MWR Number 16 Digital

NUMBER 16 - JAN/FEB 2025

THE MIDWEST’S BEST OFF-ROAD & SNOWMOBILE ADVENTURE RESOURCE

OVER 100,000 RIDERS STRONG

CHECK OUT THE MIDWEST COMPETITION RACING GUIDE

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Jan/Feb 2025 3

F R O M R A C IN G F O R T HE T R A IL

ace-inspired ride you’ve been waiting for. Get precision handling

rt thanks to the all-new REV Gen5 platform and a performance

B O R N F R O M R A C IN B R E D F O R T HE T R A

ur choice of powerful Rotax 850 E-TEC engines, you can be

at winter throws at you, this sled’s got it handled.

The new 2023 MXZ Blizzard is the race-inspired ride you’ve been waiting for.

St. Boni REV Motor Sports Power Lodge to the all-new and agility with maximum comfort thanks Gen5 platfor

Monroe Powersports Inc Hayward Power Sports Monroe WI Hayward WI ed. ®, TM and the BRP logo are trademarks of608-325-5056 BRP or its affiliates.

715-462-3674 ays ride responsibly and safely. haywardpowersports.com mpsskidoo.com

St. Bonifacius MN 952-446-1554/877-385-0339 stboni.com

Ramsey MN 763-576-1706 powerlodge.com

shock package. Plus, with your choice of powerful Rotax 850 E-TEC en

sure no matter what winter throws at you, this sled’s got it h

Tomahawk Sports Center Len Ebert & Sons Motor Sports of Willmar Ray’s Sport & Cycle Tomahawk WI Clintonville WI Willmar MN Grand Rapids MN 715-453-5373 715-752-4428 320-235-2351 218-326-9355 tomahawksportscenter.com lenebert.com motorsportsofwillmar.com rayssportandcycle.com .indd 1 03/10/22 16:52 Track Side Miller Sellner Powersports Olson Power & Equipment Rob’s Performance Eagle River WI Sleepy Eye MN North Branch MN Motorsports LLC 715-479-2200 507-794-2131 651-674-4494 Johnson Creek WI mic-FALL-MidwestSnowmobiles-MXZ-Bzd-PRINT-7,75x10,125.indd tracksideinc.com millersellnerpowersports.com olsonpower.com 920-699-3288 robsperformance.com Minneapolis Motor Sports Power Lodge oo Endemic 2022-08-09 Minneapolis MN Print Ads - Midwest Onamia MNSnowmobiles PS33921 * Red KS listings denote electronic link to dealer 763-634-0244 320-532-3860 website in digital edition of mplsmotor.com powerlodge.com Midwest Rider.

02

DISCOVER MORE AT SKI-DOO.COM

rd

ENNA

Visit mspninc.com

© 2022 2025 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, TM and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates.

Format: Bleed: Products in the United States (U.S.) are distributed

by BRP US Inc. Always ride responsiblySafety: and safely.

7,75”x10,125”

4 Midwest Rider 2025

mber: N/A

0.125”

0,25”

Insertion Date(s):

CONTENTS

NUMBER 16 - JAN/FEB 2025

Midwest Rider is the region’s exclusive magazine for everything trail and offroad. Get product reviews, destination guides, gear insights, racing news, and more for snowmobiles, ATVs, sideby-sides, motorcycles, and beyond.

Subscribe now at midwestriders.com!

NEWS BITES Final Yamaha Sidewinder SRX Up for Auction. February 9-15, Online.

12 19

INDUSTRY Take a look and learn more on CFMoto’s U10 Pro EVENTS Check out a few big snowmobile events going on in February.

6595 Edenvale Blvd Ste 180 Eden Prairie MN 55346 952-473-7870 info@mspninc.com

Publisher Associate Publisher Managing Editor Art Director Advertising Sales Photo Archives Contributor

24

DESTINATIONS Backcountry riding before it was cool. From the Black Hills to West Yellowstone

27 30

VINTAGE Yamaha’s popular Phazer led the company to number-one status.

Joel Mellenthin Paula Jones Rachyl Burzinski Corey Friesen Dwain Stadie Rachyl Burzinski C.J. Ramstad Diane Voight

PARTING THOUGHTS The story behind the CJ logo and CJ Ramstad’s legacy.

ADVERTISING MSPN Phone: 952-473-7870 sales@mspninc.com mspnads.com

Contributions: Letters, manuscripts, stories, materials and photographs are welcome but cannot be returned unless sender provides a self-addressed stamped envelope. Midwest Rider and MSPN are not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photos and drawings.Submission of articles and letters implies the right to edit and publish in all or part.

Copyright © 2025 by MSPN. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without consent of the publisher.

VOLUME 1 / NUMBER 2

9

midwestriders.com Jan/Feb 2025 5

Day’s Power Sports Bloomer ~ 715-568-4755 dayspowersports.us Hankster’s Motorsports Janesville ~ 608-289-0155 hankstersmotorsports.com Morse Power Sports Center Wisconsin Dells ~ 608-254-8341 morsepowersports.com R & R Motorsports Hazelhurst ~ 715-358-5349 rnr-rentals.com Road, Track and Trail LLC Big Bend ~ 262-662-1500 roadtrackandtrail.com Rock River Marina Edgerton ~ 608-884-9415/608-868-7765 rockrivermarina.com SS Sport Store Mercer ~ 715-476-2468 sssportstore@yahoo.com TA Motorsports Francis Creek ~ 920-682-1284 tamotorsports.com Yamaha of Port Washington Inc Port Washington ~ 262-284-5995 portyamaha.com * Red listings denote electronic link to dealer website on the digital edition of Wisconsin Snowmobile News.

Visit awsc.org or mspninc.com Always wear a helmet and don’t drink and ride. c2025 Textron Specialized Vehicles Inc. All rights reserved.

6 Midwest Rider 2025

this is my passion

EDITOR’S NOTES I kicked off my riding season in early December with my first ride in Michigan.

I made my way to Lake of the Clouds — Porcupine Mountains — always one of my favorite spots to visit!

By: Rachyl Burzinski ello everyone! For those of you I have not yet had the pleasure of meeting, let me take this opportunity to introduce myself. My name is Rachyl Burzinski, and I am excited to be the new Midwest Rider editor.

My passion for snowmobiling and motorsports ignited at a young age when I went for my first ride at a few months old and then began grass drag racing snowmobiles at three years old, and still enjoy racing to this day. My winter adventures on the trails with family and friends as well as my participation within the Association of Wisconsin Snowmobile Clubs (AWSC) organization continue to further fuel my love for snowmobiling!

As an active member of several snowmobile clubs, I lend a hand however I can, including trail maintenance, social media, club memberships, and event coordination. My extensive involvement within the AWSC is evident through my dedicated leadership of the AWSC KAOS (Kids and Adults on Sleds) group as president for three years and served as the AWSC Magazine Committee Chair since 2021. I was privileged to receive the 2021 AWSC Young Snowmobiler of the Year and 2022 National Young Snowmobiler of the Year awards.

Even more, the honor of being selected as the 2022-2023 AWSC Miss Snowflake further highlighted my dedication to the sport as I traveled across the state promoting club activities, as well as safe and responsible riding, and the importance of youth involvement. Currently, I serve as the Southeast Ambassador for the AWSC Next Gen Riders Group.

I have been with MSPN for almost a year now.

I am looking forward to making new tracks at MSPN with Midwest Rider while collaborating with the incredible team! I am excited to further my experience and take my passion for motorsports to the next level, within the publishing industry.

This edition is loaded with information, showcasing many winter events, the latest news, and more. If you have articles or photos to contribute for future editions, feel free to email them to me at rachyl@ mspninc.com.

Let it snow! Hope to see you on the trails.

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800-724-2992 Jan/Feb 2025 7

NEWS BITES

KAWASAKI DONATES 10 MULE SIDES X SIDES TO SUPPORT HURRICANE HELENE RELIEF

December 11, 2024 awasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A., announced the donation of 10 MULE PRO-DXT™ side x sides to help assist four different Fire and Rescue agencies as they support cleanup and relief efforts following the devastation of Hurricane Helene. The Mule PRO-DXT is ready for any job with a 993cc three-cylinder diesel engine with speed-sensitive electronic power steering and independent front and rear suspension making it the ideal machine for the first responders in rural areas of North Carolina.

drove the company’s entry into the motorcycle industry and its relentless pursuit of cutting-edge technology. Over the decades, Kawasaki has introduced numerous groundbreaking models that have shaped the market and established a legacy of excellence in engineering, power, design, and the sheer joy of riding.

The MULEPRO-DXT also features Kawasaki’s Trans Cab™system, allowing for three or six-passenger seating, a large durable steel cargo bed, and a one-ton towing capacity. Combining versatility and hardworking performance allows the MULE PRO-DXT to become a welcomed addition to any Fire and Rescue fleet when serving the Western North Carolina area as it recovers from Hurricane Helene.

Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A., markets and distributes motorcycles, ATVs, side x sides, and JET SKI® watercraft through a network of approximately 1,100 independent retailers.

Additionally, nearly 7,700 retailers specialize in Kawasaki’s general-purpose engines. Across the United States, Kawasaki and its affiliates employ nearly 3,100 people, including approximately 260 at its headquarters in Foothill Ranch, California.

“We’re proud to support the local fire and rescue agencies and contribute to the ongoing clean up following the devastating storm,” said Anthony Kestler, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. “We have partnered with four hard-working local agencies that are making a difference in their community with our great Kawasaki products. ”The new MULE PRO side x sides will be put to use right away

by Gerton Fire & Rescue, BatCave VFD, Riceville VFD, and Reems Creek VFD to help their communities recover from the tragic damage caused by the recent hurricane.

ABOUT KAWASAKI Kawasaki began full-scale motorcycle production over 50 years ago, leveraging expertise gained from developing and manufacturing aircraft engines. This innovative foundation 8 Midwest Rider 2025

Looking ahead, Kawasaki Motors, Ltd. remains dedicated to building on these strengths, continuing to create legendary vehicles that define the future of Powersports.

Globally recognized, Kawasaki’s tagline, “Let the Good Times Roll,” reflects the brand’s reputation for delivering powerful, stylish, and category-leading vehicles. To learn more about Kawasaki’s full range of products and affiliates, visit kawasaki. com.

NEWS BITES

FINAL YAMAHA SIDEWINDER SRX UP FOR AUCTION! e part of history as Yamaha auctions the very last Sidewinder SRX snowmobile—unit 998 of 998!

Yamaha’s North American Snowmobile Team is excited to announce this exclusive auction, with proceeds dedicated to supporting the snowmobile community for generations to come.

AUCTION DETAILS:

to showcase the #998 SRX at major snowmobiling events, including its debut at Hay Days.

The winner will be revealed during Yamaha’s celebration at the Snowmobile Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on February 15, 2025, in Eagle River, Wisconsin.

All funds raised will be donated to the ISMA grant program, directly benefiting the North American snowmobiling community.

Don’t miss your chance to own a legendary piece of Yamaha snowmobiling history!

To sign up as a registered bidder, please visit https:// bringatrailer.com/.

Dates: February 9–15, 2025 Format: Online auction Eligibility: Open to all bidders with a residential home address located in the US or Canada This one-of-a-kind collector’s snowmobile comes with a custom-built display crate, used Jan/Feb 2025 9

NEWS BITES RULES AND REGULATIONS: 1. Seller cannot bid on, or coordinate bidding on, their auction.

2. All bidders have a credit card on file so we can put a hold on their card for the potential buyer fee.

3. If the card cannot sustain the hold, the bid does not show up in the first place.

4. If the buyer backs out of the purchase at no fault of the seller or the vehicle, we do not refund the buyer’s fee, and they are banned from using BaT ever again.

5. The buyer is responsible for the cost and logistics of collecting the vehicle. However, Yamaha will assist in that process.

See the links below for even more information on Bring a Trailer and how it all works. https://bringatrailer.com/how-bat-works/ https://bringatrailer.com/faq/

Marsh’s

View Point Resort 3 - 2 Bedroom lakeside cabins with decks over looking the water Bar & Grill Winter hours: Open at 11:00am Every Day 365 days per year.

Located right on trail #3 in Wascott

ATV / Snowmobiling trails are maintained and groomed by our 4 Season Rec club. 1000s of miles connecting you to Hayward, Spooner, Gordon, Superior, Iron River, Cable.

You can touch the entire state from here!

16640 S Flowage Road, Wascott, WI 54834 marshsviewpoint@gmail.com 715-466-2447

mvpresort.com

10 Midwest Rider 2025

Trailer Parking Pet With Fee Indoor Pool Hot Tub Deluxe Continental Breakfast

NEWS BITES

MINNESOTA SNOWMOBILE CLUB DONATES TO BIRCHWOOD FOUR CORNERS EMS he Sno Barons Snowmobile Club, based in North Branch, Minnesota, is renowned for hosting the world’s largest snowmobile-related event, the annual Hay Days grass drags, held every September. Recently, the club made a generous donation of $1,500 to the Birchwood Four Corners EMS to assist in raising funds for a UTV rescue vehicle. The donation will go toward purchasing tracks for the UTV, making it more efficient during the winter months when snow covers the ground. These tracks cost around $27,000.

The donation request came from Steve Bethke, President of the Birchwood Bobcat Riders and a 41-year member of the Sno Barons. According to Bethke, the Sno Barons allocate a portion of the proceeds from Hay Days each year to support clubs in Minnesota and Wisconsin facing challenges related to snowmobiling.

“Having been an active member of the Sno Barons during my time in Minnesota, I knew the club’s dedication to helping other clubs. Since snowmobilers would likely benefit most from the rescue vehicle’s ability to reach them on the trails, it seemed like a perfect fit,” said Bethke.

At the Bobcat Riders’ December 14, meeting, the group matched the Sno Barons’ donation with $1,500 of their own, bringing the total contribution to $3,000 for the Birchwood Four Corners EMS.

Jan/Feb 2025 11

INDUSTRY

CFMOTO UFORCE – PERFECT FOR THE BACK 40 AND THE BACK 4000 CFMOTOUSA.COM FMOTO’s U10 Pro is their latest flagship utility UTV that you need to take a serious look at. Long days are about to get more productive—and enjoyable with the smooth, quiet power of the 88 hp, 998cc engine and brand new OmniDrive™ continuously variable transmission. Flip between ‘Normal’ and ‘Work’ drive modes as easily as you switch from doer to adventurer. In our book, the U10 Pro takes the title as an industry benchmark for fit, finish and creature comforts rolled into an actual affordable package for the masses.

The plush 3-person bench seat on the U10 Pro provides allday riding comfort while the XL Pro version provides 6-person capacity. Standard features are off the industry charts including a 1000-lb. capacity tilting cargo box which is electric/hydraulically controlled from the seat of the cab and makes hauling and unloading effortless. Other standard features include pushbutton shifting, NFC key, hardtop roof, standard audio system, power and tilt steering, 4,500 lb. winch with synthetic rope, lightweight aluminum wheels with 29-inch tires and a crystal12 Midwest Rider 2025

clear 8-inch CFMOTO RideSyncTM touch screen to make this vehicle the ultimate utility companion at $16,999 (U10 XL PRO $18,999).

Visit CFMOTOUSA.COM to find a dealer near you and check out these beauties in person. The toughest part will be choosing between Nebula Black, Bordeaux Red or TrueTimber Camo. Did we mention how many CFMOTO CRAFTED accessories they offer for the U10 Pro?

Jan/Feb 2025 13

ACSA NEWS

RECREATIONAL TRAILS PROGRAM

R

TP was in the discussion at the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation’s hearing on the nomination of Sean Duffy to serve as Secretary of Transportation. Senator Klobuchar (D-MN) and Sean Duffy had this exchange:

KLOBUCHAR: So, the Recreational Trails Program provides funding to states to develop and maintain outdoor recreational trails through taxes paid on gasoline used to fuel snowmobiles,

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Pioneer Lodge

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Ski Brule Village

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Tall Pines

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260+ miles of Snowmobile Trails 100+ miles of ATV/ORV Trails 400,000+ acres of Public Forest 1,200 sq miles with #onestoplight FREE Michigan Snowmobile Weekend January 17-19, 2025

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14 Midwest Rider 2025

@IronCountyUpperPeninsula

ATVs, and other recreational vehicles that do not use highways.

This has been highly popular.

We’ve been able to forge a coalition with bicycles, bike riders, ATVS, and snowmobiles. It used to be a divide on these recreational trails. And I’ve led that legislation.

Do you agree that programs like this one are important for tourism and for just the quality of life of the citizens of our country?

DUFFY: I know the benefit in northern Wisconsin to these trails, what it does to bring people in from Minnesota who love to ride on our wonderful trails.

Sorry about that, Senator. I would commit to working with the committee, and I understand the importance of these trails for the quality of life.

RTP will expire on September 30, 2025. Efforts to reauthorize this very important program started last fall.

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763-572-2100 715-462-3674 218-738-2582 763-576-1706 want a Switchback. New for 2023, the SnowCheck the RMK. We built the Switchback and it’s become choppercity.com haywardpowersports.com northlandsportsmn.com powerlodge.com

exclusive Switchback Assault is available with the legendary 50/50 crossover family. the world’s most powerful OEM 2-stroke turbo, Chopper Powersports Headwaters Polaris Power Lodge Ray’s Sport & Cycle thePlain Patriot engines.

Maple MN Boost, 650 or 850 Patriot Watersmeet, MI Brainerd MN Grand Rapids MN Knowing that it takes more than906-358-8888 just an engine 763-479-3719 218-822-3500 218-326-9355 to build the ultimate crossover, it features the tri-ksports.com headwaterspolaris.com powerlodge.com rayssportandcycle.com IGX 146 rear suspension with its proven on and off-trail handling. Ride inMotor an areaSports that’s on Davis Motorsports oftrail Willmar Power Lodge Track Side only?

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The Switchback has the Delano MN Willmar MNtrail Onamia MN Eagle River WI See the new 2023 Matryx Switchbacks at your 715-479-2200 manners of an INDY. Ride where 320-235-2351 you can get off 763-972-5045 320-532-3860 local Dealer, on the trail or running powerlines. trail?

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* Red listings denote electronic link to dealer website on digital edition of Midwest Rider. Visit mspninc.com

©2024 Industries Inc. Inc. Photographed Photographedusing usinghighly highly skilled professional operators under controlled conditions.

Polaris recommends that all ©2022 Polaris Polaris Industries skilled professional operators under controlled conditions.

Polaris recommends that all riders trainingcourse. course.Do Donot not attempt maneuvers beyond capability.

Always a helmet and safety other safety apparel.

Never drink riders take take a training attempt maneuvers beyond youryour capability.

Always wearwear a helmet and other apparel.

Never drink and ride.and ride.

Jan/Feb 2025 15

MIDWEST COMPETITION GUIDE (A-Z)

ur Midwest competition guide encompasses 100+ reasons for you to get outside this winter! Whether you want to compete or spectate, visit these premier web resources for more detailed information.

There’s a lot to take in, and the winter is a short one, so start laying out your calendar plans now. We’ll see you out there!

WORLD SERIES OF SNOWMOBILE RACING DERBYCOMPLEX.COM FEB 21-23: Eagle River, WI

CENTRAL MINNESOTA POND RACING VSCA.COM FEB 1: Butterfield, MN FEB 8: Strathcona, MN FEB 15: Grey Eagle, MN FEB 22: Detroit Lakes, MN MAR 1: Glenwood, MN COR POWERSPORTS NATIONAL CROSS COUNTRY CORPOWERSPORTS.COM FEB 8-9: Goodridge, MN FEB 22-23: Walker, MN MAR 1-2: Naytahwaush, MN MAR 14-16: Ironwood, MI

ERX GRASSROOTS SNOCROSS SERIES ERXMOTORPARK.COM FEB 6: Elk River, MN FEB 20: Elk River, MN

ERX DITCHBANGER NATIONAL ERXMOTORPARK.COM FEB 14-15: Elk River, MN

INTERNATIONAL 500 I-500.COM FEB 1: Sault Ste. Marie, MI

16 Midwest Rider 2025

ISOC NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP SNOCROSS SNOCROSS.COM FEB 7-9: Valcourt, Quebec FEB 21-22: Salamanca, NY MAR 7-8: Elk River, MN MAR 14-15: Eagle River, WI ARP 4-6: Duluth, MN

LEVI LAVALLEE’S TRI-FIVE LEVISTRI5.COM APR 12: Biwabik, MN

KC PRO EAST KCPROEAST.COM FEB 1: Orr, MN FEB 8-9: Duluth, MN FEB 22: Side Lake, MN MAR 1: Cook, MN

MIDWEST EXTREME SNOWMOBILE CHALLENGE (MESC) MESCRACE.COM FEB 23: Breezy Point, MN APR 5: Detroit Lakes, MN APR 12: Biwabik, MN

MANAWA SNODEO MANAWASNODEO.ORG FEB 15-16: Manawa, WI

Plan a Getaway

ExploreAlex.com

Jan/Feb 2025 17

MIDWEST INTERNATIONAL RACING ASSOCIATION (MIRA) MIRARACING.COM FEB 1: Sault Ste. Marie MI FEB 8-9: Gaylord Mi FEB 15-16: Lincoln MI MIDWEST SNOCROSS SERIES MIDWESTSNOCROSS.COM FEB 1-2: Hartford, WI FEB 8-9: Plymouth, WI FEB 15-16: Wausau, WI March 1-2: Hutchinson, MN NATIONAL STRAIGHTLINE SNOWMOBILE RACING (NSSR) RACENSSR.COM FEB 22: Chetek, WI NEOSHO CUP ICE LEMANS FACEBOOK: NEOSHO CUP RACES FEB 8: Neosho, WI PRO VINTAGE RACING (PVR) PROVINTAGERACING.COM FEB 1: Wausau, WI FEB 8: Hortonville, WI FEB 15-16: Manawa, WI FEB 21-23: Eagle River, WI MAR 1: Willow River, MN

SNOW OUTLAWS SNOWOUTLAWS.COM FEB 14-15: Three Lakes, WI FEB 28 - MAR 1: Cable, WI STRAIGHT LINE SPEED ASSOCIATION (SLSA) FACEBOOK: STRAIGHT LINE SPEED ASSOCIATION FEB 8: McGregor, MN MAR 1: Crane Lake, MN 18 Midwest Rider 2025

USSA PROSTAR SERIES USSAPROSTAR.COM FEB 15-16: Manawa, WI FEB 21-22: Eagle River, WI USSA PRO STAR CUP TOUR USSAPROSTAR.COM FEB 1: Eganville, Ontario FEB 8: Valcourt, Quebec FEB 15-16: Manawa, WI FEB 21-22: Eagle River, WI MAR 1: Beausejour, Manitoba UW-PLATTEVILLE CLEAN SNOWMOBILE TEAM RADAR RUN FACEBOOK: UW-PLATTEVILLE CLEAN SNOWMOBILE TEAM FEB 1: Platteville, WI WISCONSIN KIDS SNOWMOBILE RACING ASSOCIATION WKSRA.COM FEB 4 -5: Hortonville, WI FEB 11: Fond du Lac, WI FEB 18-19: Manawa, WI FEB 25: Eagle River, WI MAR 4: Minocqua, WI WISCONSIN KITTY CAT RACERS WKCR.NET FEB 1-2: Cambria, WI FEB 8-9: Beaver Dam, WI FEB 15-16: Manawa, WI FEB 22: Warrens, WI

EVENTS

BLACK WOODS BLIZZARD TOUR - FEB. 5-8, 2025 Black Bear Casino Resort, Carlton, MN

DITCHBANGER NATIONALS - Feb. 15, 2025

The Black Woods Blizzard Tour is a 3-day snowmobile ride and fundraiser supporting those with ALS, guided by the motto ‘Never Surrender.’ Kicking off with a reception at Black Bear Casino Resort in Carlton on February 5, 2025, riders will travel to Lake Vermilion and Grand Rapids, with a Welcome Home Celebration Dinner at Black Bear on February 8. Registration is required for riders aged 21 and older, with a fundraising minimum of $2,300 (first-year participants can register with $1,800). Donations must be submitted by February 5, 2025, to qualify for prizes. Visit neversurrenderinc.org to learn more.

ERX Motor Park, Elk River MN During the 1990s, snowmobiling was experiencing a growth explosion. The sleds were undergoing a rapid evolution of development, tens of thousands of snowmobiles were joining the ranks, and snocross racing rapidly became the most popular form of competition. The Ditchbanger National recaptures those glory days with a race of epic proportions. Featuring sleds from 1999 and older, the race is held on a throwback course. The sleds are loud and colorful, the atmosphere electric, and the beer is cold. This one sits atop our can’t-miss race of the year. Secure your spot on the line or in the stands by visiting erxmotorpark. com/ditchbangernational.

RIDE WITH THE CHAMPS - FEB. 13-15, 2025 Snowmobile Hall of Fame, St. Germain, WI The three-day Ride with the Champs is an annual event where the sport’s greatest competitors are honored with an annual induction ceremony. This year’s inductees include Scott Davis, Gaetan (Chester) Duval, David Shepherd, and Gary & Bruce Vessair.

Other activities include Legends Laps where participants can experience the famed ice oval track at the World Championship Derby Complex; a Friday night fish fry with guest speakers; vintage and modern trail riding: and an open house at the Snowmobile Hall of Fame.

Visit snowmobilehalloffame.com to get your tickets now.

TRIPLE FEST SNOWMOBILE RACING - FEB. 21-22, 2025 Breezy Point Resort, Breezy Point, MN Started as nothing more than a few riders wanting to rekindle the love for triplepowered snowmobiles. Triple Fest has erupted from its grassroots beginnings into one of the fastest-growing and most talked about snowmobile gatherings of winter. Featuring a run-what-ya brung trail ride, races, and plenty of loud and proud triple-piped buggies rattling the ice pack, if you didn’t love triples before, you will after one visit to Triple Fest. To register or learn more visit mescrace.com/ racing-circuit/triplefest. Also, you can visit their Facebook page when you search for Triple Fest.

Jan/Feb 2025 19

TRACTION PRODUCTS nowmobile carbides and studs are essential for ensuring traction, control, and safety, especially when riding on icy or hard-packed trails. They help your snowmobile grip the surface, improving steering precision and reducing the risk of sliding. With a wide range of options available, riders can choose from different lengths, materials, and designs to suit their specific needs and riding style. Selecting the right combination of carbides and studs is key to maximizing performance and enjoying a safer, more confident ride.

Take a look below at a few of the many options out there.

STUD BOY TRACTION PRODUCTS:

Experience the ultimate combination of safety and performance with “STUD BOY”®. Let us help you achieve the confidence and comfort you deserve on the trails.

Discover what “traction with an attitude” truly means. Feel the difference with “STUD BOY”®, proudly manufactured in Ravenna, Michigan, USA, since 1989.

studboytraction.com Manufacturers of premium snowmobile carbide studs, backer plates, carbide wear bars, and accessories, “STUD BOY”® is dedicated to delivering safety and performance you can rely on. Our products ensure your snowmobile transfers power to the ground effectively while maintaining superior control and confidence.

With “STUD BOY”® traction products, you can trust your snowmobile to respond precisely when you need it most. We’re passionate about creating the safest, most reliable traction solutions in the industry. As trail riders and racers ourselves, we understand the demands of the sport, and we continuously innovate, test, and perfect our products to meet those challenges.

20 Midwest Rider 2025

BITE HARDER SHARPENING TOOLS:

biteharder.com The first ever carbide runner and stud sharpening tools.

Snowmobilers know that there is nothing better than riding on sharp carbide runners and studs.

BITEHARDER tools made in the USA solve basic problems for snowmobilers, save them money, and increase their performance and safety on the trail. There’s no better feeling to a snowmobiler than running on newly sharpened carbide runners and studs.

Whether on trail or off, these tools mean snowmobilers can ride with more freedom and more safety.

SNOWSTUDS TRACTION PRODUCTS:

snowstuds.com SnowStuds™ offers top-quality traction products for snowmobiles. Our snowmobile traction products include carbide runners, studs, backers, and drilling tools. The SnowStuds™ team is committed to total customer satisfaction providing the highest quality products that conform to our customers’ specifications, delivered on time and at competitive prices. Made in the USA.

WOODY’S TRACTION PRODUCTS:

SnowStuds™ snowmobile studs and backers give your snowmobile the traction and style you are looking for.

Snowmobile studs are offered for trail riding and racing, each stud has unique properties from increasing tread to decreasing vibration. Studs are built to last and backed by our Bend/Break Guarantee. Our backers provide fastening support with style, offering both nylon and aluminum options.

SnowStuds™ selection of snowmobile carbide runners are available in a variety of lengths and styles to find the right fit for your snowmobile. Different runners for snow skis are also beneficial for different specialties.

woodystraction.com Woody’s is a second-generation, family-owned business that was established in 1968.

Tried & Trusted - We Are Woody’s We’re a name synonymous with quality in snowmobile accessories and as recognizable as the snowmobile Original Equipment Manufacturers where people ride snowmobiles.

Woody’s is the choice worldwide of motorsports accessory distributors, snowmobile and track manufacturers, off-road vehicles, racing champions, sportsmen, and snowmobilers who want the best in traction performance and safety.

We have partnered internationally with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), trail clubs and groups, snowmobile organizations, race teams, and distributors in order to optimize our products and make them widely available.

Jan/Feb 2025 21

TRAILBLAZING WITH SHERP: MILLE LACS DRIFT SKIPPERS LEAD THE WAY ille Lacs Drift Skippers from Isle, MN, is in central Minnesota, about two hours north of the Twin Cities. We maintain about 120 miles of snowmobile trails. Of that, we have about 35 miles of swamps to cross. In the fall as soon as it starts to freeze, we like to roll the swamp grass down to make it freeze faster and better to hold up our groomer for safe crossing.

To roll the grass down we use a rubber tire roller that is six feet wide. We started pulling the roller with a 6x6 ATV and an Argo but they were not meant to do this hard pulling of this roller and we had a lot of trouble. In more than one case, we got stuck in the water late at night and had a hard time getting out in the freezing weather and back to the clubhouse. The ATV 6x6 would not float and would break through the ice. As club members, we worried about this still happening more over the years.

We had to figure out something better and safer. We heard about this large tire truck that floats in water. We sent a group of club members up to the Sherp dealer in Bemidji, Minnesota, for a test drive. The group was very doubtful about what it would do.

After the test drive, they were ecstatic about what the Sherp did and how well it would work for us. That was three years ago, and it still works great.

22 Midwest Rider 2025

Sherp was made in Kyiv City in western Ukraine. It is powered by a Doosan three-cylinder diesel that puts out about 54 hp and is very fuel efficient. We can run it on the trail, pulling the roller for 12 hours, and use only about six gallons of fuel. It came with a six-speed transmission with drive chains that run in oil. Our model is a PRO-XT with rear roof air conditioning and heat. There’s a rear camera and 360 lighting that works great. Tires are about 24” wide and 64” high with about 1.8 pounds of air in them. Sherp uses exhaust gases to inflate the tires.

If we get stuck out on the trail, we just unhook the roller, pull ahead, and then pull the roller out. The roller is 40” high and 6’ wide. We use rubber tires that are more forgiving when hitting rocks and dirt chunks. CJ Currie is our Snow Trail Coordinator standing by our Sherp and he does a great job.

Thank you, CJ!

ON T HE SO O LIN E

BAR • RESTAURANT • EVENTS 235 MAIN ST., WAHKON, MN 320-495-3318

Open Daily 11 to CloseSouth Side of Lake Mille Lacs On the Soo Line TrailGreat BurgersCold BeerHot Drinks.

Jan/Feb 2025 23

DESTINATIONS BACKCOUNTRY RIDING BEFORE IT WAS COOL

By Keri Wanner, Owner of the Driven Elite Backcountry Riding Schools

hen describing myself, one word I often use is snowmobiler. Growing up with a father who believed we didn’t do it unless it had a motor in it meant I was a tomboy at heart who couldn’t wait for the next adventure on my snowmobile. Growing up in Dickinson, North Dakota, often meant I was called a flatlander but what most people don’t know is I was backcountry riding before it was cool.

Growing up my snowmobile adventures often included the Black Hills of South Dakota. Only a short four-hour trip south and my family could be ripping in the endless white gold the hills had to offer. It was here that my love for snowmobiling began and the word trail simply meant that path you took to get to the real adventure. Dad was always the fearless leader of the pack and always made sure to incorporate enough trails for my mom and yet adventure for the explorers in the group looking to push their boundaries and find the next challenge in their rip. The Black Hills holds a special place in my heart because it was here that I learned to ride my snowmobile in the backcountry. It gave me the experience of both worlds knowing I could trail ride for over 350 miles or let it buck and find my challenges. One thing is for sure, the Black Hills never ceases to disappoint and always provides an outstanding experience outdoors or after hours whether you are looking for fun or relaxation. So grab your family and friends and contact the Deadwood, SD chamber to start planning your adventure. The Deadwood Snowmobile Rally is January 25th and 26th and it won’t disappoint!

It was my first trip to West Yellowstone, MT, in 2004 that 24 Midwest Rider 2025

showed me a whole new world on a snowmobile. It was here, that I realized the backcountry snowmobiling I learned long ago in the Black Hills would become the basis for my newfound snowmobile adventures. It was here that the snow was endless, and the powder felt magical. I soon realized all those “mountains” I climbed in the Black Hills were peanuts to my new climb up Lion’s Head. And don’t forget Yellowstone National Park is next door and has plenty of winter splendor to offer. As a winter lover, Old Faithful is beautiful in the summer but even more magnificent in the winter! Make sure you check on snowmobiling requirements before venturing into the park to make sure your trip is ready to go, and your plans are not derailed. But my favorite West Yellowstone adventure is hands down with the Ride Rasmussen Style instructors. These guys know the snow and always have the right techs and tips to make sure your West Yellowstone experience is like none other. Visit destinationyellowstone.com to learn more and the Brandin’ Iron Inn will make sure you have the perfect place to relax as you recap your day’s adventures.

On a bluebird day in the mountains of West Yellowstone, you might be able to see the Grand Tetons. Those adventurous enough can ride to the south entrance of Yellowstone National Park or hop in your truck and travel the beautiful scenic drive around the Tetons. Togwotee Pass near Dubois, WY, has become one of my favorite annual adventures. The Crooked Creek Guest Ranch sits in the heart of the pass and is the perfect place to rest your weary head. The wide-open meadows, epic tree-riding, and

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many miles of snowmobile trails cater to all levels of riding ability and allow you to push your boundaries. And if you are not willing to push your boundaries let the guides from 3C Guiding help you. Cameron Chimenti, owner and head guide, of 3C Guiding, grew up in Dubois, WY, and knows the area like the back of his hand. Not only can he get you into fun all day, he helps you with tips and tricks to become a better rider in the backcountry.

But Cameron’s services don’t stop there. 3C Guiding is also permitted to guide your next adventure in the Snowy Range and the Sierra Madres. Both locations just over the pass from one another sit on the Colorado border and provide amazing scenery and plenty of fun areas to rip. Albany County and Carbon County offer outstanding terrain and excellent amenities catering to every snowmobiler’s needs. The area offers all types of riding and gets you away from it all, so you can truly relax and live it up on your snowmobile.

Don’t let your western adventures stop here; venture south over the border into Colorado, and the North Park Inn & Suites in Walden, CO, is ready to show you what their great state has to offer. The inn’s owners came from the Midwest and loved the area so much that they chose to stay and make Walden their new home. A playground for all outdoor enthusiasts, this area never disappoints.

So, where will you plan your next adventure? All I know is I’m heading west!

Jan/Feb 2025 25

We get it! Do you?

Thanks to all the members of these volunteer organizations that make trails happen!

The American Council of Snowmobile Associations https://www.snowmobilers.org International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association https://www.snowmobile.org Illinois Association of Snowmobile Clubs https://www.ilsnowmobile.com Iowa State Snowmobile Association https://iowasnowmobiler.com/issa Iowa Off Highway Vehicle Association http://iowaohv.org Michigan Snowmobile and ORV Association https://misorva.org Minnesota United Snowmobilers Association https://mnsnowmobiler.org ATV Minnesota https://atvmn.org Nebraska State Snowmobile Association https://nebraskasnowmobiler.com Snowmobile North Dakota https://www.snowmobilend.org North Dakota Parks & Recreation Department https://www.parkrec.nd.gov/business/recreation-programs/highway-vehicles-ohv/ohv-trails South Dakota Snowmobile Association snowmobilesd.com South Dakota ATV/UTV Association https://www.southdakotaatv.com Association of Wisconsin Snowmobile Clubs http://awsc.org Wisconsin ATV-UTV Association https://watva.org

26 Midwest Rider 2025

VINTAGE

Yamaha’s innovative Phazer showcased innovation with TSS, a potent 488cc fan-cooled twin, and lightweight handling. It was popular enough to take Yamaha Number One in sales by the mid-1980s.

YAMAHA’S POPULAR PHAZER LED COMPANY TO NUMBER ONE STATUS Innovation, versatility, and reliability keyed success and sales in the 1980s.

BY: Jerry Bassett IMAGES/PHOTOGRAPHY: Jerry Bassett Archives & Yamaha s Yamaha exits the world of snowmobile manufacturing, this highly successful international motorsports company should be remembered and respected for its rich history and contributions during its time in the sport.

With Wall Street analysts suggesting a market with upwards of one million units sold annually during the early to mid-1960s, Yamaha decided to explore the snowmobile market. Million-unit sales never happened but sales of 400,000 annually were robust though the mid-1970s with Bombardier and its Ski-Doo brand leading the parade To understand snowmobile technologies of the time, Yamaha acquired a Ski-Doo to study. It was thoroughly disassembled as Yamaha engineers probed its design’s strengths and weaknesses

to understand what snowmobile consumers wanted. Look at vintage Yamaha SL models and their resemblance to Ski-Doo models of the time.

Despite Yamaha using the Ski-Doo as a template, this company lavishly sprinkled innovations of its own as a sled maker. There was oil injection and a scissor-pull disc brake, the use of Mikuni carburetors and an understanding of power to weight and sled balance that led to the legendary original SRX. Still, the most significant and most popular model had to be the Yamaha Phazer. When Arctic Cat went into bankruptcy in the middle 1980s, Yamaha replaced that brand as number one, driven by Phazer sales.

Introduced in 1984 the Phazer originally sported a unique wedge style with a handlebar-mounted headlight pod. There was a three-piece front bodywork for easy access to the engine, clutch, and other components. Most notable would be the Telescopic Strut Suspension (TSS) and 50-horsepower 488cc fan-cooled Yamaha twin. It was all quite different and became a popular seller.

It was popular not because it was different looking, but because it worked! The sled was quick enough and handled well enough — and could easily transition from groomed, packed trails to deeper snowpack, even able to challenge many mountain meadows. It was, in short, versatile and reliable.

Jan/Feb 2025 27

The Yamaha TSS was very good in a straight line, eating up bumps on rough trails. However, it suffered in cornering because the early versions of TSS were not connected via a robust stabilizer bar like a Polaris IFS system to adjust to side-to-side body roll and dipping. That was finally amended in the final year of the 1990s with the Yamaha Exciter SX. Still, this sled name helped Yamaha make the jump to the number one selling brand. It’s so ingrained in Yamaha that over the years Yamaha would continually return to it. There was a Phazer II and from 1999 to 2001, a most conventional-looking Phazer 500 was based on a trailing arm chassis. Finally, in 2007, the last Phazer appeared, a unique moto-cross motorcycle-inspired Phazer with a high-revving electronically fuel-injected 80-horsepower 500cc twin.

That would be the end of the line for the Phazer, but it symbolizes the power of the model name and how important the Phazer was to Yamaha over the years.

The 1980s Phazer remains the most popular Yamaha, unsurpassed by later iterations. The final version was too little too late as its 500cc powerplant and 80 HP output had to compete in a snow world looking for big power, triple-digit speeds, and deep snow prowess. The original Phazer played well with those standards of the 1980s, but the last Yamahas, unless they were the hybridized Arctic Cat versions, were too heavy and unwieldy for modern-day boondockers.

The final Phazers returned to their innovative “soul” with more tech and captured Yamaha’s motocross motorcycle heritage that included a lightweight 500cc dirt bike-like high-revving twin.

Phazers came in various versions including this long track, two-up touring mount as well as a sporty RTX for rough trails.

28 Midwest Rider 2025

In an attempt to reinvigorate sales, Yamaha brought back the Phazer name in the 1990s with a “budget” version based on the new SX series with trailing arm suspension.

Snowmobilers of the mid-1980s appreciated the Phazer, whether they were on or off-trail riders. These models were Yamaha’s success and showcased the best innovations of a now gone by the era in snowmobiling.

ACSA NEWS

SENATOR HEINRICH GAINS GOVERNOR BURGUM’S SUPPORT FOR OUTDOOR RECREATION Outdoor Recreation was discussed at the Confirmation Hearing with proposed Secretary Doug Burgum

A

“As governor, we created an office of outdoor recreation and continue to invest in it, whether that’s access to fishing and hunting, public access on public lands,” Governor Burgum continued. “We’ve been able to find tools to bring together land owners and sportsmen on both private lands as well as public lands to make sure that we can keep that outdoor economy growing.”

Governor Burgum grew up snowmobiling. He is a strong supporter of the motorized recreation community.

t the Confirmation Hearing of Governor Burgum from North Dakota this week, Senator Marrin Heinrich secured Governor Burgum’s commitment to bolster outdoor recreation.

ONE YEAR FIVE BUCKS

Senator Heinrich. “As a former outfitter guide, I’m excited that this body just passed the EXPLORE Act. It’s the first major piece of outdoor recreation legislation, and it’s the kind of recognition of the big economic driver of our public lands that often doesn’t get the same attention that energy and other uses get.”

Real Adventure on Real Paper

Governor Burgum responded: “First, I would just like to say this is a really important topic, but it’s also a passion of mine as someone who has spent my life as an avid outdoorsman. I was very pleased to get the full endorsement of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable for this job, which represents that trillion-dollar industry.”

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Parting Thoughts R

ecently we received an email inquiring about why the “CJ logo” appears in all MSPN’s publication mastheads. At MSPN, our team has always assumed that everyone was familiar with the story behind the logo and CJ Ramstad. We were wrong. As founder of MSPN, we’ll share a small fraction of his legacy on this page.

May 2007, at age 62 was a crushing blow to an industry and sport that was so completely influenced by his work. Yet his amazing legacy is a powerful reminder of his unbridled enthusiasm and passion for the sport and the people he dearly loved.

C.J. Ramstad – Snowmobile Hall of Fame

C.J. R A M S TA D N O RTH S H O R E TRAI L DATE OF INDUCTION: February 9, 2008 AGE AT INDUCTION: Posthumous The most influential and prolific writer and photographer in the sport’s history, Clifford John (C.J.) Ramstad set the standard for snowmobile journalism while creating a historical record that will forever aid and reflect the industry. His tireless involvement at all levels of the sport, from land-use advocacy to club promotion and race history preservation, made him one of the most influential and recognizable figures in all of snowmobiling.

Ramstad began his career in the snowmobile industry in 1969 as a copywriter for Arctic Cat. He later founded Snow Week magazine and would write for and/or edit nearly every snowmobile publication during his career, including Supertrax, Snowmobile, Snow Goer, and Minnesota Snowmobiling. He wrote four books about the sport, including “The Collected Works of Pappy,” “Legend: Arctic Cat’s First Four Decades” and “Of Ice and Engines.” In 1983 Ramstad helped conceive and launch The Snowmobile Hall of Fame and served as an invaluable board member for 24 years. He helped introduce and promote the Jeep 500 in 1987 and was a behind-thescenes force and mentor in innumerable snowmobile racing, industry, and club activities during his nearly four decades in the sport.

A legend in every aspect, the Deephaven, Minnesota resident embraced every aspect of the sport with excitement and purpose.

His tragic death, along with his son J.J., in an automobile accident in 30 Midwest Rider 2025

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Jan/Feb 2025 31