Immediate Past President: John Newman newman029@gmail.com • (586) 596-0389
Secretary: Scott Matteson (269) 760-0188 michsnowrider@gmail.com
Treasurer: Mark Pankner (989) 798-0113 cell mpankner340@gmail.com
MICHIGAN MICHIGAN
Michigan Snowmobile & ORV Association News is published four times a year – September, December, March, June – by Midwest Sports Publishing Network (MSPN), 6595 Edenvale Blvd Ste 180, Eden Prairie, MN 55346. Application to mail at periodicals postage prices is pending at Eden Prairie, MN and additional entries.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Michigan Snowmobile & ORV Association, 4543 S Division Ave, Wyoming, MI 49548.
PUBLISHER Joel Mellenthin
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Rachyl Burzinski
COPY EDITOR / ADMINISTRATOR Paula Jones
ART DIRECTOR Corey Friesen
ADVERTISING SALES Diane Voight, Dwain Stadie PHOTO ARCHIVES C. J. Ramstad
CONTRIBUTIONS: Letters, manuscripts, stories, materials and photographs are welcome but cannot be returned unless sender provides a SASE. Michigan Snowmobile & ORV Association News is 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 www.mspnads.com
Send all advertising materials to: MSPN, Ad Department, 6595 Edenvale Blvd Ste 180, Eden Prairie, MN 55346
The December MISORVA issue is here! It is filled with lots of information, stories, events, and so much more. Have a safe and fun snowmobile season! Let it snow!
Features
4 FINAL WEEKS AS PRESIDENT: THANK YOU MISORVA
Paul Anderson, MISORVA President, shares one of his highlights from being MISORVA President. He only has 6 more weeks as your president before Chad Van Bennekom takes over the position for 2025.
9 SNOWMOBILE TRAIL VOLUNTEERISM IN THE US
This year the International Snowmobile Council completed a survey of clubs and the amount of volunteering necessary to create and maintain snowmobile trails. Many clubs from the US participated in this survey. They will be sharing that information with you. 14
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
Need a few gift ideas for that special snowmobiler? Take a look at the gift guide!
On the Web
Additional photos from MISORVA events can be viewed at mspninc.com/events/photos.
Digital issues of this magazine can be viewed and downloaded for free at misorva.org or mspninc.com/publications/michigan-snowmobile-news/.
For a full calendar of events in Michigan and beyond, visit mspninc.com/events.
Magazine Deadlines
The deadline for Club Spotlight, Club Flashback, Club News, Calendar of Events, photos and more submitted for the March 2025 issue is 2/17/25. Send all submissions to office@misorva.org or Attn: MISORVA, 4543 S Division Ave S Wyoming, MI 49548
Wayne Davis Photo
PRESIDENT
By: Paul Anderson
FINAL WEEKS AS PRESIDENT: THANK YOU MISORVA
As I type this, I only have six more weeks as your president before Chad Van Bennekom takes over the position for 2025. Chad has a lot of passion and knowledge to fill this important position, and I have complete faith that he’ll do a great job. I’d like to thank the other officers, board members, as well as our membership. It was an honor holding this position for the last 14 months and I wish nothing but the best for MISORVA.
One of the highlights for me this year was giving our award program a shot at life and recognizing some of our volunteers who go above and beyond. Moving forward I hope people will continue to submit nominations for someone you know. There are so many great volunteers out there and we’ve just scratched the surface of recognizing them.
Below is a review of the awards presented and who received them. Congratulations to all the award winners! You are the ones that make our sports what they are!
Wishing everyone a great holiday season and a safe, snow-filled winter.
Commercial Member of the Year – US27 Motorsports, St Johns Michigan
Snowmobile Club of the Year –Sault Ste Marie Snowmobile Association
Dual Club of the Year – Kalkaska County Sand and Snow
Snowmobile Groomer of the Year –
Terry Barton
ORV Groomer of the Year – Eric Meeuwsen, Kalkaska County Sand and Snow
President’s Award – The Clarke Motel
President’s Volunteer of the Year Award – Steve Haver, Grand Traverse Area Snowmobile Club
VP NOTES
CHASING THE NEXT RIDE: THROUGH SNOW AND TIME
EBy: Todd Maschke, MISORVA Vice President
very winter, I make the same trip, usually several times—a drive north to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, crossing the Mackinac Bridge to reach the snow-covered trails I’ve ridden for years. It’s a journey I know well, one that has always brought a sense of excitement and anticipation. But, as the years continue to fly past me, the trips are beginning to feel different.
I’m not the young rider I once was. My snowmobile doesn’t handle quite the way it used to, and my body aches more after long days on the trails. The old thrill of the ride is still there, but it’s quieter now. As I drive toward the bridge, I feel a kind of weight—not the weight of the snowmobile, but of times itself. The Mackinac Bridge has always symbolized a transition for me. It’s more than just a way to get from one place to another; it’s the crossing from one world to another. I’ve always felt the excitement of entering the Upper Peninsula, but as the years progress, as I approach the bridge, I find myself thinking about everything that’s changed over the years—both in snowmobiling and in my life.
I think about the businesses that have weathered the years. The old places I used to stop at, the one with the big wood stove where the smell of smoke and food always filled the air— some are now under new ownership, with a new set of faces behind the counter. Some of the small shops where I’d always buy supplies are gone, replaced by something else. The familiar spots are fewer, and the faces I used to recognize have changed too. Some of the people who ran those places aren’t around anymore, and it’s hard not to feel the absence of those who made the trip more than just a ride—it was a place, a connection, a moment in time.
But it’s not just about the businesses. It’s the people, too—the friends I’ve made along the way. The snowmobile community has always been about camaraderie. There are locals in the Upper who live for the sport, just like I do, and fellow riders I’ve met
along the trails. Some of them I’ve known for years, others are new faces, but we share a common bond. There’s something special about that—a kind of unspoken understanding between riders, a connection that doesn’t need a lot of words.
As the miles tick by, I can’t help but reflect on how much things have changed. Friends who once rode beside me aren’t here anymore. Some have passed on, others have drifted away, or simply stopped riding. The old sense of adventure, of racing the trails with the wind in my face, feels like it’s in the past. But those moments aren’t gone—they’re part of the journey. The laughter, the conversations, the shared stories over a hot meal—they’re the moments I hold onto, and they shape the way I look at this ride now.
But here’s the thing: there’s still time. Time to make more memories, time to connect with others, time to ride. It’s easy to feel like the best days are behind me sometimes, but I know that’s not true. The trails are still out there, the snow is still waiting, and the next corner could bring a new adventure, a new friendship, a new story to tell.
The past will always be there—woven into every ride, every stop, every memory. But I’ve learned that the future is still wide open. There are new riders to meet, new places to discover, and new moments to create. The trail ahead isn’t closed off, and the ride is far from over.
As I reach my destination, the familiar snow-covered trails ahead of me are a reminder of all that’s come before. But more than that, they’re an invitation to what’s still possible. I might not be the same rider I was when I first started this journey, but the heart of it hasn’t changed. Snowmobiling, the people, the friendships, the adventures, and the camaraderie—those are the things that stay with you, no matter what. And there’s still time for more.
DIRECTOR’S VIEW
BY: KAREN MIDDENDORP, MISORVA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
ARE YOUR FRIENDS AND RIDING GROUP BEING COUNTED?
Irecently worked at the MISORVA booth during the Snowmobile USA event held on November 4, 5, and 6, in Novi, MI. There were seven of us at the booth to answer questions, sign up new members, and sell trail permits to those eager to purchase them. Many people stopped by to chat and share their frustrations about the lack of snow during the 2023 season. They commented on this trail or that trail and wondered why certain trails were missing.
Several attendees noted that they hadn’t seen such poor conditions since 1988. However, everyone was hopeful for this year, believing that Mother Nature couldn’t possibly give us two bad snow seasons in a row. There were discussions about dual trails, the lack of law enforcement, and concerns about loud exhaust. Conversations about sound enforcement are as contentious as discussions about hand signals, with each rider holding strong opinions on the matter. Riders are nearly evenly divided, with some in favor and others opposed, and neither side seems willing to listen to the other.
Motorized recreation enthusiasts, whether they enjoy snow or dirt activities, are passionate individuals. This type of recreation can be expensive, and each participant contributes their hardearned money to support these activities. The permits they purchase help cover costs such as private land leases, trail improvements, signage, and volunteers who maintain the trails and keep them free from obstacles. These enthusiasts often view each other as family and spend many weekends working together for the benefit of the community!
I was asked why I needed a membership with MISORVA. They mentioned several clubs where members pay a few hundred dollars in dues and donations because they ride nearly every weekend and want to support these organizations. I agree with that perspective! The dues collected by a club help cover essential expenses, such as heating and lighting in the groomer barn and purchasing tools needed for equipment maintenance, among many other costs. Additionally, these clubs make a positive contribution to the communities they serve.
I highlighted the importance of having a voice in the DNR regarding user expectations. What about the legislative changes that have been made to enhance our riding experience? I also asked who they ride with. Are those individuals contributing in the same way, or are they simply benefiting from your donations and memberships? Like many aspects of life, there are givers and takers.
In my youth, I didn’t vote because I didn’t see its value; after all, I was just one person contributing my two cents. However, all those two-cent contributions added up quickly! The same principle applies to memberships in any organization today, such as the Eagles, VFW, Moose Clubs, or churches. My parents are members and vote, but I felt I didn’t need to. Yet, each of us needs to be counted and represented.
Who represents your riding group?
One question that received a surprising reaction was when I asked a guy if he was married. He replied, “Yeah, but my wife doesn’t ride.” I responded, “That’s okay; her voice counts when you add her name.” So, if you are married, please let the office know so we can update the numbers we represent.
Wayne Davis Photo
IN THE US ACSA NEWS
SNOWMOBILING TRAIL VOLUNTEERISM
By: Len Neisler, ACSA Secretary/Treasurer
This year the International Snowmobile Council completed a survey of clubs and the amount of volunteering necessary to create and maintain snowmobile trails. Many clubs from the US participated in this survey. We are sharing that information with you.
Many snowmobilers do not realize that the trails they ride on are primarily done by club members who volunteer their time because of their love of our sport. Yes, volunteers are what keep our snowmobile trails open! What does it take to get it to a condition we enjoy riding on?
There are many parts to setting up a snowmobile trail. Working with the state Department of Parks/Natural Resources to confirm acceptance of the trail.
Grants must be completed and submitted to the DNR or other state agency for approval to receive funding to pay for the cost of equipment, maintenance of their groomer and drag, and other equipment needed for trail work. Most of the planning, decisions, operating, and paperwork is done by volunteers.
These club volunteers must go to each landowner for permission to cross their land to obtain a legal agreement for permission to do so. Each club in the survey averaged needing signatures on 28 contracts. But it does not stop with the landowners, these club volunteers must maintain contact with them to keep the trail open and for any extraordinary circumstances that may need to be addressed, like trespassing. The average club spends 24 hours doing this.
So, how many trail miles does a club brush and clear for when snow comes? The survey suggests they manage about 348 miles with about 135 hours by volunteers preparing the trail. Oh, it also takes another 111 hours per club to properly install/remove the trail signs!
Then, once the snow comes, volunteers operate the groomer with a drag to groom the trails. The average club groomer travels 1,172 miles of trail during the snow season, traveling at about four miles per hour. Don’t forget the volunteer labor time to operate the groomers, which is an average of 366 hours per club. According to the survey, the average club has five volunteers operating the groomers and maintaining their equipment during the season.
During the season equipment must be maintained, again by volunteers, which amounts to 46 hours per club. Trails must be regularly checked for fallen trees and other debris that must be removed. The volunteer hours for this are 243 hours per club. Many times, I have met snowmobilers on the trails who have no
concept of what it takes to ride on a well-groomed trail. Many riders assume that state employees do the work! Many riders are not familiar with the state snowmobile associations, that the clubs belong to that are maintaining the trail with volunteers.
Hopefully, this information gives you a better perspective of what it takes for trail systems and to appreciate the volunteers who work to make your snowmobiling day exciting and safe. When you’re riding, think about joining the club whose volunteers maintain it. They can use your financial help. Furthermore, you may find joining the club beneficial to finding more people to ride with next time!
Chicaugon Lake Inn 906-265-9244 - chicaugonlakeinn.com Lakeshore Motel Ice Lake 906-265-3611 - lakeshoremotelicelake.com Pioneer Lodge 800-362-7853 -
The American Council of Snowmobile Associations (ACSA) scholarship is available to either graduating high school seniors or persons currently enrolled in college or trade school full-time (12 semester credits), either physically or online. Scholarships will be given to the winners regardless of other grants or scholarships that the students may also receive.
Requirements are as follows:
1. The applicant or immediate family must be a paid member of a state snowmobile association, and the state association must be a member of ACSA.
2. The applicant must submit the completed application form.
3. The applicant must submit a cover letter. This letter must include the student ID number and college/trade school name and the address to which a scholarship check would be sent to.
4. The applicant must submit a resume detailing his/her involvement in snowmobiling as well as extra-curricular activities.
5. The applicant must submit an essay (essay subject located on the Application Form). The essay MUST follow the format below to be accepted and should be sent in Word or Google Docs:
a. Minimum of 2 pages - typed.
b. Double-spaced.
c. Font - Times New Roman.
d. Font size - 12 point.
e. Margins - set to 1 inch for all margins (top, bottom, left side, right side).
f. Page numbers (if included) should be .5 inches from the top of the page (not within the 1” margin).
g. A header (for example, the essay question) can be added 1 inch from the top of the first page, and then enter a double space and begin your essay.
h. Do NOT use bold-faced type or other special settings.
i. If work is cited, please add an additional ‘work-cited’ page at the end of the essay. This information will NOT be counted as part of the 2-page minimum.
j. The essay must follow the essay topic or be disqualified.
5. The applicable documents must be received by email at the ACSA Office by February 1, 2025. Please email to info@snowmobilers.org with the subject line “ACSA Scholarship Application.”
7. Any entry that does not meet ALL of these requirements will be disqualified.
NO EXCEPTIONS.
Additional rules:
1. Students must use the scholarship within one year of receiving it.
2. All scholarship checks will be written directly to the college, not the student.
No Exceptions
All applicants will be notified of the final scholarship selection by April 15, 2025. The scholarship winner will be publicly announced at the International Snowmobile Congress (ISC) in June. While ACSA understands it may be difficult for the winner to attend the ISC, at the very least, ACSA may attempt to make an electronic presentation to the winner and record it for playback at the ISC.
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2025 ARCTIC CAT SNOWMOBILES: READY TO RIDE
Production is complete and ready for riders to hit the snow. A big shout-out to Arctic Cat for getting these machines out and into the hands of enthusiasts before the season kicks off. The assembly line will be paused for a few months but is scheduled to resume in the first quarter of 2025.
Their efficiency and commitment to delivering high-quality sleds ahead of schedule are truly impressive, ensuring that riders have everything they need to make the most of the winter season. With snow on the horizon, it’s clear that Arctic Cat is gearing up to deliver an exciting and action-packed ride for snowmobilers everywhere. If you’re still looking to secure yours, reaching out to your dealer soon is highly recommended to ensure you don’t miss out on a 2025 Arctic Cat snowmobile.
FRESH snow RIDE REVIEW
POLARIS INDY VR1
DYNAMIX
IS THE RIDE WORTH THE PRICE OF ADMISSION – WE THINK SO.
With the winter that never was in our rearview mirror, like all good eternal optimist snowmobilers we turn our attention to the winter to come. With more than a dusting already impacting parts of Minnesota and Wisconsin in late October, things are looking very promising. Like many of you, we have a few new buggies in our shop, and we can’t wait to christen them this December with the first ride of the season. However, one sled in particular has us especially eager to ride, the 2025 Polaris Indy VR1 137” with the patented and new to the sport DYNAMIX suspension.
flattens corners, and improves overall vehicle balance and control better than any other snowmobile suspension we’ve sampled over the past 30 years.
DYNAMIX features three user selectable modes that tailor the overall ride and performance to a particular riding style or terrain. The aptly named modes are Comfort, Rally, and Extreme. While this is certainly impressive, it’s not what sets DYNAMIX light years ahead of any other suspension we’ve ever ridden.
So, what is DYNAMIX you ask? Well, let’s just call it the smartest snowmobile suspension we’ve ever seen. With four electronically controlled shocks that you can adjust both compression and rebound damping on the fly, DYNAMIX smooths out bumps,
The big bang technology is found in what Polaris and FOX call the patented Inertial Measurement Unit or IMU. In short, this is the brains of the operation that measures every movement of the snowmobile – from pitch, roll, bumps, acceleration, deceleration,
body position and so much more. The IMU then takes that information and adjusts the shocks automatically. It all happens within fractions of a second and all you feel is an incredible ride.
We had a chance to log some miles on a VR1 Dynamix this past spring and we were impressed. Whether we were accelerating, decelerating, braking hard, railing corners, or just pounding the bumps, DYNAMIX was always one step ahead of us...and had the sled optimally tuned for the terrain and our inputs...it was as if the sled was reading our mind. DYNAMIX even knows when you launch off a berm or road approach...automatically firming up the suspension prior to landing. It’s crazy good.
The DYNAMIX suspension control screen via the 7S display provides a lot of information including mode, throttle position, vehicle speed, brake status, active vehicle event status, IMU display, and shock position.
Of course, DYNAMIX is not for everyone. There will always remain a group of riders who like to fidget and adjust their own suspension. But the bigger roadblock is that not everyone will be ready to stomach the price tag that comes with this kind of technology. With new sled prices already reaching levels we never would have thought possible just 10 years ago, the Indy
VR1 with DYNAMIX might be a hill too high to climb for some. But with a ride this good, we think enough dedicated, big mile trail riders will eventually feel the benefit and open their wallets to have the most advanced suspension on snow under them.
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
The holiday season is here, and with it comes the often-arduous task of gift-buying for family and friends. However, if you have a snowmobile enthusiast on your list, we’ve done the hard work for you and unearthed a handful of gifts that any snowmobiler would love to find under the tree.
Insulated and fully waterproof, this jacket will ensure you stay warm and dry in any winter weather conditions. The Craze 6.0 Jacket is not just functional, but also fashionable, with its patriotic red, white, and blue details. Stand out on the trail with this limited-edition ‘Merica suit!
DSGOUTERWEAR.COM
TEMPEST OPTICS - The “INFINITY” Collection
Tempest goggles showcase cutting-edge design with a power-assisted heated lens, anti-fog features, and top-notch magnetic lens attachment. From the beginning, Tempest aimed to create goggles that eliminate fogging without compromising on quality and affordability. The “INFINITY” lens design offers an injection-molded, optically clear, cylindrical shape with a rimless frame that easily sheds snow while providing a modern look. The mirror lens VLT ratings have been adjusted for better performance in various lighting conditions, and a thicker face foam enhances fit and comfort. All 2023 and 2024 Tempest models come with the magnetic lens attachment system and are fully interchangeable.
SKIDOO - LinQ 1+1 Removable Rack
TEMPESTOPTICS.COM
BITE HARDER - Blizzard Buster
This product features 12 color options. It has a high helmet light mount for improved visibility, reducing accidents, and ensuring riders behind you can see your location in all conditions. The bright LED provides over 200 lumens of light. Installation is simple, connecting to your existing electric shield wiring or using the optional “Helmet Accessory Power Cord.” The selectable colors allow for easy identification of family members, while the lights enhance safety on and off the trail. Made from top-quality materials, the product is fully warrantied and reflects the convenience and performance expected from BITE HARDER.
BITEHARDER.COM
Upgrade your ride with this new lightweight rack! Ideal for additional storage and accommodating a passenger seat, it’s the perfect upgrade for your snowmobiling adventures. The new design incorporates LinQ attachments for the rack itself. If you’re looking to add a passenger seat, the LinQ 1 + 1 Removable Rack looks great whether or not a passenger seat is attached to your sled. This snowmobile seat rack also offers extra storage space for LinQ accessories.
POLARIS - NorthStar 20 QT Soft-Sided Cooler
Bring this portable 20-quart soft-sided cooler on your next adventure. It features excellent ice retention with a waterproof, puncture-resistant nylon shell and a rugged, reinforced zipper. Compact enough to fit under your Ranger seat, in your RZR, or in your truck cab, it still has ample space for refreshments. The stylish graphite color hides dirt, and the ergonomic shoulder strap frees your hands for other supplies. Cargo straps and a zippered front compartment help keep small items organized.
polaris.com/en-us/off-road/holiday-gift-guide/
industry news
REVIEW: RIP YAMAHA, 1968-2025
Pioneering concepts marked Yamaha’s snowmobile history from 1968 to now.
By: Jerry Bassett
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Jerry Bassett Archives & Yamaha
Yamaha entered snowmobile history quietly in the winter of 1968 and will leave the sport almost as quietly nearly six decades later—this winter of 2025. In that time span, the Japanese-based manufacturer made its presence known with technical innovations, unique partnerships, and even a brief but characteristically quiet run as the industry’s number one selling snowmobile.
So, what was that first Yamaha snowmobile like? To find out, we visited Minnesotan Warren Grundeen, an avid Yamaha collector and restorer of a 1968 and a 1969 Yamaha.
According to him, the 1968 model may have been Yamaha’s North American entry to snowmobiling, but it was a very measured and limited introduction. The 1969 model would represent Yamaha’s full consumer roll-out as the initial year’s models only went to specific Yamaha dealers, generally motorcycle or marine dealers located in the Snowbelt. The concept of a limited release allowed potential customers to visit dealerships to view them, try them out, and for Yamaha to get feedback for improvements to this initial model and how best to set up their necessary dealer network.
Indeed, Grundeen expresses a bit of frustration. As a restorer, he notes that parts are difficult to find and even when you can find them their specs may be different. He discovered that even though the 1968 was supposed to be a factory unit these sleds frequently varied in parts fitment to suggest that they were more like individual prototypes. In chats with other Yamaha collectors of these “dealer-only” units, he noted that various units differed from one another in supposedly similar specs.
With Yamaha supplying performance engines to be dropped into Arctic Cat’s superior handling chassis, both companies gained from each other’s strengths to create good-handling, potent trail machines.
sport, the 1969 model marks the full-fledged consumer entry. From then on Yamaha grew along with the sport. In 1968 sled sales were at about 85,000 annual sales. The next year, sales were just shy of a quarter-million units.
That first consumer production model, the 1969 Yamaha SL351, came with a 348cc two-stroke twin that churned out just over 20 horsepower. It pioneered Yamaha’s Autolube oil injection and earmarked twin Mikuni carburetor. At a suggested retail of just under one thousand dollars, these early Yamaha’s were priced to compete against Ski-Doo’s industry-leading “light-footed” Olympiques.
While Yamaha claims 1968 as the sled’s historic entry to the
A year of introduction and limited production in 1968 gave Yamaha better ideas for its 1969 full-production debut of the SL351. The company pioneered oil injection and Mikuni carburetors for consumers.
While oil injection proved popular right away, the rest of the industry didn’t offer it as standard fare until years later. These first productions of Yamaha’s helped the company’s brand earn a reputation for innovation and solid build quality, which translated to value — or, simply bang for the buck.
In addition to its brand, Yamaha’s early motors could be found in other brands such as Saskatchewan-based Roll-A-Flex and Vermont-built Sno-Jets. Famed Eastern oval racer Jim Adema modified Yamaha engines to beat the top factory teams in the early 1970s.
Minnesotan Warren Grundee, avid Yamaha collector and restorer, sits aboard his restored limited production 1968 Yamaha.
Yamaha showcased racing early on, winning a legendary Eagle River championship bout against Ski-Doo in 1971. The lighterweight Yamahas used a highly tuned 433 cc twin to outlast factory 650s.
From here Yamaha unleashed its original lightweight SRX trail sports sleds that enjoy an almost mythological history with collectors. Since not everyone needed the power and handling of the SRX, Yamaha created its fan-cooled line of Exciters, which were SRX-like but suited to everyday trail riding, at a spirited but more controlled pace.
In the 1980s when Arctic Cat was forced into bankruptcy, Yamaha gained number one status. With Arctic out, Yamaha battled SkiDoo for dominance and it was a period of sled leadership that led Yamaha to try and expand the snowmobile market with some unique models that just never captured the riding public’s favor.
Advertising of the day touted Yamaha’s build quality along with on-snow performance. Before launching full production in 1969, Yamaha put into play what it learned from its 1968 limited dealer “rollout” which gave the company valuable input from dealers and consumers alike.
These model names would be resurrected but would never reach the popularity of the originals.
Eventually, Yamaha floundered a bit as consumers decided they preferred the trailing arm suspensions of Polaris Indys. With Yamaha dropping in the sales hierarchy Polaris came on as number one. During this time of industry turmoil, fringe brands left the sport. Among them were other Japanese-based brands.
During this time the market had shrunk due to low snowfalls, economic uncertainty, and fluctuating oil supply. At this point in history, Yamaha developed its Inviter, a unique trail luxury model, featuring front strut suspension, a liquid-cooled 300cc single-cylinder engine, and a unique seating position well suited to trail cruising but not so good for venturing off-trail in deeper snow.
With cross-country racing popular Yamaha built its fan-cooled SR-V, which featured strut suspension and a 55-horsepower 540 twin. For riders wanting a faster Yamaha, there was the liquid-cooled Exciter. Both of these sleds featured the design philosophies of its best-selling Phazer. A great all-around sled that paired power to weight with a longish track and strut suspension to afford good on-trail behavior and surprisingly adept deep snow capability.
The mogul masher in the Yamaha lineup, the Nytro, evolved through graphics to suit different riderships.
Suzuki left the sport as a sled maker but hung in for a while as the engine supplier to Arctic Cat. Kawasaki’s high-performance person wasn’t enough to maintain sufficient sales. And by 1984 even agricultural giant John Deere chose lawn and garden products over sleds. Ironically John Deere’s last prototypes featured a stout strut suspension like Yamaha’s. All of John Deere’s snowmobile rights and prototypes were bought out by Polaris, including the Deere strut prototypes!
The Phazer was modified into a 2-up touring model to fill a trailtouring niche.
As Yamaha entered the new century the company made a changeover to four-stroke power as the company assumed government regulations were heading in that direction. Yamaha already was making requisite changes in its motorcycles. Just as in the beginning, Yamaha based its sled engines on variants of its motorcycle engines. By 2003 Yamaha fitted a snowmobile version of its 998cc R1 bike four-cylinder four-stroke in the new RX-1. A lightweight 500cc Phazer for the 2000s used a highrevving dirt bike-based twin. Since these were high-revving engines, Yamaha fitted them with an rpm-reduction final drive to bring the high revs of 12,000 or more down to a clutchable 6-8000 rpm.
In trying to bring in new riders, Yamaha tried many different entry points. The SnoScoot was loosely based on the company’s low-end motor scooters and featured a 50cc drive train.
Yamaha engineering was spectacular but underappreciated by consumers as the competition stuck with lighter weight two-strokes making the four-strokes less popular with riders. To compete Yamaha made efforts to disguise its weight disadvantage by adding power steering and hyped power by turbocharging its 998cc four-stroke, making the SRX the power king of trail sleds. Even striking a deal with Arctic Cat to supply four-strokes in exchange for chassis and suspensions was only a stopgap as the decisions being made in Japan no longer looked at long-term snowmobile sales.
Yamaha created a highrevving twin based on its popular 250cc dirt bike to power the redesigned Phazer for the “Aughts.”
Plus, Ski-Doo set a new rider standard with its series of twostroke high-performance twins powering a unique REV chassis and seating. Ski-Doo was moving to the head of the pack supplanting Polaris and leaving Arctic Cat in third place with a fading Yamaha.
Throughout the history of snowmobiling, there have been many brands coming and going. Snowmobile collectors have their favorites from Rupp to Chaparral but as with Yamaha now, most have faded away, leaving three brands standing — the two that Minneostan Edgar Hetteen founded, Polaris and Arctic Cat, and the Canadian stalwart, Ski-Doo.
If you look at the hundreds of brands that had their 15 minutes of fame, you’ll find nearly 50 brand names in Minnesota alone. And another 40 or so in Wisconsin. You’ll see major international conglomerates like Brunswick, Coleco, Textron, Massey Ferguson, and other Wall Street players buying into the sled business in the late 1960s and early 1970s, only to divest themselves of these buy-ins later in the decade. Major names that have come and gone include Moto-Ski, Skiroule, Outboard Marine’s Johnson and Evinrude, Rupp, Suzuki, Kawasaki, Scorpion, Mercury Marine, John Deere, and, of course, now Yamaha.
And Then There Were Three Yamaha is the latest in the shrinking world of snowmobile makers, from four major manufacturers — Bombardier Recreational Products (Ski-Doo), Polaris Industries (Polaris), Textron Specialized Vehicles (Arctic Cat), and Yamaha from 1968 to now. Leaving three players to battle for market dominance.
north county u.p.
Navigating wrecks, repairs and restrictions during COVID trip to Keweenaw Peninsula
by Cameron Hanson Editor, Iowa Snowmobiler magazine
Snowmobilers were wearing facemasks long before the coronavirus pandemic came around five years ago. There was just a two-year stretch when we had to carry two: one for the trail and one for the restaurant. Hopefully, those days are behind us. They seemed to be two winters ago anyway.
Three winters ago was a different story, though, when a snowmobile trip to the Western U.P. of Michigan painfully reminded us we were in the middle of the pandemic. Despite trailering seven hours from home, we couldn’t seem to escape mask mandates, indoor dining restrictions and other inconvenient regulations.
Leaving work early, we arrived in Bergland the night of Friday, Jan. 29, 2021. For the most part, the trails around Lake Gogebic were comfortably familiar, but we definitely took for granted places we had visited on previous trips to the area would be open this time around.
As we quickly learned throughout those first few days, area restaurants were not keeping regular business hours and could only offer take-out orders and outdoor seating. Not ideal for a group of guys looking for a place to warm up. At several stops, we were greeted by a note on the door, and a couple of times, we had to bring food back to the hotel room for edgeof-bed dining.
Fortunately, the gas station next door to the hotel was open most of the time to fill our bellies and our gas tanks when needed. Additionally, by that Monday, Feb. 1, restrictions on indoor seating would be lifted, so the second half of our stay would return to somewhat normal expectations—mask rules notwithstanding.
Unexpected scenery
Our first full day of riding in the U.P. came on Saturday and included an obligatory run up to the Lake of the Clouds scenic overlook in the Porcupine Mountains. While the overlook didn’t disappoint, it wasn’t the most memorable part of this leg. On the way to the overlook, we passed by a burned-out groomer operated by the North Country Snowmobile Club.
According to the club’s Facebook post, the New Holland quadtrac had caught on fire earlier that morning about seven miles up the trail to the overlook. Fortunately, the operator was unharmed, but the machine was a total loss. The club had been out grooming in preparation for the increased traffic expected from the ease in restrictions that Monday.
“This has been a tough season for our area,” the club wrote on social media. “Many of our sponsoring businesses have been shut down or pressed into a minimal takeout model by the ongoing pandemic. With indoor dining poised to re-open on Monday, we needed to be at the top of our game to facilitate the local economy in a quick recovery by providing the best trails possible.”
What you don’t expect to see in the middle of the trail
Describing the incident as a “sad night,” the club had clearly marked the area around the damaged equipment, and the trail was plenty wide to safely get around it, allowing us to make our destination. Attracting plenty of attention in both directions, the groomer served as an easy conversation-starter with other snowmobilers once we reached the top.
On the way back down from the overlook, we came across the Michigan Department of Natural Resources stopping sleds for valid stickers and paperwork. Unlike some riders, we had nothing to worry about and were able to motor right on past the checkpoint, making our way over toward Silver City and then back down to White Pine for fuel and lunch.
By Iowa standards, we found the snow depth and trail conditions in the U.P. to be quite satisfactory, but local Yoopers were telling us the totals for the season thus far up there were
below average. According to one report we saw, total snowfall for the area by the end of January was only 54.6 inches, nearly double an Iowa winter but just a fraction of their normal output.
We didn’t complain about the snowcover, but after lunch, we did notice the trails starting to thin out as we headed east over to Ontonagon and then back south down to Rockland, where the trail conditions sort of lived up to the town name. Just like bad weather, we rode out of it and found better trails on our way back to the hotel, finishing the day at roughly 120 miles.
Lake Gogebic stretch
The next morning saw us heading south around massive Lake Gogebic with our turnaround point for the day planned for the Northern Waters Casino at Watersmeet. I personally had never been south of the lake in previous trips to the U.P. so I was game. Plus, throwing a 20 dollar bill into the video poker machine and drinking free pop seemed like an okay-way to waste an hour.
We initially started down the east side of the lake on Trail 13, planning for an early lunch at a resort there, but they were closed. The sign on the door just confirmed what the empty parking lot had already told us. So we jumped onto the lake and skated west across the ice to Gogebic Lodge, where we ate a sandwich at their makeshift “snow beach.”
After fueling and visiting with a group of riders from Indianapolis, we continued south on the west side of the lake before heading southeast toward Watersmeet. At the south end of Gogebic, we picked up connector Trail 100 and rode back east to Trail 13. Trail 13 took us down to Trail 2, and we followed 2 into Watersmeet.
Doubling back pretty much the same way we came, we finished Sunday with close to the same mileage as Saturday. We probably could have ridden more, but one of our riding companions hit a hot streak at the casino and stayed long enough to pay for most of his trip.
Backpacking to Copper Harbor
The final two days of our visit to the Western U.P. included an overnight ride to Copper Harbor on Monday. We started off by taking Trail 8 over to Bruce Crossing and then turned north on Trail 3, pretty much following that corridor all the way up to the point on the Keweenaw Peninsula.
Seemed pretty simple, right? But I’d be lying if I said that first day of backpacking was uneventful. Right away that morning,
an unexpected ski bushing failure had us stopping 13 miles out of route for a two-hour repair in Ontonagon. Then lost luggage forced us to backtrack at Mass City, and finally, a blown belt that afternoon found us making a trailside swap near South Range.
Fortunately, we made it to Houghton in time to buy a new spare before the local dealer closed, and we were finally able to make it up to Copper Harbor, albeit four hours behind schedule but early enough to still get checked into our room and grab a bite to eat.
While the first day’s delays forced us to ride more at night, it did give us the unique perspective to ride down from atop Brockway Mountain and into Copper Harbor with the harbortown lights on. We certainly couldn’t have seen that spectacle in the daylight.
The next morning, we took Trail 134 out of town for a scenic loop back to Trail 3. From there, it was back south through copper country and past the infamous lift bridge at Houghton. Tuesday went much more according to plan, ending back at the hotel in Bergland with 146 miles on for the day and pretty much matching the previous day’s total.
An odometer check while loading the trailer the next morning put the total mileage for the trip well over 550. Satisfied and itching to head south, we closed the trailer door, loaded our gear and packed away our snowmobile facemasks, making sure the other one was easily accessible in our pockets for any stops along the way home.
Clubhouse at Ontonagon
AT THE TRAILHEAD
Trail Administration: What We Do, and How We Learn From Others
Just what do trail managers do? This was the question presented to me when I was asked to be a guest lecturer for an Outdoor Recreation class at Michigan State University in November. It is a lot to consider, and I only had one hour and 15 minutes to explain it all! The students in the class were very receptive to learning about the “Motorized” aspect of trail administration. Of course, I brought candy, so this did a lot to persuade participation as I asked them questions like, What do you think the overall vision for Motorized Recreation Management should be? Who do trail managers partner with?, Where can motorized trails be located? Where do you think snowmobile and ORV trail permit money goes? What do you think are challenges to managing safe and enjoyable trails?
Well, it went so well, that I thought perhaps this info might be interesting to you as well. As far as the candy for participating… I’ll have to owe you!
What Trail Managers Do: Working alongside our partners, volunteers, and trails advisory committees, the DNR Trails section focuses on monitoring and maintaining current trails, helping volunteer organizations with information on grant opportunities and providing support for the work they do, providing grants to snowmobile and ORV clubs and municipalities, and facilitating funding through grants general trail maintenance, for club and landowner insurance, land leases, safety education, large maintenance and infrastructure projects, and more! The DNR has staff who help solve landowner/user conflicts, work on providing trail signs and sign guidelines, and also network with law enforcement, federal agencies, and other states and provinces to establish benchmarks for the quality of our work and partnerships.
Underlying all of this is the State Trail Plan, which helps guide us to our collective vision of A High-Quality Motorized Trails System. In the plan goals are laid out for the following: Enhanced and diverse riding opportunities for all user groups. Consistent maintenance and signage. Addressing safety and environmental impacts. Oversight and management. Evaluation and inspections. Enforcement and education. AND, easy access to Motorized Trails-related information at Michigan Trails – Find Your Path on the DNR website. You can get a copy of the full DNR Trails Plan by contacting DNR-Trails@michigan.gov
Partnerships: Snowmobile and ORV clubs and organizations, local governments and businesses, law enforcement at all levels, other DNR divisions, the US Forest Service, other State of Michigan agencies, and many, many more! Our Motorized Trails Advisory workgroups provide the DNR advice related to the creation, development, operation, and maintenance of the vast statewide designated trail systems. The workgroup is made up of volunteers who represent the various regions of our state and the vast interests of the riders. As a part of their responsibilities, they listen to the concerns and ideas from their peer groups
and bring those things to the table. The workgroups come together at meetings which are held quarterly throughout the year. You can see past meeting minutes, upcoming agendas, and future meeting dates and locations at Michigan.gov/ dnr, and search SAW or ORVAW…
Motorized trails are found in about ¾ of Michigan’s counties. They can be in corn fields, through private property, alongside logging operations, over major bridges, through swamps, on the dunes at Silver Lake, in an old mining pit at Holly Oaks, and following old railroad grades that criss-cross both the Lower and Upper peninsulas.
$$ Snowmobile registration and Trail Permit fees, and ORV License and Trail Permit Fees are distributed according to a legislatively mandated formula for each. These fees are used to maintain trails and administer the program, as well as fund law enforcement efforts and safety education. Federal funds through programs like the Recreational Trails Program (RIF) are also available to help benefit projects to maintain the trails for millions of motorized trails users.
All involved in the world of motorized recreation face many challenges. Topics like accidents on our trails and recreation areas, wildlife protection, wildlife mitigation, rising equipment costs, trespassing on private and restricted public lands, weather events (or no-weather SNOW!), user conflict, and damage restoration are all considered on a daily basis.
Trail administration and management involves both boots on the ground and data management. However, ideas, trends, and collaboration opportunities also come from elsewhere. Networking with others in our industry is essential for Michigan DNR staff. Along with other interest groups, trail administrators gather at annual conferences such as the MISORVA Groomer and Grading workshops, the International Snowmobile Congress, and the National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council Conference. As large national/international groups of ORV and snowmobile recreation enthusiasts gather with trail managers and industry representatives there is a great opportunity for sharing of knowledge, experience, and advice.
The future of motorized recreation will have its ups and downs – but working together toward sound management can be a rewarding experience. There is a large community of people who are enthusiastically committed to making that future brighter!
Thanks to all those who are a part of that community!
Remember to ride right, speak up, ask questions, and encourage our youth to get involved!
I hope to someday see you soon…At the Trailhead.
Jessica Roehrs, Michigan State Motorized Trails Program
Building the trail network for tomorrow
As a member MISORVA, you have greater legislative power. We are your voice in Lansing and Washington D.C.monitoring regulations and proposed legislation that will affect motorized recreation. Without MISORVA's involvement, continued monitoring and influence, we wouldn't have a trail system!
MISORVA helps facilitate safety classes, promoting Zero Tolerance and awarding annual college scholarships. Your MISORVA membership supports a dedicated legislative consultant who works full-time and is aided by office staff. Together, the primary objective is to collaborate with local, state, and federal agencies to ensure the protection and conservation of areas designated for motorized recreation. Along with your legislative voice, you receive four issues of the Michigan Snowmobile & ORV News and monthly Fresh Tracks Newsletter designed to keep you informed and provide you with tips, trip destination information and coverage of sponsored events. If you are not recieving the monthly newsletter please let us know so we can help.
misorva
MISORVA Board of Directors and Regions Map
District 1
Joe Chavis 906-284-1762 upchavis@hotmail.com
Ernie Reimann 906-367-1566 erniereimann@gmail.com
Michael Fik 815-715-0869 imstrech@msn.com
Chad VanBennekom 616 558 1619 chad.vanbennekom@gmail.com
Scott Matteson 269-760-0188 michsnowrider@gmail.com
Lee Palmer 574-286-7457 palmlee@yahoo.com
6: Ride with MISORVA! Snow or Dirt. Rich Rottier has volunteered to guide a ride on snow or dirt. We will depart from the Pleasant Moose at 10:00 am! Come learn more about what we do and who we are! 10 am - 4 pm.
7: Snowmobile Safety Course. With the help of the Allegan Sheriff’s Office, a snowmobile safety class will be held from 9 am to 2 pm. Preregistration is required! Allegan County Snowmobile & ORV Association Clubhouse, 1697 36th Street, Allegan, MI 49010. Link to sign-up: https://michigan.storefront.kalkomey.com/em/events/8093
7: Snowmobile Safety Course. Kalkaska County Sand and Snow will hold a Snowmobile Safety Class from 9 am - 4 pm. Lunch will be provided. Blue Lake Township Hall 10599 Twin Lake Rd NE Mancelona, MI 49659. Link to register: https://kalkaskacountysandandsnow.org/event/ snowmobile-safety-class-2024/
10: Michigan Trails Advisory Council (MTAC) Meeting – Q4. 1:00 pm - 4:30 pm. In-person Location: Grayling Twp Hall 2090 Viking Way Grayling, MI 49738. Online/Audio only: Microsoft Teams meeting, join on your computer, mobile app, or room device, more information on the misorva.org calendar of events.
13-14: Mt. Zion Snocross National. The season kicks off in Ironwood, Michigan at Mt. Zion Ski Hill. This track promises to offer an impressive, elevation-charged track to open the season along with the AMSOIL Dominator, a head-to-head competition between the world’s greatest Snocross racers offering a $10,000 payday to the winner. Mt. Zion Ski Hill E4946 Jackson Rd, Ironwood, MI 49938
JANUARY
4-5: Snowmobile Olympus USAA Ice Oval Racing. Experience thrilling snowmobile racing at the historic Gogebic County Fairgrounds in Ironwood, MI! Practice takes place on Friday, January 3, 2025, from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm CST, followed by racing on Saturday and Sunday, January 4-5, starting at 9:00 am CST each day. Daily race schedules will be posted on the USSA site before the event. Vendor space is available—contact Danielle at 906-523-8301 for details or to donate to the prize raffle. For sponsorship inquiries, reach out to ISO Race Director Greg Basom at 863-557-6872. Location: 648 W Cloverland Dr, Ironwood, MI.
17: Michigan Northern Power Race Park Ditchbangers. A snowmobile race for everyone, even those who have never raced before. A fun race on there flattened Michigan snocross track. The opportunity to hang out with some good people and win some money at the end. LOTS & LOTS OF FUN! 2201 Valley Rd, Mancelona, MI 49659. For the full race schedule and more information please visit: https://www.northernpowerracepark.com/ditchbangers
26 - FEB 1: Soo I-500 Events. The #SooI500’s main event takes place on the first Saturday of February at 10:00 a.m. Join thousands of snowmobile enthusiasts for the 56th International 500 Snowmobile Race on February 1, 2025! Known as the “Granddaddy” of endurance racing, it is the world’s longest and fastest oval race. Excitement begins a week earlier, with the Mini-5 Kids Snowmobile Races on January 26, 2025, followed by Skate Night at the Track and a Riders Meet and Greet on January 27. Enjoy time trials, mid-week races, and family activities in beautiful Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. For the full schedule, visit i-500.com/schedule-at-a-glance/
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