of the majority of snowmobiles present, the name “relic” for this ride is most appropriate, and although all machines are welcome regardless of age, only those twenty-five years or older were eligible for awards. Sleds were judged in categories such as best of show, most unique, worst condition, senior (oldest), and even a loudest pipes contest where the machines had to be 1973 or older to be eligible.

With the smell of two-stroke exhaust hanging heavy in the air, snowmobiles were lined up for display early Saturday morning and what a variety of sleds it was.

A wide variety of brands and combinations of machines were present.

LEFT: A repeat rider, Brian Fradkin from Illinois, brought his Manta to this year’s ride. RIGHT: From antique to vintage, some sleds were in showroom condition.

TOP: The crowd gathered early to look over the old iron display BELOW: More than 300 sleds were present at this year’s event.

Some had been completely restored to factory specs and were in showroom condition while others looked like they had been stored in a barn somewhere and had not been touched in years. Then there were the few that appeared as though they had been abandoned and left to sit outside through a decade of severe storms, had somehow been recovered and were still capable of starting and running.

The primary host and assembly point for the Long Riders events is the Jack Pine Lodge and Campground and many participants arrive on Friday filling the parking lots to overflowing. The lucky few who were able to secure lodging in one of the six cabins available on site shared their good fortune with other attendees around a campfire with plenty of stories from events past.

The ride has traditionally been between the Jack Pine Lodge and the Boot Lake Bar, both of which are located on, or in near proximity to state highway M-94, and both located in Schoolcraft County between Shingleton and Manistique and, as the name implies, is usually somewhere near the century mark which is an exceptional feat for the “old iron” to complete.

This year, however, the relic ride began as usual from the Jack Pine parking area after the judging of antique & vintage snowmobiles had been completed, but instead of heading toward the Boot Lake, went just a short ride of about fifteen miles to an area known as the Thunderbowl, an abandoned ski hill and where there’s plenty of room to exercise the old

8:00 am Inspection starts 8:30 am $50 buyer cash drawing starts 8:35 am Auction starts on new and used snowmobile and atv parts and accessories, tools, clothing, sporting goods and smaller items.

11:00 am Second auction ring will start selling snowmobiles, atv’s, utv’s, motorcycles, watercraft, trailers, go carts, golf carts, cars, trucks, campers, lawn/garden equipment, and more.

Selling order, inventory pictures, payment terms, buyer’s premium info, directions, hotels, our open consignment dates, and all info is on our website: SNOWMOBILEAUCTION.COM

SELLING ITEMS SUCH AS, BUT NOT LIMITED TO: Snowmobiles, atv’s, utv’s, trailers, watercraft, go carts, golf carts, street and dirt bikes, lawn and garden equipment, cars, trucks, campers, all kinds of tools, sporting goods, fishing & hunting equipment, snowmobile & 4 wheeler parts-accessories-clothing, and all related items.

SELLING FEES: Items over $100.00 is $25 plus 5%. Items less than $100.00 is just 25%. No sale fee is just the $25 fee. Buyer’s and seller’s from 5 states and Canada. Selling here is quick, easy and safe compared to on-line sale issues.

14 acres of free parking, forklifts for loading/ unloading, heated buildings with seating, handicap accessible facility, food on premises. One mile EAST of Bronson, MI on US12.

This is a live, on-site auction. Buyers unable to attend in person can enter absentee bids from home on Friday, the day before the auction. Call the office 517-369-1153 between 10am-6pm on Friday. It’s simple & quick.

continued from page 7 iron and check it’s durability. Due to the age of most machines, there were a couple of scheduled trail stops in between to allow everyone to regroup and make sure no one was left behind.

As previously arranged, Cheryl’s Catering was on-site with a food tent set up and ready to serve lunch. This was an extended break for the riders and several took the opportunity to make minor adjustments to their machines while others wandered among the sleds, dis cussed their history, and what it takes to keep the old iron in running condition or the cost for restoration.

Once the noontime festivities were completed, the riders fired up the machines for the rest of the day’s trip. The afternoon trail stop was in the village of Stuben at a little convenience store with available fuel and other amenities. There was also a food tent set up here with hot dogs, chips, beverages, etc. available. Returning to the Jack Pine, the 2022 Relic Ride for charity was completed and in the record books, but the festivities would continue throughout the evening, with plenty of socializing, reminiscing, and planning for the next event.

Comments were jokingly made that perhaps the group should consider a name change since Long Riders didn’t seem to fit anymore, referring to the fact that it was just thirty miles round-trip. Although this year’s ride was much shorter than most of those past, the donations raised was not, and all will be distributed to the selected charities for this event. Those selected were the Highway 2 Community Drive-In; the Upper Peninsula Honor Flights; the Eva Burrell Animal Shelter; and the Manistique Little Jiggers Ice Fishing Derby.

It seems like the interest in antique and vintage snow mobiles is increasing in popularity with every passing year, as witnessed by the number of ride participants and spectators that show up at this event every year. The money raised is always for a good cause and dedicated to local charities. Plans are already underway for the 2023 event and is expected to surpass this one in attendance. For more information, contact the Jack Pine Lodge, located in the Hiawatha National Forest at 5350N State Hwy M94, Manistique, MI 49854 (906) 573-2414.

The trail stops to regroup were an awesome sight.

Jordan Snokicked planning Annual Festival

February 21 –Jordan. wonderfestival celnorthern and nonThe festimultitude of snowmoantique snow competition, food snowmobile more. Jordan comes beauty! with fall country overlooks “ahha” and Peepers of

communities offer from orchards, corn mazes, pumpkin patches, art galleries, resale shops, hand blown glass shop, antiques, restaurants and much more.

The East Jordan Pumpkin Fest will be celebrated on

Wednesday, October 16th from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM downtown East Jordan featuring children’s games, vendors, business special sales and events, pie contest, face painting and Twister Joe Northern Michigan’s Favorite Balloon Artist plus more. When planning your fall color tour and event destinations… make sure East Jordan is number #1 on

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Michigan Sno-X Continues To Be Michigan’s Premier Snocross Series

BY DOMINIC SANTINA CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Michigan has always been a big snowmobiling state. Over time, there have been multiple Michigan Snocross series. However, the only series currently operating is the Michigan Sno-x series.

After operating in Kalkaska for a season, the series spent two seasons at the Double JJ Resort in Rothbury, Michigan. That was all before the transition to the Northern Power Race Park located in Mancelona, Michigan. The track is located just off of US - 131 and can be seen from main road and is located in the field across from McDonald’s. The entrance for the park is located on Valley road.

The location change allowed the series to have a big area of property with land owners that are aligned with the vision for the series. The series now has basically no limits on track size and made operations a lot easier.

The series added a oouple of upgrades that they are excited about. The first is the addition of bleachers. Allowing spectators to have a great place to sit and watch the high flying action. The facility also added fire pit ring that you can stand around to warm up, while enjoying food and other services provided by local vendors.

SNOCROSS SERIES

The biggest thing within Michigan Sno-x is the snocross series. Which is an event that combines motocross with snowmobiles and snow. The track usually consists of multiple different types of jumps while also having mostly left hand turns.

Depending on how the track is set, snowmobiles can reach nearly 15 to 20 feet in the air off the jumps.

Then there are two classes for the older riders in the group that still enjoy having fun. There is the 30 plus and 40 plus age divisions. This class is a mix of riders who love racing snocross and don’t want to give it up and others who got into snocross later in life and like racing.

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The series comprises a variety of different classes and rules which follow the ISOC Championship Snocross National rule book. Starting with the kitty kat class which is for kids around the age of 2-3 years old. Then the youth 120 and 200 classes for riders up to the age of 12.

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After a rider makes there way through the youth classes, they move up to a transition sled, for ages 12 to 17. In the transition class, these kids have moved up from the smaller snowmobiles to full size. The average throttle block in the class is 50 percent, which allows the riders to have some power but also protects them from having too much power.

The series does have a few remaining classes not named above. There is a beginners class for people that are interested in trying out snocross. A racer can only run in this class for a year before they have to move up to Sport lite, which can be a class for younger riders to move up into, but also for adults looking to progress and gain more experience.

For the last couple years, Michigan Sno-x has tried to have a cross country series at both the Rothbury and Mancelona locations. While there have been people that have supported it, the weather at times has not. While the snocross series can be helped out with man made snow, the cross country races could not be with covering so much distance for tracks.

So in 2021 the series moved away from the cross country races and tried a new event that instantly became a hit. The series tried out a ditch banger race, as a trial event and would end up turning into another event at the end of the season.

While some might know what a ditch banger race is, a lot probably do not. The race is composed of older snowmobiles, mainly from the 1990’s and early 2000’s that people used to ride the backcountry trails on and were popular snowmobiles. These would be able to take

continued on page 12

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continued from page 11 heavy wear and tear when riding.

The race features the older snowmobiles on a snocross track but with smaller jumps and usually one or two longer race sessions.

The event became super popular thanks to former Snocross rac er and freestyle rider Levi Lavallee creating the same event at ERX Motorpark in Minnesota. Levallee has created the tri-5 which are the older snowmobiles decorated with each rider having a theme and competing in endurance ditch-banger races.

Some of the popular snowmobiles that are commonly seen in competitions are Polaris Indy, Arctic Cat Cougar’s, Ski Doo Formula’s, Yamaha VMax. These are just a few different types among a group of others.

With the success from 2021, Michigan Sno-X has made the decision to make the ditch-banger style races a mini-series to their group. According to series owner Kevin Nowacyzk, the series will have at least four ditch banger races for the upcoming season.

The upcoming season of the ditch-banger series means there will more than likely come a couple different classes that will have to be figured out. That could be based on engine size, age of snow mobile along with other different things that we will wait to see.

The series schedule for both of the series is in the process of being worked out, as summer starts to turn into fall. The sno cross series will be based mostly around the national snocross schedule. While the ditch-banger series will be spaced out around availability and where it can fit comfortably in the schedule.

All rules for the snocross series can be found on the Michigan Sno-X website at michigansnowx.com. When it is finalized, you will also be able to find the schedule for both series on the website. Along with having season points, season memberships and all things to do with Michi gan Sno-X.

To stay up to date with current updates about the circuit and everything revolving around it, go follow Michigan Sno-X on Facebook.

Welcome to the Evan’s Cut River Store, Cabins and Campground, a veter an family-owned establishment in Epoufette, MI where people travel from as far away as Thailand to get a taste of the coveted smoked fish, take pictures with Big Foot, and hop on Trail 473 with access to virtually anywhere in the UP.

This cozy and welcoming estab lishment changed hands in 2021 and the backstory is truly fitting of the UP lifestyle. Ray and Melissa Evans had lived in Epoufette for about five years and frequented their neighborhood store and loved it. When the pan

–

Trails and Hospitality

BY KIM KISNER CONTRIBUTING WRITER

demic hit, the previous owners retired and placed the business up for sale. Ray and Melissa missed the store – a lot. The Evans decided they loved it and missed it so much, they’d buy it, and that is just what they did!

Since then, they’ve renovated and upgraded the store and three cabins. They strive to create a restful, comfortable atmosphere that feels like a good home base for people visiting the U.P. The cabins are fully stocked with dish wear dishwashers, full size refriger ators, Direct TV, internet and even free coffee. They have already had several repeat visitors.

“We think of Epoufette as a place of rest and a scenic and charming spot to visit. It’s peaceful. We want the store and cabins to feel the same way and people seem to really ap preciate that,” said Melissa.

They’ve also made some advance ments and additions to their reputa ble smoked fish and dips.

“Luckily Bob Wheaton, the Fish Manager at the store, remained with us after we purchased the establishment. Bob has free reign to test some things and he came up with several specialty items, such as Garlic Parmesan Salmon, Sweet Heat Salmon and Maple

vendors,grantsponsors, DNRpersonnel,andall heotherinterestedparties.Theeventactivities, includingseveralbreakoutsessionstoinstruct newcomersandupdate theexperiencedoperators,anddemosofthe variousequipment,that wouldrunthroughthe weekend,againexceededexpectations.

CommitteeChairman DonReedtookthe podiumtoexplainthe agendaandscheduling ctivitiesthatwould keplace,andthehope thateveryonecouldfind timetoattendthevariousbreakoutsessions, allofwhichhadbeen plannedtoassistthe grantsponsorswithall thenecessaryrequirementsineverythingto provideaproperly groomedtrail,howtoaccuratelyfiletheappropriatedocumentsfor reimbursements,andre-

and Brown Sugar Salmon. Now, we cannot keep them in stock!” said Ray.

Having sold 6 tons of smoked fish in 2021, they are clearly onto something.

Beyond the fish, the full-service store sells groceries, wine, liquor, gifts and outdoor needs. Trailer parking for customers and firewood are available and they work to keep the prices reasonable.

When it comes to snowmobiling, you’d be hardpressed to find a place as centrally located and connected. Evan’s Cut River Store is located about 28 miles west of the Mackinaw Bridge on Hwy 2 and sits right next to the 473 trailhead. It’s perfectly situated between several attractions. Cities such as Tahqua menon Falls, Newberry, and even Marquette are all accessible by trail.

If you get hungry or thirsty during your adventures in the area, there is tasty food and drink to be found. Check out the Cut River Inn right next to the cabins and store or the Bayview Inn right across the street.

Looking for something fun and interesting to do off the trail? Stop by the Top of the Lake Snowmobile Mu seum where the history of snowmobiling comes to life.

So, if the UP is calling your name, and you want a cozy, home-away-from-home, place that’s geographically located to facilitate endless fun and exploration, give Evan’s Cut River Store, Cabins and Campground a try. And don’t forget to get your picture with Big Foot before you leave!

•

under the helmet Schwartzwith Karl Schwartz Racing

What got you into snowmobiling and when; what was their influence on you in regards to the sport? I have been involved in snowmobiling since I was 8 years old some 56 years now. My first race was on a 10hp Skidoo at the local winter carnival in my hometown of Rudyard Michigan. During the 60’s and 70’s snowmobiling was a really big deal with lot of manufacturers and the eastern U.P. produced some great racers. A big influence on me was Tank Mayor who I considered a local hero at the I-500 when I was a kid. In fact, I chased his record of number of races as a driver at the Soo (26) and I hung around riding long enough to get one more than Tank. My focus when I got serious and a little older was sprint racing.

At 19 years old I would leave Rudyard in my pick-up truck with a 340 SRX and head to the races in the Grand Rapids area all alone. I would race(and win) on Saturday, sleep

in the truck and do it again on Sunday and get back in time for work Monday morning. This is where I meet Larry Williams and his family by just parking near him one day. Larry offered to help me load the sled and we have been family and a big influence ever since.

When did you start racing and what is your proudest achievement so far at the track? In the early 80’s I raced in the Sno-Pro class which was the premier sprint class of the era with some success.

Larry and I hatched a plan to look into Enduro racing so we agreed I would try and ride for another team before we jumped in. Terry Spencer in 1981 gave me my first pro Enduro ride and I went from there. In 1982

Larry and I bought a sled from the king of the sport on the Ski-Doo side; Bob Benner and proceeded to win the Triple Crown of Enduro racing our first year. In 1984 I was continued on page 18

owner

I was privileged to ride with Brian Musselman for one of his 3, I-500 wins. From the great beginning we won the Alpena and Lincoln enduros, 13 sprint class championships and a major Twin Track (F-1) race in Canada, the Bonnechere Cup. I was able to win the first 2 MIRA Champ 440 championships when the Champ class replace F-1 as the top class. It was always important to me to compete at the sports highest level, and I have had success at each one of them through the years. The years make the memories fade a bit but a couple of the wins I remember best was the Alpena 500 lap Enduro race. I won by 42 laps over the next closest sled and rode the race just about alone. Larry Williams had me hooked up that day. The Soo win and the Bonnechere Cup wins were special. In that one I got run into the snowbank on the first corner and fought back to win it. I stopped racing at 58 years old and became the team owner which I enjoy very much. I am so lucky to have a great group of people and sponsors that I could not do without. I have so some many great memories and stories. I have been told I should

right a book. I have meant some great people and made life long friends from this sport. I got involved with the business side of MIRA the first time in the 90’s and helped bring the back from decline. Once again, I had the Williams family at my side and my back. I took over the MIRA presidency for the second time 7 years ago and with a great team of passionate people( yes, a second-generation Williams) have made MIRA into the biggest and best ice oval racing group in North America.

What is your career goal as an owner? Goals for this 2023 season are the same as they have been to win a MIRA points Championship which has eluded me all these years. Our circuit is incredibly competitive it a huge deal just to win a race let alone the championship. Along with this our goal is to put both my riders Jake Gerow and Andy Shoemaker in the finals at the 60th running of the Eagle River World Championships. If we can get either one of these guys qualified, they will be tough to beat come the final race.

What were the driving factors to start the race team?  With out the support of Apple Bee’s, Polaris, Beard Oil Dist. Redline Oil, Krist Oil, Northern Clearing, Woody’s(who has sponsored me for over 40 years) and East Edge Graphics, I just couldn’t race at this level.

For us this is an 11 month per year operation and if anyone ever wants to stop in the shop in Freeland MI., you’ll find us there every weekend working on our fleet of Polaris sleds. Hope to see a huge turn out for what is shaping up to be the best MIRA race season ever,  Karl

KARL SCHWARTZ continued from page 17

under the helmet: Driver interviews on page 20

under the helmet

Who got you into snowmobiling and when; what was their influence on your regard to the sport?  My grandfather Larry Williams has had my family into snowmobile racing since the late 70’s. He passed down his love of the sport to his son/daugh ter Mike Williams, Kim Baker and then down to me. I would watch my grandfather year-round work on snowmobiles in the garage with Bob Benner and Karl Schwartz. So needless to say, I was born into racing.

When did you start racing and what is your proudest achievement so far on the track?  I started racing when I was 3 years old on a kitty cat 120. I would race year-round. Karl Schwartz owned the Saginaw Powersports back then and would have wood chips hauled to his facility and we would race on them through the summer months.

I would have to say my proudest achievement on the track would be last year in the 2022 Eagle River World Championships I took home a podium fin ish. 3rd place finish did not come easy as the Karl Schwartz racing team showed their true colors. We

driver driver

Jake Gerow Andrew T Shoemaker

continued on page 22

Who got you into snowmobiling and when; what was their influence on your regard to the sport? My dad (Tom Shoemaker) got me into snowmobile racing when I was at least 4 years old, he raced through the 80’s and 90’s and was in the sport as a racer until the mid 90’s. He then was the crew chief for the Millenium Motorsports 42 team from mid/late 90’s to 2021 and in that time, I started racing for him in 2011. I was always fascinated with snowmobile racing for as long as I can remember because I watched him to do it for many years and that’s what made me really want to do it.

When did you start racing and what is your proudest achievement so far on the track? I started racing MIRA in 2011. My proudest achievement so far is winning ProLite at Eagle River Derby Track this year 2022.

What is your career goal? Win the MIRA Pro-Enduro points championship and win an elite race like the Soo I-500 or the Eagle River World Championship Race.

How did you become part of this racing team? Karl Schwartz extended an offer to me to ride for his team in 2021 and I accepted. •

under the helmet

JAKE GEROW continued from page 20

Fax

Snowmobiler

P.O. Box 417 East Jordan, MI 49727 Fax 231-536-7691

struggled all week with handling issues and the team came to me and told me they were going to throw the kitchen sink at it for the final. What they meant by that is they gave it everything they had to give me the best chance to go win a world championship. They did exactly that, and I rode the sled all the way to the 3rd place podium finish at the world championships with the kitchen sink thrown in it. A memory I’ll never forget and am so thankful to be able to do what I love with Karl Schwartz racing team.

What is your career goal? My career goal is to finally win a points championship in the MIRA racing enduro circuit, win a world championship, and win the I-500.

How did you become part of this racing team? Karl Schwartz was looking to bring new young faces into racing back in 2010. My grand father who was on the team had told Karl that I was looking into getting into pro enduro racing. Not long after, Karl approached me with a deal I couldn’t pass up. I get to race alongside the guy I looked up to as a child, in racing. It feels like life has made a full circle. Karl raced for my grand father in the 80’s; and they as a team won many races including the triple crown in 1982 and the Soo I-500 in 1986. With Karl as the leader of this team we have won a plethora of races as well as a championship in 2021 on the F3. I feel at home here since Karl has been around my family since even before I was born. Watch out for team #72 Karl Schwartz Racing this year as we intend to be a front runner in every event we enter.

SPEEDSHOY PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

Behind the Scenes @the I-500

Well folks it’s time to share more high - octane information about the international 500 snowmobile race. The objective here is to capture your attention in the first 16 seconds of this informative article. We’re going to cover various aspects of the I-500 and share some details about certain facts you’ll find interesting.  Areas of interest for which we’ll be covering include but are not limited to promotion of the I-500 introduc-

ing some of our key volunteers that bring the event to life.  We’ll cover the week-long series of events to give you inside scheduling for the week at the famous I-500 mile oval and we’ll also share information about race officials and more.

So grab yourself a snack, beverage of choice and get comfortable so you can enjoy the next few minutes reading and learning about aspects of the world’s most prestigious snowmobile endurance race.

Let me start by sharing some facts about the growth in recognition of the sport of Oval ice racing and in particular racing at the I-500. Within the last 10 years this sport has grown in recognition as much as any other professional race worldwide.

Media coverage obviously plays a very important part in this growth process. The I-500 has experienced positive growth and has attracted the attention of major media net-

finish line

works such as Speed-Vision, NASH Networks, TRU-TV most shocking, The National Weather Channel Network, FLOSPORTS among others.  Live stream coverage has become premier for the viewing public at the local, regional and national levels.  Everyone knows that pictures speak a thousand words.

Photographs and video are vital to the promotion of every professional sport. The SOO I-500 has been blessed with some of the best photographers in the professional sports world. Just imagine how important photographs are.  They’re photo productions are used for marketing, advertising, sponsorship performance reviews, T.V., trade show promotion, social media coverage and the I-500 history archives. Each category and every photo has a story to observe. When hosting the world’s most prestigious professional snowmobile race the objective is to give I-500 enthusiasts as much detail as possible.  it’s paramount to present a picture that will give YOU a feeling of excitement as though you are right there at that moment, we When hosting a professional event, you want the best in the business covering every aspect of the event.

Another important point of interest is the I-500 is an” International “ event and having our neighbors to the north joining us as partners is extremely important and we’re proud to have our Canadian partners in the I-500 family.   All this being noted,

let us introduce you to some of our key professional family members who take promotion of the I-500 to extreme high levels of professionalism.

OFFICIAL PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHERS OF THE INTERNATIONAL 500 ARE: Brian Caswell of SpeedShot photography.  Brian is a seasoned veteran professional photographer.  Brian is a former snowmobile racer. He started racing in 2008 racing sleds in the BEURA series racing two seasons while practicing his hobby of photography as well. Having a love for racing, Brian was determined to shoot photographs of various racing events.  Obviously, his love of snowmobile racing took him on a venture that grew very quickly as he became very good at his photography work. He contacted Eagle River Derby track in 2016 and asked permission to volunteer taking photos of race teams in action. Eagle River Mgt. reviewed his work and immediately approached Brian offering him the title of “Official Photographer”.  His work was excellent and his professional quality production became known throughout the racing arena. In 2018 the I-500 contacted Brian inviting him to visit the I-500 and consider becoming a photographer for the event.  After his first visit, the conversations took place to recruit Brian to shoot photos of the SOO I-500.  Brian’s resume since 2016 has put him in the who’s, who category

continued on page 26

From Monday through the main event, daily activities are being hosted at the I-500 venue and YOU can experience each daily event with a single entry button that allows you access to daily events at the famous mile oval track.

the finish line | I-500

from page 25

for shooting professional racing of many types. His resume includes shooting for professional “Off-shore boat racing”, Auto racing, snowmobiling among other professional sports. In 2018 the SOO I-500 approached Brian and asked him to visit our event.  He fell in love with the I-500 and now is one of our “Official” I-500 photographers.

Patti Wierzbicki of J&J Productions (S.S.M. Canada) Patti is a seasoned veteran of racing photography. She has photographed drivers and teams racing at the I-500 for over 10 consecutive years. Her photography work is excellent and she has developed a reputation for her quality action shots.  Patti is one of our close Canadian partners. Residing in Canada within the area of our sister city of Sault Ste. Marie.  Patti volunteers her time and talent every year and her ability to capture action shots is outstanding.  We’re proud to involve the Canadian blend of professionalism that Patti brings to our event.

Paul (Bubba) Boucher of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan is another valued member of our I-500 photography team. Paul is a former I-500 Board member and life-long volunteer.  As a hobby, Paul indulges in photography and has been shooting photographs every year of daily happenings during race week. Paul is dedicated to helping promote the I-500 project and helps to build a solid archive of photos produced over the decades. Paul also shoots photos of every event hosted during

race week. Throughout everyday during race week Paul is at the track helping to promote the event by taking photos of sponsorship banners, V.I.P participation, crowd photos, kids race and more.  As a long time citizen, volunteer and dedicated partner supporting the I-500, we are thankful for all his time and contributions.

Another aspect of the race I’d like to share with you is track announcing during race week every year.  Track announcing is extremely important and we are fortunate to have one of the best professional racetrack announcers in the business. Track announcing is paramount and extremely important to the promotion of the event.  Fans, teams, listening and viewing public depend on accurate announcing they can depend on.  The track announcer is the main voice of the event broadcasting that is informative, accurate, exciting and immediate.  The SOO I-500 has the best of the best in the announcing program for the event.

Matt Prieur of Columbus, Ohio is the “official voice” of the SOO I-500. His resume includes announcing for NASCAR in various venues such as Daytona, Bristol, Indianapolis motor speedway, Charlotte and yes... the famous I-500 mile. 33 years of professional track announcing. Matt is a broadcast team member for the NASCAR Cup Series.  Matt became the official announcer of the SOO I-500 in 2016.  He has seven years of I-500 broadcasting and will do play by play announcing for

FLOSPORTS “LIVE” coverage of the 2023 running.  Matt has developed a high profile team of I-500 track announcing associates.  In the main booth, he has a Canadian associate (Spanky Robison) from S.S.M. Canada who helps with color commentating.

The I-500 pit reporters that Matt has on his team will bring the listening and viewing public inside interviews from teams and these reporters are the best in the business.  Pit reporters for the I-500 are former race drivers. Isaac Wolfgang of Wolfgang Motor Sports is a seasoned track racer having raced the SOO I-500 for a number of years.  The other pit row reporter is former I-500 racer and champion John Wicht lll who has won the SOO I-500 multiple times as a “single” driver.  The combined experience of these two professional drivers enhances the broadcast production of the SOO I-500 and gives listeners and viewers an inside feel for high octane energy.

As you can see, the week-long schedule of events for 2023 is exciting and has something for everyone who’s a winter sports enthusiast. From Monday through the main event, daily activities are being hosted at the I-500 venue and YOU can experience each daily event with a single entry button that allows you access to daily events at the famous mile oval track.

THE TOPIC OF 2 MILLION DOLLARS IN STATE GRANT FUNDING IS EXCITING.  Although there seems to

be some misunderstanding that we’d like to clear UP.  Yes.... The State of Michigan has awarded 2 million dollars to the I-500 facility (Venue).

The grant was applied for by city officials and members of the SOO convention and visitors bureau.  The purpose of issuing this funding is to enhance the venue known as the “ I-500 Track”. Interesting enough, that title is bestowed upon the grounds that host the I-500 race. The thought process behind filing for the State issued grant is to make the venue a yearround usable facility.  In other words, the use of the I-500 track facility will become more diverse and not used just for a one week event. The city of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan owns the property that hosts the I-500 race week each year.

The I-500 Project, Inc. actually leases the property from the city to host the week-long series of events. Hence, the I-500 project is a tenant like someone who’s renting an apartment. Therefore, the grant funds issued are to be utilized to enhance improvements and betterments to the property in order to make the property usable for year - round activities such as concerts and outdoor events that will draw people to the community for various shows and other activities. All grant funds will be used to improve much needed repairs and additions to the venue.  Items such as a new entry road, new fencing, additional venue buildings, bridge over the track infield en-

continued on page 28

trance and overall items that need to be addressed so the property can be utilized for more than one week’s event. We’ve been con tacted by a lot of I-500 followers who inquired about additional “Hot-Seats”, indoor bathrooms, etc.  This isn’t the call of the I-500 Project, Inc. management team. The property is titled as a “Special Events Park” by the city officials.  The issuing of grant funds and the improvements to be made will benefit the I-500 Proj ect as well.  Simply put, the grant funds were NOT issued directly to the I-500 Project event. Now you know the rest of the story. The misconception is.... the grant mon ey isn’t issued to the I-500 race project.  It’s a city grant to improve the venue for year-round use.

WANT TO BECOME A SPONSOR OF THE SOO I-500 EVENT?

Enjoy a captured audience of thousands to promote your busi ness and products offered. This is a golden opportunity to join other nationally recognized spon sors such as Meijer, Sunoco Fuel, Peterbuilt, DTE, Choko Design to name a few.  Reach thousands of winter sports enthusiasts inter nationally and become a part of the professional sport of oval ice endurance racing second to none world wide.

Visit our web site at: www.i-500.

HULBERT

com and click on the sponsorship link to become a valued mem ber of sponsors who support this world class sport and event known as the Grand-Daddy of all snowmobile races bar none. The I-500 Project, Inc. offers a spon sorship package that fits most sponsorship budgets.  Join us and enjoy the benefits of I-500 promotion potential with printed promotional materials, social me dia coverage and potential to be recognized through T.V., radio and LIVE coverage of the week-long series of events.

Let’s take a final lap around the track together as we share some facts about the I-500 people may want to know about.  Questions we usually get asked.

• Each race team has UP to 14 team members in the pits at all times during race week.

• The average speed set during qualifying is between 100 and 120mph.

• Most pit stops avg. about 30 seconds

• Race teams usually have two drivers per team.  Some have three.

• Racer John Wicht lll  was the last driver to win the 500 mile race without a backup driver.  He did this multiple times. No one has done it since.

• The famous mile oval is plowed during main event race

day, every 100 laps to clear up the ice dust on the track caused by the sled studs.  Making it a SAFE track for all drivers

• Some race teams feature more than one sled in the main event.

• The sled brand that has won the race the most over 54 years is Polaris.

• Arctic-Cat had been the only major OEM to never win the race until the 47 hosting of the I-500. (Winning driver was Troy DeWald)

• Troy DeWald is the only driver to win back-to-back I-500’s on two different brands of snowmo biles. (Ski-doo & Artic-Cat)

• Nine directors make UP the managing team of I-500 Board of Directors.

••  Until the next publication of Snowmobile + ORV is produced. ( Nov. issue) We encourage and remind you of the importance to plan ahead when coming UP to the SOO for race week and the main I-500 event.  Lodging is a critical consideration for everyone embarking on the SOO for the I-500 event.

Time to make a pit stop until the next issue of Snowmobile + ORV is produced for your reading en joyment.  Please join us again as we inform you of various aspects of this outstanding event. Until then it’s......

town

DISCOVER

WH E LAKE

BY MICHELLE SHERIDAN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Come and explore this timeless beauty, nestled along the west shoreline of lower Michigan. This charming area includes the cities of Montague and Whitehall on the eastern shore of White Lake. Located 15 minutes north of Muskegon off US31 the White Lake area offers so much for everyone from all walks of life.

White Lake is surrounded by beautiful hiking and biking trails in the warmer seasons and 175 miles of groomed snowmobile trails in the winter months. Lake Michigan is close by with beautiful beaches, fishing and relaxation. If fishing is your sport then White Lake is your inland lake of choice, it is seven miles long and one mile wide and at its deepest point it is 71 feet. You will find a variety of fish,

White River Light Station

anything from Bluegill, many varieties of Trout and Bass, Chinook Salmon, Walleye and Pike. In case you need any marine services Armstrong’s on White Lake, is a full service retail store which also offers boat rentals too. Johnson’s Great Outdoors is also close by offering a wide array of hunting and fishing gear. If you’re into kayaking, paddle boarding or camping in general, make sure to stop in at WaterDog Outfitters. This comprehensive outdoor recreational store, with a “try it before you buy it” philosophy offers many choices in rentals and sales.

As we move into fall and winter, the smell of bonfires and cool nights has everyone thinking of color tours, pumpkins and stretching out those last opportunities to hit the trails with what ever your choice of ORV might be. If you have smaller children the Pumpkin Express is a great way to keep the kids entertained. It includes a wagon ride to the pumpkin patch, play areas and walking trails, located at Weesies Brothers Garden Centers & Landscaping.

Once the snow has made it’s way in, you have the choice of 3 beautifully maintained snowmobile trails, the Fred Meijer Berry Junction, the White Lake Pathway, and the William FieldHart Montague Trail. Each year the White Lake Area Chamber prints a Snowmobile Map that is

son is not over, preventative maintenance has to be done on all the equipment and stored under cover for the next few months, resting, waiting for the upcoming season.

easy part, but the people need to have that one weekend each year when all of our volunteers and groomers get together at a local establishment. They let off a little steam and have a fine evening of food and drink and fellowship.

drink and fellowship.

The West Shore Snowmobile council has been having a Spring fling dance every year for as long as I can remember. This year was no different, the only differenc e this year was the venue, the Spring fling for 2019 would be held at the Veterans of Foreign wars post on Colby street in Whitehall.

The West Shore Snowmobile council has been having a Spring fling dance every year for as long as I can remember. This year was no different, the only differenc e this year was the venue, the Spring fling for 2019 would be held at the Veterans of Foreign wars post on Colby street in Whitehall.

The evening began

The evening began

well as businesses and contractors that donate their time and materials. As in many cases the efforts of their employees in making sure that our trails are maintained as well as kept safe and safely marked throughut our trail system.

continued from page 31

available for free in their office, as well as a down loadable PDF, go to www.whitelake.org for more information.

over the area as well as other parts of our state ventured to Whitehall that evening to partake of this wonderful event.

of this wonderful event.

WHITE LAKE

Brian made a point to bring up the fact that many volunteers do many different things. Some volunteers do great things for the clubs by obtaining the materials that they need to repair bridges or perhaps put in a drainage ditch. Or one of many other tasks that need to happen in order to keep our

Brian made a point to bring up the fact that many volunteers do many different things.

Some volunteers do great things for the clubs by obtaining the materials that they need to repair bridges or perhaps put in a drainage ditch.

Our dining group was well impressed with how the tables were set up as the double tables with chairs all the way around them aloud for communication without being limited to just talking to a couple of people. Our group included Randy Smith, Jamie Bishop as well as Dan and Robin Taylor and Phil and Cheryl Alvesteffer. And of course our favorite girl Carla Buchan out on an evening dinner with us, since Tom was gone trout fishing. It was truly a great evening of food and drink along with some great fellowship with family and friends.

Or one of many other tasks that need to happen in order to keep our trails are maintained as well as kept safe and safely marked throughut our trail system.

Our dining group was well impressed with how the tables were set up as the double tables with chairs all the way around them aloud for communication without being limited to just talking to a couple of people. Our group included Randy Smith, Jamie Bishop as well as Dan and Robin Taylor and Phil and Cheryl Alvesteffer. And of course our favorite girl Carla Buchan out on an evening dinner with us, since Tom was gone trout fishing. It was truly a great evening of food and drink along with some great fellowship with family and friends.

These are the people from the many clubs that form the West Shore Snowmobile Council, and it is because of them

Muskegon, Newaygo and Oceana county has a trail system tha t they can truly be proud of. p

While you’re out riding stop in at several convenient eateries along the way offering a wide range of menu choices such as Oh Brothers, Jimmy’s Pub, The Book Nook & Java Shop,  North Grove Brewers, Big John’s, Pekadill’s, Bone Ends, the Gnarly Heifer, the Homestead Restaurant & Bakery and Gary’s.

With so much to do and see an overnight stay is recommended and there are many choices such as Montgomery Inn & Suites, Weathervane Inn, Maple Tree Inn, Comfort Inn, the Loft on Colby (VRBO), or The Lewis House (B&B).

If camping is more your style or choice here are few local campgrounds Karner Blue Campground, Mainers Park and Pines Campground,

continued on page 34

our town

continued from page 32

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The White Lake area offers year-round activities such as outdoor music, a local community theater and of course unique shopping. Locally there are so many other things to do too, such as the Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park, Michigan Adventure, crosscountry skiing & snow shoeing at Anderson Woods Nature Preserve or Duck Creek Natural Area.

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Now you know what an extraordinary place the White Lake Area is, with friendly smiles, beautiful scenery and many new memories to tuck away then pull out later and share with family and friends. White Lake will definitely be an annual destination point for years to come.

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•

The Chamber Depot (124 W. Hanson St. in Whitehall) is right along the trail, so it makes a great spot to stop for photos, and our Depot has area maps, brochures, etc. The office is open Monday-Friday from 9am-3:00pm

CALLOREMAILUSTO ADVERTISEINTHISSPACE 231-536-2371

CHOKO SNOWMOBILE SUIT

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enjoy taking our time on the trail taking in the sights and visiting waterfalls and lighthouses.  Thanks again. Kim Fredenburg

Suit winner was Wayland, MI.

enjoy taking our time the trail taking in sights and visiting waterfalls and lighthouses.  Thanks again. Fredenburg

Snowmobile suit Winner was Joel Reeves of Franksville, WI.

mens Snowmosuit Winner was Reeves of Franksville, WI.

Mail Entry Form to Michigan Snowmobiler Magazine 30600 Northwestern Hwy., Suite 105 Farmington Hills Michigan 48334 One Entry Per Person

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1 1/2

business | spotlight

America’s Largest Trailer Retailer

A humble family farm market from the 1950’s has evolved and expanded into Beck’s Trailer Superstore, the nation’s most extensive trailer selection for all your needs on and off the trails.

BY CHAD BECK

If you’ve ever driven Up North via US-27 then you’ve likely noticed the nearly 1 mile stretch of trailers along the highway at Beck’s Trailer Store. Located just north of St. Johns (20 minutes north of Lansing) directly on US-27 Beck’s Trailer Store now offer’s the largest selection of open & enclosed trailers in the country on their huge 45+ acre lot. The entrepreneurial spirit runs deep in the Beck family as they have been operating businesses on the property since the 1950’s starting with a small farm market. Over the years they have also operated a marina, motorsports dealership, custom motorcoaches & propane business, which operates at the same location. Beck’s is family owned & operated and has been focused on providing high quality trailers of all types for the last 25+ years. The Beck family, and most of its staff, for a good portion of their lives have been outdoorsmen hunting, fishing, riding snowmobiles, dirt bikes, motorcycles, UTVs, using tractors & heavy equipment of all types. This experience makes it easier to select the trailer brands and configurations that will best get the job done for any application combined with the longevity to last many years.

Beck’s offer a wide variety of makes and models with eight high quality open steel brands like Diamond C, Load Trail and Big Tex to name a few. They carry a few enclosed brands with the star being Legend Trailers built nearby in Alma, MI. Beck’s takes pride in selling

Legend Trailers built by Michigan workers and supporting the Michigan economy. Legend specializes in high quality aluminum trailers that provide many years of rust-free use. Beck’s stocks ten different models of Legend aluminum open trailers from utilities to car haulers and equipment trailers. On the enclosed side, they carry thirteen different Legend models including a variety of cargo, car, snow & UTV trailers in all sizes. The Beck’s team takes great pride in the number of Legend trailers parked at the trailhead regardless of the season. In fact, Beck’s Trailer Store sells more aluminum trailers than any other dealer in the country.

Beck’s Trailer Store offers a huge Parts Department and Service Center. In addition to stocking the staples such as receiver inserts & balls, spare tires, e-track, straps & ski guides/mats they also have hundreds of other parts & accessories. The service department feature several highly skilled & experienced techs. Many trailer dealers do not offer a service department so are unable provide their customers service after the sale; therefore, Beck’s customers always receive priority service scheduling

The reason Beck’s typically stocks around 1,500+ trailers is to provide the customer the best possible selection for their needs, wants & budget. They like to say “whether for

continued on page 38

continued from page 37

work or play chances are you’ll find your perfect trailer at Beck’s.” The knowledgeable staff takes great pride in taking the time to understand the customer’s needs and wants to help them select a trailer that will exceed expectation. After the proper trailer is selected, they complete a detailed delivery & safety check process to ensure everything on the trailer is fully functional, hooked up properly and ready to safely hit the road. Beck’s also offers a wide variety of personal & business financing from many local & national lenders.

Beck’s Propane also operates out of the same location & services customers in Clinton, Gratiot, Shiawassee, Ingham and Eaton counties. As with the trailer side of the business, they are strong supporters of Breast Cancer Awareness. The new fleet of propane trucks proudly supports Breast Cancer Awareness in memory of former employee Pam Page.

Beck’s has recently expanded beyond its huge 45-acre lot to accommodate even more inventory in order to continue providing you the absolute best trailer selection. If you’re not in the market for a trailer, they invite you to stop in for any needed parts on you way by or simply to stretch your legs, use the restroom and grab a cup of coffee or a fresh bag of popcorn too.

Calculating the Cost!

BY JIM DUKE CONTRIBUTING WRITER

As we turn the page and begin the second half of the year, we also begin to look forward to the arrival of colder weather and the time when we’ll put away the summer toys and prep the winter ones. Recently while discussing this exact topic with a group of winter recreation enthusiasts, mostly snowmobilers, a close friend asked,

“without getting too personal, have you kept track of all your expenses from last snowmobile season and what you’ve spent so far this year?”

I must admit I had not, although I do keep receipts and invoices for the majority of my expenditures. He suggested I might take a look at what each of my recreational endeavors cost overall and said, “You

might be surprised how much you spend per season.”

A few days later as I was making a purchase for grease, oil, and filters, I recalled our conversation and decided to try and figure out just how much I spend on each of my seasonal activities. Not counting initial outlay at the time I bought each of my snowmobiles, I have

four registered and operational and another two that need a lot of attention, for just the past couple of years it looks like more than a thousand per annum. The factors considered were travel expenses, fuel, food, lodging, clothing, and accessories, as well as any other incidentals necessary to maintain the equipment throughout the season. Although not used often, I also included an appropriate figure for the trailer & tow vehicle.

When I made my calculations known to my fellow riders, some on every outing and a couple just on occasion, they all believed I was considerably low on the totals, and I was reminded that the $150 to $200 per day per sled used was no longer valid, considering the current economic conditions. The general consensus was expenses had just about doubled from the figures I had used, and this was just for snowmobiling!

All but one in the group were also into boating or avid off-road junkies in the warmer months and said that the cost to put their boat in the water or ATV’s / SXS’s on the trail, even just once or twice a month was pretty much equal to what was portrayed for the winter recreational activities. Asked to itemize their expenses so we could have an average, it was agreed to put all costs for recreational pursuits into the equation and see what we come up with. This would include camping, fishing & hunting, boating, and any others we may have missed. The understanding that we were looking for only the motorized activities and could include hiking, biking, or equestrian only where transportation to & from the recreation areas were appropriate.

Once the figures were laid out and the frequency of activities by category determined, it was easy to see that motorized recreation was not a cheap endeavor, either to get into (even at the entry level), or to participate in. By comparison, according to the International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association (ISMA) statistics, the snowmobile industry is remaining fairly stable, but worldwide sales for 2022 was almost 103,000 snowmobiles less than ten years ago in 2012. In looking at the trend for just the United States, 2022 sales by region have declined across the board from the 2000 season totals by almost 20,000 in the Northeast; just over 48.5 thousand in the Midwest, and just under 14.5 thousand in the Western states.

Unofficially, the majority of respondents to a brief survey attributed the decline to the current economic conditions while only a few said the rising cost of new snowmobiles and everything necessary for a active recreational schedule, along with the shortness of season, was a driving factor in their inability to continue with snowmobiling as their primary winter recreation. Several pointed out the prospect of rental agencies being an option to remain active,

continued on page 42

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but even those costs were becoming prohibitive for many enthusiasts. On a positive note, however, most dealer ships have indicated used snowmobiles taken in trade do not remain on the market for long.

Considering the increase in popularity of ATV & SXS vehicles, which seems to be still growing from the re ports received, this recreational activity could outshine snowmobiling as the #1 motorized to be watched. While it’s true the inflationary crisis facing us these days has hindered sales in this market also, it has not been to the same degree as witnessed with snowmobiles. One reason is the much wider variety of vehicles defined as off-road, and the difference in cost of owning and/or operating one or more.

From the top of the line (luxury) SXS to the entry-level dirt bike, a prospective customer can choose which will best fit into their recreational plan, as well as total finan cial outlay to get started. For example, speaking only of new equipment, a dirt bike (depending on size) can be purchased for just a few hundred dollars up to a couple of thousand as more horsepower and additional ameni ties are added. A quad-runner, again depending on mod el and size, can be had for anywhere between four and up to eight thousand. When considering a side-by-side, the cost becomes much more of a factor, from the lowest around nine thousand up to more than twenty thousand.

Unlike most snow machines, dirt bikes, and quads, the SXS holds its value for several years after purchase and the used market can be almost as prohibitive, cost-wise, as if purchasing a new machine. In fact, several of the folks I spoke with said it was the rising cost of everything that was pricing them out of the sport, both from the snowmobiling side and the off-road touring side as well. One young participant said even the cost of owning a bike suitable for riding trails was a bit too expensive for him and most of his friends. The unfortunate part in all this is where do we place the blame?

Generally, the first reaction is to blame the dealers, even though most of the time they are already selling well below the suggested retail price and barely above what the wholesale cost to themselves is. We must remember these folks are not in business to operate at a loss, so asking for additional discounts is not only disrespectful to their integrity but will rarely do any good and only dam age any relationship you may have built with that dealer, so to place the blame there would be in error.

Another area where blame for the high cost of equip ment is usually placed is with the manufacturer, which would also be wrong. When one digs into the why and

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from page 42

wherefor of building the snow machine, off-road vehicle, or any other equipment, it becomes obvious that the research and engineering that must first be accom plished, and the number of permits that must be applied for, approved, and then issued prior to any development being started, and finally all the tool & die work involved just to build the product, is it any wonder that pricing of the equipment seems out of control? The blame is not with the manufacturer either!

So, who, or what, is to blame? With a bit of digging and a little more research into the issue, it’s a pretty good bet that the government, or some agency within the government is at the root of the problem. Over the years the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been flexing its regulatory muscle and applying some pretty strong requirements on the recreation vehicle industry where anything having to do with fuels, engine capacity, exhaust emissions, and a host of other issues that, in their opinion, might do harm to the environment.

Along with the additional restrictions, they also made repeated attempts to force the industry to adopt new fuels such as the corn-fed ethanol fuels of 15% or bet ter. All of which has, up to this point, been proven to be incompatible with most engines utilized in recreational applications. In order to prove this, however, required extensive hours of research, testing, and retesting, all of which drives the cost of production up, and eventually the price consumers must pay.

Within the past three decades, the cost of purchasing a new vehicle of any kind including snowmobiles has more than tripled and with today’s economic considerations, the price can easily exceed what the average enthusiast can afford. Unfortunately, there is no relief in sight and no indication that things will change for the better anytime soon, but somehow the general public will continue their recreational pursuits, and somehow, we will all get through these tough times.

Coffin Racer

Boa Skis for 1971 were made by Giffen Recreational Limited, based in Montreal and an office in Florida.

In 1971, Boa Ski entered the race circuit with this racer, Nicknamed the Coffin Rac er (because of the seat) and only 30 were made. There are only 3 known to be left.

George Nauman and his brother-in-law, Bob Rainey had a dealership in Milwau kee, WI. George sold Boa-Skas from 1968 - 1974.

Gary Bogenschutz bought this machine from Gorge in 2019. George had it stored in a delivery truck body ( a true barn find). Gary cleaned it up and got it running with the help of Don Soukup (Vintage Polaris Parts), who found a piston and gaskets for it.

This machine was raced in Door County and in Northeast Wisconsin. • Owner: Gary Bogenschutz Egg Harbor, WI

TO SEE THIS SLED and many other please visit Top Of The Lake Snowmobile Museum Located in at W11660 US-2 Naubinway, MI 49762.

Designed to aid in keeping you afloat and mobile in the event of an unforeseen water emergency.