Dashing through the Snow

Newbies & seasoned enthusiasts alike have been flocking to CycleWorks West to fulfill their thrill-seeking escape to the snowy woods.

These last 2 years have been the busiest they’ve ever seen, exclaims Tate Jeffrey, General Manager of CycleWorks West. The pandemic, having fueled a collective new-found interest in the outdoors, triggered a rush of new snowmobile enthusiasts.

“Increased demand to get outside and enjoy time with family and friends falls right into our wheelhouse. From Motorcycles to ATVs and snowmobiles, we cannot keep anything in stock!”

The CycleWorks team, all riders, have had their hands full pairing people to the right unit for their lifestyle and level of expertise. All this lived experience by the staff means they are well equipped to give clients first-hand accounts of key points such as durability, handling, quality, and accessories. Not only this, potential purchasers can get first-hand experience for themselves. “We are also the only dealer in Edmonton with a 4-acre test track, try it before you buy it as every day is a demo day.”

Tate always recommends prospective buyers do some background research to get an idea of all the differing opinions of each brand, just like you would for any large purchase. When you feel ready, his staff will be able to walk you around the showroom and answer your questions.

“The first question we ask is what are you going to use it for? Work? Play? Making sure we get a customer into the right unit is the most important step. Being sure it fits their ability and comfort requirements will make their experience even better on the snow.”

For those whom only the best of the best will do, Tate recommends the New Patriot Matryx Boost 850. This model, launched for 2022, opened up for pre-order in the spring and was sold out in an hour and a half.

“Designed from day one to handle the stress and demands of turbocharged power, the 850 Patriot is the ideal foundation for the industry-leading Patriot Boost. The new Matryx Chassis, also released this year, offered the patented architecture of the RMK Matryx, delivering instantaneous lift and lightning-fast response. The tapered low drag tunnel and Polaris-exclusive tracks lift the lightweight chassis on top of the snow, and the low-inertia QD2 drive system creates an industryleading response.”

Once you’ve secured the right snowmobile, it’s time to get out into the snow! For beginners, a snowmobile club is the best place to start. The trails are novice-friendly and well-marked. If you’re looking to hit the mountains, Tate says that Valemount, BC is a favourite but with that, he adds a note of caution.

“As a beginner, to just go to the mountains with no experience is never a good idea. There are many great avalanche training courses a rider should take. They should also speak to their local dealer about the proper safety equipment needed for a successful ride in the mountains.”

Once you’ve taken the right course and found the right terrain, get out there and get involved!

“Join a club. From club family rides to poker rallies and fall trail cleanups, these clubs work to keep our riding areas open and trails smooth, however, these are all volunteer-based and need all the help they can get.”

WORDS BY MONA BUTLER | PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED