OSM Canada 32.6

RACING ROUNDUP

CHAMPS & CONJECTURE

www.osmmag.com @onsnowmagazine

NO HYPE FIRST IMPRESSIONS

BEYOND 200MPH HURRICANE BREAKS BARRIER VOL 32 • NO 6 • $ 5.95

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The FXR Dry Vent™ System keeps moisture out while providing adequate venting.

850 POWERFUL REASONS TO SNOWCHECK

No interest and no payments for 6 months plus 5.99% Finance Rate for 60 Months: This is a limited time offer which is valid for the purchase of selected qualifying MY19 models and is subject to credit approval from TD Auto Finance (TDAF) on qualified purchases financed during this program. Offer may not be combined with certain other offers, is subject to change and may be extended or terminated without further notice. See participating retailers for complete details and conditions. Rates from other lenders may vary. Monthly payment and cost of borrowing will vary depending on amount borrowed and down payment/trade. Minimum amount to finance is $5,000. Example: $7,500 financed at 5.99% over 60 months = 60 monthly payments of $144.96 with a cost of borrowing of $1197.67 and a total obligation of $8,697.67 Freight, license, PPSA/RPDRM, insurance, registration, any retailer administration fees and other applicable fees and taxes are not included in the financed amount. Dealers are free to set individual prices, but must be enrolled with TDAF to participate.

Offer is valid only in Canada and does not apply to prior purchases. The Promotional Limited Warranty consists of the standard 12 month factory warranty plus an additional 36 months of additional promotional limited warranty coverage for a total of 48 months of warranty coverage. Any additional warranty coverage after the initial 12 month factory warranty is subject to a $50.00 deductible per visit. All SnowCheck offers are valid at participating Polaris dealers only. See your local dealer for details. Offers are valid on MY19 SnowCheck orders placed between 3/05/18 - 4/17/18. Consumer must take delivery between 8/1/2018 – 12/31/18 to qualify.

Professional rider on a closed course. Polaris® recommends that all snowmobile riders take a training course. Do not attempt maneuvers beyond your capability. Always wear a helmet and other safety apparel. Never drink and ride. ©2018 Polaris Industries Inc.

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LUMBERJACKIN’ Austin McDaniel elevator drops with a bark in Moran Wyoming just outside of Togwotee.

Shooter: Chris Hoyt

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JAW DROPPER Retired professional Ski-Doo racer Craig Marchbank’s mind numbing snowmobile collection.

Shooter: Pat Bourgeois

contents

32 FEATURES

24 32 54

GRITS, GUTS & VICTORS

64GEARBOX COLUMNS 14 70

WE RECOGNIZE THIS YEAR’S CHAMPS

78

19 & NONSTOP BEYOND THE HYPE. FIRST IMPRESSIONS AND WHAT’S NEW

RECORD SETTER DAVE MARSHALL AND HURRICANE PERFORMANCE BLISTER ICE WITH 203MPH RUN

DRIFTS

RICHARD KEHOE

KELLY SHIRES BREAST CANCER SNOW RUN FLOAT BOWL

PAT BOURGEOIS

DEPARTMENTS 16 22 23 52 60 72 76

INDUSTRY NEWS WORD SEARCH SUDOKU GOT RISERS BRAH? SHOP HUSTLE NBFSC REPORT OSM LISTINGS

24 54

COVER RIDER: RICHARD KEHOE

www.cainsquest.com @cainsquest

Cain’s Quest

Cain’s Quest

cainsquest

VOLUME 32 NUMBER 6

FOR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES CONTACT 1-888-661-7469 President & Publisher: Richard Kehoe Editorial Director: Pat Bourgeois Copy Editor: Rick Bloye Art Director: Darryl Aspin Production Manager: Tendra Crossman General Manager: Michael Blakoe

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Advertising Sales: 1-888-661-7469 Sr. Manager Sales & Marketing: Matt Clark Sales: Brandon Caplar Coordinator: Logan Gamble Administrative Assistant: Sarah Day Photographers: Todd Williams, Brett Moist, Aaron Belford, Joe Wiegele, Gary Walton, Lissa Marsolek, Steve Hamilton, CJ Ramstad Archives, Pat Bourgeois, Richard Kehoe, Tendra Crossman, Mike Blakoe, Matt Clark, Logan Gamble, Brandon Caplar Contributing Writers: Levi LaVallee, Jason MacDonald, Matt Clark, Tyler Swarm, Suzy Stenoff, Darren Desautels, Ross Antworth, Jacob Travers, Jordan Hammack, Richard Kehoe, Tendra Crossman, Mike Blakoe, Matt Clark, Logan Gamble, Brandon Caplar Subscriptions 1-888-661-7469 or info@osmmag.com is published six times a year by ublishing td. ffice address and undelivered copies and change of address notice is: PO Box 551, 27083 Kennedy Road, Willow Beach, ON L0E 1S0, Canada. Telephone (905) 722-6766. Printed in Canada by: Dollco, a divisions of Lowe-Martin Group • Copyright 2018 OSM Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. The publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts. Subscription rates for magazine (includes Trail Map Atlas) $19.00 per year, $29.00 for 2 years. $37.00 for 3 years.

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 32 • ISSUE 6

THE NEW 2018 FORD F-150

GAME-CHANGING GEAR

You take pride in your work, so you need equipment that doesn’t compromise. As a part of the undisputed best-selling lineup of trucks for 52 years†, the F-150 has got best-in-class* capabilities and serious game-changing gear. It’s also got the innovative features that bring crowds to their feet.

A RUSTPROOF, MILITARY-GRADE ^ ALUMINUM-ALLOY BODY PAIRED WITH A HIGH-STRENGTH STEEL FRAME.

BACK IT UP RIGHT THE FIRST TIME WITH AVAILABLE PRO TRAILER BACKUP ASSIST ‡.

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EXPLORE THE NEW 2018 FORD F-150. FORD.CA/UNDISPUTED Vehicle may be shown with optional features. †F-Series is the best-selling line of pickup trucks in Canada for 52 years in a row, based on Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association statistical sales report up to year-end 2017. *When properly con gured. Maximum payload of 3,270 lbs on F-150 XL Regular Cab, 8΄box, 5.0L, 4x2, Heavy Duty Payload Package. and Heavy Duty Wheel. Maximum towing of 13,200 lbs with available 3.5L V6 EcoBoost engine con guration. Class is Full-Size Pickups under 8,500 lbs.

GVWR based on Ford segmentation. ^6000-series aluminum alloy. ‡Some driver input required. Driver-assist features are supplemental and do not replace the driver’s attention, judgment and need to control the vehicle. ©2018 Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited. All rights reserved.

drifts drifts RICHARD KEHOE

WAVE GOOD-BYE MS. WINTER!

S

pring 2018 has arrived – although most still have snow landing and below freezing temps in their parts, as a matter of fact, I’m watching a sled and an ATV drive out on Simcoe right now… Huts are due to be off March 15.

Many friends and neighbors have already switched gears

focusing on their motorcycles or side-by-sides. Some have even started tal ing about boating and fishing we’re all ready for Spring.

Spring is when we hit New Brunswick. For the most part the frigid temps, the concern about wind chills, and the shorter days are all behind us. By this time of year everything has been dialed in from the sleds and gear, right down to the tow vehicle and trailer. Our trucks and trailers are full with sleds and riders for the closing of the season.

This years snow shoot in Montana was fantastic and I would like to send a huge thank-you to all of the manufacturers, and Marge and her crew from the West Yellowstone Chamber of Commerce for another great riding experience – 28 consecutive years for me, and I wouldn’t miss it!

I’m looking forward to our East Coast rides and we’ll see you soon white powder…

I hope you enjoyed reading OSM this season and we look forward to bringing you more of the World’s Largest Snowmobile Magazine for the 2019 season.

Thank-you to all that contacted us and submitted photos to our contests throughout the year. Tuck away the sleds and enjoy the warmer weather, and smoke some meat… I’m trying smoked meatballs this June, I’ve already dusted off our Myron Mixen Pittmaster Smoker! Bring on the meat!

www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com 1-888-661-SHOW

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NOV 18, 2018

PETERBOROUGH MEMORIAL CENTRE SNOWMOBILE SHOW & SWAP MEET

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 32 • ISSUE 6

Performance Driven!

Performance Proven!

Everything about an Ultimax belt is designed to deliver superior performance and dependability. On the track or on the trail, you can depend on the same belt champions choose – Ultimax. Available from your local powersports dealer.

Ultimax MAX Improved design for greater flexibility and cooler running. Designed for machines under 500cc. One year warranty. Made in USA.

Ultimax PRO Delivers enhanced performance and longer belt life. The advanced design dissipates heat and boosts flexibility. One year warranty. Made in USA.

Ultimax XS Peak power and efficiency for screamin’ high-performance. Purpose-built for high horsepower sleds. Specially formulated rubber compound found in no other snowmobile belt. One year warranty. Made in USA. The Ultimax belts family includes Ultimax MAX, Ultimax PRO and Ultimax XS snowmobile belts; Ultimax ATV UA and Ultimax ATV HQ drive belts for ATVs, UTVs and SxSs; and Ultimax MD (Multi-Duty) belts.

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Find the right belt for your machine with our easy-to-use Belt Finder: Photo courtesy of RLT Photos. Copyright 2017 Timken Belts

news 01

HAS THE ELITE MET ITS MATCH?

The popularity of the Ski-Doo Elite and the vehicle’s two-seater, open cockpit design has intrigued sledders for the better part of 40-years. So much so, Ski-Doo resurrected the design on three different occasions. The last version was the most refined and powerful with four stro e power giving the twin trac er buc et seat buggy enough thrust to exceed mph on the hard pac .

However, after getting a glimpse of the latest concept from Nissan, Ski-Doo can possibly shelve the Elite for good. Based on a 370Z roadster, the car was shown to plenty of eye gawkers during the Chicago Auto Show this past February, and it immediately captured the imagination of would be winter explorers. With a 332-horsepower V6 under hood, the 370Zki touts a track kit from American Track Truck out back, oversized skis up front, and a 3-inch lift kit to make room for the snow ready equipment. t.

SNOWMOBILE 02 ELECTRIC IS CHARGING TOWARDS RELEASE Rumors and rumblings of an electric snowmobile have been buzzing about for some time now. In fact, even Taiga Motors, the subject of this update, has teased us with past electric snowmobile prototypes. This time however, the results look real and if all goes to plan, the Taiga TS2 will hit the snowpack in consumer hands next winter. The sleek designed vehicle has all the makings of becoming the industry’s first successful electric snowmobile. t looks way cool, weighs in under 500-pounds, accelerates 0 to 60mph in just 3-seconds, has a range of 100km (62-miles), and can

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be recharged in as little as 20-minutes. While most sledders will want much greater range, the very idea that Taiga has developed a successful vehicle that has a performance laundry list that is not just acceptable, but palatable for some sledders is a major accomplishment. The company is already taking orders on the estimated $15,000 Canadian MSRP vehicle. The company is asking for a $500 CAN refundable reservation payment, with an expected delivery in 12-18 months. Learn more at taigamotors.ca

KEEPING WEEKENDS

WORRY FREE FOR OVER 25 YEARS

Enjoying the trails are guaranteed to get messy, but when it comes to snow and slush WeatherTech® has you covered.

Our DigitalFit® FloorLiner™ and rear Cargo Liner provides complete interior floor protection, while our TechLiner® seamlessly lines your truck bed and tailgate - protecting it against rust, scratches and dents while hauling your gear.

And with a limited lifetime warranty, it’s guaranteed to outlast any adventure.

For the full line of truck and SUV accessories, visit www.weathertech.ca or call 888-905-6287. © 2017 WeatherTech Canada

news

03 AUSTIN RIPS THE BURN

Seems we were so stoked with this shot provided by long-time OSM shooter Todd Williams, we goofed when it came time to identify the ripper who was side-hilling the burn zone. The man on the bars is Austin McDaniel who hails from New Hampshire, but has been shredding the white stuff all across North America. Nice line Austin…nice line.

04 WILL TRUMP STEEL AND ALUMINUM TARIFFS IMPACT SNOWMOBILING?

Just before this issue of OSM went to press, President Trump announced new tariffs on aluminum and steel imports to the United States. The proposed 25% on steel and 10% on aluminum tariff is intended to boost domestic production of these materials and put the United States on a level playing field with countries li e hina which has been accused of dumping these metals into the global mar et for several years. or sledders, this move could impact the retail price of future sleds from domestic makers Arctic Cat and Polaris. Polaris for example, purchases about $300 million worth of steel and aluminum each year, but according to Polaris CEO Scott Wine, the impact will be minimal. Instead, Wine is more concerned how such tariffs could impact countries who are hit by the tariffs, resulting in less consumer spending power and ultimately, reduced retail sales overseas for his company. Currently both Canada and Mexico will be exempt from the tariffs.

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 32 • ISSUE 6

news

05 CAMSO IMPROVES DTS 129 CONVERSION; PLUS $500 EARLY ORDER OFFER

The Camso crew has been on an incredible roll as of late, innovating and promoting a host of new products including their snow bike conversion kit. Engineers at the company have further improved the kit with new suspension geometry and additional suspension travel, which is said to improve control, comfort, and performance. What’s more, the company is offering an extra incentive with all orders placed before May 11, 2018.

Dubbed the Snowrush Progam, a pre-order of the improved DTS 129 kit will also include a personalized graphic wrap and transport wheel kit. Combined, the Snowrush incentive has a value of more than $500 and is included at no extra cost when you pre-order a 2019 Camso DTS 129. To learn more and to secure your kit visit www.camso.co and click on the Snowrush link.

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 32 • ISSUE 6

news

05

BARN BOOTS FOR SNOW With KLIM already under the Polaris umbrella, it would seem they would have little need for another cold weather boot manufacturer.

But when you’re on the gas, you keep your foot planted to the oorboards. urns out big P recently inked a licensing agreement with Portland Product Werks, and the company will be offering Polaris branded boots this coming fall. If you’re a runner, you may already know Portland, Oregon is known as somewhat of a hotbed for producing athletic shoes. et at first glance it would seem the company has a few lessons to learn when it comes to boots for sledders, let alone a drastic need to upgrade their equipment.

Nice leather jacket eh bud?! Look past the nearly year old ndy snowmobiles and rusting atbed trailer and you’ll find evi eans tuc ed inside the company’s first sledder offering.

WORD SEARCH

UNTIL NEXTthinking SEASON! Need some time alone in your room, have a seat on the throne and give it "Until Next Season!"

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 32 • ISSUE 6

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DOWN TO THE WIRE FOR ROY AND JOANIS ith ust five races left on the season for the Canadian Snowcross Racing Association (CSRA), things are shaping up to be a dogfight between uber otorsports Polaris teammates RJ Roy (#14) and Dave Joanis (#115) for the year-end championship. As this final season issue of goes to press, RJ holds a slip 6-point margin over ave with five races to go.

Unless they both suffer a major meltdown, it appears one of them will be hoisting the hardware and twisting the keys to a new 2018 Chevy 2500HD pickup, courtesy of the Mike Jackson GM Dealership. The CSRA battle will continue in Kitchener with a double-header, and the season will wrap up with a triple-feature at Horseshoe Valley Resort, March 30-April 1. Check back in for updates at snowcross.com

GARDNER AND MILLEY LEAD SKI-DOO SWEEP OF CAIN’S orty one teams started the famed ain’s uest cross country endurance race but only finished and leading the pac was the Ski-Doo team of Maine/Southern Snow Riders consisting of Robert Gardner and Andrew Milley. The grueling 3200km, GPS guided, day and night race treks across the remote Labrador wilderness and is as extreme as any race can get. Featuring every type of terrain imaginable and weather extremes, racers and their machine have to be ready for anything. The winning duo of Gardner and Milley were followed by fellow Ski-Doo teams Innu Hawks and Rough & Wild, giving the maker a sweep of the podium. What’s more, of the teams that finished were aboard i oo snowmobiles including the first finishers.

ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 32 • ISSUE 6

25

OLDS AND MORGAN CONQUER ALASKA WITH IRON DOG WIN Few snowmobile races in the world combine the challenges and distance for which the iconic Iron Dog is known for. Covering more than 2,000 miles, the journey is one part race, one part perseverance, and one part survival. o simply finish is a major achievement. To win it is the stuff that snowmobile competition dreams are made of. Those dreams came true this winter for

Chris Olds and Mike Morgan, who completed the course from Anchorage to Nome to Fairbanks in just under 37-hours. Competing on special, prepped Polaris Switchback XCR buggies and wrapped in KLIM gear, the win was the third for Olds who has competed in the Iron Dog Pro ran s times and the first for organ who finally found the top of the box after 8 attempts.

STEPHENSON MAKES THE RIGHT MOVES TO EARN FIRST WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

Photo Credit: John Sandberg

PERSERVERANCE PREVAILS

FOR AARON CHRISTENSEN If we told you we weren’t secretly rooting for long-time Polaris cross-country racer Aaron Christensen to have a break-out season, we’d be lying. Aaron is the epitome of perseverance and dedication, and this winter those two traits in many ways described his championship season. Already the winner of the long-distance award each race weekend, Aaron makes what is often a 13-hour drive from Metiskow, Alberta to get to the races, a trip he has been making for more than a decade. While he races in the pro ranks with some level of factory support, Aaron is more akin to a

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 32 • ISSUE 6

privateer, working at his family’s Polaris dealership, spending time with his wife and two children during the week, and pounding ditch-lines and carving up river bottoms on the weekend. This winter, all the pieces fell into place for Aaron, who started out slow but came on li e a house on fire mid-season. A huge victory in the Iron Man 250 got the ball rolling, and from there he never looked back, grabbing a podium at every remaining race including a career defining win in the . hen the totals were tallied, Aaron bested Wes Selby by 34-points for the championship.

The path to the World Championship at the Eagle River Derby Track for young Blaine Stephenson certainly wasn’t the one of least resistance. Despite poor qualifying a mechanical and an off leading up to unday’s big race the year old found himself in the final field.

A deep pac runner for the first half of the race racing luc soon had laine running third on the final restart. he green white chec ered finish meant it was an all-out sprint for the front runners, or in Blaine’s case, avoiding the two sled tangle in front of him on the final lap, in order to put himself into the lead. Navigating his Polaris through the tangle and turns three and four, gave Stephenson the Pro Champ World Championship.

NEW YEAR. NEW ATTITUDE.

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ANSON SCHEELE DOMINATES JR RANKS; BRODEUR IN WOMEN’S Almost everywhere you look, up and down the ISOC class ranks, Arctic Cat racers are cleaning house. In the hotly contested Pro Lite division, the year-end crown will most likely land in the hands of Jacob Yurk (Cat) or Daniel Benham Jr. (Cat). One rung down, the Sport crown is a contest between Trent Wittwer (Cat) and Ryley Bester (Cat). Shaking things up however, is projected Pro Am Women’s Champion Megan Brodeur (Doo) who holds a 40-point lead over Malene Andersen. Finally, there is the fast rising star of Anson Scheele, (pictured) who is destroying both the Jr. 14-15 and Jr. 16-17 classes with repeated top of the box results. Oh yeah, he’s on a Cat as well.

Photo Credit: Alicia Dick

HERFINDAHL AND SELBY WIN SOO-500 Celebrating the 50th running of the legendary Soo-500 ice oval enduro, the event has unquestionably become one of the most coveted victories for any racer to add to their buc et list of wins. his year the hristian rothers racing duo of ach erfindahl and es elby did ust that by besting the pac ed field of competitors in the lap affair. he race became an all out dogfight during the final miles as the top four teams swapped positions and crossed the line, all within 20-seconds of each other. The racing was so intense, even Arctic Cat Race Manager Mike Kloety said it was one of the most hard-fought race performances he has ever witnessed. The win gave Team Arctic their third Soo-500 championship, and spelled redemption for elby and erfindahl who finished second a year prior.

SIMPLY UNSTOPPABLE HIBBERT IS CHAMP AGAIN To say the competition (and in some ways the sanctioning body) have tried everything to knock the winningest snocross racer of all time off the top of the mountain would be an understatement. While it may have appeared ody amm was poised to be the rising star who would finally unseat Hibbert, the not-so-young-for-snocross veteran had other plans in 2018. With 10 victories on the season, and two races remaining at this writing, Tucker has proven once again there is nobody better than the T-Train. While he may take less risks and is more calculating in his approach no one can match his ability to move through traffic even on tracks where passing seems almost impossible. Along the way, Tucker also challenged the rules put in place by the International Series of Champions (ISOC) a couple of seasons back. Known amongst fans as simply the uc er ule the inverted starting grid rule penali es the top ualifier by giving them last pic on the front row. erhaps uc er was frustrated or he simply deemed it was time to make a point, but in Salamanca, New York, Tucker chose a back-row start, despite being the number one ualifier. he move sent race officials into a scramble delaying the start of the race as they looked to sort out the move. But there was little to sort out, Tucker made the decision and there were no rules preventing him from doing so. From there he sliced his way through the field gaining significant ground on leader amm lap after lap. At the chec ered uc er finished second proving a point few could argue. f there would have been one more lap, Tucker would have undoubtedly won the race, putting an exclamation mark on his wordless statement regarding the rule. espite those firewor s in the end barring some frea incident in Lake Geneva, Tucker is the king…again.

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Polaris recommends that all snowmobile riders take a training course. Do not attempt

Polaris recommends snowmobile riders a training course.

Do not attempt maneuvers beyond that yourall capability.

Always weartake a helmet and other safety apparel. maneuvers beyond your capability. Always wear a helmet and other safety apparel.

Never drink and ride. ©2018 Polaris Industries Inc. Never drink and ride. ©2014 Polaris Industries Inc.

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Polaris recommends that all snowmobile riders take a training course. Do not attempt

Polaris recommends snowmobile riders a training course.

Do not attempt maneuvers beyond that yourall capability.

Always weartake a helmet and other safety apparel. maneuvers beyond your capability. Always wear a helmet and other safety apparel.

Never drink and ride. ©2018 Polaris Industries Inc. Never drink and ride. ©2014 Polaris Industries Inc.

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Polaris recommends that all snowmobile riders take a training course. Do not attempt

Polaris recommends snowmobile riders a training course.

Do not attempt maneuvers beyond that yourall capability.

Always weartake a helmet and other safety apparel. maneuvers beyond your capability. Always wear a helmet and other safety apparel.

Never drink and ride. ©2018 Polaris Industries Inc. Never drink and ride. ©2014 Polaris Industries Inc.

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CENTRE WWW.EDGEPERFORMANCE.CA T

Polaris recommends that all snowmobile riders take a training course. Do not attempt

Polaris recommends snowmobile riders a training course.

Do not attempt maneuvers beyond that yourall capability.

Always weartake a helmet and other safety apparel. maneuvers beyond your capability. Always wear a helmet and other safety apparel.

Never drink and ride. ©2018 Polaris Industries Inc. Never drink and ride. ©2014 Polaris Industries Inc.

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ARCTIC CAT ALPHA ONE There’s little doubt that the most talked about innovation for 2019 is the single beam, rear suspension dubbed the Alpha One from Arctic Cat. It’s being heralded as a game changer by many experts and it very well could live up to these expectations if all the early positive reports hold true, when actual riders take to the snow next winter. For certain we can say the single beam design results in a sled that is much, much easier

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to tip in. ur mountain crew spent the better part of a day on the sled in near perfect, fresh and plenty-deep snow conditions, and they all agreed the Alpha One was heads and shoulders above the current Mountain Cat design. However, they also agreed there is a significant learning curve to the new design, (remember how the REV forced us to ride sleds differently) and will require more saddle time to adapt. For expert

riders, the Alpha One will most likely transform the riding experience. As for the rest of us, we never once had to put both feet on the same side of the running board, instead keeping our feet slightly back from the stirrups, and initiating far less effort to get the sled to lean. The sled reacts so easily, we often applied too much pressure, resulting in the sled turning in too soon, and in some occasions, forcing us to step off.

FROM EVERY VIEW, IT APPEARS POLARIS HAS DONE THEIR HOMEWORK WITH THIS ENGINE.

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POLARIS 850 PATRIOT The new big bore motor from Polaris is an absolute home run! There we said it, and while some may say it’s too early to judge, we have nearly 500-miles on the new motor at both sea-level and altitude, and have experienced nary a glitch. From every view, it appears Polaris has done their homework with this engine. emember this is the first all new from the crankcase up motor for snowmobiles since the infamous 900 Fusion, and we all know how that turned out. This time around, no stone was left unturned, and the end result is an engine that is an absolute beast in terms of power, silky run-quality, rev-happy demeanor, and is deemed rock-solid, based on the standard 4-year warranty Polaris has included. If you thought the 800HO was a quick revver, the new Patriot is every bit as good, if not better. What’s more, the engine has a what we’d call another gear, a point in the powerband where the exhaust valves fully-open, letting the big twin breathe free. he tune of the engine transforms from howl to growl and the power is stunning. While Polaris won’t disclose actual horsepower numbers the official word is the new 850 delivers 9% more, or as one engineer put it it’s more than enough. etter than the Ski-Doo 850 you ask? We think so.

The crew from OSM was one of only three publications who had the opportunity to ride the new 850 Patriot, direct from the Polaris headquarters in Roseau. Editor Bourgeois joined SnowTech and Sled Magazine from Quebec, along with Polaris engineers for an official burn on a brisk day in January. Bourgeois came back singing the virtues of the Patriot.

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S#K 3I - DS KO OI - D9 O0 O0 A9C0E0 AT UC RE BTOU R B O Rumors of infusing the three-cylinder 900 ACE engine with forced induction have been swirling about for some time, so it wasn’t too shoc ing to finally see the charged motor in the line up for 2019. According to Ski-Doo, this engine represents the first snowmobile specific turbo-charged four-stroke engine for the company, meaning no pieces were borrowed or adapted for the application. The sled specific design produces ponies a number that may seem short for those who were hoping the company would come up with enough power to compete with the king of swing, Yamaha Sidewinder. i oo officials claim they wanted to come with the right pac age meaning

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the right balance of power to mate with the chassis and intended application. The new motor is available in a few different model configurations including touring great fit enegade nduro one up trail cruiser) and a Renegade XRS. All utilize the throttle-by-wire technology and three driving modes (Sport, Standard, and ECO). For certain, the 900 Turbo has ample thrust, propelling all models forward with blur-type velocity, but power delivery can be abrupt, and in some instances, hard to control. While we would expect the Sport mode to deliver intense acceleration, control is more akin to a light switch. e’re hopeful further refinements to this will be made prior to production.

THINK OF IT AS FOX QUICK SWITCH 3 SHOCKS WITHOUT THE KNOB. INSTEAD, BOTH FRONT SUSPENSION SHOCKS AND THE REAR ARM SHOCK FEATURE COMPACT SERVO MOTORS, ALL OF WHICH ARE LINKED TOGETHER AND CONTROLLED BY A LEFT-HAND CONTROL BUTTON WITH GAUGE INDICATION.

ARCTIC CAT/YAMAHA IACT/IQS The marriage between Yamaha and Arctic Cat continues, and this means most of the hot new technical innovations for the coming winter can be found in both avors.

Our favorite is the new, from the handlebar controlled iACT or IQS shock valving system. Think of it as FOX Quick Switch 3 shocks without the knob. Instead, both front suspension shocks and the rear arm shock feature compact servo motors, all of which are linked together and controlled by a left-hand control button with gauge indication. Just like the Quick Switch design, the system serves up three levels of compression damping (Soft, Medium, and Firm). The best part is you can control these settings while on the

y with nearly instant results. he system can switch between ride levels in just a fraction of a second. This means you can adjust your suspension to meet changing terrain as you drive. See a big kicker or road approach you want to send, click the shoc s to firm or the trail is an ocean of washboard chop, dial it back to soft. The system is also smart enough to recognize when you activate reverse, at which point it stiffens the rear shock and softens the front to help eliminate the rear of the sled from diving and potentially digging down or climbing atop the snow ap. o doubt this is only the tip of the iceberg for this type of shock control technology.

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POLARIS PRO CC REAR SUSPENSION Could this signal the end of the break-through outside-the-tunnel Pro-XC suspension? While time will only tell if the performance and positioning of this new traditional skid from Polaris says anything, we believe the end is in sight. The new suspension is very traditional in design, and shares the long front arm set-up used in both the Pro-XC and IGX suspensions.

The rear drop-link is pushed as far back on the rail as possible and features two-way coupling.

The new design has very broad shoulders, meaning it needs little adjustment for a variety of conditions and loads. While we found the Pro-XC set-up in Pro-S models to exhibit better groomed trail handling, the overall performance and easy to adjust nature of the Pro CC has us thinking that this is the future of Polaris shorttracker suspension design.

YAMAHA/ARCTIC CAT NEW CONTROLS It’s the little things that sometime matter, and attention to detail touchpoints such as the handlebar controls can be a difference maker when plopping down nearly 15 big ones on a new buggy. The controls on Arctic Cat sleds (and Yamaha counterparts) were getting a bit long in the tooth, and with the need for a fresh button to control iACT/IQS, Cat went to work designing new ones. The new backlit

SKI-DOO RAPID ADJUST SKI STANCE hile you won’t find this tric feature on any 2019 models from Ski-Doo, this accessory is so simple and smart, we simply had to make mention. The high-strength plastic lever allows you to adjust the width of your front s i stance in ust seconds. imply ip up the lever, slide the ski on the spindle to the desired width, and then snap the lever back in place. The accessory offers two-inches of ad ustment and fits all ilot and DS-3 skis.

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and more compact controls now incorporate a push button start for twostroke models, (similar to Ski-Doo) and hand and thumb warmer controls with gauge indicators. Also included is a new throttle block and stand-alone kill switch, which can now be rotated down and out of harm’s way. While we can’t give the new controls the best in class nod they are a significant improvement.

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YAMAHA SRX By now you know the SRX has returned, and the menacing blue beast is packed with a few tweaks to make the Sidewinder in SRX clothes even faster than last year’s speed champ. To gain more warp factor speed, the new SRX now spins a shallow 1-inch lug Ripsaw track, and touts a lowered ride height. To attain the lowered ride height, the use of new dual-rate springs lets the sled have more ride in but maintains final rates to resist bottoming. eing the hero model for 2019, the SRX also receives IQS shock control, new handlebar controls, and of course classic SRX colors. While we can’t say for certain how much faster the SRX is than last year’s Sidewinder, we were surprised at just how much fun this set-up is on the trails, even those littered with bumps. The 1-inch lug trac allows the sled to slip over bumps and be bac ed in on the corners. his combined with power on and pitched exits ma es for a laugh inside your helmet ride we can’t get enough of. Don’t worry, it’s still stupid fast.

YAMAHA SPRING POWER SURGE Every spring the manufacturers look for ways to attract customers into dealerships and lay down some fresh towards the purchase of a new model snowmobile. The early order program is a great way for manufacturers to gauge interest, and more importantly, adjust build numbers for the coming winter. Yet, with fic le winters and an industry that at times thin s it’s still operating in 1998 retail conditions, dealer inventory has become an issue for all manufacturers. To clean out the pipeline often requires one of two paths lower prices significantly with big rebates and incentives to sell the non-current units, or build way less. The later approach is the smart move and the best for dealers, but most manufacturers are not willing to absorb the pain associated with it. Yamaha however, has stepped up to the plate, and for 2019 they have significantly trimmed their model offering and will put significant focus on sales during pring Power Surge. In fact, if you want a popular Limited Edition Sidewinder model, or the hot new SRX, you must buy this spring. Come winter, only four full-size sleds will be offered along with the SRX120 and SnoScoot models. In addition, Yamaha is sweetening the pot with a sweepstakes and a chance to win a Yamaha snowmobile of your choice, a generator, or pressure washer. Visit yamahamotorsports.com for details and see your local Yamaha dealer before April 16…you’ve been warned.

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e r o t S y o My T 347 Cranston Crescent, Midland, ON L4R 4K6 705.526.2248 • www.factoryrecreation.com

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POLARIS REACT FRONT SUSPENSION While the big picture view may not show much has changed with the Polaris PRO RMK line, other than the addition of the 850 Patriot motor, in reality there have been a host of upgrades made to the mountain maven eet the biggest being the introduction of an all-new front suspension dubbed the React. Touting new geometry, a revised sway bar, and an adjustable stance going from a narrow 36-inches to 38-inches, the forged A-arm and spindle system is stronger, and further improves the deep snow handling of the Rocky Mountain King.

With a day in the saddle in the Idaho backcountry, our mountain crew found the changes to be seamless. As one tester put it ou can’t uite put your finger on it at first but the new RMK just works better in every situation with less effort.

SKI-DOO 600R ROTAX If you’ve been paying attention, then you’ve already seen and read our initial review on the new, second-generation 600 motor from Ski-Doo. We had a chance to rally the new motor in MXZ trim this past winter, and instantly fell in love. While the 600 engine of old was good, the new motor is one that is damn near perfect. ant an engine that is ust happy his is your mill. utfitted with all the latest in ETEC goodies, the motor produces a legit 125-ponies, and has a much better run quality than its big brother 850. This one gets our vote as the best six-hundo on snow next winter.

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WHILE THE 600 ENGINE OF OLD WAS GOOD, THE NEW MOTOR IS ONE THAT IS DAMN NEAR PERFECT. WANT AN ENGINE THAT IS JUST HAPPY? THIS IS YOUR MILL.

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ARCTIC CAT/YAMAHA 200 ELECTRIC START The ZR 200 and matching sibling SnoScoot were the runaway hit of the season. Dealers sold out early, and kids were quickly becoming addicted to the sport. If there was one shortcoming of the homerun, mid-sized sled, it was the difficult to start nature it exhibited when cold.

A too lean condition from an undersized pilot et remedied for a too short recoil rope remedied for and perhaps most importantly, the lack of electric start which forced mom or dad to get the buggy going, were about the only nags anyone could find. ow all of those issues have been addressed for 2019, and the big one is the inclusion of electric start. Next year, Yamaha will still offer a pull-start version in addition to standard electric start, and Arctic Cat will go e-start only. You better hide the keys, the kids are home from school.

SKI-DOO SHOT EXPANSION While only available during SkiDoo’s spring order program, the battery free, no weight penalty, push button SHOT starting system will be made available on Renegade Backcountry models. This marks

the first time the technology can be found on a trail sled and li ely represents a harbinger of things to come. The technology eliminates nearly 20-pounds, compared to a traditional electric start system.

POLARIS SLS SPRINGS If this photo looks like someone may have stretched a ballpoint pen spring a bit too far you’re sniffing down the right path. he spring represents a new technology Polaris is utilizing in their premium, deep snow sleds that their team first discovered on mountain bikes. The patented technology creates a stronger steel spring that delivers the same ride characteristics of a traditional spring, with less coils and subsequently less material. The result is a spring that is lighter than a much more expensive titanium spring. The SnowCheck exclusive spring is found on all four locations, and sheds nearly 3-pounds versus traditional springs.

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POLARIS LIGHTWEIGHT XT HYFAX They say the devil is in the details, or in this instance, weight reduction. What you’re looking at is a new hyfax design Polaris is calling XT Hyfax. There’s no rocket science going on here kids, just a smart and simple idea to eliminate material that is simply not needed. ou’ll find the design on several models including PRO RMK and Indy XC buggies.

TIMBERSLED IMPROVED RIPPER Even the little guys are getting love for 2019, including the Timbersled Ripper conversion kit designed for 110cc bikes.

Updates include a new 93-inch tack with . lugs a new dual arm rear suspension for improved lift in deep snow . inches of ad ustable ride height to fit more riders and easier installation for ad on Christmas morning.

YAMAHA/ARCTIC CAT HAYES STEALTH BRAKES With new controls on both sides of the handlebars, Arctic Cat improved another rider touchpoint with the introduction of a new Hayes Stealth master cylinder and lever. You’ll instantly notice the improved bend and reach of the lever, but it’s likely the details you won’t see that perhaps represents a bigger deal, especially for mountain riders. A more robust reservoir features support towers which in turn protects it from damage, especially in situations where you may roll the sled to get unstuck. While we wish the brakes had more feel, we can keep wishing with a better grip, thanks to the new design.

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POLARIS INDY EVO We gave you a deep dive on the new introductory sleds from Polaris last issue, but the sized right, powered right, and priced right sleds represent such an important step in gaining new riders, we had to make mention again. Since that report, we had a chance to ride both the rope pull and key twist versions, and their capabilities are better than we anticipated. While we would have liked a quieter powerplant, we also understand an affordable retail price is a primary driver for new riders. With that being said, the EVO hits the sweet spot.

SKI-DOO GEN4 WIDE In order to make room for some of the 2019 goodness introduced by Ski-doo, most notably the 900 ACE Turbo, the maker also introduced their second generation widebody design. This time featuring GEN4 plastic, the new look gives room under-hood for the turbo, as well as the air-pump for sleds with the air-shock suspension out back. The design is also warmer, thanks to more windcutting attributes and touts a more comfortable seat design for sit-down trail cruisers.

Turbo models features a vented top cowl where the intercooler is housed and looking for a cold ow.

This side-by-side image gives you good perspective on how the EVO si es up compared to a full-sized Indy.

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Complete engine rebuilds

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,

No interest and no payments for 6 months plus 5.99% Finance Rate for 60 Months: This is a limited time offer which is valid for the purchase of selected qualifying MY19 models and is subject to credit approval from TD Auto Finance (TDAF) on qualified purchases financed during this program. Offer may not be combined with certain other offers, is subject to change and may be extended or terminated without further notice. See participating retailers for complete details and conditions. Rates from other lenders may vary. Monthly payment and cost of borrowing will vary depending on amount borrowed and down payment/trade. Minimum amount to finance is $5,000. Example: $7,500 financed at 5.99% over 60 months = 60 monthly payments of $144.96 with a cost of borrowing of $1197.67 and a total obligation of $8,697.67 Freight, license, PPSA/RPDRM, insurance, registration, any retailer administration fees and other applicable fees and taxes are not included in the financed amount. Dealers are free to set individual prices, but must be enrolled with TDAF to participate. Offer is valid only in Canada and does not apply to prior purchases. The Promotional Limited Warranty consists of the standard 12 month factory warranty plus an additional 36 months of additional promotional limited warranty coverage for a total of 48 months of warranty coverage. Any additional warranty coverage after the initial 12 month factory warranty is subject to a $50.00 deductible per visit. All SnowCheck offers are valid at participating Polaris dealers only. See your local dealer for details. Offers are valid on MY19 SnowCheck orders placed between 3/05/18 - 4/17/18. Consumer must take delivery between 8/1/2018 – 12/31/18 to qualify. Professional rider on a closed course. PolarisŽ recommends that all snowmobile riders take a training course. Do not attempt maneuvers beyond your capability. Always wear a helmet and other safety apparel. Never drink and ride. Š2018 Polaris Industries Inc.

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www.osmmag.com

GOT RISER

sers eye to spot ri d e in ra -t ll e ndrew M. It takes a w . Good eye A e c n ta is d is from th

The

tall boys are out. Our offices have been inundated with big riser iron!

Obviously, everyone wants to get their paws on our new “Got Riser” tee-shirt. Can’t say we blame you. Send us your best pic of too tall bars at editor@osmmag.com , and you might see your photo here and receive a replacement for your pit-stained tee.

Nikola sent u top mo s this colorfu unted mirrors l riser pic. Lov e the u to com s plete t he look e .

Winner, winner, chicken dinner…who needs more riser when you can ape hang!? Thanks to Rodney D. for this epic submission.

SEND US YOUR RISER PICS! 52

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gotrisers@osmmag.com

r heck. Sponso Wheel kit…c l…check. ck. Extra fue e h c … ls a c e d ind… break the w to r se ri h g u Eno ard L. itted by Rich check. Subm

LEFT: Lo yal reader O liver E. sent us this fine riser exa mp no he ne le… ver lifts.

RIGHT: Dude is sponsored by “never too much riser.” Submitted

by James F. from T-Bay Ontario.

Don’t really care how David D captured this photo…this is just pure silky riser.

No doubt the rider sports a tasty salad.

ed Where’s there’s smoke, there’s riser. Submitt g

by Samantha F. who is currently recoverin s. lung from second-hand, scorched

ored set-up was sc This greasy y Craig’s List b on the local es? h c n that 10-i our editor. Is nt up.

Price just we

The Faulkner boys from New Riserwick are proof that brothers that stand-up want matching tee-shirts.

Oh, so cute.

Send in your “Got Riser Brah” photo for a chance to win a complete PowerMadd make over.

Package includes: Fuzion Handguards, Adjustable Risers, Riser Bag and More!

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left to right: Amanda Ryan Biemond, Dora Marshall, all, rsh Ma ine Ela t, nd Hildebra Marshall, ve Da z, art Sw al che Mi and Justin Steckly.

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L L A H S R A M E V A D h it w e Ic r te s lI B e n a Ic r ur H d an

n u R H P M 3 0 2 more of it, ever have been in pursuit of speed and bIlers mad Snowmo ing the 1970s, Dur . pack snow the ss acro ks e trac over-snow machine

since the first fastest. A decade ed battle to claim the title of world’s the manufacturers were in a heat onal Snowmobile Nati the as kness broke new barriers later, the quest for speed and quic tors looked to peti com and , fast g goin ent series for Speed Run (NSSR) was the preemin within the held e the sanctioning body, but also thos break records held not just within s, and the time ern mod to d ld Records. Fast-forwar then popular Guinness Book of Wor it was as ular pop and ing allur as petitions remains tallure of radar runs and speed com char or tors ever, attract the number or competi recently during those early years. Few how and ) SSR (NB s, Run th Bay Snowmobile Speed Micheal k. topping speeds as the does the Nor mar ur r-ho e-pe -mil 200 ical s cracked the mag lifea a long-time competitor of the serie eved achi the crew of Hurricane Performance .2 203 of Swartz, (driver) Dave Marshall, and d spee mile terjaws when they posted a quar ched long dream and dropped plenty of laun heal Mic how ’s here zing accomplishment, miles-per-hour. To celebrate this ama crew member words of Hurricane Performance the in hero ing hold rd from zero to reco Amanda Biemond.

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It’s

been an 11-year journey of radar speed runs with North Bay Snowmobile Speed Runs, (NBSSR) but in early March in North Bay, Ontario, Hurricane Performance made history.

Surrounded by family, friends and teammates, Dave Marshall achieved his lifelong dream of breaking the 200mph barrier with a recorded run of 203.2mph (327km) in a quarter-mile, (1320ft) with driver Micheal Swartz making the daring run.

Since the evolution of Hurricane Performance in 2012, Marshall has been making pass after pass on his journey to the top. Several monumental runs including 186.3 and 187.3 started his exciting climb towards the magical 200mph barrier. Last year, Marshall and team set the previous record of 192mph.

With great ice and wind conditions, Hurricane arrived at Canada vs the World with their sights set on the magic number.

Right out of the trailer, the Hurricane sled made a pass of 181.1. On the second pass, fans were amazed with an astonishing run of 197.9mph, an unseen record!

Then, on the next run, it happened.

Crowds erupted, team members hugged, and tears were shed between owners Dave and Elaine Marshall of Prescott when the speed of 203.2mph lit up the board. Mashall’s daughter Hurricane Dora also shared in the record excitement, setting class records of her own that weekend with NBSSR. At the close of the weekend, Swartz and Marshall were recognized with top speed of the weekend. Marshall was also presented a hat for his accomplishment of brea ing the mph barrier a

RIGHT OUT OF THE TRAILER THE HURRICANE SLED MADE A PASS OF 181.1.

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ON THE SECOND PASS, FANS WERE AMAZED WITH AN ASTONISHING RUN OF 197.9MPH, AN UNSEEN RECORD!

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hat NBSSR owner Claude Levasseur said he had been holding onto for this moment for nearly 5-years.

Marshall thanked NBSSR owner Claude and NIki evasseur his race family and driver Swartz for all of their support on this ourney as well as his home team consisting of Brandon Lasenba, Ryan Hildebrandt, Justin Steckly, and Amanda Biemond. He also gave a special honorable mention to his beautiful wife Elaine Marshall. Without her Marshall said, the journey would not

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have been as fun. Her constant support throughout the years, helping hand and sharing in the vision has propelled Hurricane Performance towards the goal.

Shortly after the achievement, Marshall announced the retirement of the Hurricane outlaw sled. Although unsure what the future plans are for the record setting sled, Marshall remains committed to the company’s future. Marshall plans to focus on the summer racing circuit and growing his world class performance company.

MARSHALL THANKED NBSSR OWNER CLAUDE AND NIKI LEVASSEUR; HIS RACE FAMILY AND DRIVER SWARTZ FOR ALL OF THEIR SUPPORT ON THIS JOURNEY;

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 32 • ISSUE9:48 6 15-09-24

59 AM

Bergstrom Skegs Front End Handling & Wear Bar Solutions

C

arbide wear bars do just that, they wear out. It’s just part of being a snowmobiler, and when it comes to replacing them, there’s a ton of choices in the aftermarket. Bergstrom Skegs, based out of Rockford, Illinois, offers full circle solutions to remedy any handling issues you may have, while also offering the longest lasting wear bar on the market. Any season you don’t have to change the wear bars is a success in our books.

Bergstrom Skegs has a toll free number set up, to direct you to the proper offices, based on your website. We were directed to Clark Wilson, the Canadian half of the Bergstrom Skegs of the operation, and he offered his expertise to set up our Yamaha

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Sidewinder XTX 141”. No matter which way you try to slice it, a 141” uncoupled skid isn’t really going to be able to muster much “slicing” in the twisties at all. We knew we’d placed a tall order for Clark and the Bergstrom product to fulfill, and we were interested to see the results.

Clark set us up with a full, front-end solution for our sled with: • 8 inch Triple Point Carbides • 4 inch Good N Ugly Carbides • Ski Savers • Shim Kit

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1 We needed to remove the ski from the snowmobile. This would be a necessary evil later when installing the shim kit, so we might as well remove the ski at the beginning, in order to make carbide removal and reinstall a breeze. We followed this up by removing the existing carbides from both the inner and outer keels.

3

2 By first installing the Ski Savers on both keels, we then proceeded to install the 8 inch Triple Point Carbides on the inner keel, and the 4 inch Good N Ugly carbides on the outer keel of the skis.

4

Before reinstalling the skis, we needed to install the shim kit onto the OEM ski spacers. The shim kit moves the center point of contact with the snow from the front of the rearward, directly under the spindle.

Not only does this ease handling, but it also helps to heavily reduce any darting or handling inconsistencies, regardless of which model you have.

We completed this short and sweet install by reinstalling the spacer and skis onto our machine. It took some patience to get the shimmed ski lined up with the bolt hole, but was still a one man job.

Since installing our Bergstrom steering solution we’ve ran over 2,000 kms, and we are thoroughly impressed at the results. We turned our 141” uncoupled XTX Sidewinder into a machine that can carve trails at speed, but still offer the deep snow performance it seems more riders are now seeking.

The folks over at Bergstrom Skegs informed us they’re in the

process of developing fully molded 1-piece ski spacers, rather than having to add shims to your existing spacer. Not only will this lead to a cleaner looking install, but they also claim it will improve the life of your rubber ski spacers over the stock unit. Furthermore, you’ll be able to swap your stock spacers back on before you trade in your machine, and carry over your 1-piece spacers to your new sled.

ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 32 • ISSUE 6

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gear

1

X One Pro Monosuit

Tackle any type of riding condition whether it’s the trails or the mountains with Scott’s X One Pro Monosuit. Constructed with DWR nylon, breathable polyester shell, 2-way water resistant front construction, long adjustment zippers, ventilation, and a relaxed fit you will be able to customi e the suit to fit your riding needs. uilt into the X One Pro Monosuit is Scott’s Dryosphere technology, which gives the rider a waterproof, windproof, and breathable barrier from the elements you are riding in. Head over to www.scott-sports.com today!

2

Dragon NFX2 Goggles

When riding day and night on the trails we go through an abundance of lighting transitions and with that our vision is affected. ragon has brought in the rapid fire lens change system that allows you to change your lens frame from a dark to lighter lens, giving you optimum clarity. The NFX2 provides you with an airtight seal around the frame and an anti-fog system that gives you peace of mind. With its 100% UV protection and triple foam lining you will be bale to hit the trails for hours at a time. The NFX2 goggles come in a variety of colours. www.gammapowersports.com

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Pilot Goggles

3

Add FXR’s Pilot Goggles to your collection, with an oversized viewing area and outrigger frame for perfect fit how could you go wrong ade with density wind proof spreading face foam, anti-fog double lens with UV protection, and anti-scratch lens coating. All the features you need/want out of your goggles are integrated into FXR’s Pilot Goggles, choose your colour at www.fxrracing.com.

4

Water to Air Intercooler Upgrade

Have you been upgrading your machine all winter and looking for the next best thing for your turbocharged AXYS RMK? Boondockers Water to Air Intercooler Upgrade is the next upgrade that you have been looking for! The Water to Air Intercooler Upgrade is designed to improve turbocharger performance by minimizing charge air temperatures. Boondockers developed this intercooler to be lightweight and cooled through the radiator mounted on the underside of the belly pan, this position gives the radiator direct contact with snow and cold air. Go to www.boondockers.com for more details!

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gear

5

Synthetic Slide Lubricant Powersports enthusiasts are always trying to get an edge and find the next best thing to eep their snowmobiles running at pea performance. SSL (Synthetic Slide Lubricant) from Hipertech is a specially formulated lubricant that provides ant-friction treatment at points of contact of the sliders and the track. SSL reduces friction, heat, and slider wear for high performance snowmobiles.

Hipertech’s SSL is an ideal lubricant for icy trail conditions, drag racing, and radar runs. Available in 500 ml, 4L, and 20L! Head over to www.hipertech.com for purchase details.

7

6

Powerxross Glove For the group of people that like the racer style glove feel and comfort, Klim’s Powerxross Glove has the technology and features that you are looking for.

The Powerxross Glove has a built in 100 gram 3m Thinsulate, Gore grip technology full leather palm fingers with silicon grip, and is guaranteed to keep your hands dry. Get the racer style feel and at the same time keep your hands warm while rallying the trails with Klim’s Powerxross Glove. Head over to www.klim.com

Zoan Optimus Eclipse

Is your 2 piece modular helmet starting to show age and wear, well maybe its time for an upgrade? The Optimus Eclipse 2 piece modular helmet from Zoan will give you the upgrade and features that you have been looking for.

Made with a two section injection HPTT Shell (high pressure thermoplastic alloy) for the safety side, interior material made with hyper-allergenic treatment for dry comfort that is fully removable and machine washable. Other features include one button hand release, tool less shield removal, and quick release retention system. Head over too www.gammapowersports.com for further details.

8

Composit Talon 35 Track

Increase your traction, handling, stopping, and acceleration with the Composit Talon 35 groomed trail/low snow coverage track.

The Talon 35 is engineered with an unusual lug pattern that gives the snowmobile aggressive bite in the corners with out slowing you down. ith a . two ply fully clipped trac and enforced saw-toothed outer lugs. The Talon 35 will awaken your machine to the trail beast you always wanted it to be. The Talon 35 Composit track is available in a variety of lengths, check them out at www.royaldistributing.com

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Motorfist Scout Backpack

9

Carry the essentials with you at all times when heading up into the mountains or on a trail ride from dusk to dawn. The Scout Backpack from otorfist was designed around the rider’s needs and wants with vented shoulder straps, back panel to prevent over heating, integrated grab handle, protective goggle pocket, 2 hip belt pockets, and tool pocket. You will also keep hydrated with otorfist’s l hydration ready pac that is integrated into the cout ac pac . hoose between three available colours at www.motorfist.com.

10

Ultimax XS Belts

Get superior performance out of your machine with Ultimax XS Belts by Timken. These belts are designed for modern high performance snowmobilers. The XS Belt is designed to provide better consistency and great resistance to cracking because of its high temperature rubber compound. Ultimax belts has a formulated rubber compound found in no other snowmobile belt which is why they stand out from the rest. If it can handle the wear and tear from top race sleds, than it can handle what you put it through on the trails. Further details on Ultimax XS Belts by Timken at www.ultimaxbelts.com

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 32 • ISSUE 6

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gear

Black-Ops Elite Balaclava Looking for a balaclava that has it all? Well look no further than FXR’s Black-Ops Elite Balaclava. The Black-Ops balaclava has a built in adjustable neoprene no fog system that will keep you free a clear of fogged up goggles while on the trails. Constructed with a 4-way stretch material designed to reduce wind to critical areas and wide shoulder/ chest coverage for moderate to extreme riding conditions. FXR placed a rear zipper on the back of the balaclava for an easy on and off application. Check out FXR’s Black-Ops Elite Balaclava at www.fxrracing.com

11 Husky Jacket

12

Like the option of layering up before heading out on a ride? The Husky jacket by CKX takes advantage of an integrated layering system. With the constant change in weather conditions finding the right ac et can be challenging. designed the us y ac et to maximi e rider’s comfort with a removable synthetic fiber liner pre-shaped elbows, mesh lined lateral air vents, and 3 warm hand pockets. The outer shell protects you from wind and water with CKX’s Voltez membrane. The advantage of CKX inner liner is that you can wear it separately as a spring or fall style jacket. Visit www.kimpex.com or www.ckxgear.com for purchase details.

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®, TM and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates. Always ride responsibly and observe applicable laws. Always remember that riding and Acohol/drugs don’t mix.

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Ignitor Pro Heated Gloves

13

o you find yourself chasing the snow up north in the colder weather?

Don’t let your hand suffer, Fly’s Ignitor Pro Heated Glove will keep your hands warm and toasty while out on the trails. Built with a full leather palm, integrated hard knuckle armor, and is touch screen compatible making it easier to use your phone or GPS! With a 7.4v lithium ion battery and controller with 3-heat setting you wont have any issues keeping your hand warm and comfortable.

The stainless core heating technology has superior life even in the worst conditions. Purchase Fly’s Ignitor Pro Heated glove at www. yracing.com

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gear

14

CKX Flex RSV The new CKX Flex helmet combines all of the advantages of a full-face and open-face helmet. In addition to being easy to use and lightweight the ex offers all the basic features of a modular helmets and even a sun visor. he new ex will give you an easy and practical way to communicate with your fellow riders, without having to remove the helmet, by lifting the chin guard section with a push of a button. For further details on the new CKX Flex RSV Helmet head over to www.kimpex.com or www.ckxgear.com

16

Intimidator Jacket

No matter your riding style, every rider has the same needs and wants when it comes to their jacket, comfort, warmth, manoeuvrability, and we can throw style/look into the mix as well.

HMK heard you’re calling and designed the Intimidator jacket with XR-Gold Weather-proof Technology that makes this jacket windproof, waterproof, and breathable. With cascade ballistic material, aqua guard ippers magnetic ap closure embroidered logos, and a moisture wicking mesh liner this is the jacket for all styles of riders. We know you are already on www.hmkusa.com adding the Intimidator jacket to your cart, we wont tell the wife/GF if you don’t.

Slydog 6” Trail Skis

Upgrade the handling on your machine with lydog rail is. his trail s i has a exible design and are made of lightweight materials to give you a smoother and more controllable ride. You will notice improved handling, less darting and lighter steering. he lydog rail i has a reverse angle keel, intake scoop, and narrow channel to give you perfect trail riding performance. More details at www.royaldistributing.com.

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 32 • ISSUE 6

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KELLY CHAMPS KNOCK IT OUT!

T

he legacy of Kelly Shires and the breast cancer Snow Run championed through this extremely temperamental winter we have been experiencing. The energetic enthusiasm that riders brought to this 19th annual ride was unexplainable.

These champs suited up on February 3, 2016 and hit the trails leading out of Hidden Valley Resort in Huntsville on perfectly groomed trails. Considering just days previous to the event that many people hit the panic button due to the lack of snow everywhere the group nows we definitely had some Guardian Snow Angels on their side. This combined with the Rocky Balboa like grooming of trails by the volunteers at The Highland Rovers Snowmobile Club, the ladies enjoyed a fabulous ride on the Muskoka trails with a mid-day continuous peppering of snow. Raising over $485,000.00 for breast cancer patients across Canada, bringing the 19 year fundraising total to over $5,500,000.00! he theme this year was elly’s hamps and took place at Hidden Valley Resort in Huntsville, which has embraced this charity as their own. rom our first event at idden Valley Resort about 10 years ago the staff adopted the Snow Run as their own. They embrace every aspect of the event and give us their all. It truly has become the home of the now un says tenoff event committee head. Scott Doughty, General Manager at Hidden Valley Resort, surprised the group on the weekend with a donation of $5000 from the resort. This year the event saw 27 new riders (newbies as they are affectionately referred to) with the thanks of the Double Royal Challenge hosted by long time platinum sponsor Royal Distributing.

Friday afternoon ladies enjoyed some shopping at the pin mar et and really got

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in the elly’s hamps theme in full boxing costumes at the photo booth graciously hosted by the team at Fun Cube. The meet’n’greet kicked off Friday evening emceed by the fabulous Carey Moran from KICX FM. It was a crisp -18 Saturday morning as the enthusiastic ladies prepared to noc out the beautiful us o a trails. pening ceremonies commenced with a welcoming speech by Co-Founder, Suzy Stenoff, followed by a heartfelt moment of silence in memory of those who lost their battle to the disease and to those battling it every day. After a fun full group photo, the ladies danced to the event theme song an feel li e a oman by hania wain he theme song was chosen by Kelly Shires years ago to represent the spirit of the event and rallies an unexplainable enthusiasm from the crowd. Special thank you to the MSR, Highland Rovers and Hill & Gully Riders that helped to make the day and trails excep-

tional. Participants rode with their team of choice and comfort level including, Team Turtle, Bosom Cruisers, Team Rock, Dream Team and the Hooter Haulers. Each team rode the designated routes to Kearney for lunch which was graciously sponsored by Canada Cartage. The teams then headed back to Hidden Valley Resort to be greeted by hot chocolate and treats before hitting the showers to get ready for the Saturday night gala.

The Saturday Banquet commenced with a warm welcome by Mistress of Ceremonies, Beverly Thomson, Canadian Journalist, CTV News Channel Correspondent and a breast cancer survivor. Beverly and her daughter were able to enjoy the ride courtesy of Factory Recreation in Midland.

After a warm welcome by Paul Ziraldo, Councillor for Kearney, , Kelly’s father, Bob Childerhose, started off the fabulous dinner with grace and tell the group a little about Kelly. A special Thank you to our dinner sponsor again this year, Royal Distributing.

A special thank you to Taera McLean & Don oloumbe for this year’s fun video fitting in with the Kelly’s Champs theme (which can be viewed on you tube). The event was full of fun including speeches, awards, silent auction and closing the evening with announcing winners of the annual raf e.

Congratulations to the following award winners: Betty Black Memorial Award (highest pledges) – Kim Sage Kelly Shires Memorial Award (creative fundraising) – Alison Walker Kim “Sparks” Fish Memorial Award –

(love of life) - Amy Gregorio Sled Ed Award – Funny Mishap on the trails – Carey Moran he grand finale of the ban uet is the announcing of the winners of our annual raf e who were Early Bird Prize – 2018 Can-Am XMR 570 (donated by Factory Recreation, Midland) – Jim Farrell, Vineland 1st prize - 2018 Ski-Doo Renegade ADR 1200 4-tech (donated by BRP and Factory Recreation, Midland) – Lisa Ross, Ingersoll 2nd prize - $500 Gift Certificate for Royal Distributing (donated by Royal Distributing, Guelph) – Jennifer O’Brien, Kitchener 3rd prize – Stay for 2 at Hidden Valley Resort (donated by Hidden Valley Resort) Jonn Graham, Bradford Special appreciation to the Ontario Event Committee, who works so hard throughout the year–Brian Fish, Blair Munn, Kylie Guthrie, Dara Haggarty, Marion Mochrie, Helen Stenoff, Suzy Stenoff, Marci Vine, Jeff Wice and Joan Wice along with every single volunteer who made this event intimate and colossal at the same time, in Kelly’s Honour.

Immense gratitude all of our sponsors with special mention to our Charity Platinum Level Sponsors, BRP INC., Factory Recreation, Midland, FXR Racing, Royal Distributing, Snap-on Tools and The Toronto International Snowmobile, ATV & Powersport Show. Your steadfast support gives us the strength to make an impact together – thank you.

Sincere appreciation is extended to everyone who participated in this event, Thank you for keeping Kelly’s legacy and dream alive. We look forward to seeing you February 1, 2 & 3, 2019 for our 20th Anniversary event at Hidden Valley Resort in Huntsville, Registration will open spring 2018, and you won’t want to miss this one!

We are excited to announce the 9th annual (co-ed) TRAX4BC ATV ride in Parry Sound May 4 & 5th, proceeds to the Kelly Shires Breast Cancer Foundation. www. trax4bc.com Calling all Golfers – Take part in our 7th annual Fore the Love of Pink Golf tournament at Royal Ashburn Golf and Country Club June 24th www.foretheloveofpink.ca 3rd annual Motorcycle Sun Run in Guelph, Ontario July 21, 2018.

The Kelly Shires Foundation provides financially assistance to breast cancer patients across Canada with items that are not covered by OHIP or private medical plans. To learn more about events or to make a donation, please visit www.breastcancersnowrun.org and www.trax4bc.com.

For more information on the charity, visit www.kellyshiresfoundtaion.org.

Together we DO make a difference!

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The New Brunswick Federation of Snowmobile Clubs La Fédération des Clubs de Motoneige du Nouveau-Brunswick

President’s Report…

Thank you to Everyone - 2018 I have been honored to have served as the New Brunswick Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (NBFSC) President for three seasons now. This is my last message as President and I want to give thanks to the many individuals who make this such a rewarding organization to be part of. The NBFSC is primarily about snowmobiling but it runs on the consistent, reliable and never ending commitment from our member clubs, their volunteers, the volunteer Board of Directors and the staff.

We have 50 Member Clubs in the NBFSC and these are the true members of the Federation. The volunteers in each Club led by their President now have a year-round job to provide just 3-4 months of snowmobiling. These volunteers acquire the land access with thousands of private landowners; this single selfless and all time consuming act should never be taken for granted. They attend annual signage installation and trail grooming operator training courses. They attend two annual zone meetings, annual club surveys, the NBFSC’s Annual General Meeting each year and this is before their own club’s meetings.

For all the snowmobilers, these same club volunteers then sign, map and groom the trails you ride all winter, every winter, and many of you believe this is all that they do. I want to acknowledge their huge contributions, for without them there are no winter trails, there is no snowmobile industry and there is no winter tourism to market in New Brunswick, they are truly the backbone of snowmobiling.

The NBFSC’S Board of Directors (BOD) is also entirely

volunteers. This is how I became fortunate enough to be NBFSC’s President during the last 3 years. I first volunteered at my local snowmobile club, then served as Club President, after I was asked and then served the Clubs in my NBFSC Zone at the BOD, was elected Vice President and then had the privilege to serve the entire Provincial BOD and thus all the volunteers in the Federation as the President.

Board members, also known as Zone Directors give even more time to the NBFSC. In addition to all of the responsibilities of managing a Member Club, they serve at multiple meetings and on various committees of the BOD year long. Meetings are on Saturdays and sometimes for an entire weekend. Teleconference calls are always evenings and it is more likely that the BOD’s is meeting in June or July than in February. Again, I want to acknowledge the additional contributions of the current BOD and all the Zone Directors and Boards I have served with.

The NBFSC has also been very fortunate to have an excellent support staff since the mid - 1990’s. Today our organization’s strategy and vision is still carried out by the volunteer Board of Directors chosen from the Clubs from around the Province, but our NBFSC staff carry out this vision and manage the business of snowmobiling every day.

Combined, the four staff has over 70-years of service to the volunteers, clubs and snowmobilers in this Province.

Janice Bragdon, our Office Manager has been with us the longest, since 1995. Lisa MacDougall also joined us in 1995 and serves as everyone’s Administrative Assistant.

In the past decade under our steady growth we added Kyle Good, as the NBFSC’s Trail Manager, now with us for 6 plus years. Ross Antworth our General Manager first joined us as a Club volunteer in the spring of 1995 and as General Manager since 1997.

Serving as your President has been a blast but I did not do this job alone. The club’s, the volunteers, the Board and the staff were with me every day these past three years. I applaud them.

And I have said this before; we need to be proud of what we have accomplished at the NBFSC and how our Federation is regarded at the National and International levels of the snowmobile industry. As President I have had the opportunity to represent us at these meetings – nationally and internationally – and am humbled by the respect the NBFSC has built and established amongst our peers. Snowmobiling in New Brunswick is strong because of everyone who gives back to make it prominent…thank you for letting me be a part of the story.

- Brad

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Snowmobiling is New Brunswick’s Winter Tourism…

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Rapport du Président…

Merci à tous et toutes - 2018 Ce fut un honneur de siéger en tant que Président de la Fédération des clubs de motoneige du Nouveau-Brunswick (FCMNB) depuis maintenant trois saisons. Il s’agit de mon dernier message en tant que Président et je veux remercier les nombreux individus qui font en sorte que ce soit une organisation si gratifiante duquelle on puisse faire partie. La FCMNB est axée sur la motoneige, mais elle fonctionne grâce à l’engagement constant, fiable et sans relâche de nos clubs membres, de leurs bénévoles, du Bureau de direction bénévole et de son personnel.

Nous avons 50 clubs membres dans la FCMNB et ce sont les vrais membres de la Fédération. Les bénévoles de chaque club, dirigés par leurs propres présidents, effectuent maintenant du travail à l’année pour fournir seulement de 3 à 4 mois de motoneige.

Ces bénévoles obtiennent l’accès aux terres de la part de milliers de propriétaires de terrains privés ; cette action unique et altruiste de longue durée ne devrait jamais être prise pour acquis. Ils participent à des cours annuels sur l’installation de la signalisation et de formation pour les opérateurs de surfaceuses de sentiers. Ils participent à deux rencontres annuelles de zone, à des sondages annuels auprès des clubs, à l’Assemblée générale annuelle de la FCMNB à chaque année, et tout cela avant les rencontres de leurs propres clubs.

Pour tous les motoneigistes, ces mêmes bénévoles de club signalisent, cartographient et surfacent les sentiers que vous empruntez durant tout l’hiver, à chaque hiver, et plusieurs d’entres vous croyez que c’est tout ce qu’ils font. Je veux reconnaitre leurs immenses contributions, parce que sans eux, il n’y aurait pas de sentiers de motoneige, il n’y aurait pas d’industrie de la motoneige et il n’y aurait pas de tourisme d’hiver à commercialiser au NouveauBrunswick ; ils représentent la vraie épine dorsale de la motoneige.

Le Bureau de direction (BD) de la FCMNB est complètement composé de bénévoles. C’est pourquoi je fus fortuné d’agir en tant que Président durant les 3 dernières années. J’ai commencé comme bénévole auprès de mon club de motoneige local, ensuite comme Président du club ; on m’a ensuite demandé de desservir les clubs dans ma zone de la FCMNB auprès du BD. Je fus par la suite élu Vice-président et j’ai ensuite désservis l’ensemble du BD provincial et ainsi que tous les bénévoles de la Fédération en tant que Président.

Les membres du BD, également connus comme Directeurs de zone, contribuent encore plus de temps à la FCMNB. En plus de toutes les responsabilités de gérer un club membre, ils siègent à de

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nombreuses rencontres et sur différents comités du BD à l’année longue. Les rencontres ont lieu les samedis et parfois durant toute une fin de semaine.

Les appels conférences ont toujours lieu en soirée et il est plus probable que le BD se rencontre en juin ou en juillet plutôt qu’en février. Encore là, je veux reconnaitre les contributions additionnelles du BD actuel, ainsi que tous les Directeurs de zone et les BD avec lesquels j’ai eu le plaisir de collaborer.

La FCMNB a également été très fortunée d’avoir un excellent personnel de soutien depuis le milieu des années 1990. De nos jours, la vision et la stratégie de notre organisation sont encore mises en oeuvre par le Bureau de direction bénévole choisi parmi les clubs à travers la province, mais c’est notre personnel de la FCMNB qui exécute cette vision et qui gère les affaires quotidiennes de la motoneige.

Entre eux, les quatre membres de notre personnel cumulent plus de 70 années de service auprès des bénévoles, des clubs et des motoneigistes dans notre province.

Janice Bragdon, notre Gestionnaire de bureau, est avec nous le plus longtemps, depuis 1995. Lisa MacDougall s’est également jointe à nous en 1995 et elle agit comme Adjointe administrative pour tout le monde. Durant la dernière décennie, avec notre croissance constante, nous avons ajouté Kyle Good comme gestionnaire des sentiers de la FCMNB, depuis maintenant plus de 6 ans. Ross Antworth, notre Directeur général, s’est d’abord joint à nous en tant que bénévole d’un club au printemps de 1995 et en tant que Directeur général depuis 1997.

Agir comme votre Président a été un régal, mais je n’ai pas réalisé ce travail à moi seul. Les clubs, les bénévoles, le BD et le personnel furent avec moi à chaque jour au cours des trois dernières années. Je les félicite.

Et comme je l’ai indiqué précédemment, nous devons être fiers de ce que nous avons accompli à la FCMNB et de comment notre Fédération est perçue aux niveaux national et international dans l’industrie de la motoneige. En tant que Président, j’ai eu l’opportunité de nous représenter lors de ces rencontres – à l’échelle nationale et internationale – et je suis touché par le respect que la FCMNB a créé et établi parmi nos pairs.

La motoneige au Nouveau-Brunswick est solide grâce à tout le monde qui en redonne pour lui accorder une place éminente... merci de m’avoir permis de faire partir de cette histoire.

- Brad

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* HST and gratuity is not included

5

Our 4 season resort has groomed trails to our door. Located in the center of A107C and the south end of L136 (north shore of Gowganda Lake) or drive directly to us on Hwy 560. We have 6 deluxe cottages, 5 which will hold up to 6 people, and 1 cottage that will hold up to 10 people. All units are fully furnished with 4 pc baths, full kitchens, wi-fi and satellite TV. General store, LCBO, beer store, wood burning sauna, and fuel are all on site.

Meal plans are available with reservation. Accomodation as low as $30 pp/pd.

23451

Nearby

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TRAILS & ICE SPECIAL Park your sleds at the door of your hotel room, right on the canal!

HOT TUB, FOOD & DRINKS Lagoon City, Lake Simcoe 1 Poplar Crescent, Brechin, Ontario L0K 1B0

$25 OFF FOOD: (705) 505-5366

Sudbury’sBestMotelAccomodations Right on the D111 trail, free continental breakfast, Royal Distributing close by, special rates & park’n’ride packages, rooms include fridge, microwave, coffee maker, and we offer extended stay kitchenettes.

OCTOBER 19-21, 2018 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE

350 Moonlight Ave Sudbury, ON, P3B3W3 PH: 1-800-424-0321 www.moonlightinn.ca ONTARIO

Wawa Wawa Motor Inn

Rp-R1 One Version

. ONTARIO MAP 11

118 Mission Road, Wawa, Ontario P0S1K0 Tel: 705-856-2278 • Fax: 705-856-2171 Toll Free: 800-561-2278 Email: wawamoto@shawbiz.ca Website: www.wawamotorinn.com Your Superior Vacation Experience featuring 50 main building rooms, 20 cozy log rooms and 18 rustic Chalets with fireplaces. All main building rooms are 100% smokefree. Enjoy fine dining in the Fireside Dining Room; home of the largest fireplace in the North. Easily accessible to snow trails and ample parking.

24 ONTARIO

Nearby

BOBCAYGEON UXBRIDGE

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motorcyclesupershow.ca

NEW BRUNSWICK

Bathurst Atlantic Host Hotel

1450 Vanier Blvd.

Bathurst, NB E2A 4H7 Toll Free: 1-800-898-9292 Office: (506) 548-3335 • Fax: (506) 548-9769 thehost@nbnet.nb.ca • www.atlantichost.com Known to all sledders as the place to stay in Bathurst.

Located on Trail #19, or take exit #310 on Rte 11. Loading ramps, indoor sled parking, heated repair bays. Fuel nearby.

Excellent accommodations, excellent restaurants, pub-style lounge, heated indoor pool, sauna and whirlpool. And did we meantion we’re the only hotel in New Brunswick located directly on NBFSC trails?

BOOK YOUR OUTDOOR KITCHEN TODAY

outdoor kitchens • pizza ovens outdoor fireplaces • bbqs

facebook.com/

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24368

Nearby

ONTARIO

5

BRADFORD

BRINGS NEW W LEVELS OF PERFORMANCE & RELIABILITY TO YOUR ARCTIC CATS

Come be satisfied by the rising stars of POLARIS. York Region's newest, biggest dealer.

19890 Hwy 11, Bradford, ON L3Z 2B6 (905) 775-1717 • Fax (905) 775-0518 76

FACEBOOK.COM/ONSNOWMAGAZINE

To Book An Appointment Call

905-841-3100 W W W. O U T D O O R L U X U R Y. C O M

ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 32 • ISSUE 6 Outdoor Luxury-HLApr14.indd 1

14-03-24 10:24 AM

To advertise your business in this section call: 1-888-661-7469 ONTARIO

GRAVENHURST

8

• MAP 31

UXBRIDGE MINNESOTA, USA GREENBUSH

ONTARIO

MARMORA UXBRIDGE

92

• MAP 43

ONTARIO

PEFFERLAW

JUST 50 MINS NORTH OF TORONTO

Muskoka’s Only Polaris Dealer SALES • SERVICE • PARTS • ACCESSORIES

1689 Winhara Rd. Gravenhurst, ON P1P 1R1 Phone: (705) 645-8464 Toll Free: (800) 696-3849 northgatemuskoka.com ONTARIO

PEFFERLAW

102317 Highway 7, Marmora, Ontario 613-472-2633 www.bontermarine.com ONTARIO

TRENTON UXBRIDGE

98

• MAP 43

ONTARIO

UXBRIDGE

HWY 48, Pefferlaw, Lake Simcoe 705-437-1122 quinnsmarina.com

W ONTARIO

WHITCHURCH-STOUFFVILLE

48

• MAP 41

Authorized Polaris Dealer Full line of Ski-Doo sleds, parts, clothing and accessories.

347 Cranston Crescent NE, Midland, ON L4R 4K6 705.526.2248 www.factoryrecreation.com

Trail starts at our door.

516 Hwy 2, Trenton ON K8V 5W6 613-394-6691 • 1-877-394-6691 www.bay-Marine .com ONTARIO

BOWMANVILLE UXBRIDGE

7

3 Douglas Road, Uxbridge, ON L9P 1S9 (905) 852-5884 • 1-800-668-SLED uxbridgemotorsports.com

2 Paisley LN Stouffville ON, L4A 7X4 Phone: 905-640-2212 Email: atccorral@bellnet.ca

www.atccorral.com

• MAP 42

CYCLE MARINE

(416) 752-1560

THE BEST IN SALES & SERVICE FOR OVER 45 YEARS!

NEW & PRE-OWNED INVENTORY SERVICE PARTS & ACCESSORIES

SNOWCITY.COM • INFO@SNOWCITY.COM 1255 KENNEDY ROAD TORONTO, ON M1P 2L4

®, TM and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates. Always ride responsibly and observe applicable laws. Always remember that riding and Acohol/drugs don’t mix.

BOMBARDIER

USED SKI-DOO PARTS

Bombardier used skidoo parts year 2000 and up

705-742-6120 catshackptbo.com

mxzusedparts@gmail com mxzusedparts@gmail.com 1-506-726-3410 Bathurst, NB OVER 150 SKI-DOO’S YEAR 2000 AND UP, SHIPPING AVAILABLE EVERY DAY ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 32 • ISSUE 6

77

floatbowl PAT BOURGEOIS

LEADING BY EXAMPLE In the summer of 1993, the assembly lines in Roseau, Minnesota were humming. Orders for 1994 XLT models alone were nearly unfathomable. While Polaris was already experiencing fantastic growth with models such as the Indy Trail, Indy 400, and the Indy 500, the sheer build numbers for the XLT were reported to be as high as 25,000 units, maybe more. Two years later, the industry build for North America would rival 250,000 units. Times were good.

By now, if you’ve been a regular reader of my column, you know the snowmobile industry is not nearly as healthy as it once was. North American sales have been on a trickle-down decline for the better part of 15-years.

In some seasons, we’ve been lucky to break the 100,000-unit barrier. Yet, for the most part the industry as whole continues to operate as if it were 1999 (sorry Prince).

For certain there have been cutbacks, in many cases they are unavoidable, but budgets aside the basic operating principles of nearly everyone within

the industry, from the manufacturers, to race organizations, to media, to the aftermarket continue to function in the same manner as they did when global sales numbers were at or beyond 300,000 units.

Few know this better than dealers.

The once profitable retail business of selling snowmobiles is a mere ghost of its former self. Most, if not all, dealers make little to nothing when selling a new snowmobile, you read that right, they often make zero. Think about that when you go to ma e a deal on your next buggy. Add to this the uncertainty of snow for some parts of the snow belt, and the snowmobile retail business is certainly not daisies and sunshine for many.

To help, manufacturers have been sweetening the retail pot for dealers and consumers alike with bigger and bigger rebates and no interest loans. This was particularly evident last season, when some manufacturers came out with retail programs as early as September, well before the first flake had hit the

Beyond limited availability, Yamaha is enticing spring buyers with a sweepstakes program where you have a chance to win a new 2019 Yamaha snowmobile.

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 32 • ISSUE 6

ground. Many of these programs are focused on carry-over or non-current sleds, the ones dealers and the manufacturers were unable to sell the previous winter. As a result, enthusiasts have been conditioned to wait for the better deal.

Now here’s an even scarier number.

Over the past several seasons more than 35% of all sleds sold are noncurrent models. Blowing out old sleds at deep discounts is not a healthy business plan for manufacturers or dealers.

For model year 2019, Yamaha has taken nothing short of a bold move.

For starters, they have dramatically cut the number of models from 34 to 12, frankly a move other manufacturers should follow. Second, they will offer just 4 full-size sleds during in-season sales next winter, all other sleds must be purchased during their spring Power Surge event, which ends April 16th. now what you’re thin ing won’t they lose sales robably but it’s the right move. It’s one that will curb the carry-over discount sale conundrum, and more importantly, will ensure the future health of their dealer network. he fear of losing a possible sale has been fueling the dramatic increase in models over the past 15-years, resulting in build numbers for some models as low as 100 units.

Contrary to rumors, Yamaha is not getting out of the snowmobile business. he history of this sport has been fraught with challenges, bankruptcy, bad times, and very good times. Along the way, every remaining manufacturer has at one time been the market share leader. While Yamaha currently doesn’t lead the market in terms of new sleds sold, a move such as this clearly demonstrates they still know how to lead.

2018

SNOSCOOT

/// TAKE BACK WINTER 200 CLASS 4-STROKE ENGINE I LONG TAPERED TUNNEL I COBRA TRACK

FUN, EXCITEMENT AND A LOST SENSE OF TIME.