OSM USA 9.1

SCENE IT: RED BULL SLEDHAMMER

www.osmmag.com @onsnowmagazine

THE SRX RETURNS FASTER THAN EVER

ASTRONOMICAL WORLD’S FASTEST SNO-JET? DROOLWORTHY BOLDER BACKCOUNTRY GAINS XRS TOUGHNESS

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Riders pictured are professionals 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. Š2018 Polaris Industries Inc.

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MOTHER NATURE’S PLINKO The 2019 Polaris Switchback Assault finds its happy place in Montana’s backcountry.

Rider: Jordan Hammack Shooter: Pat Bourgeois

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SUMMER SUCKS When Burandt gets bored of Summer he goes to Chile Rider: Chris Burandt Location: Base of volcano lonquimay, Chile photo credit: Velocity Vids

contents

62 52

FEATURES 38 44 SCENE IT

RED BULL SLEDHAMMERS

TIME TRACKS

BOLENS SUPER SPRINT

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52 62 66

66 FROZEN FURY THE SRX RETURNS FASTER THAN EVER

BOLDER BACKCOUNTRY GAINS XRS TOUGHNESS ASTRONOMICAL WORLD’S FASTEST SNO-JET?

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 19-21, 2018 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

86GEARBOX COLUMNS 14 32 36 92

38 44

DRIFTS

RICHARD KEHOE

WINGING IT WITH LEVI

LEVI LAVALLEE

BACKCOUNTRY

CHRIS BURANDT

FLOAT BOWL

PAT BOURGEOIS

DEPARTMENTS 16 28 29 30 50 72 76 78 80 94

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INDUSTRY NEWS WORD SEARCH SUDOKU TAKE 5 THE FAB 4 LAWN ORNAMENTS SHOP HUSTLE • HYGEAR SHOP HUSTLE • KLIM TEARDOWN LAST GASP

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drifts

Richard Kehoe

PREP THE SLEDS O

ur summer is sadly coming to an end, although I really can’t wait for the fall cool down.

It’s about time that the heat is behind us and let’s hope the cold is well on its way. Last year was a great winter and had us travelling all over the North American Snow Belt.

We covered many events, some new such as the Red Bull Sledhammers. You will be able to catch a glimpse of Sledhammers in this Scene It. It was a first year event that looks to be taking off in the right direction.

Again this year, we were able to ride straight out of the back of the office, but as usual we had places to be and that meant Road Trips. Who doesn’t like a good old-fashioned road trip? We were all pulled in every which direction for On Snow Magazine and Snowmobiler Television last winter. It was one of our busiest winters to date. This years schedule is already leaning to be even busier, but that’s how we bring you the content you enjoy.

September we have Haydays and Burl’s Creek. There’s something to be said as we walk around a field filled with snowmobile ‘stuff’. As always there’s junk, people watching, but there’s always the chance of finding some snowmobile

SLEDARAMA.CA

gold. The swaps are near and dear to many of us here in the office as long as the weather co-operates. If it’s too hot or raining it makes for a tough go.

New this year to the Toronto International Snowmobile, ATV & Powersports Show (Oct 19-21) is the One Day Sunday Swap Meet that will run on Sunday Oct 21st at the show. The next traditional swap on our calendar is Sunday November 18th at the Annual Peterborough Sledarama, Snowmobile Show and Swap Meet.

If you have never made out to the Sledarama Peterborough Show in November it is a one of a kind. It’s a proud grass roots show. The Show and Swap both start at 8am and a very punctual 8am it is. We got there early very early and were scooped by a bunch of exhibiting swappers. The saying the early bird gets the worms is true for snowmobile swap meets too. We’ll comb the famous Swap for amazing finds with amazing deals, vintage gold found around every corner…

Vintage Snowmobile enthusiasts DON’T MISS OUT. The Grass Roots of Sledding at the Memorial Centre & Morrow Building – Doors open at 8:30am, and OSM and STV will be there.

NOV 18, 2018

PETERBOROUGH MEMORIAL CENTRE SNOWMOBILE SHOW & SWAP MEET

JANUARY 4-6, 2019 INTERNATIONAL CENTRE TORONTO

motorcyclesupershow.ca • 1-888-661-SHOW (7469)

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TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 19-21, 2018 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

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news

NO WRAP REQUIRED - RUSSIAN MILITARY 01 SNOWMOBILE IS A BAD MO-FO So you think you’re a bad-to-the-bone sledder? No offense, but we doubt it. While you might huck a wind-lipped cornice, you likely can’t hold a candle to the kids riding in this buggy, no matter how high you’ve got your truck jacked up. What you see here is the Russian Army’s newest ground buggy, designed for snow and transporting Russian forces operating in the Arctic Circle. It’s no secret Russia is making an all-out push to

take the lead on dominating the Arctic Circle and the rich resources that go with it. NPO Transport is the company that builds this sled that can best be described as a SkiDoo Elite on steroids. The company calls it a cross between a snowmobile and a jeep, and it touts two tracks, has a top speed of 37-mph, and has a range of 124 miles. Built for two front occupants and three more in the back, the TTM-1901 snowmobile can also

pull a 600-pound load. Of course the coolest, or should we say, the most venerable aspect of the TTM, is the vehicle’s ability to mount a PKP Pecheneg machine gun. With a fire rate of 650 rounds per minute and a range of 1,600 yards, you’d best keep your pretty little wrapped snow machine out of sight… ya hear?

SLEDDERS FACE RESTRICTIONS IN TAHOE NATIONAL FOREST

02

You’ve heard those dreaded words before – environmental impact statement. It’s a favorite tool from the non-motorized crowd, looking for ways to push gas and oil users off public lands. The latest example of this practice is found in California, (not surprisingly) where the Forest Service, along with several environmental groups including the Winter Wildlands Alliance, have proposed tighter restrictions on public lands. Currently the forest service is reviewing five alternatives, all of which restrict snowmobile use up to a 57% reduction in accessible riding areas.

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TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 19-21, 2018 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

news

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FIRST LEGOS TO THE POLE

This past summer, the Plaisted Expedition celebrated the 50th anniversary of the famed journey to the North Pole. Recognized as the first to make it to the true north, top-of-the-world location over the ice pack, it seems LEGO is aware of this feat as well. This summer, a new wave of LEGO City Arctic sets were released, and it includes Polar explorers, snowmobiles, sleighs, and of course, a husky dog. The smallest set called the Arctic Exploration Team retails for just $9.99(US) / $12.99(CAN); other sets include the Arctic Mobile Exploration Base and the Arctic Supply Plane.

04 NEW YORK PROMOTES OLD SLEDS WITH NO REGISTRATION FEE LEGISLATION Proposed legislation would exempt registration fees on older snowmobiles in New York State. The bill, which has passed through the senate, would make it easier for current collectors and possibly encourage

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 9 • ISSUE 1

others to join the hobby by eliminating unnecessary costs. The proposal would exempt all sleds manufactured prior to 1980 from registration. With the bulk of registration fees going directly back to trails,

proponents believe the exemption would have little impact to overall trail funding, since many older sleds are never ridden on trails, but rather only appear at organized shows and rallies.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 19-21, 2018 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

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news

SAVE $3 BUCKS – GET YOUR TICKETS NOW TO THE WORLD’S BIGGEST POWERSPORTS SHOW News flash, for those of you who haven’t made it out of the bush the last couple of winters, the Toronto International Snowmobile, ATV & Powersports Show is the biggest on the planet. Don’t even bother looking for one bigger pal. Every October, the crew from On Snow Magazine, Snowmobiler Television, and ATV World orchestrate a monster of a show at the Toronto International Centre. More than just hundreds of the industry’s biggest, best, and newest vendors, the “Big One by the Airport” has indoor freestyle shows; indoor demos; indoor racing; custom sled displays; a used snowmobile and ATV marketplace; indoor swap meet; antique and vintage sled displays; tourism destinations from every comer of the snowbelt on a global scale; outdoor truck test drives, and way more – whew! In fact, there’s so much going on at this show you’ll need an entire day (maybe more) to take it all in. Plus, if you visit the show’s website at www. torontosnowmobileatvshow.com and order your tickets in advance, you’ll save $3 bucks.

HIBBERT 06 TUCKER CONTINUES TO

WIN EVEN AFTER RETIREMENT

With news of Tucker Hibbert’s retirement this past spring, it’s no surprise Tucker continues to push for the lead, no matter what endeavor he is pursuing.

After 25-years of complete snocross domination, Hibbert retired from professional snocross racing in May of 2018. As Tucker said in his retirement release, “It’s been a great career, and now is the right time to move on. I’m healthy and happy, I’ve accomplished my goals, and we just finished a great season where I felt as good as I ever have, and won my 11th Championship.” Tucker also gave a special nod to his fans who were some of the most passionate and supportive in all of snowmobile racing.

Tucker’s career snocross accomplishments include 11 Championships; 138 wins out of 235 starts; 10 X-Games gold medals; and was named racer of the year on multiple occasions.

Tucker is still reportedly working on events for this coming winter season, where he can personally thank his fans and the snowmobile racing community. Keep checking www.tucker-hibbert.com for announcements.

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TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 19-21, 2018 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

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TURCOTTE DONATES NEARLY $20,000 TO EASTER SEALS

07 GRASSROOTS

SWAPPING AT SLEDARAMA RETURNS THIS NOVEMBER

Regarded as one of Ontario’s best one-day snowmobile show and swap meets, the Sledarama show in Peterborough is all about swappin’ shoppin’ and sleddin’. The deals are big and they start early, just a like a swap meet should. Located at the corner of George and Lansdowne Streets in Peterborough, the buying and selling kicks off at 8:30am and goes till 4:00pm. With a huge outdoor swap meet and two tightly packed indoor show halls, this is the final fix you need before the first snow falls, and the season hits like a freight train. If you’re interested in being a vendor, a swapper, part of the antique and vintage snowmobile show, or you simply want to learn more, you’ll find information and applications at www.sledarama.ca

This past spring, racer, freestyler, and backcountry athlete Brett Turcotte proved once again that snowmobilers are the giving kind.

In coordination with the Clearwater Sno-Drifters Snowmobile Club, Brett along with his wife Niki, presented a check for $19,482.55 to Easter Seals Camp Winfield and Easter Seals House in the Vancouver area. The money was raised in March during a snowmobile drag race and freestyle show organized by the Turcottes. Crystal Durnin from the BC Snowmobile Federation and Brett and Niki Turcotte traveled to Camp Winfield to present the funds to James Gagnon, Director of Camp Programs and Facilities at Easter Seals Camp Winfield.

INTERNATIONAL SNOWMOBILE HALL OF FAME ANNOUNCES 2018 INDUCTEES

09

The newest members of the International Snowmobile Hall of Fame in Eagle River, Wisconsin were announced this summer, with an induction ceremony and weekend celebration slated for Friday and Saturday, September 21 and 22, 2018. Each year the organization honors outstanding individuals in select categories that include Inventors, Designers, and Manufacturers; Explorers and Adventurers; Trail and Program Developers; Volunteer and Club Organizers; and Publishers and Journalists. This year’s class of inductees includes Curt Kennedy (Volunteer), Bobby Unser (Inventor), Stan Slack (Volunteer), Dave Guenther (Volunteer), Tim Haberberger (Groomer of the Year); Bill Schumann (Edgar Hetteen Memorial Award of Merit), Pioneer Motorsports of New York (International Dealer of the Year), and the Cumberland Snowmobile Club from Nova Scotia (International Snowmobile Club of the Year). To learn more about each of the inductees and to purchase tickets for the Induction Ceremony Weekend, visit www.ishof.com

BOBBY UNSER, Inventor, Albuquerque, New Mexico

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CURT KENNEDY, Volunteer, Salt Lake City, Utah

DAVE GUENTHER, Volunteer, Breezy Point, Minnesota

STAN SLACK, Volunteer, Nova Scotia, Canada

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 19-21, 2018 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

news

10 ULTIMATE ICE FISHING SNOWMOBILE

The incredible design team at Imaginactive and founder Charles Bombardier, have come up with yet another forward-thinking snowmobile concept. The Alpino is designed for ice-fishing according to Charles, and it was developed with transporting people and gear in mind. With a proposed top speed of 50mph, the Alpino’s cabin would feature a rubber sprocket mechanism that would allow the cab to sit down flat on the ice when the vehicle is in “fishing mode.” The driver’s seat would slide backwards to reveal a small hatch door in the floor to drill a hole for from-the-saddle fishing access. The Alpino would be available in a single seat and side-by-side configurations, and would come equipped with a hitch to pull other Alpino pods (or a trailer mounted on skis). Each Pod would be no longer than 8 feet and would weigh less than 400 pounds, so you would be able to park them side-by-side and fit multiple units on a flatbed trailer.

11 SLED PATRIOTS LOOK TO PRESIDENT TRUMP FOR EXECUTIVE ORDER TO SLED THE BURN While the amount of land in the western United States is certainly expansive in scope, the vast majority is owned by the Federal government. While this certainly preserves the land from unwanted development for future generations, it can also impose harsh limits on access, especially if motorized recreation is your passion.

Case in point is the federally designated “proposed” wilderness area in western Montana and eastern Idaho. Known as the Great Burn Wilderness, aptly named due to an epic forest fire that originally torched the area in 1910, the area was listed as a “potential” wilderness, way back in 1977 when the Montana Wilderness Study Act was imposed. Therein however, lies the rub. When the Wilderness Act of 1964 was implemented, it stated off-highway vehicles or mechanized equipment would not be allowed in designated wilderness areas unless exceptions were granted, most of which would be related to emergency situations. The Great Burn however, is a “proposed” wilderness area, but a 2011 9th Circuit Court of Appeals ruling has lumped proposed areas in with actual ones, thus eliminating motorized access in the process.

The Missoula based Backcountry Sled Patriots are looking to alter this course with an executive order signed by President Trump. With the letter drafted, the group has been garnering additional support before sending it off to Washington. Already Mineral County and Lincoln County have voted in favor of signing the letter, while Ravalli County will take it under consideration very soon.

“We’re just trying to regain something that was taken away from us.

It’s public land – why are we banned just because other users don’t like us?” said Backcountry Sled Patriots president Stan Spencer.

To learn more about the Great Burn access battle, visit the Missoula Current newspaper’s website and search for Great Burn. There you’ll find a complete story written by Laura Lundquist.

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TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 19-21, 2018 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

IT’S A TRACK… IT’S A WHEEL… IT’S BOTH

news

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The lines between snowmobile and all-terrain vehicle and snowbike have already started to blur considerably over the past 5-years. Now, thanks to new technology developed by Carnegie Mellon University’s National Robotics Engineering Center, we are one step closer to a vehicle that can do it all. It’s called Reconfigurable Wheel Tracks, a transformative technology that can go from wheel to track in just twoseconds without ever stopping. The technology is so innovative, it didn’t’ take long for the Pentagon to take the idea under its wings as part of Ground X-Vehicle Technologies (GXV-T) program. The round wheel is supported by six adaptable skid systems with a rubber track enveloping the entire system. When ”round”, the entire support and track spins much like a traditional wheel. Power is provided by a robotic, central-mounted hub. The driver controlled technology can instantly convert the spinning wheel into a triangular shaped track support. Once this “shape-shifting” occurs, the rotation is then “shifted” to the track itself, rotating around the support hub. It doesn’t take more than one or two views of the video (which you can find on osmmag.com) to see how this technology could dramatically alter off-road powersports, and provide propulsion in all terrains and seasons.

13 STAFF ANNOUNCEMENT OnSnow Magazine and Snowmobiler Television welcomes Ben Morrison to our Sales & Marketing Team.

We are thrilled to have Ben join our team with his diverse knowledge of everything snow, track, and trail.

He’s a true enthusiast and an excellent addition to OSM. Welcome aboard Ben!

14 GLOBAL WARMING HYPE AL GORE IS ALL TALK, NO ACTION Seems Al Gore - regarded by many as the ring leader for global warming fear mongering, which has resulted in additional attacks on snowmobiling on public lands - talks a good game, but is nothing but a hypocrite when it comes to doing something about it. Gore continues to push his global warming agenda, and recently told CNN that he leads a “carbon-free lifestyle to the maximum extent possible.” Maybe in Al Gore’s world, but the reality is that Mr. Gore lives in a Nashville, Tennessee mansion that burns 21-times more kilowatt hours annually than the average U.S. household. In fact, according to a 2017 study by the National Center for Public Policy Research, Al’s swimming pool alone uses enough electricity to power six average homes for a year.

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TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 19-21, 2018 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

news

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RAPTOR SHOCKS AND RIPPER MATT ENTZ PARTNER UP Southern Colorado native and backcountry ripper for the Polaris Factory Terrain Dominator crew Matt Entz has agreed to ride for Raptor Performance Shocks this coming season. An adept technical rider and a certified instructor for the American Institute for Avalanche Research, Matt hooked up with the Raptor crew this past winter for some late season testing and development for the company’s 2019 line. After a few days, Matt was blown away by the quality and performance of Raptor Performance Shocks, and not long after, a sponsorship agreement was reached. “When we heard Matt was looking at suspension options, we knew that all we had to do was get him on our shocks, and it would be an easy decision for him,” said Jake Anderson, owner of Raptor Performance Shocks.

“This partnership with Matt allows us to showcase ourselves as a provider of premium suspension products to enhance vehicle performance, in addition to cementing our dedication to the customers’ experience.”

Need some time alone in your thinking room, have a seat on the throne and give it a g > WELCOME FALL "Welcome Fall!"

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Testing Time

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BAD BOYS

take 5

It seems there are good guys and bad guys in all types of competition - heroes and villains, faces and heels. The same holds true in snowmobile racing. In this installment of Take Five, we look at the confident, the bold, and sometimes brash racers of yesterday and today. Whether it was their driving style on the track, or their selfconfidence off it, these are the bad boys.

CHRIS VINCENT

No list of bad boy racers would be complete without Chris Vincent. The often colorful and boisterous Vincent started to make rumblings in the Rock Maple snocross circuit before hitting the national scene with Arctic Cat, Yamaha and Ski-Doo during his career. Chris was as aggressive and wild as they come when it came to snocross racing, and his seemingly reckless riding style on the track was matched by scores of salacious rumors off track as well. He was truly the racer fans loved to hate, and his battles with the likes of Blair Morgan and Brad Pake remain legendary to this day. His go-for-broke approach also paid dividends, earning him several significant wins including X-Games gold in 1999.

JACQUES VILLENEUVE

As the younger brother of hall of fame snowmobile racer Gilles Villenueve, Jacques was an incredibly passionate and successful racer, winning the Eagle River Derby World Championship three times (1980, 1982, 1986). The often flamboyant “Jocko” as many fans referred to him, was known for his wide-open, sometimes wild driving style. As one fellow competitor put it, “If “Jac” saw any kind of daylight, he was going to put his sled there, regardless of the outcome.”

Known for a “loose” sled, it was Jacques’ “slide-job” where he would dive his sled to the bottom of the track, and slide-up and cut-off any racer in his path, which earned him few friends on the track and plenty of enemies.

KODY KAMM

In many ways, Kody represents the next generation of snocross racer. Born in 1994, Kamm was too young to see the likes of Morgan or Haikonen in their snocross prime, yet his all-ornothing riding style is reminiscent of early races by both hall of famers. Riding in the shadows of Hibbert early in his career, Kamm finally broke through in 2017 by winning the year-end championship. His unapologetic riding style, pushing beyond the limits, nonchalant attitude, and probability for collecting other competitors in his wake has garnered Kamm his bad boy reputation.

Yet with scores of fans cheering the Kenosha, Wisconsin racer on, their adoration confirms everyone loves a bad boy.

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TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 19-21, 2018 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

JACK STRUTHERS

Jack was an absolute master at reading unknown terrain at speed. In cross-country racing he amassed countless wins both in the Midwest and Rocky Mountain Cross Country Circuit (RMCC). He dominated during the early 1990’s, compiling a string of championships in RMCC and winning the legendary I-500 event three times (1991 1992, 1994). Jack was immensely talented, and his confidence could be misconstrued as arrogance off the track. But it was during the heat of competition where Jack talked the loudest. Having little patience for slower riders in tight wooded sections, Jack would give them a warning bump – alerting them to move over before a second, more forceful shove would quickly follow.

BLAIR MORGAN

Many will argue Blair was far from a bad boy. As one of the winningest and most prolific snocross racers ever, Blair was and remains incredibly likeable. The soft-spoken and often humble racer from Prince Albert, Saskatchewan transformed snocross and changed not only racing, but the sport of snowmobiling with his stand-up style. For fans of competing brands however, Blair’s unprecedented success made him enemy number one.

Blair not only changed how we ride snowmobiles, he also perfected the contact block pass. While the pass is considered clean by today’s standards, the bump and grind move didn’t earn him many friends in the pits, early in his career.

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winging it LEVI LAVALLEE

A DAY IN HIS BOOTS On the landing for the bus jump.

Is

Travis Pastrana the modern day Evel Knievel? Has Travis Pastrana surpassed Evel Knievel?

Or do we simply say there will never be another Evel Knievel?

Just like NBA stars Lebron James

and Michael Jordan, the comparisons between Evel Knievel and Travis Pastrana will be discussed, debated, and most likely argued for a very long time.

The difficult part is that as times goes by, our memory of the greats begins to

Always good to see Tes Sewell

diminish, and the excitement of what is here and now will leave you asking the question, “Am I currently watching the best ever?”

Naturally, the next thing you’ll want to do is go directly to the record books and start comparing statistics. I mean, stats don’t lie right? While that is true, do they tell the whole story? With all the advances in technology, is it fair to compare old to new?

David Epstein, the author of “The Sports Gene”, wrote about the differences between Jesse Owen, (an Olympic sprinter from the 1930’s) and today’s fastest sprinter, Usain Bolt in the 100-meter dash. “Consider that Usain Bolt started by propelling himself out of blocks, down a specially fabricated carpet, designed to allow him to travel as fast as humanly possible,” David said.

“Jesse Owens, on the other hand, ran on cinders, the ash from burnt wood and that soft surface stole far more energy from his legs as he ran. Rather than blocks, Jesse Owens had a gardening trowel that he had to use to dig holes in the cinders to start from. Biomechanical analysis of the speed of Owens’ joints shows that had he been running on the same surface as Bolt, he wouldn’t have been 14 feet behind, he would have been The fountain gap, before they turned the fountains on.

Heading up the landing for the Caesar’s Fountain jump

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Tes Sewell and Dane Herron were instrumental in the world record jump I performed in San Diego. If it’s a big jump, they’re involved.

Kristen and me on the take-off ramp for the car jump.

within one stride.”

I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Travis Pastrana since 2006. During that time, I’ve witnessed some of his most well-known jumps; watched him win multiple X Games gold medals; and have seen him do things with vehicles that they were never designed to do, or anyone had ever dreamt of doing.

Unfortunately for Travis’s feet and ankles, (that he has broken in the past) Evel’s boots are not only “big boots to fill”, but they’re costume boots with heels, and offer little support compared to Travis’s normal motocross boots.

Travis has proven his ability to push each sport he enters to new levels, and in the process, he has left everyone

Thus, when I heard Travis was going to recreate three of Evel’s most iconic jumps, I couldn’t help but grin.

Travis has done so many different things in his career, ranging from motocross; rally car; sky-diving; freestyle; and much more. To me, it felt appropriate that Travis would have the honor of living a day in Evel’s boots.

“We can give you a ride to the hotel.

There’s plenty of room in the van.”

“Elvis Live is that-a-way!”

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winging it LEVI LAVALLEE

LEVI LAVALLEE on the History channel. Travis went on to complete all three on a 750 Indian motorcycle (which was used to simulate the bike Evel did his jumps on). Some will argue that Mike Metzger’s backflip over the fountains was more impressive, or that the jumps were small compared to other “modern” jumps. In my opinion, those folks are missing the point. This wasn’t about preforming the biggest jumps ever, it was about rekindling memories of the greatest daredevil of all time, and to tell the Evel story to an entirely new generation of fans.

Travis completed each of Evel’s historic jumps with ease, two of which Evel had crashed on while performing.

Travis Pastrana has pushed the boundaries in multiple sports; has made a career of doing things that have never been done; and now he’s successfully completed Evel’s big-three motorcycle jumps. Does this mean he has exceeded Evel’s legendary status? That one will be debated for a long time. But I do know, there will never be another Travis Pastrana.

Kristen getting friendly with Evel.

thinking, “Did that really just happen?!”

The emotions Travis touches in people across the globe are the same ones that Evel Knievel tapped into so many years ago.

Evel is one of, if not the most famous daredevil of all time. He is the “Godfather” to the X Games generation for his showmanship and go-for-it mentality. While his actual jumping skills could be debated, it’s a moot point because he was tough as nails.

Today’s technology and rider skills have increased significantly, allowing people to go bigger with less risk. This has led to numerous people far exceeding Evel’s longest jump. But his legendary status is cemented in time because there is no comparison to how he went about his jumps, in comparison to how they are accomplished today. I know for certain that if anyone mentions my name in the

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same sentence as Evel Knievel, I know I must be doing something right. Unless of course, it’s in reference to his crashes and broken bones - Ha ha!

The honor of being mentioned in the same sentence as Evel is awesome, but can you imagine being able to live a day in his boots, and having the chance to recreate his most famous jump of all time, the Caesars Palace fountain jump?!

I get goosebumps just typing the words.

To be able to do the most iconic jump in history is an honor that you must earn.

There are very few people in my opinion, who have earned that right, but without question, Travis is one of them. I feel Travis is truly one of the gnarliest riders on earth, and he more than qualifies to wear the Evel Knievel stars and stripes.

Evel’s three most famous jumps were brought to life in Las Vegas for the “Evel Live” event, which was broadcast

Evel wasn’t too impressed.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 19-21, 2018 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

backcountry CHRIS BURANDT

WAIT…SUMMER DOESN’T SUCK???

F

or most of you sledders out there, the hot snowless months of summer seem to drag on longer than a 174 in the back of a short box pickup truck. It was no different for me before I discovered the Andes Mountains of Chile, now five years ago. Being based out of Colorado, I’m very fortunate to usually have rideable snow from October-June. Heck, prior to riding in Chile, I’d been able to ride a sled every month of the year except for the elusive month of August, which is pretty crazy!

However, my personal goal of being able to say I’ve ridden a sled on snow all twelve months of the year was definitely something on my bucket list. What seemed to be just wishful thinking, slowly started to become a reality after meeting Cesar Gibert and his friends from SledChile. In the winter of 2012, Cesar and his snow craving buds made the long trip from South America, all the way up to Colorado to ride with me and my crew at Burandt’s Backcountry Adventure. It was pretty humbling to have these guys travel halfway across the world to come play with us in the snow during their summer at home. For those of you who were daydreaming about riding during geography class, Chile is located in the Southern Hemisphere, so their seasons

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are the opposite of ours. Our winter is their summer, and our summer is their winter. After a fun, first day with their group up on the mountain, that evening during dinner they started showing me pictures of their riding zone at home in Chile. “So this is what your place looks like in August huh?” My wheels started spinning faster than your speeding truck and trailer heading to your favorite riding zone for the first ride of the season.

With the seed planted, I quickly started to put a plan in place to check riding in August off my list. My first call was to the boys at Slednecks where I told them “we” need to go to Chile next summer and film a travel segment for the upcoming Sledneck video. The idea intrigued them as well, so plans were made for a trip to Chile in the summer of 2013. I was so pumped!! Not only for the opportunity to go ride in the middle of summer, but the thought of riding a sled in terrain that has NEVER been ridden before was truly exciting for me. After the trip, I quickly realized a couple things. First, I thought I was going down there just to snowmobile.

Of course I did ride, but the trip was so much more than just riding for me. The sense of exploration, the feeling of riding the unknown, the people, the culture, the food and so many other things made me realize that this was something way bigger than just snowmobiling. I left Chile that summer of 2013 with a new fire in me, and the desire to somehow figure out a way to make it possible for others to be able to experience a true riding adventure with me in the Andes Mountains of Chile. Fast forward to 2018 and this season marks my 5th year going down to SledChile in July and August, showing our customers THE definition of a true mountain adventure.

Every year I wonder if all the hassles and logistics of putting this program together are worth it…and all of those thoughts are quickly dismissed as soon as I step foot on that fine Chilean snow, and get the privilege of showing other passionate snowmobilers my world of Burandt’s Backcountry Adventure, down south in Chile.

If you’re looking for the ultimate adventure, a way to escape the summer heat, or to just make your riding buddies jealous, visit www.chrisburandt.com to check out more details on riding with Chris and his crew in the Andes Mountains of South America.

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Red Bull With summer just around the corner and the winter snow melting away, if you’re Red Bull, you see one more opportunity for a race, and you call that race “Sledhammers”. We travelled to SaintDonat, Quebec to catch the action at the inaugural event. One of the best things about this event was the unknown, because there’s never been a track designed quite like this one before, and it’s open to everyone to compete. From pros to amateurs, riding everything from snowcross sleds to mountain sleds, they’ve all got to send it up the hill and see where they stack up.

Two of snowmobiling’s biggest celebrities went head-to-head when Levi LaVallee battled Larry Enticer.

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A snowcross track unwound and slapped on a ski hill, this is the most unique race course we’ve seen.

Shortly afterward, pro mountain biker Darren Barrecloth challenged Levi to a snowbike vs. snowmobile battle… The snowbike stood no chance It didn’t take long for Levi to get comfortable. Could Speed and Style hae a future at this event?

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It didn’t long for Levi to get comfortable, could we see speed and style as a future for this event?

The elevation made for some stunning views if you were willing to trek up the hill

The Yamaha crew was on hand showing off their 2019’s and giving away some free swag. Corporate support would go a long way to securing the future of this event.

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Arriving in style

No one was positive what sled would work best when the day began.

Ultimately the snowcross builds rose to the top

Seeing the entire course from the start line definitely got the heart beating before the drag style lights went green

Winner take all, single elimination, the winner on the day needed a perfect day

Jessica Pepin the only female entry in the field held her own throughout the day

Max Taillefer took home the inaugural crown after going undefeated in the single elimination format

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time tracks

‘72

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BOLENS SUPER SPRINT

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THE BOLD BREED AND 40,000 VOLTS CAN’T SAVE BOLENS

L

ike many snowmobile manufacturers during the early to mid 70s, Bolens of Port Washington, Wisconsin was feeling the pinch of an industry overburdened with players and rapidly declining sales. Just a few years prior, the snowmobile industry was experiencing unprecedented growth, but by the time the 1972 Bolens models appeared, the landscape had changed considerably.

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The crown-jewel of the 1972 Bolens line-up was the brightly colored Super Sprint, a sled with a sleek design compared to other models in the Bolens line-up, and especially so, when compared to the Diablo Rogue, which served as the company’s entry into the market back in 1965. Bolens purchased Hus-Ski from the Montreal company originally responsible for the distinctive

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sit-on sleigh, pulled by a tracked power unit. Not long after, Bolens redesigned the vehicle, giving it more power, features, and a bright red finish.

It could be argued this same strategy was employed in 1972, with the freshlooking Super Sprint. Along with eyecatching paint and graphics, the top Bolens model introduced a new engine to the sport, one that was more powerful

and purpose-built for snowmobiling.

Unlike the bigger manufactures who were developing exclusive engines for their respective brands, up until now Bolens used engines from JLO, Hirth and Kohler, a common occurrence amongst many of the “lesser” manufacturers.

Bolens shuttered its doors not long after the 1972 winter season, making the Super Sprint the last Bolens

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 19-21, 2018 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

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snowmobile to be manufactured. This distinction alone is reason enough to garner historical significance amongst collectors, but it’s the engine that truly attracts center stage attention.

Rewind the time machine to 1939, and we find the enterprising mind of E. Carl Kiekhaefer, a young man who lived on a family farm near Cedarburg, Wisconsin. Attracted to machines and learning how they worked, Carl bought 300 Thor outboard motors that were set to be scrapped. Carl intended to redesign the flawed engines, and within months successfully introduced a new line of outboard engines at the Milwaukee Sentinel Sportsman Show. This spark led to the formation of Kiekhaefer Marine,

the company that would eventually become Mercury Marine and change the boating industry forever.

Kiekhaefer was immensely driven, and his designs and innovations were often rooted in delivering enhanced performance with an unwavering commitment to quality. Over his lifetime, Carl received more than 200 patents and won 52 NASCAR races resulting in two, year-end championships in 1955 and 1956, through his performance infused designs and passion to win.

The list of Carl Kiekhaefer innovations with Mercury Marine are numerous, yet it was his drive and possessive nature of the company he built that eventually led to his resignation after the Brunswick

Carl Kiekhaefer poses with a rack of 440 KAM engines prior to shipment to Bolens in Port Washington, Wisconsin.

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Corporation bought Mercury Marine in 1961.

Looking for a place to happen, Carl founded a new company - Kiekhaefer Aeromarine (KAM), where Carl continued to innovate and develop engines. Initially, a non-compete agreement didn’t allow Carl to continue development of marine engines and associated products. Thus, he turned his attention to snowmobile engines. It was no secret that most snowmobile engines from the 1960s to the mid-1970s were ill-fitted for the application. Most were repurposed workhorse engines, making them heavy, slow-revving, and prone to overheating.

Recognizing the need for a true, purpose-built snowmobile engine, Carl developed an entire family of engines for the snowmobile industry.

Given the vast number of manufacturers at the time, these engines were likely shopped to a number of possible suitors, but it was Bolens that became the most prominent and prolific to adopt the Kiekhaefer engine for production. Bolens chose the fancooled, 440-twin for the Super Sprint, and like many Carl Kiekhaefer designs, the engine employed many innovations including horizontal head and cylinder fins for improved cooling, forged aluminum pistons, a robust and more compact crankcase, and a powerful 40,000-volt ignition system with surfacegap sparkplugs. Dubbed the K-Tron, the system was said to greatly enhance plug life and cold-weather starts, thanks to a positive sparkplug firing at temperatures as low as -50 Fahrenheit.

Weighing in at approximately 80-pounds, the Kiekhaefer 440 was

Mercury Marine founder Carl Kiekhaefer.

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The 1990 book Iron Fist: The Lives of Carl Kiekhaefer written by Jeffrey L. Rodengen, recounts the incredible life of Kiekhaefer including portions of Mercury’s snowmobile history as well as Kiekhaefer Aeromarine snowmobile engines.

The Bolens Super Sprint pictured here is owned by OSM Editor Bourgeois, finding it at a garage sale in a Minneapolis suburb.

lighter than other fan-cooled engines of the time; and by producing a reported 40-horsepower, it was one of the most powerful as well.

Unfortunately, the infusion of Kiekhaefer power to the Bolens line came too late. Reports of Bolens paying Kiekhaefer Aeromarine a small portion of the owed $3 million for the engines added insult to injury. Bolens folded, and Kiekhaefer Aeromarine was nearly ruined. In subsequent years, the company sold bare engines, and advertisements for the motors could be seen in popular snowmobile publications of the time.

Adding even more intrigue to the story is Bombardier’s intent to purchase Kiekhaefer engines for their technology.

In fact, the deal was nearly done, complete with public relations photos of the agreement being signed between Carl and Beaudoin of Bombardier.

However, Ski-Doo backed out at the last minute, adding further mystery to the Carl Kiekhaefer snowmobile engine story.

Carl passed away in 1983, and his son Fred took over control of Aeromarine. He later sold it to the Brunswick Corporation, ultimately bringing all of Carl’s and Fred’s innovations back under one roof.

The Super Sprint employed a suspension very similar to a Mogul Tamer, where steel rails ran directly atop the polyurethane track; snow for lubrication was a definite requirement.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 19-21, 2018 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

The “hot” ignition allowed Carl to use surface gap plugs, a design that greatly prolonged spark plug life.

The breakerless K-Tron ignition was one of the major innovations the Kiekhaefer motor introduced to the sport. With more than 40,000 volts of sparking power, it greatly enhanced cold and hot engine starting as well as performance.

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Larry Tiede

Woody’s Traction Products

If you’ve been squeezing the go flipper long enough, then you’ve likely developed a strong affinity for a few select buggies along the way. We reached out to traction expert and New Product Development ace Larry Tiede of Woody’s Traction for his John, Paul, George, and Ringo collection of all-time favorite snowmobiles.

2004 Ski Doo 440 MXZ x Every Ski-Doo racer could get their hands on this sled, and everyone wanted to.

After a break-out season the year prior, the rider-forward REV was everything its predecessor was and more. It had great power, and best of all, every rider could make it turn on a dime. You didn’t need to be over 6-foot tall and hang off the bars like an oval racer. It made everyone who rode it better and faster…even short guys like me. Unfortunately the design went away too soon.

2003 Arctic Cat Firecat The first year Firecat is the ‘68 Camaro of snowmobiles. It was fast, smooth, and the narrow track design with big drive wheels was a first for a production sled.

Did I say it was fast? The Firecat wasn’t just fast on the lake and trails, the drag racing world had never seen a single model sled dominate so many classes like the Firecat did. With its lay-down 700 twin, the Firecat could win 700, 800. and Open Stock every weekend. Many times the finals featured an all Firecat field. It was the test sled here at Woody’s we all fought over.

1999 Arctic Cat Thunder Cat How can I not list a sled that was advertised in all the magazines with one statement, “Just Add 244 Studs.” The 1000 Thundercat produced 172-horsepower and featured a case-reed engine with triple pipes. Out of the box it went 112mph in the quarter-mile. Arctic Cat even gave it a 13-gallon tank, allowing it to go on 200-mile trail rides where it was equally comfortable as it was fast.

2018 Polaris Rush XCR This is my new personal sled. The XCR looks fast just sitting still and touts race-ready components and great brakes. It make me feel like a cross-country racer flying through the woods and ditches. The suspension is spot-on and can be further adjusted for just about any personal style or preference. Ready to ride right out of the box, the XCR delivers the goods for any skill level rider.

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IT’S HERE…

Visit WoodysTraction.com to Hookup!

Enter your factory snowmobile’s year, make, & model, and let the Hookup Traction Guide do the rest.

See which traction products Woody’s recommends for a balanced trail ride like never before.

Hope, MI, USA • woodys@wiem.com • ©

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FAST AND FURIOUS, THE NEW SRX IS THE ULTIMATE SPEED WEAPON STORY: PAT BOURGEOIS | PHOTOS: PAT BOURGEOIS & MATT CLARK

There’s a little bit of Ricky Bobby in all of us. Sure, we may not all dine at the Waffle House and drive around with a live cougar in the car, but we all like to go fast. And if you want to go fast on snow this winter, look no further than the new for 2019 Yamaha SRX. Yes, the famed nomenclature is back, and this time the SRX is hands down the fastest production snowmobile ever built.

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While the IQS shock package was likely included in the SRX as part of a premium strategy, it also quickly transforms the sleds capability beyond the singular dimension of lake racer. While most owners may never bomb wind whipped whoops, it’s nice to know the SRX is more than capable.

O

bviously we know the SRX is not entirely new.

In fact, the 2019 model is more of an exercise in naming and marketing than fresh engineering. The mind-numbing Genesis 998 turbo has graced the snow for the past two winters, and has single-handedly breathed new life into the hyper-sled category. The SRX has rekindled memories of brutally fast, and often finicky tripletriple two-strokes from the 90s, and at the same time will assuredly introduce instant triple-digit speeds to a new generation of riders.

To bring back the SRX name is a perfectly executed move by Yamaha’s marketing team. The famed nomenclature has a storied past for the company, which

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recently celebrated 50-years of snowmobile production. The original SRX, which stood for Snowmobile Racer Experimental, made its debut in 1976 and was an instant race track success. The first production Yamaha with liquid-cooling, both the 340 and 440 versions were lighting quick, and dare we say, still dang sexy.

The SRX name resurfaced again in 1998, this time accompanying Yamaha’s answer to the burgeoning triple-cylinder muscle sled category sweeping the industry.

Technology reigned supreme with the sophisticated three-cylinder two-stroke, and it’s still considered one of the most potent snowmobile engines ever produced. For 2019, the SRX name is back once again, and it has never been faster.

TO LOOK BEYOND THE YAMAHA RACING BLUE HUED HOOD OF THE SRX IS A GLIMPSE INTO WHAT IS ARGUABLY THE MOST ADVANCED SNOWMOBILE ENGINE EVER DEVELOPED

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 19-21, 2018 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

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The ride height of the SRX has been lowered primarily by increasing the overall vehicle sag or “ride-in”. Softer initial rate springs lets the SRX sit-down in its haunches, but bottoming is still kept in check, thanks to a final spring rate that is the same as previous Sidewinders, along with revised shock valving.

There’s magic happening here and it’s not just the added speed you can attain from the “shallow” lug Ripsaw 1. We were perhaps more impressed with the fun spirited ride quality the one-incher delivered.

The ability to manipulate the rear of the sled from side to side added a fun factor often missing from big lug tracked machines.

Oversize 8-inch rear axle wheels are part of a revised design that features a triple idler system that is lighter, stronger, and reduces rolling resistance for more speed.

With all this talk of speed, we nearly forgot to talk about the intelligent suspension feature also found on the SRX. The new FOX Intelligent Quick Switch (IQS) system is the next evolution of the quick change technology found on QS3 shocks, employed on many models in recent years. The IQS system now gives you this adjustability with a push of a button from the saddle while on the fly. You can select from soft, medium and firm pre-determined shock damping profiles, and the system can make the change in tenths-of-a-second. This means you can firm up instantly for a jump, and then return to trail tuned softness without ever lifting or taking your eyes off the trail.

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Throw away all of your preconceived misconceptions about a hyper sled.

The 2019 SRX destroys all of them with incredible trail manners, and yes…wicked fast acceleration!

FORCE FEEDING To look beyond the Yamaha racing blue hued hood of the SRX is a glimpse into what is arguably the most advanced snowmobile engine ever developed. From the purpose-built engine structure that includes optimized and treated connecting rods, forged pistons, oil-jet piston coolers, and a robust crank and case, all designed to take the punishment of power that has since been documented beyond 200, via third party dynamometers.

While we could ramble on for paragraphs about the technology that controls this beast, words simply can do no justice for an engine that is nothing short of a work of art. The brains of the

operation is a 9-sensor Mitsubishi ECU that constantly monitors all aspects of the 998, and then automatically adjusts ignition timing, fuel delivery manifold air-pressure, and turbo boost pressure so as to always deliver maximum power with maximum reliability.

After two full seasons on snow, and nary a report of failure to our knowledge, the 998 turbo is as durable as it is powerful. The OSM crews have had a pair of turbo units both seasons, and aside from a being a wee bit stubborn in extreme cold-start situations, the engine has been as reliable as taxes and death.

AFTER TWO FULL SEASONS ON SNOW, AND NARY A REPORT OF FAILURE TO OUR KNOWLEDGE, THE 998 TURBO IS AS DURABLE AS IT IS POWERFUL.

This frontal comparison of a Sidewinder and SRX shows the lowered ride height of the speed buggy. You can also pick out the dual rate springs, which gives the SRX the added ride-in attributes, yet still retains firm rates in the “ride zone”.

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NOT ANOTHER SIDEWINDER Up to now, everything you’ve read is yesterday’s news. All iterations of the 2017 and 2018 Sidewinder models have employed the same high-tech goodness of the aforementioned 998 Turbo. And to put it bluntly, the Sidewinder is fast… stupid fast. Last winter, it was not unusual to record a top speed of 117mph on our 50th Anniversary Sidewinder LTX. Find a straight stretch, squeeze the throttle and listen to exhaust whoosh hasten. In two quick breathes you’ll find yourself eclipsing the hundo mark with relative ease. But what if that’s not fast enough? What if you need more? Enter the SRX. The 2019 SRX is an exercise in speed through and through, and Yamaha and Arctic Cat engineers applied old-school tricks to the most high-tech sled on snow to find even more. It starts with the track, where a 1-inch Ripsaw 1, fully-clipped version replaces the now rather traditional 1.25” track found on most modern trail sleds. The “smaller track” and

full-clipped design means reduced rotating mass and less friction, which in turn means more speed.

They then went to an even older page in the speed playbook, and lowered the ride height of the sled. Through new dual rate front and shock springs, center skid spring, and new torsion springs, the sled sits lower and is more balanced than the Sidewinder. The “sucked down” SRX results in less air going under the sled and disrupting the aerodynamics.

Perhaps more importantly, it reduces the approach angle from driver to skidframe.

This means the track rolls with less resistance, and you know what that means…yup, more speed.

Lower isn’t just faster, we found the new stance to be better handling, and better looking in our opinion. We were also surprised at how well the SRX continued to absorb bumps and trail chatter.

In fact, we could nary tell the difference in ride quality between the SRX and a Sidewinder. The improved balance and spring rates that are softer initially, but ramp-up to the same final force at the end of stroke, has allowed Yamaha engineers to attain more speed and improve the handling without sacrificing comfort. Even in big trail chop, we never experienced harsh bottoming.

The newest iteration of the SRX touts throwback graphics to its 1998 brethren, but that’s where the similarities stop. The newest version is faster; smoother; better handling; quieter; and more comfortable by a wide margin.

The shocks from the IQS system look very similar to QS3 versions; the primary difference is an insulated wire leading to a compact servo motor, residing where the knob is found on the manual adjust Quick Switch units.

Yamaha continues to outfit their Arctic Cat manufactured sleds with their dual-runner Tuner III skis. For certain these runners produce laser-straight tracking and nary a hint of hunting or darting. Yet those positive attributes are quickly overshadowed by vague handling with a heavy “push” in the corners when speed increases.

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CONTROLLED CHAOS Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the SRX, and all Sidewinder models for that matter, is how controllable something so fast can be. Unlike the hyper sleds of old, the SRX can be driven, as happy running 40mph on a twisted trail as it is turning a frozen lake into a blur, something the hyper sleds from the 90s could never accomplish.

To add further refinement to the mix for 2019 is a new handlebar and control layout that can be found on nearly every model from Yamaha and Arctic Cat. The new controls feature a redesigned throttle that touts improved ergonomics and reduced throw, making it more comfortable on long rides, especially for those who have smaller hands. Other new features include left-block switches and a stand-alone kill switch that can be rotated down to avoid accidental contact, and a new Hayes brake reservoir with contoured brake lever that is both closer to the bar and easier to manipulate with one or two fingers.

Obviously speed and ligament stretching acceleration is the coveted attribute of the modern SRX, but we were shocked to discover the sled was something much more during our time spent in the saddle this past spring. The combination of shallow lug track, lowered ride height, and instant ability to break traction made the SRX in many ways, more trail friendly than similar Sidewinder models. Enter the corner hot, tap the brake to set and kick-out the back of the sled, approach the apex, and then hammer down for a power sliding exit that is simply too grin worthy to ignore.

There’s also something happening here in terms of wanted and unwanted traction. With taller lugs and more aggressive tracks becoming the norm, few will argue the benefits of additional traction when it comes to acceleration and control. But there are also unwanted attributes of having this additional grip. A track with extra lug will often “bite” into the bumps instead of “washing” over the tops. This force is then fed into the suspension which must manage the movement. Because of this, we found the SRX to actually deliver a more compliant ride in moderate to light trail chop. Instead of feeding the force of each bump into the suspension, the Ripsaw 1 track would more often than not, slide across the face of the bump.

Coming into the 2019 season, we were fairly certain another Sidewinder would be in our stable. We deemed the SRX would be too one dimensional for our varied riding needs. Turns out we were wrong. After three days of flogging the SRX, we happily placed our order for the third coming of the Snowmobile Racer Experimental…after all, who doesn’t like to go fast?!

OBVIOUSLY SPEED AND LIGAMENT STRETCHING ACCELERATION IS THE COVETED ATTRIBUTE OF THE MODERN SRX

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New controls were a much needed update for the Cat build Yamaha sleds. The top button with the analog gauge icon is used to activate and control the IQS shock technology. Along with dash gauge indication, you can leave the suspension feature active, so you can make quick changes at any time throughout your ride.

A new Hayes master cylinder has been mated with a short throw brake lever that offers greatly improved ergonomics over the previous design. While easily within one-finger reach, brake response, feel, and effort remains heavy and vague.

Your girlfriend tells us you have small hands. While we can’t help, the SRX can, at least when it comes to getting a more comfortable grip on the throttle. The improved shape, proximity to the bar, and shorter throw combine for dramatically improved throttle control.

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Even with a measly one-inch lug track, the robust power ensures rapid acceleration once the track finds adequate purchase.

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The SRX nomenclature has a storied past in Yamaha history. First appearing in 1976 as a liquid-cooled 340 and 440, the SRX nameplate stood for Snowmobile Racer Experimental. More than 20-years later, the SRX name returned, this time as Yamaha’s entry into the triple-triple performance wars of the mid to late 1990s. The exhaust note of that 700 triple was nothing short of intoxicating.

When the Sidewinder was introduced, the force-inducted power was harnessed by a new YSRC roller secondary and upsized primary. The more robust design allows the SRX to “shift into overdrive” for, yup you guessed it, added speed. However, the big power and abundant under-hood heat have made belt life an issue for some. We’ve seen belts give up the ghost anywhere from 500-miles to just over 1,000-miles when power is applied in moderation.

Since you’ll be traveling at warp speed for much of the winter, the Yamaha crew developed a new rear trunk bag that is bigger and more stylish. Perfect for storing that extra testosterone you’ll be carting around.

We know our 2018 Sidewinder would hit, and even exceed 117-mph indicated based on personal experience last winter.

Yamaha claims the 2019 SRX is even faster. Yes please!

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EDITOR BOURGEOIS SITS DOWN WITH YAMAHA SNOWMOBILE PRODUCT AND ACCESSORY PLANNER, JARET SMITH TO GET UP TO SPEED ON THE 2019 SRX OSM. When the Genesis 998 Turbo was introduced, (spring of 2016) we were given a small taste at that time as to what spurred the development of this beastly motor.

Can you briefly touch on what compelled Yamaha engineers to go in the direction of “hyper-power” versus other directions…or in other words, why Yamaha zigged, when everyone else zagged?

JARET. I think Sidewinder reinvents not only the way we think about 4-stroke snowmobiles but also turbocharged snowmobiles. Previously the industry had seen turbocharged snowmobiles capable of making a lot of power, but with the tradeoff being turbo-lag. Utilizing technology previously reserved only for supercars, we were able to almost eliminate turbo-lag from the 998T. What this means is when you’re coming out of a corner and transitioning from off throttle to wide-open-throttle, the turbocharger has already started to spool, the intake track is already primed with boost, and the sled is ready to react.

The SRX project had two main goals. One, to be the fastest snowmobile at the end of the lake or drag strip; and two, to be the flattest most predictable handling, groomed trail snowmobile. We knew the more seamless and predictable we could make the power delivery, the better the inherent handling and control would be. When combined with the Fox IQS suspension, lowered ride height, and 1” Camso track, we feel this is the best handling snowmobile we have ever produced.

OSM. Obviously when you have a sled producing 200-horsepower with a turbo under the hood producing a lot of heat, belt life is always a concern.

We’ve seen numbers anywhere from just below 1,000 miles, to in excess of 2,500 miles on a belt. Any advice on how to obtain the best performance and belt-life with an SRX or Sidewinder?

JARET. From our experience there are

a few rules to live by with a snowmobile with this much power. One - proper drive belt break-in is very important when it comes to belt life. Second – You need to let the snowmobile warm up in extreme cold, and this includes your clutches. Number three - Proper maintenance and inspection of your clutches, including belt height is more critical.

Number four, smooth is fast. This is true no matter how much power you have, but if you avoid abrupt throttle inputs and excessive hard braking, you’ll not only enjoy longer belt life, you’ll also be faster.

Finally, take extra time in high-stress situations, like loading the snowmobile on a trailer. You can quickly compromise a belt’s life by burning it or hour-glassing it. When this happens, you really should replace the belt.

This past winter, during our development of the SRX package, we were able to make some changes to our clutching to improve the overall efficiency of the clutches, (Efficiency = Speed), and decrease belt temperatures. We utilized these updates on all our 2019 Sidewinder Trail and Crossover models as well. These new 2019 clutch specs are also backwards compatible, meaning these changes could be installed on 2017 and 2018 Sidewinder models at the owner’s discretion and expense.

OSM. Let’s talk skis. The dual keel, Tuner III skis are great for straight-line tracking and reduced darting, especially on set-up, groomed trails, but we’ve seen much improved handling by switching to a single keel design, especially for aggressive riding in less than ideal conditions. Do you have any tips or suggestions when it comes to getting the most out of the Tuner III skis?

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JARET. The

Tuner III’s were designed for a wide array of conditions, and giving riders the option of “Tuning” the characteristics with carbide/ runner changes. Depending on how aggressive you ride and the conditions you ride in will influence individual set up. For myself, riding Ontario on primarily groomed trails, I will typically run a combination of 6” square bar with a 4” round bar. This set up worked well on a Sidewinder L-TX LE 137” last winter.

OSM. Some may not know this, but this is the third go around for the SRX, first appearing in 1976 and then again in 1998.

Both of those sleds are deemed significant and iconic models, not just for Yamaha, but the industry as well. Do you see the latest SRX following in those footsteps?

JARET.Years ago I owned a 2000 SRX

700 triple-triple, one of my all-time favorite snowmobiles, and I often wish I never sold it. Riding the new SRX brings back all of those feelings that the 2000 did years ago. The smooth power delivery, the flat handling and the pure speed of the new SRX won’t disappoint. Breaking away from the industry norm of larger track lugs and tall ride height separates the SRX from the rest of the industry.

If you followed our teaser campaign this year, we plotted the new 2019 SRX against a 2000 SRX, in an old school drag race. Through this video, we wanted to reminisce the past with the 2000, and also demonstrate how far we have come over the last 19 years. The new SRX takes all of the good attributes of the old sled, with modern advancements like fuel-injection, 4-stroke reliability, and electronically adjustable suspension. We felt this video was the ultimate send-off for the past SRX, and that this new snowmobile is truly worthy of such an iconic name!

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in Valcourt call the new brilliant hue found on the 2019 Backcountry XRS, Ultimate Red Lava; we call it damn sexy. And once you get past the bold color, you’ll quickly discover why this go anywhere buggy has us salivating, in anticipation for the winter season to commence.

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had already scored a crossover hit with their Backcountry entries over the past few seasons, especially last winter when the scooter made its debut in the GEN4 platform. Our resident mountain goat Tyler Swarm had one under his tutelage for the season, and the combination proved to be formidable. While only spinning the smallish 146” Cobra track with 1.6” paddles, Swarm was absolutely smitten with the sled’s deep snow capabilities, often times hanging with sleds with more track, and in the process, out-maneuvering them in tree littered hillsides.

Back home in the flats, the Backcountry proved to be just as adept on the trails. All the changes employed into the GEN4 are here, along with the big bore power of the 850 with second-generation E-TEC fuel management. The key changes are found within the new

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rear suspension, dubbed the cMotion. Supporting a 146-inch track, the cMotion combines the best attributes of the trail designed rMotion, and blends them with the deep snow goodness of the tMotion, for what Ski-Doo is calling a true 50/50 crossover buggy. The skid employs a motion ratio similar to the bump absorbing “r” and also features tippedrails, giving the longer skid a short track feel on the hard pack.

No question, last year’s Backcountry X was a stout buggy. It was good enough and versatile enough to be dubbed one of our favorite 2018 sleds, and arguably the best allaround snowmobile, period.

Yet, despite all this goodness, we and many Ski-Doo faithful wanted more…and that’s what the Backcountry XRS delivers.

As you might expect, the

Hesitant at first of the off-trail capability of the Backcountry X, due to its rather short 146-inch track length, our Idaho stunt driver Tyler Swarm, who doubles has a lumberjack in the off-season, was quickly praising the highly maneuverable sled for its “Shocking deep snow capabilities.” You can expect more of the same from all Backcountry buggies this winter.

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XRS brings with it race bred toughness and suspension technology to put the Backcountry into a new category of crossover. Featuring race-tested chassis reinforcements, wider running boards, and best-available KYB PRO 36 fullyadjustable shocks, complete with rebound control up front, and larger KYB PRO 40 compression adjustable units to the rear.

All four bump controllers tout Easy Adjust controls, making it easier to tune with slightly frozen paws.

Available as a spring-order only snowmobile, the brilliant red Ski-Doo could be optioned with either a 2-inch PowderMax track or the 1.6-inch Ice Cobra track, the same rubber Tyler was cutting loose in Idaho last winter.

While the track is excellent on-trail with its embedded carbide studs, the taller cupped lugs delivered exceptional off-trail grip, making this track option the ideal choice for Midwest and Eastern Snowbelt riders, looking for a best of both worlds alternative. In addition, the lightweight, battery-less SHOT starting technology

could also be added to the spring option sheet, making the Backcountry XRS the first “trail” sled to employ this technology.

We already loved the GEN4 Backcountry, it was truly a do-it-all weapon for riders across the Snowbelt, from trail to powder. Now, with the addition of topshelf XRS shock technology, aggressive rider ergonomics, and enhanced chassis toughness, this go to buggy has been given the added juice of knock-out caliber race goodness, making it our go-to Ski-Doo this winter.

THE TRACK IS EXCELLENT ON-TRAIL WITH ITS EMBEDDED CARBIDE STUDS

The cMotion rear suspension is a blend of rough trail bump compliance found in the rMotion, and the off-trail mobility of the tMotion. Ski-Doo feels they have found the ideal blend for a true 50-50 snowmobile.

Along with the improved ergonomics and open footwell design of the GEN4 REV platform, the XRS Backcountry features wider, reinforced running boards. This gives the buggy plenty of room for footwork when standing up and hammering drifted lips.

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Along with a choice of two track options, the spring order XRS also gave riders a chance at factory installed SHOT starting technology, the first time it has been offered in a “trail” buggy since its inception, and likely not the last.

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FROM RUSTED RELIC TO TUNED PIPE TWIN

GASTON BLAIS’ HOME-BUILT HYBRID IS ASTRONOMICAL

T

he one-time mild-mannered Sno-Jet Astro was purchased for just $100 from Gaston Blais’ brother back in 1986. According to Gaston, who lives in Gatineau, Quebec, the sled was “pretty rusty” but a runner, with plenty use up until 1997. That’s when things got interesting.

Gaston worked at a body shop where here he put his skills to use, and the transformation of the Astro Jet began. There was never a hard and fast vision for what the old blue buggy would become, only steps to continually make

it better. What’s more, Gaston was never afraid to adapt parts and pieces to the Astro from other sleds and other vehicles, including cars.

Retaining an original portion of the Sno-Jet tunnel and keeping the mid-mount engine location, an aluminum tunnel from a 1990 Arctic Cat Prowler was attached, along with a custom aluminum bumper. Power was first supplied by a 440 fan Yamaha, but like most sledders who love to modify their scoots, more power was soon to follow.

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GASTON NOW WRINGS OUT THE MODIFIED SNO-JET IN ICE DRAG COMPETITIONS.

he Astro is now a full-fledge drag racer with a burly ZR800 twin-cylinder, liquid spooling power through Arctic clutching and an adapted Ski-Doo Summit chaincase. The beautiful installation with accompanying curved pipe was performed by Gaston’s friend Yvon Bastien, from Desormeaux Lake at Northfield Quebec. To make sure all that new found power gets to the snow pack, a Wahl 136-inch suspension has been employed out back, and to keep things stable, the ski stance has been widened to 43-inches.

More than just powerful and fast, the Sno-Jet looks equally good, and once again a hodgepodge of pieces were fabricated and blended together. A Wildcat belly pan was cut and fabricated, along with pieces from a 1996 Chevy Cavalier (yeah, you read that right). On the top-side the Sno-Jet now features a Kawasaki Drifter bumper and hood, Ski-Doo Mach 1 vents, Wildcat vents, as well as portions of the original Sno-Jet hood, and lots of expert fabrication and plenty of patience to get everything just right.

The 1974 Sno- Jet served the family well for many years, and was purchased by Gaston from his brother in 1986.

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MORE THAN JUST POWERFUL AND FAST, THE SNO-JET LOOKS EQUALLY GOOD, AND ONCE AGAIN A HODGE-PODGE OF PIECES WERE FABRICATED AND BLENDED TOGETHER Gaston employed the help of his best friend Yvon Bastien to fit the 800 twin into the old Sno-jet bulkhead.

SNOCAPS TRAILER ENCLOSURES

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An Arctic Cat secondary feeds power over to a Ski-Doo Summit chaincase, all of which is still located ahead of the tunnel mounted engine.

Things got a little tight when the big Suzuki got lowered into place, but patience and craftsmanship won the day.

Gaston feels confident there isn’t another Sno-Jet anywhere quite like his. We couldn’t agree more.

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TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Length: 100” Width: 36” Height: 38” Ski Stance: 43” Dry Weight: Approximately 380 LBS Fuel Capacity: 4 GAL Skis: Wahl Brothers Racing Aluminum Ski Wear Bars: Woody’s 10” 60-degree Track Length: 136” Track Width: 15” Track Type: .5” lug ice drag Traction: 1.060” Woody Chisels and Ice Picks

Not your average Sno-Jet.

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lawn ornaments The fever for Lawn Ornaments has never been stronger as your submissions keep filling up our inbox. From rusted and forgotten buggies behind the garage, to those purt-near-mint, center-of-the-lawn, almost modern rides just waiting for first snow, we want to see the lawn ornaments in your neck of the snowbelt. Snap a photo and send it in. If your photo is selected and published, you will receive a freshly screened OSM #RunsOnSpray t-shirt. Email your pics to editor@osmmag.com. Remember, curb appeal is nice…snowmobiles are better.

Let’s all tip our hats to Jason who took photos in the fall and again in the spring, showing the true spirit of a “Lawn Ornament.” This seat-less honey was tucked tight under a white pine, and had the branches pulled for extra security.

Snowmobile Mountain is almost complete and ready to open the gates for tourist season. Tim Kinniburgh has done an exceptional job in appealing to true sledders with this impressive display located just off the highway. Not too one-brand heavy and sprinkled with models from across the snowbelt, we salute Tim for creating a must stop “trap” we actually want a t-shirt from.

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Submitted by long-time friend of the mag Kevin Veen, we were amazed he only focused on the Ski-Doo and not the other two carcasses in the background. We’re guessing it’s because the Ski-Doo is damn near showroom mint by comparison. A little buffing and a new windshield and she’s a keeper.

Eric Leigland submitted these three photos of decaying cats in various stages…

There’s little doubt fresh fuel, a spit of spray, and new plugs these would all be runners.

The top-end of a sled takes on an entirely new meaning.

Eric really captured the feeling of time standing still with this mossed-out Pantera.

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lawn ornaments

We’re not sure if it was just luck for this Elan to end up on the rocks, or it was a planned ornament. Either way it’s a beauty, and we fully support the decision to illuminate the buggy with Christmas lights. It just looks classy especially around the Holidays!

All Hail The King! You know there must be a good story behind the placement of sleds in this yard.

Why number 526 is hoisted high above an Indy Storm and a bareback Yamaha V-max. We’re just speculating here but number 526 might be the only winner out of this threesome.

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CALL TOLL FREE: 1-866-930-9411 Spanaway WA. USA For Eastern Canada and US Distributors please visit our website

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Hygear Suspension Slicast A-Arms GET THE FIX TO ELIMINATE THE TWITCH 76

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A

s the cost of those shiny new snow scooters continues to escalate, more and more enthusiasts are hanging on to their older rides and giving them some love in the off-season. For owners of second generation Ski-Doo Rev snowmobiles (2008 to 2015), the crew at Hygear Suspension delivers a ride and handling payoff that’s worth far more than the few hundred dollars you’ll spend on the hardware.

The Slicast adjustable A-arms are certainly not new to the market. Hygear owner Ross Benson developed the camber and caster adjustable replacement suspension components not long after the second-generation REV hit the trails.

What that sled delivered in precision, it sacrificed in confidence. The aggressive caster angle and lower roll-center created a sled that responded instantly, but tended to fight back and deliver less than ideal ride confidence.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 19-21, 2018 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

This “twitch,” as it became known amongst owners, was a nag that even SkiDoo engineers recognized, prompting the development of the RAS2 front suspension. Much like the Slicast design, the RAS2 rolled back the caster and raised the roll-center, putting it closer to the center of gravity of the buggy. While much improved, many feel the Hygear Slicast design delivers ride and handling performance better than the RAS2.

The Slicast system is a complete kit that replaces both upper and lower arms, (with existing fasteners and bushings) and includes new ball joints and the adjustable pivots for caster, and spacers to adjust camber. The tall, upper ball joint, similar to the RAS2 system from Ski-Doo, raises the roll center.

HOW

The real magic however, is the adjustable caster design which dramatically reduces darting and that unnerving twitch. Often times, the geometry of the second-generation REV has owners unknowingly feeding too much input into steering commands, resulting in oversteer and excessive understeer, in an effort to correct. The smooth and fluid control served up by the Slicast geometry all but eliminates this negative.

Constructed from powder-coated chromoly materials, the Slicast components are top-shelf in terms of quality. The system also features greaseable mounts for upper and lower bushings. We opted for new bushings during the install, and with a few pumps of grease from time to time, the slop and excessive play often found in higher mileage REV buggies should be a

WORKS

Adjusting Caster and Camber using the Slicast System

Adjust Caster

Adjust Camber

The simple caster adjustment system is easy to use and has 11 marked settings. Setting 0 is the same as stock. Turn the cam and rotate to adjust caster position

Move spacers to change camber

101 2 3 32

4 5

5 4

Rotate Cam to change caster

Camber is adjustable by changing the orientation of spacers on the balljoint stud. Stock camber can be achieved by orienting an equal number of spacers on either side of the cam adjuster.

Spacers can be moved one at a time to change camber. Move inside for negative camber or outside for positive camber.

thing of the past.

Ross and his crew also developed a nice set of installation instructions and tuning guidelines. After watching the online video and grabbing our ball joint removal tool, (highly recommended and also available from Hygear) we had the swap over and final adjustments completed in a couple of hours and a few cold ones. The instructions also include easy to follow tuning tips as well as recommended settings for those who want to install and forget it. For those who like to tinker, the Slicast is fully-adjustable, allowing you to find the sweet spot for your riding style.

The Slicast is available for all 2008-2015 XP, XR and XS models, and sells at the affordable price of just $299.99 (US) for the complete kit. What’s more, we checked the Hygear website at this writing, and Ross had the Slicast system on sale! Of course, you may have a hard time ordering just the Slicast system, Hygear is one of our go to shops for shocks and related accessories.

Ross has developed an extensive line of FOX and AXIS shock kits as well as twisted dual-rate spring kits and much more. Check out Hygear at www.hygearsuspension.com to learn more and place your order.

0 Start at 0 - equal to stock setting Set at 4 - equal to RAS 2 suspension

2 spacers on each side - equal to stock setting 3 inside, 1 outside - equal to RAS 2 suspension

How caster adjustments affect steering

How camber adjustments affect steering

Problem:

Problem:

Darting, Poor tracking, Twitchy Front End

Difficulty Turning, Tendency to Understeer

The Fix:

The Fix:

Move Ball Joint Back for positive caster

Move Ball Joint In for negative camber

This will help stabilize steering at speed by moving the ski forward

This will increase the side bite of the skis which will improve cornering and reduce understeer

Problem:

Problem:

Unresponsive Steering, Heavy Feel

Overly Aggressive Steering

The Fix:

The Fix:

Move Ball Joint Forward for negative caster this will move the ski back making the feel lighter and quicker

Move Ball Joint Out for positive camber This will decrease the side bite of the skis, which will improve tracking and reduce darting

* when making large adjustment to camber settings it may be necessary to check and re-adjust toe.

The crew at Hygear makes it easy to understand positive and negative caster and camber If in doubt, just ask ! adjustments,308 and how they impact NY the13068 handling of your snowmobile. 607.533.7434 Peruville Rd. Freeville, info@hygearsuspension.com

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 19-21, 2018 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

Easy to install, easy to adjust, and our vote for the best performance investment you can make on a second-generation REV. Hygear stuff is top-shelf and the Slicast system dramatically improves handling and confidence. The design also reduces ski lift and carbide wear, and thanks to greaseable bushings, dramatically extends suspension life and improves performance.

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KLIM Arctic GTX BOA Boots No Bark, No Bite.

Our Dogs Have Found a Home

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If

there’s one constant amongst all sledders, it’s that were all different, especially when it comes to our feet. From clodhoppers to swampers, sod-busters to prairie schooners, no two feet are alike. This physical fact makes it all the more difficult to find riding boots to get the job done. Just ask our been-around-the-sun a few times Editor Bourgeois. He’s seen more boot companies come and go than Larry Enticer has empty Bush cans under his bed.

So, when a pair of KLIM’s newest cold-weather Arctic GTX BOA boots arrived at the office, they promptly found their way into his gear bag.

Used to be, the only thing snowmobile boots were required to do was keep your feet warm. Comfort was secondary, staying dry was delegated to a pair of bread bags, and performance wasn’t even in the discussion. Through the 90’s, boots began to evolve, and when snocross racers were seen wearing snowboard boots with zealous ankle support, a new door was opened in snowmobile boot design.

Today, we ask a lot of our boots – keep our feet warm and dry; deliver performance attributes of support, flexibility, and traction; provide all-day comfort in a lightweight design; and last a long time, while looking good doing it. Frankly, it’s no easy task, but these new snow kickers from KLIM come damn close.

Many of you are likely familiar with KLIM’s Adrenaline and Adrenaline BOA

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 19-21, 2018 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

line of boots. Designed for highly-active riding, these lightly insulated kickers have been the footwear of choice for many mountain riders.

But back here in the flats where the digits dip well below the zero mark, a warmer design was needed. Enter the Arctic GTX. The GTX boot is KLIM’s warmest offering, but don’t be led to believe it’s heavy or bulky…it’s neither. Editor Bourgeois stomps around the office in size 13 Chucks, and often times can’t stuff his kickers into the footwells of some sleds due to the cumbersome design of many popular boots. Not so with Arctic GTX boots.

Using design cues from the Adrenaline, the GTX BOA tips the scales a full half-pound lighter than the previous design, and with 1200 grams of Thinsulate, along with an additional 1,000 grams stuffed in the mid-sole and removable insole combined, these are some of the warmest boots we’ve ever sampled.

Of course, being warm is faint praise if you can’t keep your feet dry.

Like nearly all KLIM clothing products, GTX boots are constructed using Gore-Tex®, so they keep water out and allow moisture inside to escape. Still, even the best boots can get damp after a hard day of spring riding, and that leads us to one of the few nags we found. The liner of the GTX is fixed, forcing us to religiously use a boot drier at the end of the day (the insole is removable). A small tradeoff in our opinion. With portable boot-driers in-hand, we were always met with ready to ride boots. What’s more, we never felt the R-value decreased over the season as we racked up the miles and the boots became more “broke-in.”

Warmth and comfort aside, the aspect we love the most about the Arctic GTX design is how it incorporates the support and performance of a BOA system in a lightweight and much narrower design than others. The bolstered ankle support of a BOA type system is great to ride in, but other boot designs will have you walking like a pirate off the sled.

At a suggested retail price of $339.99 (US), the KLIM Arctic GTX BOA boots are certainly not the most affordable option on the market, but after having several pairs of boots find their way into the dumpster behind the shop after just a handful of rides, the old adage - you get what you pay for - has never rang more true. To learn more and to get yours visit www.klim.com

Unlike some competitive offerings, the Arctic GTX BOA is more streamlined and lightweight, giving you increased maneuverability on the running boards and in the stirrups.

While not a factor for most trail riders, having a sole with good bite is critical for those who ride off-trail in the west, pound ditches in the flats, or boondock through thick timber and swamps. With a season of abuse, the soles of our GTX units are still looking fresh, giving credence to their durability.

Like all BOA systems, no laces are required to “tighten” the GTX boots to your feet. Simply turn the knob until the desired fit and support is achieved. To loosen and remove, simply pull the knob and give the boot tongue a firm pull.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 19-21, 2018 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 9 • ISSUE 1

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...

UMBRELLA GIRLS, RACE GAS, AND PODIUMS

BY GOODWOOD AND BEERSTEIN

who?

ARE GOODWOOD AND BEERSTEIN

Native to the windswept fields and ditches,

G

swamps and thickets, and deep forests of the

oodwood and Beerstein are back for another season, albeit not without some convincing and a few extra cases of pounders left on the shop stoop. For those of you who might be new to Tear Down, the tandem of Good and Wood are a couple of salt of the earth boys who like their beer cold, the brim of their caps curved, and their sleds fast. They spend most of their time hunkered down in their shop, located somewhere in the far Northwoods of the Snowbelt, and they love snowmobile racing. Each issue, this crusty and unshaven duo share their stories about snowmobiles, beer, women, hunting dogs, and of course racing. As we kick-off the season, our editor tracked down the “boys” in Saloon Number Two & Grill in a town called Spread Eagle, (it’s legit kids, check the Google machine) and got their take on everything from puberty to podiums.

northwoods, Goodwood and Beerstein are salt-ofthe-earth, down-home country boys who’ll just as soon drink all your cold ones or steal your girlfriend.

They work hard and play harder, spending every spare moment scaring up game, hooking big ones and, of course, making things faster. Especially snowmobiles. They share their stories here each month because they said not everything in snowmobiling starts and ends with a flat brim hat (actually it’s because they lost a bet, but they don’t like people to know they lose so we can’t say that).

CSRA CELEBRATES 25 YEARS

There was plenty of news cooking this summer with the national snocross scene on the maple leaf side of the 49th parallel. According to Canadian Snowcross Racing Association, (CSRA) kingpin Ken Avann, the new Pro Open rule change implemented last year was a good thing.

While arguments were made throughout the industry as to how the rule would lead to greater participation in the top level of snocross racing, (which it still might) it certainly saved teams money. Ken said the move

Dave Joanis was the 2018 year-end champion, edging out RJ Roy and Dylan Hall. The trio remain favorites for the title again this year as the Canadian Snowcross Racing Association (CSRA) celebrates its 25th anniversary.

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Both the CSRA and ISOC snocross circuits are looking for ways to further implement snowbikes into their programs. Track development, purse structure, and greater promotion are all being discussed.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 19-21, 2018 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

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has made it easier to “bump” riders up to the next level of competition.

“It’s easier now to move a guy from Pro Lite to Open,” Ken said. “In the past it could cost the team another 40 or 50 grand. We can now look at lap times (between Lite and Open) and know if a racer is going to be competitive.”

In CSRA, the top five in year-end points in both Sport and Pro Lite are moved up to the next competitive class (Pro-Lite and Pro-Open respectively).

In other CSRA news, a new sponsorship deal has been inked with FXR Racing for the coming season; the organization is looking at a possible television package with live streaming, and they are going to continue to look for ways to make snowbikes a bigger and better part of the program. Ken said things such as improved track design and promotion will help the fast growing segment.

Finally, this year the series will celebrate its 25th anniversary. The circuit has underwent a lot of changes over those years and weathered plenty of storms. But there’s also been incredible moments and racers during that time, including names like Morgan, Pake, Vincent, and Wolff; and who can forget the indoor stadium series? Look for a recap in this year’s CSRA race program, published by On Snow Magazine.

Goodwood’s Insight I like that Ken guy, reminds of my wife’s sister’s brother’s best friend’s buddy Smoke. Now Smoke, he was no hotshot racer.

Nope, he was into tradin’, and I’m not talking bout a pork chop for a carburetor at the Waconia swap either. No, he was one of dem Wall Street types…he wore suits and would scream and stomp around the floor and make money I guess. Kind of reminds me of Beerstein that one time in tech. Anyway, you see racing here, it ain’t cheap, unlike some of those ladies I’ve seen leaving Beerstein’s run-down Airstream late at night. So if this here rule change means these teams can save more money for beer and such, it seems like a win-win if you ask me…and you are so there you go.

ISOC CONTEMPLATES MORE DOMINATOR EVENTS

On the red, white, and blue side of the snocross border, the crew at the International Series of Champions (ISOC) has been enjoying the off-season, and was just starting to gear up

With Tucker retired, the door is wide-open in ISOC National Snocross for a new face to grab the top podium box spotlight. Logan Christian (pictured) is one of those drivers whose time has come to cash in on the opportunity.

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Last season, Arctic Cat caught the competition “short” with their move to a 136-inch track length.

The added traction gave the brand a distinct holeshot advantage, and we suspect both Polaris and Ski-Doo will follow suit this season.

for the first green flag at Duluth National when we gave them a call. We got the man in charge, Carl Schubitzke, on the horn and asked him about the retirement of Tucker Hibbert.

“Obviously it was big news,” said Carl. “On one hand you hated to see someone with that much talent and so many fans leave the sport, but on the other hand, it’s really had a positive impact on all the teams…I mean every team I talk to right now is on cloud nine…they all feel like they have a chance to win.”

With Tucker calling it quits, the door is open for a new crop of racers to take over the reins and become the “one to beat.” According to Carl, the optimism and intrigue has gotten everyone excited including staff, local promoters, and even sponsors.

Things are quiet in terms of rule changes after the very opinionated Pro Open rule change from last year, and like CSRA, the organization is looking for ways to further elevate snowbikes. With the schedule tentatively looking to be a repeat of last winter, the circuit is discussing the idea of adding one or two AMSOIL Dominator type races to the winter program.

The head-to-head elimination, dash-for-cash competition has become very popular as the Friday night main attraction at Duluth National. Last year, ERX Motor Park hosted their own dominator type event call the Eliminator. For now, it is nothing more than an idea, with plenty of hurdles and logistics to work out if it does take shape.

Beerstein’s Take You know what I say about opinions…there’s yours, which is usually wrong, and mine, which is usually right. Now if there’s one thing I like more than racing sleds, it’s money…oh, and beer, but that takes money too. Now this here Dominator in Duluth thing has been working cause guys can win money, and I’m not talking about just enough for a stack of scratch offs and a pack of Marlboros. If my memory serves me right, if ya win the whole kit-n-caboodle, a feller can walk out that Spirit Mountain place with a nice wad of Benjamin’s (those are hundos). Now there’s another thing I know about racing. It don’t matter much what you’re running…sleds, lawn tractors, hot wheels, you name it, if you don’t have guys swapping positions, well then all ya got is a parade. And unless they’re throwing candy and coupons for free beer at the legion, I’m not interested.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 19-21, 2018 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

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BY GOODWOOD AND BEERSTEIN

USXC CANCELLED 500 RACE IS BACK ON

The cross-country snowmobile racing scene was buzzing plenty this past spring when the owner and operator of North America’s leading race circuit of the same discipline snuffed out the famed I-500 race for the upcoming season.

Brian Nelson of the Unites States X-Country (USXC) series cited lack of sponsorship; time; volunteers; participation, and money as all viable reasons why the historic race would not continue for another season. Make no mistake, operating the USXC for Brian is a labor of love, a former racer and two-time champ of the 500, Brian loves snowmobile racing, but the commitment had simply become too much to continue the big race. Brian told us the amount of time and resources for the 500 is equal to that of all other USXC races combined.

The challenge of orchestrating a race of this magnitude goes hand-in-hand with the on-again, off-again history of the I-500. But the love for what many would consider one of the most iconic and important races in the sport is shared by many, and is the reason the race is now reportedly back on.

Upon hearing of the cancellation, the Goodridge snowmobile club of Northwestern Minnesota had a meeting, called Brian, and committed the resources required to keep the race going.

“They love snowmobiling,” Brian said when asked why they offered to help with such a monumental task. “Many of them are former racers, and they have a ton of passion for the sport. They took it upon themselves to get it done. They called me up during their club meeting and asked me what’s it gonna take to make it happen?”

If everything comes together, the race will be based out of the small community of Goodridge, and will be a two- day event. Each day will consist of two 65-mile loops with racers doing each loop twice.

The wide-open running of wind-drifted ditches, rivers, and wooded trails of the USXC International 500 looks to return this winter, after a passionate snowmobile club in northwestern Minnesota dedicated the additional resources and man-hours needed to make the 500-mile cross-country event happen.

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Want to mark 500 miles of trails for a race? You better have about 50 buckets filled with signs just like this one.

With the race back on, it would seem the USXC plate is full, but Brian also hinted at a year-end ski-hill race where the organization could utilize up to 15 runs for an extended loop, and create as Brian put it, “A darn nice run in the spring.”

Tentative plans would be for an early April race at the hill, followed by a Sunday year-end banquet at the same location.

Goodwood’s Thoughts I remember this one time when ol’ Beer was making good time down a ditchline during that big five hundo race. Yeah, old Beer was pretty fast back then…was good at cheatin’ too, which goes to figure why he was so fast, but that’s another story. Now Beer was hunkered down over the bars and picking off racers like a bull frog eating skeeters, when he sees this big group of gawkers ahead. There was even some of those media folks there too with those big cameras and such.

Now Beer, he likes to brag, and he ain’t never met a camera he didn’t like. So he figures to give them a show, a real send it over the road approach ya know? I reckon he didn’t plan for the 10-foot drop on the other side, not to mention the concrete culvert. Anyways, Beer sent it, but the landing, well that was whole nudder thing. But the thing here is people are funny… back when that big race was gonna come back, and race from that Winnipeg place up in Canada, well heck, it seems everybody who thought they could race was gonna sign up. Thing is, most never did. Plenty of folks were upset this spring too, when they heard it was gonna be cancelled. Talk is cheap… and so’s my beer, that’s what Beer always says.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 19-21, 2018 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

IWA CARPENTER WINS FIRST WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

The best part about being a snowmobile racing fan is there is no off-season. During the heat of summer, the competition is just as intense, thanks in large part to the International Watercross Association (IWA). These kids having been shredding ponds and lakes going all the way back to 1977, when the small Minnesota/ Wisconsin border town of Grantsburg, Wisconsin hosted their first watercross event. The event grew and eventually became known as the World Championships, and it was still going strong when we dropped by this past July.

No more an oddity, the racers and competition in IWA are serious about their craft, and none were more so on this day in July than Kyle Carpenter of Stacy, Minnesota, who won his third world title in Pro Stock and his first in Pro Open. Other winners on the day included Rachel Obrien in Semi-Pro Stock, who also won the women’s class for the second time, and Mark Schuenemann took the win in Semi-Pro Open. You can get all the standings, including results in the drag finals on the organization’s Facebook page IWA Racing.

Beerstein’s Perspective I went watercross racin’ once…being on account of I can’t swim none too well.

Kyle Carpenter of Stacy, Minnesota took home his first IWA World Championship title from Grantsburg, Wisconsin this summer, after nabbing the Pro Stock title for the third time in his career.

Rachel Obrien and her son Tristan celebrated her double championship weekend where she took the Women’s title and the Semi-Pro Stock win as well.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 19-21, 2018 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

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gear

1

FXR M Clutch Monosuit

Pilot Goggles

The Monosuits are here to stay! Order one of FXR’s M Clutch Monosuit before they are all gone. The shell is made with durable polyester that is seam and sealed in critical areas with HD #8 waterproof zippers through out. The M Clutch is insulated with FXR’s F.A.S.T combo system and has a 3-YEAR Progressive Warranty! FXR took it one step further by adding padded knees, thermal seat, adjustable hem, and HydrX & FXR’s Dry Vent system that is a snow proof and moisture resistant body system. Stay warm, dry, and comfortable this winter with FXR’s M Clutch Monosuit. Details at www.fxrracing.com

2

Xtreme Performance Trail

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? Made with 3-density wind proof, load 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

F5 ECE Helmet

Here at On Snow Magazine we tend to ride from sunup to sunset, and the number one thing that we all look for is comfort, comfort, and comfort!

Klim’s F5 ECE Helmet is noted as an all-day helmet providing you with the best design, comfort, and support that you need on the trails or in the mountains. Klim designed and manufactured the F5 ECE helmet from the ground up with years of rider feedback, testing data, and cutting edge technology.

This is a low weight, high ventilation carbon fiber shell helmet that is designed to satisfy all of your needs! Head over to www.klim.com for more details!

Take the trails to new heights this winter with CA Pro’s Xtreme Performance Trail Skis designed for performance trail riding. By strapping on a pair of C&A Pro’s Xtreme Performance Trail Skis you will notice an improvement in darting, tracking, and carbide lift during sharp corners because of C&A Pro’s mid centre keel. The rear of the ski is raised to make reversing hassle-free, feel the difference! Colour options and details at www.caproskis.net.

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TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 19-21, 2018 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

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gear

Motorfist Alpha Boot

5

CKX Thermo Underwear Throw on a pair of CKX’s Thermo Underwear before shredding the trails; don’t want to be caught out in the cold with out them. Designed with a unique double layer technology where the inside layer regulates the skin micro-climate keeping moisture away and the skin dry, the outside layer provides better protection while also regulating natural body temperatures. Made with 63% polyamide, 35% polypropylene, and 2% Elastane. Stay warm and comfortable on the trails this winter with CKS’s Thermo Underwear, details at www.ckx.com.

7

6

For the riders that expect nothing but top of the line quality, fit, form, and functionality, Motorfist has the boot for you.

The Alpha boot has a H3 Boa system with a 4:1 gear ratio giving you a semi rigid chassis while also providing a custom fit for every rider. A cemented rubber sole is added for durability, dexterity, and grip while the eVent and aerated insole gives you a waterproof and breathable membrane. Other features include 800g primaloft gold insulation, moulded rubber toe and heel caps for durability, and additional insole for custom sizing. Check out the Alpha boot at www.motorfist.com

Dayco XTX HPX HP Belts Make sure you have one of Dayco’s performance belts the XTX, HPX, or the HP wrapped around your clutch. Dayco belts are specifically engineered to give your machine top performance at any RPM. With high temperature polymer and engineered reinforcements, there is nothing these belts can’t go through. We can’t stress in of the importance of a spare belt, pack it before you BRAAP! Find the right belt for your snowmobiles make and model at www.daycoproducts.com/snowmobile

Rush Ski

Z1R

Old ski warn out, steering not as sharp as it use to be? Time to put in a Kimpex order for their Rush Ski, the lightest ski on the market weighing in at 4lbs. The Rush Ski has pre-drilled holes for faster/easier installation of runners and has a keel that provides the rider with reduced steering effort and darting. Available in a variety of colours to match your machine! For further details and colour option go to www.kimpex.com

The Z1R Range Snow Electric Helmet is for the riders that need to stay warm and dry while riding the trails.

Constructed with an injected molded ABS shell that has a double lens anti fog shield and a drop-down sun visor, that is easy to operate from the helmet lever. It also has a fully removable polyester moisture wicking liner, cheek pads, and breath box. To prevent from over heating, exhaust vents are placed on the chin, top, and rear for increased airflow. Head over to www.z1r.com to find your helmet size and further details.

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SNX Pro Jacket The one jacket you should check out this snowmobile season is the SNX Pro Jacket from Fly. The SNX Pro has a 450D abrasion resistant polyester shell, weatherproof technology, magnetic full front zipper flap, and 2Cool air mesh vents that where designed to keep the snow out. The designer’s also included waterproof accessory pockets, detachable goggle wipe, and also an inside pocket for your goggles. Take on the cold with Fly’s SNS Pro Jacket. Go to www.flyracing.com for more details.

11

Montana Jacket

Be prepared for the elements this winter with CKX’s Montana Jacket. Explore endless trails day or night with the Montana Jacket that adapts to the temperatures out on the trails. The Montana Jacket combines the shell and removable liner to protect you against the coldest elements and dry with mesh lined lateral air vents during the warmer days. You know you will be protected with water resistant zippers, seal taped seams, Lycra inner cuffs, inner snow skirt, and pre shaped elbows for added comfort. Head over to www.ckxgear.com and choose your colour today!

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TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 19-21, 2018 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

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gear 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 that are 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 brutality 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

Pinnacle Soft-shell Jacket

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Why not keep up with the latest and greatest styles, take a look at HMK’s Pinnacle Soft-shell Jacket, enough said! HMK’s Pinnacle Soft-shell Jacket is an XR-Performance 8k/5k with weatherproof technology like windproof/waterresistant/ and breathable material. Other features include YKK main zipper, ninja cuff wrist, removable hood, and zippered hand pockets. With a variety of colour schemes how could you go wrong, go to www.hmkusa.com and place the Pinnacle Soft-shell Jacket in your cart today!

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Arctic Cat Polaris Ski-Doo Yamaha

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 19-21, 2018 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

14 550 Hatches ECE

Style, elegance, comfort, and safety are just a few words that come to mind when talking about Scott’s 550 Hatch ECE helmet. Scott strategically placed the air vents for optimized ventilation and the ability to customise to your liking. Built into the helmet are the latest safety technologies and features like MIPS (brain protection system) and Con-head (EPS foam that increases the impact properties of the helmet) giving the rider a lighter helmet + the added protection where needed. More details at www.scott-sports.com

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TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 19-21, 2018 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

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floatbowl

Pat Bourgeois

THE GIVING KIND

More than 100 strong, Hibbert’s Make-A-Wish fund-raising team was the largest to participate in the walk, and thanks to many others not in attendance, the largest contributor as well.

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here was little doubt who had the largest contingent of walkers during Minnesota’s 2018 Walk for Wishes® benefiting the Make-A-Wish® organization of the Minneapolis and St. Paul region. Despite an overcast sky, a persistent drizzle, and the threat of a more consistent rain later in the day, members of the snowmobile community showed up in force to support Tucker Hibbert’s Team 68. Green t-shirts were visible throughout the park serving as headquarters for the event, and inside each of them was a smiling face. Most of them were familiar, and many of them friends, all because of our shared snowmobiling passion.

This was the third summer Tucker and his wife Mandi participated in the Walk for Wishes event. The previous two years, Tucker’s Team 68 was the top fund raiser, generating nearly $10,000 each year, thanks in large part to the participation and charitable ways of snowmobile enthusiasts. This year, Team 68 took home top honors once again, generating nearly $13,000 in donations and bringing Tucker and Mandi’s grant wish total since 2016 to nearly $34,000.

To put this in perspective, the Twin Cities region of Minnesota is home to some very prominent corporations, some of whom are participants in the

After we completed the 5k, Tucker gave me a personal tour of the historic Minnehaha Park. Retirement hasn’t’ slowed him a bit.

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Walk for Wishes event. Yet, it was a group of snowmobilers who have set the bar for the past three years. Frankly, I’m not surprised.

You’ve likely read on this very page in previous issues my firm belief this sport has, is, and if we want it to continue to succeed at any significant level in the future, will always be a social sport at its core. The early success of snowmobiling and the number one reason it continues to survive today is owed in large part to clubs and other volunteer organizations within the sport. All the new technology in the world, countless-hours of backcountry videos, or thousands of social media memes won’t mean squat if we lose this backbone to the sport.

The ability of the snowmobile to bring people together for a common cause has been at play for more than 50-years.

From serious work such as developing trail systems and ensuring riding area access, to less serious and more enjoyable activities including group rides, cookouts, and racing. And when it comes to giving back, be it to the sport or other charitable organizations, snowmobilers have always been at the forefront.

Hibbert’s Team 68 success is in many ways a direct reflection of the snowmobiling community. Whether raising money for trails, a family in need, or for national organizations like Make-A-Wish, our passion for the sport is only surpassed by our work ethic and generosity.

The Walk for Wishes event was just another example of snowmobilers coming together and giving back.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 19-21, 2018 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

last gasp

Eddy Plowman C&A Skis

Developed through extensive molded plastics “know-how” and refined, tested, and perfected on the race track, C&A Pro has become a house-hold name for composite skis. Located in Minnesota, C&A Pro is a division of Pride Solution, a company with deep roots in the molded plastic industry.

With exceptional knowledge on how plastics react in different environments, the company was able to develop a stronger, better performing snowmobile ski for the racing market. By creating a UHMW plastic ski able to withstand extreme cold with a more efficient and “slicker” surface, racers quickly adopted the C&A Pro Ski, making it the definitive choice by racers across the snowbelt. Once C&A conquered the race track, it was only a matter of time before this same know-how resulted in superior skis for trail, mountain, and crossover riders. Today, C&A has a full and extensive line-up of skis for every type of riding environment and rider. Long-time face of the company is the always smiling Eddy Plowman. Eddy will ride just about anything, especially if it has skis, and you’ve likely seen him at any one of the big sled shows working the C&A booth. We were able to get Eddy to lift from his full -throttle lifestyle long enough to get his Last Gasp take for this season’s first issue.

Favorite Band in your iTunes play list?

Honestly, I don’t have a favorite band. I listen to all types of music. Also, I don’t even use iTunes (even though I have an iPhone). Last band that was playing in my truck was Cage the Elephant.

Last thing you raced It was my fat tire bicycle against my wife lol! In a more competitive environment it would have been my 450F…but I haven’t raced moto in a long time.

Last time you pulled an “All-Nighter” It’s been a while, the older I get the more prepared I try to be. It was probably 7 or 8 years ago when I was trying to get my mountain sled back together the night before a trip to Cooke City. As a bonus, I got to sleep the first few hours of the trip then drove the rest!

Last thing you saw or heard that made you think WTF? Watching a video of Travis Pastrana, Ryan Sipes, and Ronny Mac as they prepare to race Motocross of Nations as a team in Puerto Rico. The best part is they are all over 30 and are going to be doing it on two-strokes! Nothing like the smell of VP race fuel and two-stroke smoke.

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Last time you saw a bear?

Last night on my patio! Man, my buddy Kyle is one hairy dude.

Last time you went so fast it made you re-consider your decision.

A few summers back my buddies and I were river riding our ‘beater’ jet skis. At the time I had a Polaris SLX 780 (where the steering nozzle hangs out the back about a foot) and we were on a narrow stretch of river going WOT. I turned a corner and hit a log dam. I busted the steering cone clean-off and ended up parking the ski in some tight trees at 50mph! Turns out wetsuits, life jackets, and a good moto helmet are pretty good protective gear as I swam and then walked away from that wreck.

Last time you did something that had you thinking, “Why did I do that?”

After the Toronto Snowmobile show one night, Ron Pattyn from Studboy invited me to tag along to dinner at an authentic Chinese restaurant. I knew we were in for an experience when the first course was a duck that was brought to our table with its head still attached! There may have been a pit stop at the local Wendy’s on the way back to the hotel.

Last New Year’s resolution you didn’t keep?

To race snocross in the plus-30 class this coming winter at ISOC Regionals and ERX. My wife and I are expecting our first child in January, so instead of buying a new race sled I bought a stroller! Lol. Last project you worked on that had you truly excited?

Our C&A Pro XPT performance trail ski! It took many years of working with racers and recreational riders to dial in what we believe is the best trail ski on the market today!

Last time you laughed so hard you nearly wet your pants?

You know the Beatles Song “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds?” I have a buddy that swore the lyrics were “Lucy in the Sky Sky Diving!” Dude, the chorus is the name of the song! Use the google lol.

Last words of advice?

Keep your integrity, and the sky is the limit!

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 19-21, 2018 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

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JAN 4-6, 2019 • INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • TORONTO FRIDAY JANUARY 4: 12PM - 9PM • SATURDAY JANUARY 5: 10AM - 9PM • SUNDAY JANUARY 6: 10AM - 5PM J 2019 NEW MOTORCYCLE DISPLAYS J HOT SHOPPING DEALS J MANUFACTURER & DEALER DISPLAYS J 500 EXHIBITORS SPAN OVER 7 HALLS J PARTS AND ACCESSORIES FOR SALE

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*Model may not be exactly as shown. Shown with optional accessories.