Midwest Rider
CONTENTS
28 Iowa 8 Editor Notes
Gypsum City is a premier 800 acre OHV Park in Fort Dodge and provides scenic camping and 60 miles of trail riding.
11 Industry News
30 South Dakota
18 Wisconsin
Tigerton is the home of Tigerton OHV Park & Campground - 500 acres of off-road excitement.
22 Minnesota
Ride the Iron Range – Home to Minnesota’s 3,600 Acre OHV Park.
26 Michigan
Copemish boasts some of the best off-road racing and offroading in Michigan on 400 private acres.
nd
Anniversary
34 Flagships
The Midwest’s best aftermarket accessories
38 Geared
Metal vs. Soft Shackle – What’s Better?
40 Stay Cool
The Best Hard Coolers – For Cold Snacks
Joel Mellenthin Paula Jones Kale Wainer Pat Bourgeois Kasia Netley Diane Voight C.J. Ramstad
Contributions: Letters, manuscripts, stories, materials and photographs are welcome but cannot be returned unless sender provides a self-addressed stamped envelope. Midwest Rider and MSPN are not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photos and drawings. Submission of articles and letters implies the right to edit and publish in all or part.
ADVERTISING MSPN Phone: 952-473-7870 or 800-989-MSPN Fax: 952-473-7805 sales@mspninc.com mspnads.com
Copyright © 2021 by MSPN. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without consent of the publisher. VOLUME 1 / NUMBER 2
6595 Edenvale Blvd Ste 180 Eden Prairie MN 55346 800-989-6776 / 952-473-7870 fax: 952-473-7805 info@mspninc.com
Publisher Associate Publisher Managing Editor Associate Editor Art Director Advertising Sales Photo Archives
In the heart of South Dakota, you can ride several hundred acres along the Missouri River and Talsma’s working cattle ranch.
midwestriders.com 6 Midwest Rider 2021
EDITOR’S NOTES
Midwest Rider
T
he response to the first issue of Midwest Rider has been incredible. Everyone, from enthusiasts to industry insiders have echoed the same message… Midwest Rider is exactly what we need to bring the riding community together from Michigan to South Dakota and all trails in between. Your compliments and suggestions have only fueled us to keep pushing further. One of the biggest realizations I had after connecting with so many of you over the past month is Midwest Rider represents true enthusiasts. For certain, the riding community is very diverse. Some are involved on the organizational side; others are business owners or work within the industry and then there’s us…riders. Our passion is real, and our love for the sport is paralleled by our pure joy of getting out and experiencing the riding opportunities the Midwest has to offer. In other words, we don’t simply talk about riding, we do it. We also don’t let the seasons get in the way of a good time. When fall gives way to winter, snowmobiles quickly replace our ATVs and side-by-sides. This same sentiment has been echoed by you as well. With that thought in mind and the immediate and overwhelming support of Midwest Rider by the community, we are excited to announce the publication will also keep riding into winter. Early and mid-winter editions will shift focus to snowmobiling and the tens of thousands of miles of trails the Midwest has to offer. So, get your snowmobile ready as we share stories about real riders and real adventure throughout the winter months. Keep the comments and suggestions coming our way. Our email inbox at info@ mspninc.com is always open. Simply drop us a note, an idea or better yet, an invitation to ride. See you on the trail. Pat Bourgeois
8 Midwest Rider 2021
Midwest Rider
INDUSTRY NEWS
rratv.org, Rapid Riders ATV Club The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has named David Andrews Jr., a volunteer ATV safety instructor in Grand Rapids, as the 2020 ATV instructor of the year. Andrews, an active and founding member of the Rapid Riders ATV Club, has been a volunteer ATV safety instructor and active in the DNR’s Volunteer Trail Ambassador program since 2007. In that time, he’s taught about 1,200 students as part of 40 classes. In addition, he’s a volunteer firearms safety instructor and active in several other local and statewide conservation and community organizations. C.O. Tom Sutherland (L), presents the award to David Andrews, Jr.
William (Bill) Arndt of Hutchinson, Minnesota recently received a 50-year snowmobile instructor award. Arndt recalls, when in his 30s, snowmobiles being manufactured at a high rate, and were inexpensive at the time. Arndt’s hobby led him to help begin a local club, and later became a regional director of the Minnesota United Snowmobilers association. Arndt became a certified instructor and began teaching in the Hutchinson area in 1971. Arndt and his fellow instructors have taught more than 5,000 students how to operate a snowmobile safely, to slow down, pay attention and enjoy the ride. Bill Arndt (R) received a 50-year service award for teaching snowmobile safety. Conservation officer Zach Larson presented.
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INDUSTRY NEWS
snocross.com In an off-season full of speculation and rumors, one of the biggest moves flew completely under the radar as Scheuring Speed Sports announced the signing of veteran pro rider Logan Christian. Christian, who’s family-run team, Christian Brothers Racing, has been a fixture on the national snowmobile racing scene for decades, will now be part of the AMSOIL/Ski-Doo team as he joins Hunter Patenaude in the quest to bring the squad its first championship in the premier division. Logan Christian had this to say, “I’m really looking forward to race for Scheuring Speed Sports this year. This is an awesome opportunity for my family and myself. Steve and his team have always had some of the best equipment out there. Our combined knowledge will help get us on the podium and run for a championship.” Matt LaMourea will return as the team’s Pro Lite entry in 2022, while Sport class contender Adam Ashline, has been signed. Sport Lite racer Nate LaValley, who scored several podium finishes on the tour last season is also graduating to the Sport class.
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Midwest Rider
INDUSTRY NEWS
snowmobile.org The new snowmobile sales data for the winter of 2020-2021 from International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association shows sales of new snowmobiles outperforming economic growth worldwide. The resilient economies of North America battled back from the international COVID pandemic and brought many individuals outdoors to enjoy outdoor family recreation following social distancing and good, healthy activity. Worldwide Snowmobile Sales
133,444 Units (+10% YoY)
U.S. Snowmobile Sales
59,234 Units (+16% YoY)
Canada Snowmobile Sales
50,567 Units (+16% YoY)
In addition to the strong new sled sales, reports from dealers and individual sales across North America show many new snowmobilers purchased used snowmobiles and entered the market. The snowmobile industry is now realizing the lowest number of used or non-current models available in its history. There are over 1.9 million registered snowmobiles in North America. These registration numbers continue to steadily increase, showing snowmobiling is an active, growing, healthy winter sport. Our recently conducted snowmobile user survey showed over 65 percent of all snowmobiling families own two snowmobiles they register and ride. Thirty-four percent of the families report having three or more snowmobiles. Over $38 BILLION in economic activity is generated by North American snowmobilers. The average snowmobiler reported riding their primary snowmobile 1,555 miles this past winter. (Primary snowmobiles are considered to be 2017 models and newer.) The average age of a snowmobiler is 46 years old. Approximately 30 percent of all riders are aged 60 years or older. Eighty-eight percent of snowmobilers are male and 12 percent female. Surveys show snowmobilers are active outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy snowmobiling with family and friends. Eighty-two percent of first-time snowmobile buyers purchased a used snowmobile and most plan to purchase a new snowmobile later in life.
Great Burgers & Beers Famous Bloody Mary Happy Hour 4 to 6 M-F 14 Midwest Rider 2021
Midwest Rider
Trenton Munsell Interview Arctic Cat Director of Product Strategy arcticcat.com
16 Midwest Rider 2021
TAKE SEVEN MWR: Trenton, we were excited to see the introduction of the all-new Arctic Cat Alterra 600. Can you paint a picture for those reading on who you are and what your job entails at Arctic Cat?
Trenton: I’m the Director of Product Strategy for Dirt. My position works with many departments within Arctic Cat – most frequently, I’m working with Engineering, Manufacturing and Marketing to layout our product plans for each model year, and what new products and technologies to focus on. Personally, I’m an off-road guy with an off-road loving family – we love trucks, UTVs and ATVs. We spend quite a bit of time together enjoying them. MWR: What does the heart of the current ATV market look like? What’s selling? Have ATVs been overshadowed with UTV sales?
Trenton: Over the last few years, the ATV market size has been flat to slightly declining as a lot of enthusiasts move to UTVs. COVID has changed the ATV sales curve though as people have looked for ways to enjoy the outdoors. Consequently, ATV sales have seen a big boost. We’re seeing a lot of the people looking at, and purchasing ATVs, are new to the sport. As far as what’s selling, customers really focus on mid- and full-size 4 wheel drive ATVs. MWR: What were goals for this new Alterra 600?
Trenton: Our focus was to take what we loved about our previous Alterra platform and amplify it – more power, more performance, more durability, more fun. MWR: Tell us about the Alterra 600 – chassis is new, engine and drivetrain are new, clutching and even bodywork! How is this improved over the current Alterra models?
Trenton: Let’s start with the heart of the product, our new 600 engine. The team designed an all-new engine leaning out the lessons learned from our past engine development, and it’s important to note this is built in our St. Cloud, Minnesota engine facility. We brought a lot of technology into the engine, and then coupled it with a performance tuned CVTech Trailbloc clutch to take advantage of all the new power. The suspension guys worked on geometry within the chassis and upped the size of the shocks to deliver great ride and handling. All new body work eliminates complex panel fitment, but retains easy access to the engine for cleaning and maintenance. To complement the bodywork, we also introduced some cool new colors for the brand found on the LTD and SE models with big 27-inch tires wrapped around a new set of 14-inch wheels. MWR: How would you describe the ride and handling?
Trenton: The Alterra has characteristically had great handling and comfort, but when it came to play riding, they needed a little more punch. After spending an ample amount of time behind the bars, I feel we’ve accomplished our goals with a unit that really feels a lot more exciting to play ride. The CG is lower, it’s more balanced, and you get that throttle response you were looking for. It’s really easy to ride and inspires confidence. MWR: How long has the Alterra been in development?
Trenton: Like most product development, the timing is between 2-3 years. MWR: When can consumers expect the Alterra 600 in dealerships?
Trenton: You’ll start seeing Alterra 600s in dealerships in July. July/August 2021 17
Midwest Rider
WISCONSIN
T Small but Plenty to Offer tigertonwi.com, 18 Midwest Rider 2021
Tigerton OHV Park & Campground
igerton OHV Park & Campground is over 500 acres of off-road excitement and a well-known scenic campground located in Tigerton, Wisconsin. The trails accommodate many types of vehicles from ATVs, UTVs, dirt bikes, Jeeps and are known for scenic beauty catering to all driver skill levels. Over half of their campsites sit alongside the Embarrass River and
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WISCONSIN
are spacious, affordable, and beautiful. Consider bringing your fishing pole or your picnic basket, hike to the falls and enjoy lunch by a beautiful waterfall or watch the machines play on the rocks in the challenge area!
Google Reviews
4.6 Paul Howlett Great place to explore with many tight turning wooded, rocky and muddy challenges along the Embarrass River. A place you can spend two days traversing. Campgrounds look nice too. We did a day trip from the twin cities – $20 worth the fun!
Dmitriy Usher Nice trails for off-roading and the even/odd day direction changes keep it interesting. A variety of campsites to fit all styles.
Dale Stish
Photos from tigertonwi.com
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Sites are big and grassy, quiet, secluded and peaceful. Stores close by if you forgot something, plenty of room if you have an ATV or UTV.
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Midwest Rider
ironrange.org.com, Iron Range OHV Park 7196 Pettit Rd, Gilbert, MN 55741
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MINNESOTA
G
ilbert, is home to Minnesota’s first Iron Range Off-Highway Vehicle Recreational Area. This 3,600-acre park has trails exclusively for ATVs, including 4X4 vehicles, all-terrain trucks and motorcycles. Start in Gilbert and head to Eveleth – restaurants, camping and lodging – using the Genoa Trail, or go into Virginia and cross the state’s tallest bridge. Both towns are ATV-friendly with routes to places to eat and stay. The park is managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and covers 49 miles of trails and there’s even a wash station. Trails are well marked to indicate the level of difficulty for all ATVs. Entry is free with licensed machine. Trails traverse rocky hills, woods, mudholes and more. Tear it up in the scramble areas, try the hill climb, go crazy! The views are pretty great, too! It’s a playground for you and your toys. Jeeps are welcome at the Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Area in Gilbert, but they have a place of their own at Mesabi Mountain. Four miles of year-round trails make for challenging crawls. Connect to the Sherwood Forest Campground in Gilbert, and the OHVRA. Lodging is practically onsite at the trailhead, and dining is nearby, too.
Google Reviews
4.8 Scott Birt I love this place they have great trails and hills for off-road wheeling. It’s free to the public for all kinds of off road-vehicles.
Andrea Albertson This place is amazing. You get a little bit of everything an off-road vehicle is wanting... rocks, water, mud, steep hills and narrow trails! Beautiful views! Definitely challenging. We will definitely go back!
Daniel Doll Amazing place to go 4-wheeling – whether you’re on a dirt bike, quad, side by side or a vehicle – there is something there for you and something challenging. By far the best off-road park I have ever been to in MN. Definitely going to go here again. Friendly staff maintaining the park, wash station and even a place to inflate your tires. Love this place. Beautiful scenery with amazing views.
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MICHIGAN
Twisted Trails, Mud and Fun twistedtrailsoffroadpark.com,
T
Twisted Trails Offroad Park
wisted Trails has some of the best off-road racing and off-roading in Michigan. They offer hills, mud, rocks, and numerous miles of trails with a beautiful rustic campground on site. Regular events are held (remaining listed below) plus live music at our outdoor stage, rock crawling, mud bogs and a 1600’ sand track on the Twisted Trails Raceway. The goal is to provide fun for the whole family and the best off-roading experience Michigan has to offer on a 400 acre privately owned park.
Twisted Trails Park Events
Summer Dog Party – August 4-8, 2021 Join the Summer Dog Party for a rip roaring good time with mud, trail riding, camping, music and fun. DK5K Veterans Race – August 14, 2021 The DK5K Tough Run is a Tough Run Obstacle course aiming to raise awareness about the challenges veterans face every day and the issue of suicide. More information and registration for the race is available at DK5K.info. Kamp Omelette – September 10-12, 2021 Kamp Omelette has been around over 20 years, and a majority of that time it has been held with various hosting campgrounds around Northern Michigan. Each year, the goal is to raise as much money as possible for Cherryland Humane Society. Campers come to enjoy 3-days, 2-nights of camping, live classic rock bands and fun! This is a 21+ event, no pets. Trail Master Challenge Race 3 – September 18, 2021 Race 3 of the Trail Master Challenge Series, get your rigs ready for the 1.5 hour endurance challenge! Short Course Race III – October 2, 2021 Bring your stock mid-size truck or UTV for this 1/2 mile challenge on our short course race. This is the last race of the year. Pumpkin Run – October 15-17, 2021 Fall wheeling at its best!
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Exploring Fort Dodge mycountyparks.com,
28 Midwest Rider 2021
Gypsum City Off Road Park
IOWA
T
he Gypsum City OHV Park is located on the southeast corner of Fort Dodge. The park is approximately 800 acres in size and includes 60 miles of trails for use by ATVs, UTVs and off-road motorcycles. The park also includes a 1.5 mile motocross track, a .4 mile kids’ track and a beginner circle track. Trails within the park range from open prairie for novice riders to heavily timbered areas for more advanced riders and include water crossings and mudding areas. Trailhead signs within the park will indicate what machines are allowed on certain trails. Park amenities include an open shelter with picnic tables and grill, men’s and women’s restrooms, and fishing ponds. The campground at Gypsum City OHV Park is open for business April-October. To reserve a campsite, go to mycountyparks.com. The campground offers both full-hook up and electric sites. Site amenities include water, electricity, sewer, picnic table, and grill. A men’s and women’s shower/restroom is also available.
Location
Gypsum City OHV Park is located 2 miles southeast of Fort Dodge. To get to the park from U.S. Highway 20, take exit 124 north (P59). Go west on Mill Road, the park will be on your left.
Google Reviews
4.5 Cole Cappello Loved the park! The trails are fantastic. The campground is very clean and the facilities are even nicer!
Dan Henning By far the best OHV park in the state of Iowa. We love the motocross tracks and the safety built into the facility there.
Wes Hubbard Central Iowa treasure for the OHV community! First visit, I will be returning at every opportunity!
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30 Midwest Rider 2021
SOUTH DAKOTA
J Work Hard, Play Harder talsmastrailpark.com,
Talsma’s Trail Park
oin in the fun and adventure of riding ATV trails in Avon, South Dakota along the Missouri River, at Talsma’s Trail Park on the Trails End Ranch. The property has been in the Talsma family for three generations and continues to operate as a cattle ranch to this day. Jerry and Tina Talsma opened the ATV trail park in 2005 with several hundred acres of designated trails for all to enjoy. Trails range from easy to extreme, and include climbing hills, creek crossings, scenic river bluffs, deep brush, open prairies, and river bottom terrain. There are also several play areas where riders can kick up some mud. Talsma’s is a family-oriented park and offers ample off-road trails for riders of all abilities.
Talsma’s Park Events
Customer Appreciation – August 14, 2021 Enjoy Talsma’s during the heart of the summer as they celebrate, you, their customers. Hope Haven Horse/ATV Benefit – September 11, 2021 This benefit is generously presented by the Talsma family, with the event proceeds benefiting Hope Haven International Ministries. Halloween Scare Ride – October 9, 2021 One of Talsma’s most popular events of the year - watch out! After dark you never know who, or what, might be on the trails!
Google Reviews
4.5 Andrew Kuiper Absolutely lovely trails for riding. Some challenging parts and places we didn’t even dare to attempt. Great places to stop and get muddy if you wish and nice trails to drive faster. Overall great experience for riding ATVs and they have everything for all skill levels.
Jessi Gibson Can’t even begin to say how much we loved riding at Talsma Trail Park. Great trails... and so many trails. I especially love that they have welcomed ATV & UTV riders to their working cattle ranch! We will definitely make it back soon!
Cameron Dickie A great trail park! The people who own it are the best people you will ever meet. Facilities are clean. They have a place to wash your units when you’re done. Can’t beat it.
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dnr.state.mn.us
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MINNESOTA
M
innesota is fortunate enough to have the Soo Line Trail Southern Route, more popularly known as the Soo Line South ATV Trail. The repurposed rail-trail runs for 105.6 miles in Minnesota between Royalton and the Minnesota–Wisconsin state line east of Pleasant Valley. The Soo Line South ATV Trail continues uninterrupted into Wisconsin, known as Saunders State Trail, traveling for another 8.4 miles to Boylston Junction near Superior, Wisconsin. The entire route, including the Wisconsin portion, is open to motorized use. This scenic route includes a mix of woods, farmland and trestle crossings on the Kettle River and Birch Creek and includes the Northern Pine Riders ATV Trail. The Soo Line Trail South connects with the 148-mile Soo Line North ATV Trail, southwest of Moose Lake. In Royalton the rail-trail continues southwest on the other side of US 10; however, this section, known as the Soo Line Recreational Trail, is open to non-motorized use only.
Google Reviews
4.6 Shane Cook Nice place to ride from the trail head going east. Restrooms and restaurants along the way. Peaceful place to ride and enjoy nature and a cold beverage. The first 20 miles are straight and flat. Then once you pass Onamia the offroad trails start. Red Top and Solana Loop are the best.
Home of the Third Best Chili in Wahkon 200 North Main, Wahkon, MN 56386 muggsofmillelacs.com, Muggs Of Mille Lacs
If you’re going to traverse the Soo Line Trail, it’s inevitable you’ll need to wash the dust down after the ride. Make sure you stop at Mugg’s of Mille Lacs for the best burger, fries and coldest beer on the big lake. Their friendly owners and staff are huge supporters of all things powersports, host some really fun events throughout the year and serve up the third best chili in town. Their new outdoor garden patio is freshly finished and ready for you to enjoy.
B Weed We go up and hit the trail as much as possible, it’s a good one to pack a lunch and goodies and hit the trails on the wheeler. Always makes for a real good day with the wife and meet other nice folks out on the trail.
Nick Bruns
Always a beautiful ride. Gets a lot of flack for being straight and wide, but a great place to shut off your mind and enjoy your time.
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Best Midwestern ORV Accessories 1
2 1. RUGGED UTV TOPPER ruggedtoppers.com Rugged UTV Toppers
Based out of Plymouth, Wisconsin, Rugged’s UTV cargo toppers are the only fiberglass UTV cargo bed enclosures in the industry! Enjoy an additional 42-cubic feet of UTV cargo storage capacity with UVresistant fiberglass construction. Built incredibly strong, Rugged adds impact-resistant windows, weatherresistant seals and a locking door. The Rugged topper is the perfect accessory to complement your passions for hunting, ice fishing, property management, construction, farming or even to haul your ORV and snowmobile club materials.
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2. CANVASWORKS TRAVEL COVERS
3. KOLPIN OUTDOORS BOOTTECTOR BRACKET
Finding a high quality travel cover for your off-road vehicle has never been so easy! Canvasworks of Cokato, Minnesota, maker of SnoCaps Trailer Enclosures, is now fabricating high-quality, custom travel covers for your off-road vehicles. Digital measuring and design techniques ensure a perfect custom fit every time. It doesn’t matter what type of accessories your off-road vehicle has, they can make a cover to fit it! Canvasworks utilizes the highest quality 11.5 ounce, heavy-duty, solution dyed polyester fabric known for its durability and strength in marine and outdoor applications.
In 1943, an avid outdoorsman followed his instincts and opened a small sewn-goods operation in central Wisconsin. Today, Kolpin Outdoors is located in Plymouth, Minnesota, but continues to develop innovative ideas for the outdoorsman like the Boottector bracket, which fits Kolpin Gun Boot® IV, Gun Boot® 6.0 and Chain Saw Boot cases. The Boottector works with the Polaris Sportsman using the Lock & Ride® System and is perfect for transporting your chainsaw or firearm.
canvasworksincmn.com Canvasworks Inc
kolpin.com Kolpin Outdoors
PART# 20350 / $69.99 MSRP US
FLAGSHIPS
5
4
6 4. QUAD LOGIC POLARIS RANGER FRONT BUMPER
5. ROX SPEED FX SOFT GAUNTLET HANDGUARDS
Quad Logic is a national brand of new aftermarket parts and accessories made specifically for Polaris off road machines located in Ramsey, Minnesota. Toughen up your Ranger with style. This is the meanest bumper on the market. Not only does it look tough, it is tough. Thick gauge steel and boxed construction make this the ideal front bumper/ brush guard for off-road use. Strong four point mounting and aggressive design matches the lines of the front end protecting the plastic, headlights and radiator.
Cohasset, Minnesota is home to the hands-down powersports leader in hand protection – Rox Speed FX. The Rox Soft Guantlet handguards offer a ton of warmth, at a ridiculously low price. The quilted fabric with interior insulation is made of water-resistant materials, installs without tools in a near instant, and literally work on all ATVs, snowmobiles, motorcycles and bicycles.
quad-logic.com Quad Logic - ATV/UTV Parts
PART# 100-2309 / $379.95 MSRP US
roxspeedfx.com Rox Speed FX, Inc.
PART# G1-SO-K / $34.95 MSRP US
6. MAD-RAMPS madramps.com MAD-RAMPS
The genesis for the MAD-RAMPS Pivoting Ramp System began on a family-owned farm in Redfield, Iowa and are currently built in Nebraska. Mad-Ramps are the best way for ATV, UTV, and snowmobile riders to transport their vehicles without traditional trailers. These one-ofa-kind pivoting ramps are made of solid steel and aluminum and install into your truck’s receiver hitch within 60 seconds. After driving your quad directly onto the ramps and truck bed, the ramps rotate up and lock your ATV/UTV in place. Leaving plenty of room for cargo, short bed trucks still have three feet of cargo space!
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chevrolet.com
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TOWED OUT
T
owing isn’t about power alone. The new Chevrolet Silverado offers eight available cameras giving you up to 15 unique views - all designed to help make your towing job easier from start to finish. From hitching to driving to parking, these features can help improve your ability to move loads.
Now You See It – Now You Don’t
If you’ve seen the TV commercials like we have, you are probably wondering, how does the new Chevy truck see through a trailer? Often referred to as the “Chevy Invisible Trailer” feature, this groundbreaking camera technology will change the way you look at trailering forever.
How It Works
Thanks to available camera packages allowing up to 15 different viewpoints, Chevy’s Transparent Trailer View allows the driver to virtually see through a conventional hitched box or camping trailer as if it were invisible. Provided your truck has been properly equipped and the system is compatible with your trailer, Transparent Trailer View will combine different camera angles of the area behind your truck and trailer, and display this virtual image on your infotainment screen.
What You Need
Before you make your trailering invisible (virtually, of course), you will have to set up Transparent Trailer View in your new Chevy. You will need a properly equipped truck utilizing Chevy’s Technology Package and Auxiliary Trailer Camera, a compatible trailer (box or camping-style) with conventional hitch type that is no more than 32 feet in length and tools to install the accessory camera. Visit your local Chevrolet dealer for all the features, details and parts.
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I
n the vehicle recovery world, one of the most important kit pieces are your shackles. Shackles are used for a variety of rigging duties, such as connecting a tree trunk protector, a recovery strap, or hooking up a winch line. For years, shackles have been made of metal with a screw pin to secure the loop. Several years ago, a lighter weight, more flexible version—the soft shackle—came onto the market and have become popular. Warn Industries sells both, so which is right for you?
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GEARED
WARN Epic Metal Shackle
WARN Spydura Nightline Soft Shackle
Soft Shackles
Soft shackles are relatively new to the off-road recovery world. But as the strength of synthetic winch rope has become more popular, soft shackles are also gaining favor. WARN makes theirs with the same synthetic rope material available in 3/8” Spydura and 1/2” Spydura Nightline versions complete with high-visability weave and 3M reflective material woven throughout. These units have breaking strengths of 29,700 lbs. and 36,000 lbs. respectively, and both are plenty strong for most recoveries.
WARN Epic Hyperlink Metal Shackle
Metal Shackles
For decades, metal screw-pin shackles have been used for rigging. They’re super durable and exceedingly strong. Warn offers three styles of metal shackles for trucks and powersports: STANDARD, EPIC, and EPIC HYPERLINK (a double-screw pin shackle). How They Work To use them, you unscrew the pin, attach it to your rigging gear or bumper, then screw the pin down hand-tight and turn a quarter-turn back to prevent binding. If you don’t do this, you will have a hard time getting the pin out again! PROS: Exceptionally durable. Stand up to abuse, don’t care much about abrasion, and can be left on outside of vehicle when not in use. CONS: Heavy and bulky in recovery bags. Sometimes noisy or loosen if left attached to vehicle when not in use.
How They Work To use a soft shackle, remove the knot from the shackle’s loop. Then connect your rigging, and reinsert the knot through the loop creating a secure shackle—no pin to lose, no worries about over/under-tightening! PROS: Lightweight, easy to handle and use. Plus, there’s no screw pin to worry about. Can be stowed in glove boxes or bags and don’t take up much space. CONS: More prone to damage by abrasion. They also shouldn’t be attached to rigging points with sharp edges, as they can compromise the fibers. The minimum breaking strengths often aren’t as high as a forged metal shackle. If used on a bumper’s recovery point, it should be radiused, or be used in conjunction with a bow shackle to prevent damage.
WHICH IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
The choice is up to you. Make your decision depending on how you’ll be using the products. If you’re doing a lot of utility work in high-abrasion situations, metal shackles may be a better option. If storage space is limited and you’ll only be using them for occasional vehicle recovery, lean toward soft. Or, carry a couple of both and use them accordingly. July/August 2021 39
Midwest Rider
1. CAN-AM LINQ 8 GAL (30L) COOLER BOX
can-am.brp.com The rotomolded construction of this LinQ cooler box provides exceptional rigidity and durability. On all your long rides, the LinQ 8 GAL (30L) Cooler Box will protect your food and drinks and keep them fresh. Features premium-quality foam insulation for optimal ice retention. Convenient drain plug for easy cleaning. Its robust rubber latches ensures the cover remains tightly closed. LinQ Luggage Rack (715001734) is required for G2S. PART# 715004698 / $379.99 MSRP US
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STAY COOL
4. SUPERATV INSULATED BED COOLER FOR WILDCAT XX
2. POLARIS NORTHSTAR 60QT COOLER
polaris.com Keep it ice cold! Polaris claims their Northstar cooler will hold ice 30+ hours longer than YETI® and survive just about anything – from extreme heat to a full-on bear attack – it’s IGBC Certified Bear-Resistant. Ice will stay cold for hours on end, and anything inside will stay locked up tight. This cooler is built to hold more and withstand the punishment of an off-road environment. The tough molded construction features dedicated tie-down cleats to easily keep put in your off-road vehicle. Plus, with aluminum pin latches and hinges for long lasting durability and a secure locking lid you can be sure to keep out curious critters. PolarWall premium 2-inch thick insulation delivers extreme ice retention for longlasting cooling performance. Made in the USA.
superatv.com Get a Rear Insulated Cooler/Cargo box from SuperATV for your Textron Wildcat XX and make every ride something to get excited about. Built with up to 3-inch thick insulating foam, heavy-duty rubber latches, and lip seal on the lid. What does that mean for you? Ride all day in any weather and still enjoy a cold snack.
Keeps Cargo Dry It’s not just about keeping things cool, it can also keep your cargo dry. Put clothes, electronics, or anything else that needs to stay dry and it will be safe when the rest of your UTV is neck deep in mud. No matter where you ride or how deep you bury your Wildcat, your cargo will stay safe. And with a 30-liter capacity, that’s a whole lot of cargo you’re protecting. Whether you pack it full of ice, clothes, or snacks, clean-up is easy—simply unplug the drain and rinse clean! PART# RCB-T-XX / $314.95 MSRP US
• EasyOut Drain System: Large, easy to open plug for rapid draining • ComfortCarry Handles: Carry a fully loaded cooler with comfort and ease • NoSlip Rubber Feet: Firm placement on any surface • 18.3 in. x 20 in. x 32 in. PART# 2881259 / $309.99 MSRP US
3. POLARIS NORTHSTAR 60QT COOLER WHEELS ACCESSORY
polaris.com Carry your food and beverages with less effort by adding these durable wheels to your Polaris Northstar 60 QT Cooler. Attach the wheels, grab the handle, and easily pull the heaviest of coolers to your campsite, cabin or trailside. • One (1) Northstar® 60 QT Cooler - Wheels • Includes cart frame, wheels, and mounting hardware • Steel frame, steel based rubber coated wheels PART# 2882180 / $94.99 MSRP US
5. RTIC 45 COOLER
rticoutdoors.com This cooler is all about extremes – from impact resistance and durability to long lasting ice retention. This mid-size cooler makes a perfect multi-purpose cooler. It can be carried by one person. The RTIC 45 can serve double-duty as a bench, non-slip step stool, tabletop and extra cutting board while keeping ice, perishables and vital supplies cold. And when it comes to the purchase, RTIC coolers have all the bells and whistles at a fraction of competitor prices. $199.99 MSRP US July/August 2021 41
Midwest Rider
hgdriftbusters.com, Howard’s Grove Lakeshore Driftbusters
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stablished in 1970, the Howard’s Grove Lakeshore Driftbusters snowmobile club consists of approximately 125 family memberships. The club maintains approximately 55 miles of trail in Sheboygan County stretching from Haven to Rhine Center. The Driftbusters shared these awesome photos on their Facebook page with status, “Here is this year’s entry from the Howards Grove Highschool project grill team sponsored by Johnsonville. The kids took a 1972 Bolens snowmobile and turned it into a grill, even room for a cooler under the hood to keep the drinks cold. The snowmobile grill is capable of being pulled behind a snowmobile or an ATV. After the judging this past spring, the grill was donated to our club (Driftbusters) for us to use. Special thanks to their shop instructor, Joe J, and all the students that worked on the project. Looking forward to grilling a few brats and burgers.”
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WISCONSIN CLUB NEWS
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Midwest Rider OCTOBER 9-10 NITRO RALLYCROSS
Fall at ERX Motor Park in Elk River is Tailor Made for Off-Road Fans
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f racing, cold beer and thousands of like-minded off-road enthusiasts coming together sounds like heaven, then welcome to ERX Motor Park in Elk River, Minnesota. In a span of just 13-years, the motorsports and event complex has grown in size and stature. Now encompassing over 400-acres, ERX is regarded as the Midwest’s premiere motorsports venue with racing, concerts, charitable events, motorcycle hare scrambles, camping and way more, at what can be described as nothing less than a world-class facility. If you’ve been to an event at ERX, you know exactly what we’re talking about. If you haven’t, make this the year.
Like many live event venues, ERX saw most of its events put on hold in 2020. However, through incredible planning and a lot of hard work, last summer the facility held one of the first races with fans in attendance in the United States. Now with COVID behind us, the Extreme Motor Park is poised to host some of the biggest and best attended events in the venue’s history. With allnew events such as the Nitro Rallycross, this is the year to put ERX on your calendar of fall fun.
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The brainchild of Nitro Circus ringleader and global motorsports icon Travis Pastrana, Nitro Rallycross (NRX) combines the speed of rally car racing with an innovative course that blends mixed surfaces and the biggest jumps these 600-horsepower cars have ever seen. This newly announced NRX tour is coming to ERX this fall. According to Pastrana, the momentum for the series is building faster than anyone could have anticipated with more confirmed supercar entries for this year’s series than ever before. The intense short-course racing action will take place on a custom designed course that Travis himself will have a hand in developing. No doubt, ERX will be a signature stop of the series with the incredible natural terrain the park offers along with premium facilities. The Midwest Rider crew has this one marked on their calendar as a must attend, and you should too. Learn more at erxmotorpark.com.
TURN UP THE FUN More than just snowmobiles, Hay Days has opened its arms and happily embraced the off-road community. The recent addition of mud bog racing has fast become a huge attraction and is poised to return this fall.
The World’s Biggest Powersports Event Is On
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imply uttering the words Hay Days to any off-roader, snowmobile rider or powersports fan is usually immediately followed by an impassioned “hell yeah.” To put it simply, there’s nothing else quite like the Sno Barons Hay Days event held every fall in North Branch, Minnesota. Now, the club is preparing to host their 54th annual event, and Hay Days has become so much more than just a snowmobile grass drag. While snowmobiling will always represent the roots of the event and its primary focus, the modern version of Hay Days has become an all-encompassing powersports mecca for enthusiasts, dealers, businesses and manufacturers alike. It’s the place to see and be seen with more displays, more racing, more swap, more action and more power hungry, beer fueled fans all jammed into one big happy place. This is the Superbowl of powersports and we never miss it, nor should you. Watch for our special Hay Days 2021 events program. Until then, visit haydays.com.
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