Snowmobile fun By Craig W. Armstrong Feature Writer
there are snowmobile clubs in your area. These organizations can be a great resource. There are several types of snowmobiles available, beginning with entry- level models or trail models. They usually go up to 70 horsepower and feature an electric start and reverse. They are lightweight and easy to handle.
Fun
Next, there are performance snowmobiles. These machines have higher horsepower, around 85, and are heavier. The increased weight is due to shock absorbers and a suspension system. Touring snowmobiles are designed for just that purpose. They usually seat two people. The backseat often has a backrest and the machine is equipped with a large windshield and side mirrors. These types of snowmobiles are If you are considering buying a snowmobile, there are a few designed for traveling a long distance in comfort. things to keep in mind. First, you’ll have to decide which kind If you want to climb, a mountain snowmobile may be for you. of machine to buy. The best place to start is with a friend who These machines are designed for mountain riding. They are is already familiar with the sport. Find out what they would longer and narrower than other snowmobiles. They have recommend, ask them to take you for a ride, or better yet, take specially designed long tracks and high horsepower engines. their snowmobile for a ride. Search the Internet to find out if Utility snowmobiles are wider and designed for towing. The wide snowmobiles work well in deep snow and get the job done. in the snow can take on many forms, and there are many sports that offer a thrill when the temperature dips. If skiing or skating isn’t your thing, how about snowmobiling? Riding a snowmobile or snow machine is relatively simple and doesn’t take a lot of training.
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You will need gear to go with your snowmobile. As with any winter outdoor sport, you will need to keep warm. Your clothing should be waterproof. Your best bet is to get a waterproof jacket, pants or bibs, boots, hat and gloves. Dress in layers, making sure your outer layer is waterproof.
some extra gloves and, most importantly, a shovel. Even snowmobiles get stuck in the snow. If you do get stuck, a shovel might be the only way of getting your machine free.
Once you have your gear and your ride, don’t forget safety. Never take off on a trek alone and always tell someone where you are going. Always know where you are going by having a trail map. Take a basic tool kit, first aid kit, your cell phone,
Snowmobiling is a great way to enjoy the cold weather and it doesn’t take a lot of training to get started. Most snowmobiles are easy to operate and have many safety features. Consider hitting the trails on a snowmobile of your very own.
Cabin fever from page 7
Morin is looking forward to a great year on the trails. “I have already put 25 snowmobiles through the shop this year in preparation for the big snowfalls that are forecasted by the Farmers Almanac."
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2527 Turner Road Auburn, ME 04210 (207) 782-4886 Fax: (207) 795-0429 www.wallingfordequipment.com ©2012 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. All rights reserves. ®, ™ Trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products or its affiliates. Products are distributed in the United States (US) by BRP U.S. Inc. *Offers valid in the U.S. at participating Ski-Doo® dealers on new and unused 2012 and 2013 Ski-Doo snowmobile (excluding racing units and spring-only units) purchased, delivered and registered between now and November 30, 2012. †Great financing. The financing program is offered by Sheffield Financial, a Division of BB&T Financial, FSB. Minimum Amount Financed $1,500; Maximum Amount Financed $50,000. Subject to credit approval; not all applicants will qualify for credit. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. Financing promotions void where prohibited. BRP is not responsible for any errors, changes or actions related to financing provided by Sheffield Financial. Other financing options are available. See your Ski-Doo dealer for details. ◊ Up to $2,000 rebate on 2012 models (amount depends on the model purchased). Promotions are subject to termination or change at any time without notice. See your participating Ski-Doo dealer for all details. Offer may not be assigned, traded, sold or combined with any other offer unless expressly stated herein. Offer void where restricted or otherwise prohibited by law. BRP reserves the right, at any time, to discontinue or change specifications, prices, designs, features, models or equipment without incurring any obligation. Always consult your snowmobile dealer when selecting a snowmobile for your particular needs and carefully read and pay special attention to your Operator’s Guide, Safety Video, Safety Handbook and to the safety labeling on your snowmobile. Always ride responsibly and safely. Always wear appropriate clothing, including a helmet. Always observe applicable local laws and regulations. Don’t drink and drive. 1107632
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Winter in Maine
With The Lodge at Poland Spring Resort open year round, and plans on the
drawing board for the development of a Route 26 snowmobile corridor to access towns further down the road, Morin said he hopes that people will park their cars in the lot at Shaker Hill Outdoors (free of charge regardless of whether they purchase or rent anything from Morin) to take advantage of the amenities that exist along Route 26, including family dining at Cyndi’s Dockside on Middle Range Pond, the excitement of the new Casino in Oxford and an over-
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night stay at The Lodge. Offering snowmobile safety classes and up-to-date trail information, in addition to gear and rentals for winter fun, Shaker Hill Outdoors can help you make this a winter to remember. Likew ise, the Applachian Mountain Club can provide structure, planning and expert advice, as well as the opportunity to meet others who share a love of the Maine outdoors.
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Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Sunday, December 9, 2012