OSM Canada 34.2

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DON’T MISS THE WORLD’S LARGEST SNOWMOBILE SHOW!

PRESENTED BY

TORONTO INTERNATIONAL SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCTOBER 25-27 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE

CROSSOVERS TO BRIDGE THE GAP

GTYAMAHA’ REVOLUTION S GT CLASS DELIVERS CLASS AND PERFORMANCE

NO MORE RUMORS INTERVIEW WITH ARCTIC CAT’S VP CRAIG KENNEDY www.osmmag.com @onsnowmagazine VOL 34 • NO 2 • $ 5.95

DISPLAY UNTIL DEC 31, 2019

AVALANCHE 101 HOW TO SURVIVE AN AVALANCHE SCENE IT? SNAPSHOTS FROM HAY DAYS

GEARBOX


MISSION FX JACKET

The mercury is dropping but your passion to ride keeps pushing you beyond the next ridge. This winter ride with unparalleled confidence knowing you’re wrapped in the protection, warmth and safety of our premium Mission FX crossover jacket. Featuring our exclusive F.A.S.T. floatation membrane that delivers both buoyancy assistance and exceptional insulating qualities; and the nearly unlimited mobility of an Omni-Stretch™ shell with the water resistance of YKK® AquaGuard® zippers.


DON’T COMPROMISE PERFORMANCE & COMFORT WHEN SAFETY IS A PRIORITY


FAC E F OA M





clicked


EASY TARGET Only the fastest photographers survive at snow shoot. Rider: Tyler Swarm Photographer: Todd Williams Location: West Yellowstone, MT


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58 60 78 HAY DAYS 2019 OSM VISITS HAY DAYS

BELT MYTHS BELTS MYTHS WITH ERIC MURRAY

SAY YES WITH THE BEST CROSSOVERS TO BRIDGE THE GAP

AVALANCHE 101

HOW TO SURVIVE AN AVALANCHE

ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 34 • ISSUE 2

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NO MORE RUMORS INTERVIEW WITH ARCTIC CAT’S VP CRAIG KENNEDY

GT REVOLUTION YAMAHA’S GT CLASS DELIVERS CLASS AND PERFORMANCE

INTO THE FUTURE CHARLES BOMBARDIER’S LAKEMASTER

TOWING THE LINE TRAILERING ESSENTIALS

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


116 GEARBOX COLUMNS 14 DRIFTS

RICHARD KEHOE

WINGING IT WITH LEVI

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LEVI LAVALLEE

44 BACKCOUNTRY CHRIS BURANDT

46 SNAPPED ROB ALFORD

112 KELLY SHIRES BREAST CANCER SNOW RUN

DEPARTMENTS

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INDUSTRY NEWS 16 WORD SEARCH 24 25 SUDOKU TAKE 5 38 LAWN ORNAMENTS 48 HONEY HAULERS 50 SNAP DECISION 54 THE FAB 4 56 108 NBFSC PRESIDENTS REPORT 122 OSM LISTINGS

1.888.661.SHOW

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SPECIAL INSERT

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CELEBRITY APPEARANCES NEW SLEDS AND ATVS GIANT USED MARKET HUGE MANUFACTURER DISPLAYS AFTERMARKET PRODUCTS LIVE FREESTYLE SHOWS ONE DAY SUNDAY SWAP AMAZING CUSTOM EXHIBITS PLAN YOUR TRIP & BUY YOUR PERMITS FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

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VOLUME 34 NUMBER 2

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President & Publisher: Richard Kehoe Copy Editor: Rick Bloye Art Director: Darryl Aspin Production Manager: Tendra Crossman General Manager: Michael Blakoe Advertising Sales: 1-888-661-7469 Director of Sales & Marketing: Andrew McEwan Sales & Marketing: Ben Morrison, Andrew Gurman Coordinator: Logan Gamble Administrative Assistant: Sarah Day Photographers: Todd Williams, Jeff Hann, Taylor Batch, James Wicken, Rob Alford, Richard Kehoe, Tendra Crossman, Mike Blakoe, Ben Morrison, Logan Gamble, Maria Sandberg, Shelby Mahon, Chris Burandt, Emily Wicklund, Brian Caswell, Levi LeValee, Kristen LaVallee Contributing Writers: Mark Boncher, Levi LaVallee, Chris Burandt, Tyler Swarm, Ben Morrison, Andrew Gurman, Suzy Stenoff, Darren Desautels, Ross Antworth, Maria Sandberg, Rob Alford, Jason Kawczynski, Jordan Hammack, Richard Kehoe, Mike Blakoe, Logan Gamble, Mike Duffy, Jeff Steenbakkers Subscriptions: 1-888-661-7469 or info@osmmag.com OSM is published six times a year by OSM Publishing Ltd. Office address and undelivered copies and change of address notice is: PO Box 551, 27083 Kennedy Road, Willow Beach, ON L0E 1S0, Canada. Telephone (905) 722-6766. Printed in Canada by: Trade Secrets • Copyright 2019 OSM Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. The publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts. Subscription rates for magazine (includes Trail Map Atlas) $19.00 per year, $29.00 for 2 years. $37.00 for 3 years.

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 34 • ISSUE 2

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


THE 2019 FORD F-150

GET OUT AND STAY OUT.

With our most capable F-150 ever, there’s no limit to where your journeys may lead. So, load up your F-150 with all the gear necessary for any adventure. And it’s loaded with technology and innovations that help you get there, and get work done (but only if you want to).

MAXIMUM TOWING OF UP TO 13,200 LBS AND BEST-IN-CLASS PAYLOAD THAT EASILY HANDLES THE BIGGEST TOYS

AVAILABLE WI-FI HOTSPOT † CAPABILITY FOR BOTH WORK AND PLAY

BACK IT UP RIGHT THE FIRST TIME WITH AVAILABLE PRO TRAILER BACKUP ASSIST‡

EXPLORE THE 2019 FORD F-150. FORD.CA/UNDISPUTED Vehicle may be shown with optional features. ‡Some driver input required. Driver-assist features are supplemental and do not replace the driver’s attention, judgment and need to control the vehicle. *When properly congured. Maximum payload of 3,270 lbs on 2019 F-150 XL Regular Cab 4x2, 8′ box, available 5.0L engine, Heavy Duty Payload Package and 18″ Heavy Duty Wheels. Maximum towing of 13,200 lbs on 2019 F-150 XL SuperCrew 4x2, 6.5′ box with available 3.5L EcoBoost engine and Max Trailer Tow Package. Class is Full-Size Pickups under 8,500 lbs. GVWR based on Ford segmentation. †FordPass Connect, an optional feature, is required. Wi-Fi hotspot includes wireless data trial that begins upon AT&T activation and expires at the end of 3 months or when 3GB of data is used, whichever comes rst, but cannot extend beyond the subscription period for remote features. To activate, go to www.att.com/ford. ©2019 Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited. All rights reserved.


drifts

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Richard Kehoe

READY TO RALLY deep into the swap. Any triple cylinder snowmobile or parts for one in the field, he’d find it. Jeff’s always planning on upgrading stuff on his fleet of triples. I know this year he has something up his sleeve for the 2nd Annual STV/OSM Triple Tour that he is trying to keep under wraps. This year I left the event unscathed without getting caught up in the buying of unneeded things… Like in years past, with purchasing deer heads, antlers and old carbides from the swap. I did find some decent buys, but I couldn’t find any dealership signs for sale that I was hoping for to put up in the OSM/STV shop. Maybe my next swap event will prove more successful. Perhaps the Peterborough Sledarama later this November will have what I’m looking for. Last year I missed out on three vintage signs to a collector from Quebec that purchased them all on the driveway way into the swap. Which in my mind is kind of cheating the swap etiquette, but good for him for beating the crowd. Until next time, I will be getting ready for the big show, the World’s Largest Snowmobile, ATV & Powersports Show at the International Centre. There’s going to be a lot to see and a lot to do with every manufacturer present all at one place, under one roof. The show will have endless deals from various retailers, and everything that is new from the snowmobile industry. Mark your calendars now to attend the Toronto Snowmobile, ATV Show, October 25, 26, 27, 2019 at the International Centre. Make sure you check out an indoor Freestyle Show inside hall four featuring Heath Frisby, Cody Elkins, Brody Wilson, Kassie Boone and Keith Sayers. You can’t miss it, and the parking is FREE.

ike every September we’re swamped with numerous projects, multiple magazines, programs, trade shows and TV shows that all overlap, and will do so for the next 6 months. And we have added even more work this year with a new expansion… Which we will announce closer to the new-year. It’s all coming together. Our fall events have been amazing, and have kept us very busy. Earlier in September we hit Hay Days and this year we brought a few staffers that have never been before, and some that haven’t been in over five years. It’s great to support such an event with so many people, and so much SNOWMOBILE. The first-time visitors in our group; STV Editor Brent Geerlings, and OSM/ATV World Magazine/STV sales and marketing associate Andrew Gurman were surprised how many people roam a field filled with predominantly powersport ‘stuff’. These guys being sledders and off-road enthusiasts were thrilled to check out all the booths, swappers and drag racing. It’s important that new comers to any snowmobile event feel welcomed and enjoy the time spent. STV host Jeff Steenbakkers, and OSM/STV Director of Sales, Andrew McEwan haven’t attended for five years or so, but were happy to get back to the field in North Branch, Minnesota. These guys would quietly disappear into the swap and check out what was going on taking in all that Hay Days has to offer. Where McEwan would stay a little closer by the food trucks searching out shop decor, Jeff would go in deep combing the swap and every item up for sale. Jeff’s love for parts, accessories and interesting stuff runs deep in him and as a result, would send him

Ski-Doo 600R, 850, 900T

Harness all the power from our 850 clutch kits. Acceleration is improved as well as lightning quick back shift. Whether on trail or off, high or low elevation we have a kit for your need.

P Drive Clutch

Mini Sled Performance: Available for all minis, ZR 200 and SnoScoot –

clutch kits, race kits, suspension mods, shocks, engine mods, carb kits, new lightweight suspension arms, and rear suspensions.

Shock Rebuilds: Don’t be shocked when your ride is not what it once was. You know your shocks need to be rebuilt. Let us do it with Tech-Syn high performance seals. We service Fox, ACT, KYB, Walker Evans, Works Performance, RydeFX, Ohlins and HPG. Guaranteed quick turnaround.

We have all the P drive tools as well as adjustable pivot weight kits, springs, ramps and replacement parts.

visit goodwinperformance.com for our catalog of quality products 14

ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 34 • ISSUE 2 2608-5GoodwinPer16h.indd

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TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com 9/20/192019 1:46 PM


THE ULTIMATE ADVENTURE FOR TWO

2020 TITAN ADVENTURE

The TITAN® Adventure 155 is fully featured and a true do-it-all sled. It Comes with a Lock & Ride® Versa Touring Passenger Seat with heated passenger grips and footrests, cargo rack, cargo box, tow hitch, mirrors, Polaris® Interactive Digital Display, premium shocks, and a 24" high windshield that provides outstanding rider protection. Make it yours with a full selection of Polaris Engineered® Accessories to outfit your TITAN® for exactly your activities and needs.

polaris.com/snowmobiles Polaris recommends that all riders take a safety training course. Do not attempt maneuvers beyond your capability. Always wear a helmet and other safety apparel. Never drink and ride.


news 01

KIMPEX ANNOUNCES EXCLUSIVE WITH MUC-OFF

With a history dating back to 1994, the U.K. company Muc-Off introduced eco cleaners that unlike the competition weren’t using any salt. As everyone knows, especially in winter sports where salt is used on the roads to for de-icing, salt is not metal friendly. Since 1994, Muc-Off has expanded their line-up to include cars and even sponsor an F1 race team. No matter what you are cleaning from cars to bikes to off-road vehicles to snowmobiles, Muc-Off has a product for you that is now in Canada is exclusively available through Kimpex.

FRISBY IS 02 HEATH BACK IN TORONTO at the Worlds largest Snowmobile show, the Toronto International Snowmobile, ATV & Powersports Show, October 25-27 at the International Centre. Joining Heath will be Brody Wilson, Keith Sayers, Cody Elkins and Kassie Boone. Show attendees will be able to take in the freestyle shows twice daily with autographs to immediately follow. Torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

CSRA ADDS UTV RACING

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The Canadian Snowcross Racing Association (CSRA) will be including two UTV racing classes at select events. The two classes consist of a 0-1000cc non turbo class with a maximum width of 64” and a 0-1000cc Turbo class with a maximum width of 74”. The racing will be head to head in an eliminator format. CSRA is also going to have a Top Gun Shootout at the high profile events that will include past Pro Champs, team owners, sponsors and manufacturer representatives.

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 34 • ISSUE 2

SPEEDWERX PRODUCT LINE EXPANDS

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Earlier this month Speedwerx expanded their Arctic Cat only snowmobile performance products to include both Polaris and Ski-Doo snowmobiles. Polaris and Ski-Doo owners can now shop the same Speedwerx catalogue that Arctic Cat owners have been using for sometime. Some of the more popular Speedwerx items that are now available to Polaris and Ski-Doo owners include the lightweight mufflers, supercharger kits, and clutch parts. Interested? Speedwerx can be reached at 651-982-0600 www.speedwerxstore.com

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


A LIGHTWEIGHT INSULATED FOG-FREE HELMET * REDEFINE TRAIL RIDING

EXPE R IE N CE A ON E- OF -A- KI N D H EL MET AERODYNAMIC, LIGHTWEIGHT AND SPORTY, IT PROVIDES AN EFFECTIVE PROTECTION AGAINST THE COLD. THE MISSION HELMET SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCES THE RISK OF FOGGING BY INTEGRATING AMS TECHNOLOGY.

BREATHE LIKE NEVER BEFORE INTEGRATED AIR MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

SEE BIG, SEE FAR OVERSIZED SHIELD

RIDE AT FULL SPEED REMOVABLE & AERODYNAMIC PEAK

SHUT OUT SUN GLARE ADJUSTABLE PEAK WITH TWO POSITIONS

COMMUNICATE FREELY OVERSIZED OPENING

RIDE WITHOUT FATIGUE THE LIGHTEST IN ITS CATEGORY**

* Clearly effective for a large proportion of people, uses, and conditions, the performance of AMS varies based on the type of use, the weather conditions, and the adjustment of the helmet and breath deflector. ** Electrical version, without peak. For all equipped version : additional ± 150 g. 1580 g = carbon, 1680 g = fiberglass

GO BEYOND THE HORIZON WWW.CKXMISSION.COM


news

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SKI-DOO AMBASSADOR CARL KUSTER WILL BE AT THE TORONTO SNOWMOBILE/ATV SHOW Carl Kuster from the Carl Kuster Mountain Park (CKMP) is scheduled to be in the Ski-Doo exhibit October 25-27 during the Toronto International Snowmobile, ATV & Powersports Show. Carl will be on hand answering questions on the Ski-Doo model line-up and give a lot of insight on Ski-Doo’s mountain sleds. CKMP is based out of the Monashee mountain range in British Columbia, and includes a state-of-the-art shop/garage and the rustic Habanero Lodge. Other lodging options are also available, as is a full fleet of the newest Ski-Doo snowmobiles.

2018 Triton Dealer of the Year! • All Aluminum • Exceptional Durability • Tough & Lightweight

• Premium Fit & Finish

SAVING MONEY WITH 06 BIKEMAN PERFORMANCE Hwy. 89, Shelburne • 519-925-2089

www.scottreinharttrailers.com 18

ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 34 • ISSUE 2

Thinking of adding some performance to your sled this year? Bikeman Performance is offering free shipping for online orders over $100 in the continental USA (lower 48 states) by using promo code “FREESHIP100” at checkout! If your order is under $100, or if you reside in Hawaii, Alaska or Canada use promo code “ATVW8” to save 8% off your call in or online order. www.bikemanperformance.com

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com



TAIGA MOTORS INTRODUCES NEW VEHICLE 07

news

Like many of you reading this right now, we too have been snowmobiling for a long time. Well, Taiga Motors had us scratching our heads with a video that they recently shared of a submerged Taiga snowmobile saying, “Most snowmobiles can drive across water…but what about underwater?” The video continues on with one of their sleds ripping down a beach and then into shallow water, followed by submerging in the water only to come back out of the water and continuing to the other side. How does this happen? Electric motors do not require oxygen to operate like gas-powered engines; this is why the Taiga snowmobile didn’t stall out when going under the water line. We reported back in early August that we only thought that it was a matter of time before Taiga Motors released a watercraft. Well…Taiga Motors has announced that they will be getting into the personal watercraft market. Their electric watercraft named the Orca features a carbon fiber haul and top deck, the dashboard features GPS mapping, LTE, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Taiga is claiming that the Orca will reach a top speed of 104 kmph / 65 mph and will produce 180 horsepower. The driving range is 2 hours based on typical driving conditions with a claimed weight of 580 lbs. and is said to charge 80% in 20 minutes on DC fast charge. When will Taiga Motors produce a quad or side-by-side? We’d say any day now. www.taigamotors.ca

KELLY SHIRES BREAST 08 CANCER SNOW RUN SETS DATES

The 21st Annual Kelly Shires Breast Cancer Snow Run is set to take place once again at Hidden Valley Resort in Huntsville, Ontario, January 31st through February 2nd, 2020. The all woman snowmobiling event has raised over $6 million since the inception back in 2000. Participants are required to raise $1,250 with all money put in trust for breast cancer patients and distributed through the Kelly Shires Foundation. KSBCSR has announced their 2020 raffle, 1st prize is a 2020 Ski-Doo Renegade Adrenaline, 2nd prize is a $500 Royal Distributing gift card, and 3rd prize is a one-night stay for two at Hidden Valley Resort, and the early bird prize is a 2020 Can-Am XT 570. Breastcancersnowrun.org.

POWER IN THE PIPES

Check out our custom design FLASH gallery

LIGHTWEIGHT, SILENCERS TRAIL PIPES & RACE PIPES

jawsperformance.com

PIPE +5101ETH EC P 8

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613-489-5297

ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 34 • ISSUE 2

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


Performance Driven! Performance Proven! Everything about an Ultimax belt is designed to deliver superior performance and dependability. On the track or on the trail, you can depend on the same belt champions choose – Ultimax. Available from your local powersports dealer.

Ultimax MAX Double cog construction provides greater belt strength while preserving flexibility. Designed for 500cc and vintage machines. One year warranty. Made in USA.

Ultimax PRO Delivers enhanced performance and longer belt life on mid-horsepower snowmobiles. The advanced design dissipates heat and boosts flexibility. One year warranty. Made in USA.

Ultimax XS Peak power and efficiency for screamin’ high-performance. Purpose-built for high horsepower sleds. Specially formulated rubber compound found in no other snowmobile belt. One year warranty. Made in USA. The Ultimax belts family includes Ultimax MAX, Ultimax PRO and Ultimax XS snowmobile belts; Ultimax HQ, Ultimax UA, and Ultimax XP drive belts for ATVs, UTVs and SxSs; and Ultimax MD (Multi-Duty) belts.

ultimaxbelts.com

Find the right belt for your machine with our easy-to-use Belt Finder: Photo courtesy of RLT Photos. Copyright 2018 Timken Belts


news

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WIN THE KLIM 20TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION 2019 POLARIS 850 PRO RMK 163 All you have to do is donate $5 to the Avalanche Alliance on the Klim website for your chance to win. The Klim 20th anniversary edition is far from just bold graphics although it does come nicely wrapped in a custom Arctic FX wrap. The Klim 20th anniversary edition RMK features Zbroz’s Exit X1 shocks, front and rear bumpers and skid plate and SLP’s Outlaw twin pipes, high flow air intake, Mohawk skis and clutch kit. Donate now for your chance to win! The winner will be announced December 16, 2019. www.klim.com

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OFSC TRAIL PERMITS ON SALE NOW Don’t miss this opportunity to buy your OFSC trail permit and save some serious dollars. Early season permits are now on sale for $190 until November 1, 2019. After November 1, permits will increase by 30%. www. ofsc.on.ca

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PINK RIBBON RIDERS 2020 SNOW RUN TOUR READY TO HIT THE ROAD

The Snow Run event is celebrating it’s 16th year of the event and 14 years of the actual organization being formed. Since being formed the organization has given $1.9 million to those in need. The mission of the Pink Ribbon Riders organization is to provide direct financial assistance to men and women battling breast cancer.

BLAIR “SUPERMAN” MORGAN PACKS HIS BAGS FOR THE TORONTO SNOWMOBILE & ATV SHOW

Ski-Doo will have Blair Morgan in their huge BRP display at the Toronto International Snowmobile, ATV & Powersports Show, October 25, 26, 27, 2019 at the International Centre. Morgan, the multi time CMRC Motocross champion, 5 time X-Game gold medalist, and multi time World Snowcross Champion will be signing autographs in the BRP booth on Friday from 6pm-7pm, Saturday from 10am-11am and 2pm-3pm, and Sunday from 10am-12noon.

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PINK RIBBON RIDERS 2020 SNOW RUN TOUR SCHEDULE:

January 18th – Michigan Snow Run, Eagles Lodge, Gaylord February 8th – New York Snow Run, George Hildebrandt Recreation Center, Old Forge February 15th – Minnesota Snow Run, Sugar Lake Lodge, Grand Rapids, MN March 13 & 14 – Wyoming Snow Run, Togwotee Mountain Lodge, Moran For more information on how to sign up for an event, or share with a friend about the Patient Assistance Program visit www.pinkribbonriders.com

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com



news

When safety never takes a holiday, especially on Monday mornings, maybe you should think of riding with a TekVest. Tekrider has announced a new TekVest for 2002 called the TrailMaster. Not only can the TrailMaster protect you from potential mishaps but can keep your mobile devices from freezing. At some point every snowmobiler can say that they have pulled their phone out and the cold has zapped the battery. The new TrailMaster vents your body heat through two pockets large enough for your devices to help maintain warmth and prolong battery life. www.tekrider.com

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TEKRIDER INTRODUCES NEW TEKVEST

FXR RACING EXPANDS INTO FISHING GEAR

FXR Racing is known to be a leader when it comes to gear design and functionality in the snowmobile, motocross and outdoor gear markets. FXR now offers a complete fishing apparel line for anglers no matter the season. In the warmer months anglers can rely on the M Strike line-up featuring a moisture wicking polyester, spandex blend with an important sunshield of 50. For the colder months anglers can depend on staying warm with fishing specific insulated pants, jackets and boot combinations. For more information on FXR’s newest fishing gear visit www.fxrracing.

Need some time alone in your thinking room, have a seat on the throne and give it a go. WHAT YOU’LL SEE AT THE WORLDS LARGEST SNOWMOBILE SHOW "What you'll See at the Worlds LARGEST SNOWMOBILE SHOW" C S T R O Y A L D I S T R I B U T I N G A Accessories U S V I N T A G E R I C T A C C I T C R A Amsoil M E R R O S U N D A Y S W A P N M S H A S Arctic Cat K I N A M E T T R A I L E R S O B D D R D Bacon Clubs A R D S R E K C I T S R A Y L C E S A B F CSRA Y O O M Q U H M B R P T H E G A R A G E S Customs U S E D M A R K E T C A E A R B S R O F T Dayco H S C E G W A N G L H U I K R M L A O M L Dealers O E M I O K V E U A B E N E C S E R D A E Ford L C N C G F T B M A N L G S M A D N I X B Freestyle Y C Y D G R S A E A W Y S O R T J P K I X Friends C A E M L N Y C P O M T T L P E O O S T A FXR D F X X E P M I K A H S I N G W L L R L M Gear R I L Y S P O R P T U E O S D G O A O U I Goggles U D O O S K C S A C S E S I D I E R E H T Jackets M G T O U R I S M S K R U Y L G K I W D L Kimpex B H F S D U T S C R X F R I E N D S I S U Maps

WORD SEARCH

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MBRP OFSC OSM Polaris Royal Distributing Ski-Doo Skis Stickers Studs STV Sunday Swap Timbersled Tourism Trailers Ultimax Belts Used Market Vintage Yamaha

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


Sudoku - Very Hard

onsnow

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SUDOKU - VERY HARD

osmmag.com

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WOODY’S QUICK CARBIDE CHALLENGE

At the up coming Toronto Snowmobile & ATV Show, October 25-27 at the International Centre in Mississauga, Ontario, Woody’s will feature their “Woody’s Quick Carbide Challenge Event” with in their booth all weekend. In a Nascar pit crew like setting, show attendees can change carbides on the clock to see who is the fastest for top prizes.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 34 • ISSUE 2

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19890 1 989 890 0 Hi High Highway ghwa wayy 11 11, Bo Box 12 1240 1240, 40 Brad B Bradford, radfo ford rd ON

905-775-1717

WWW.EDGEPERFORMANCE.CA

2020 850 PRO RMK

HWY 11

@edgeperformctr

Polaris recommends that all snowmobile riders take a training course. Do not attempt

Polaris recommends snowmobile riders a training course. Do not attempt maneuvers beyond that yourall capability. Always weartake a helmet and other safety apparel. maneuvers beyond your capability. Always wear a helmet and other safety apparel. Never drink and ride. ©2018 Polaris Industries Inc. Never drink and ride. ©2014 Polaris Industries Inc.

PERFORMANCE

905-775-1717

CENTRE WWW.EDGEPERFORMANCE.CA T

@edgeperformancecentre

19890 Highway 11, Box 1240, Bradford, ON S HUR BAT

DEMO UNITS AVAILABLE

HOLLAND LANDIN G

TERRAIN DOMINATION TerrainDomination.com

19890 1 989 890 0 Hi High Highway ghwa wayy 11 11, Bo Box 12 1240 1240, 40 Brad B Bradford, radfo ford rd ON

905-775-1717

WWW.EDGEPERFORMANCE.CA HWY 11

@edgeperformctr

Polaris recommends that all snowmobile riders take a training course. Do not attempt

Polaris recommends snowmobile riders a training course. Do not attempt maneuvers beyond that yourall capability. Always weartake a helmet and other safety apparel. maneuvers beyond your capability. Always wear a helmet and other safety apparel. Never drink and ride. ©2018 Polaris Industries Inc. Never drink and ride. ©2014 Polaris Industries Inc.

PERFORMANCE

905-775-1717

CENTRE WWW.EDGEPERFORMANCE.CA T

@edgeperformancecentre

19890 Highway 11, Box 1240, Bradford, ON S HUR BAT

QUALITY USED SLEDS

HOLLAND LANDIN G

TERRAIN DOMINATION TerrainDomination.com

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19890 1 989 890 0 Hi High Highway ghwa wayy 11 11, Bo Box 12 1240 1240, 40 Brad B Bradford, radfo ford rd ON

905-775-1717

WWW.EDGEPERFORMANCE.CA HWY 11

CHECK OUT OUR NEW WEBSITE @edgeperformctr

Polaris recommends that all snowmobile riders take a training course. Do not attempt

Polaris recommends snowmobile riders a training course. Do not attempt maneuvers beyond that yourall capability. Always weartake a helmet and other safety apparel. maneuvers beyond your capability. Always wear a helmet and other safety apparel. Never drink and ride. ©2018 Polaris Industries Inc. Never drink and ride. ©2014 Polaris Industries Inc.

PERFORMANCE

905-775-1717

CENTRE WWW.EDGEPERFORMANCE.CA T

@edgeperformancecentre

19890 Highway 11, Box 1240, Bradford, ON S HUR BAT

ONLINE PARTS SHOPPING

HOLLAND LANDIN G

TERRAIN DOMINATION TerrainDomination.com

19890 1 989 890 0 Hi High Highway ghwa wayy 11 11, Bo Box 12 1240 1240, 40 Brad B Bradford, radfo ford rd ON

905-775-1717

WWW.EDGEPERFORMANCE.CA HWY 11

@edgeperformctr

Polaris recommends that all snowmobile riders take a training course. Do not attempt

Polaris recommends snowmobile riders a training course. Do not attempt maneuvers beyond that yourall capability. Always weartake a helmet and other safety apparel. maneuvers beyond your capability. Always wear a helmet and other safety apparel. Never drink and ride. ©2018 Polaris Industries Inc. Never drink and ride. ©2014 Polaris Industries Inc.

PERFORMANCE

905-775-1717

CENTRE WWW.EDGEPERFORMANCE.CA T

@edgeperformancecentre

19890 Highway 11, Box 1240, Bradford, ON S HUR BAT

NEW NON-CURRENTS

HOLLAND LANDIN G

TERRAIN DOMINATION TerrainDomination.com

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sceneit

Hay Days 2019 Earlier this month our crew from OSM and Snowmobiler Television packed up and headed out to the 53rd Annual Hay Days in North Branch, Minnesota. Hay Days is a huge outdoor snowmobile show and swap with a lot of outdoor features. There were sled manufactures, gear and accessories displayed, swap booths and events like freestyle, racing and mud grass drags going on. If you haven’t made your way to Hay Days, maybe it’s time that you put this September event on your to do list.

Even though the swapper says it’s a runner, may we suggest a vehicle walk around?

There were many vintage sleds on display.

A lot of these quality fixer-upper opportunities, lay throughout the swap. For only $300 the motor will turn over, but it needs a carburetor… and lots of love.

Near mint! All it needs is a new seat cover.

Typical scene in the swap. Boys…Beers…BS being spread and of course some parts!

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TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


Who’d have guessed that an old bus with a monster 4-place sled deck would be such a honey wagon?

If you come across someone trying to sell their old sweat filled swampers, take our advice and walk away.

We found these matching his and her’s Indy Trails for only $1000, plus they’d throw in covers and all of the parts around them.

We’re not sure why these 3 screws were sticking out of the ski on this sled. We can only guess that it was a theft deterrent. If you have an idea of why these screws were installed email us at info@ osmmag.com with a Subject Line “I’ve got the answer”, and if we like what you have to say we’ll send you a t-shirt. Include your size, name and shipping address! TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

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sceneit

Ski tips optional…One of the first attempts at weight reduction in the late ‘80s that didn’t work.

STV’s host Jeff Steenbakkers couldn’t believe someone would ever part with a near perfect XCR 6.

How can you say no to anything for a buck in 2019?

The sweat-filled used shoe and helmet market at Hay Days is both gross and surprisingly quite popular…

When you see this type of sales technique you have to stand and applaud. We took a picture of this vibrant 1991 Wildcat to prove that some are still in mint condition. Many believed that they vibrated so badly that all the bolts and rivets would shake right out of it.

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TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


www.daycoproducts.com


sceneit

Savvy Swappers never miss a sale even when they’re not there.

Guess how many hoods are stacked here? Guess right and win a prize from OSM - Send answers to info@ osmmag.com Subject Line “MY GUESS”.

To many swappers had trailers like this one just over flowing with S%!#.

It wouldn’t be Hay Days if Tiny Tim didn’t make it out.

The seller clearly didn’t want to sell this honey… Not only didn’t they clean it, but they also displayed a boost pack right in front of the old Excel showing a lack of enthusiasm in the starting power.

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FXR had a monster booth across from the track.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com



sceneit

Polaris had a lot of their race sleds on display.

Ski-Doo was the only MFG to release a new race sled at Hay Days.

Back to back Iron Dog wins for the #10 of Chris Olds and Mike Morgan.

The Yamaha Sidewinder is one of the bestlooking sleds in the entire field.

Bikeman Performance always brings a massive set-up.

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TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


THE TRAIL

BENCHMARK KEWEENAW JACKET & PANT

We went back to the drawing board to rebuild Keweenaw into the warmest, most versatile and durable trail jacket. Engineered from rider feedback and extensive testing, it is purpose-built to help you adapt to extreme conditions with 3-in-1 insulation and offer better safety on frozen lakes. Keweenaw keeps you on the gas through all conditions, all season long.

K L I M .C O M


sceneit

Arctic Cat had a new booth this year, which provided shelter to all when the rain arrived.

Turns out Brad’s true talent is with a chainsaw.

An outlaw sled ready for lift off with a Predator pilot.

As always, the freestyle show was a hit.

Watching the speeds that the elite drag sleds hit is both scary and exciting.

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TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com



take 5

TX-L INDY

INDY

The Indy name originated from Polaris’s new Independent Front Suspension (IFS). Since the inception of the Indy name 40 years ago, it has become synonymous with winning. Polaris Indy snowmobiles have won on every type of snowmobile race track such as cross country, grass drags, hill climbs, ice oval to snow cross and everything in between. In the hands of consumers, there’s nothing that the Polaris Indy hasn’t dominated; from radar runs, to unit sales in its 40-year history!

The “Grand Daddy” of the Indy legacy. Around 40 years ago in 1980, the first Indy was released called the TX-L INDY. The TX-L had a liquid cooled 333cc twin cylinder engine, and although it wasn’t the biggest sled in the Polaris arsenal in 1980, it came to the market with Independent Front Suspension (IFS) with trailing arms, radius rods, spindles and skis with coiled over shocks which changed the way snowmobiles handled and performed. IFS changed how consumers rode snowmobiles, and put INDY racers to the checker flags first. The TX-L INDY set the table for a long, rich history, both on the trails and on the race tracks, in a dominating fashion.

INDY XLT

Perhaps the largest, single season selling snowmobile of all time, the Xtra Light Triple (XLT) had a simple goal. Make an extra light triple power plant, (lighter than smaller twin engine displacements) and sell a pile of them. Polaris managed to exceed both of these expectations. The 579 cc Fuji engine was as ultra smooth sounding as Barry White, and had people falling in love with the XLT for almost a decade. Unfortunately for the XLT, the consumer’s desire to terrorize frozen lakes and trails on triple cylinder, two-stroke snowmobiles came to an end. This made way for the rebirth of big, twin cylinder engines and the industry changing, rider positioned forward sleds were introduced.

INDY RXL

Featuring the renowned sound of its predecessor, the 650 RXL had a sound affectionately known as the National Anthem of snowmobiling playing from under its hood. Crowds would stand and listen to 650s rumble by in awe, and respect it from near by parking lots. What truly made the RXL one of the top machines, of not only Indy’s, but snowmobiles of all time, is that the RXL was the first snowmobile to have Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI). Under the hood, it changed the way that fuel and air where mixed, and EFI caused many mixed feelings in the snowmobile community. Many felt that it was more reliable to change jets for different elevations and temperatures, rather than to rely on electronics. Those feelings went from disbelief and unfathomed reliability, to the industry standard very quickly. Consumers now had a snowmobile that would give more consistent performance, with EFI similar to that of an automobile. In today’s world, not many would remember or dream of having to change the main jets in the carburetor.

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INDY XCR 850 INDY 600

Nothing came out of a crate swinging like a Polaris INDY 600. The competition was quickly put on notice that there was a new sheriff in town. Polaris was soon sending other racers and wannabe drag strip kings of other brands to their trailers quickly, as the 600 was able to hit the 100MPH barrier all day long. Simply put, it was fast and was all black, looking mean and sinister like Darth Vader. The 600’s triple cylinder engine into triple exhaust pipes made beautiful music, to the delight of the owner and bystanders alike.

Picking up from the Grand Daddy’s roots of the TX-L, the INDY XCR 850 put the snowmobile world on notice to make room on the podium, as it was here to win. Much like the Indy name, X (Cross) Country Racer (XCR) has been synonymous for winning with its INDY 440 XCR heritage of winning cross country, oval, Le Mans and snocross races. The potent 850 Patriot Engine is scary good and scary fast, and when combined with the PRO-CC rear suspension and the AXYS chassis, it makes for a wild, exciting ride that will take some back to the ultra dominant days of the INDY raced by Jack Struthers. Like INDY, XCR, Struthers was another word for winning. Struthers was a very accomplished racers winning the I-500 three times, was the Rocky Mountain Champion six -times (including a championship run from 1990 to 1994) and also winning many two and three man team races and numerous snow cross races. Jack Struthers went out on top in 1996 after winning the MRP high point championship and his successes, like that of the INDY, brought both envy and respect from the competition.

e r o t S y o My T 347 Cranston Crescent, Midland, ON L4R 4K6 705.526.2248 • www.factoryrecreation.com ® TM and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates.

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winging it LEVI LAVALLEE

A LITTLE REMINDER

Riding at home, Longville MN

A

re you thankful that you get to ride? Are you thankful you are able to walk? Are you thankful to be alive? . . . Is gratitude slipping from our faster, easier, automated society we live in? This topic is very broad, but let’s narrow it down to snowmobiling. Recently, Snocross Racer Malene Andersen posted about her birthday, and hash tagged #blessedtobealive.

What a great reminder to appreciate the things we take for granted! I mean, when was the last time you thought to yourself, “I am thankful for being alive.”? As mentioned, the topic of gratitude can go really deep, so let’s talk about sled gratitude. When I was a kid growing up, I remember wanting to ride all day, any day, in any conditions. My buddy and I

Totally Xtreme Levi (1980 Polaris TXL 340)

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would ride the ditches, even though they looked more like a Snocross track from everyone riding them . . . and the trails were so icy, you would be in the toolies if you didn’t have a good set of carbides and studs. Even though the conditions were less than ideal, it didn’t matter because we loved riding, and we knew any kind of riding was better than sitting at home being bored. The other thing that we both had in common was that we both saved our money from our summer and weekend jobs as high schoolers to pay for our sleds. Did this help us appreciate being out riding even more? I’m sure it helped knowing that riding was the reason for all the days going to work while other kids were off doing other things. Fast forward to today, as we scroll through social media and see the endless pictures and videos of perfect sleds, with perfect gear in perfect condition, and it seems that anything less than perfect is unacceptable by the social media measuring stick. Does the constant reminder that there are better conditions and better sleds, make a person want nothing less than the ideal situation? Does the thought of having to defend yourself against the social media

120 Wheelies

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THE

POWER YOU NEED

FOR THE

PASSION YOU HAVE CHECK OUT OUR COMPLETE LINE OF PERFORMANCE PARTS AT

WWW.BIKEMANPERFORMANCE.COM TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

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winging it LEVI LAVALLEE

trolls deter you from sharing your sled fun, because they will let you know your sled isn’t new, or you weren’t in two feet of pow? Does this cause some people to not ride? A “fair weathered rider” is a rider that only rides when the conditions are ideal, and they have the latest and greatest sled. Is that what we are becoming? You wouldn’t believe the amount of people that almost sound ashamed to tell me they have a 20-year-old sled. All I think about is the incredible memories I have riding those 20+ year old sleds like my Dad’s XLT’s, XCR’s, and Ultra’s from back then! Has social media created this unrealistic expectation of what fun is? Or have we become so ungrateful that we can no longer be happy with just having a snowmobile and getting out riding? After my distance jump crash in 2010, where I did a 360+ ft endo at 104.9mph, and jump off the sled, which caused me to bust all my ribs, collapse both my lungs, fracture my pelvis and three vertebra, and wiped three days from my memory, I began to really appreciate being alive. The interesting thing is that one of the most important things to be grateful for is life, and we often take it for granted until something serious happens. After that crash, when I realized I realistically shouldn’t be here, I took a step back and really began to appreciate the small things. Once

Me and my dad at one of my first buddy races in 1995.

I began to really try to appreciate all things, which forces you to look at the hard times or things you dislike and try to find the positive in them, I began to look at everything like the “high school Levi” who loved to ride on the snocross whooped out ditches and icy trails.

I bagged a lot of groceries for this seld.

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So, as a reminder, it doesn’t matter whether you have a new sled, an old sled, two feet of powder, or riding on ice, remember to be grateful that you get the opportunity to ride, and you will be amazed at how awesome every ride is then.

Riding with friends in Cochrane, Ontario - Awesome snow, smooth trails, and -30 Degree Temps (BRRRR)

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com



backcountry CHRIS BURANDT

BACK TO THE FUTURE…

PART 2

Photo by Stephen Clark.

I

t’s fun thinking about the future. I’ve written several articles in the past on this topic because, well…It’s exciting! So cool to think back ten, or even twenty years ago, to the sleds we were riding, and wondering how they could get much better. I chuckle as I write this because in 1997, I was certain there was no need to build another sled, other than my pretty turquois and pink, Polaris Indy 700 RMK. That sled opened my eyes up to new possibilities just like the 05 Arctic Cat M7 did, the 2011 Pro RMK did, and the more recent 2016 Axys RMK did. So what the heck is next??? As I mentioned above, I’ve written about this topic several times, and I’ve asked this same question in every article. What’s so cool about re-visiting this year after year, is that things keep changing and evolving. A couple of things on my brain this go ‘round is the need for a REAL kids mountain sled, and is an electric sled a real possibility? First let’s tackle the kids segment. I’ll be the first to admit that my knowledge of what’s needed from a trail perspective is pretty limited. We don’t ride many trails out west. From what I’ve seen through the Polaris Evo is pretty cool, and addresses some of the previous

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shortcomings for aspiring kids wanting to get out and ride. However, on the mountain side of things there is literally not one option when it comes to a machine for the 10-15 year old, wanting to learn how to mountain ride. And when I say learn how to mountain ride, I’m talking about being able to learn how to counter steer, get a sled up on edge, side hill, down hill turn, controlled descent etc… It’s such a tricky business model. It’s easy for us consumers to say, “Why don’t the manufactures just make a ¾ sized sled for kids?” However, when the OEM’s

look at the business model, the numbers and dollars it takes just doesn’t make sense. But then we as consumers argue that if we don’t get our kids into the sport at an early age, they may never engage in it further down the road, which would result in fewer sales in the future, and the demise of our sport in general. So how does all of this get balanced? When I look at the dirt bike industry and see their product lineup, it’s very apparent that offering something for the youth, all the way up to an adult, is a key ingredient to ensuring they have a dirt bike customer for life. Could our industry support something like this? The numbers probably say no, the uncertainty of the weather/snow probably says no, the duration of how long the snow season is, probably says no, but as a consumer who wants to share his passion of snowmobiling with his kids, I say yes. So now that we’ve got that the kids taken care of, what’s this whole electric thing about? In my opinion, the technology seems like it’s getting close. When thinking about the possibilities, it’s very intriguing. Instant power; no cvt system; no loss of power at elevation; a major reduction in maintenance; the ability to put the weight anywhere you want in the chassis; no emissions, both on the sound and exhaust side of things, and whisper quiet, which would be good for all parties when it comes down to the always present land closure issues. Of

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


course, you have all of the challenges like batteries in the cold, battery range, recharging, weight, etc. However, we consumers don’t really care how it all works, as long as the end result is what we want. We are so needy! This topic is an interesting one. Again, referencing back to the dirt bike industry, there has been some advancements there, but it’s amazing to me how narrow minded many of the consumers have been with it all. Hating electric because they have to be able to smell the 2 stroke smell, or hear a wrapped out exhaust just seems kind of silly to me. All I can think of in terms of riding an electric motorcycle is no more changing oil, mixing gas, cleaning air filters, and how about that crazy torque it would have! I guess we will just have to see. The good news is the future is sure to be good, and it’s crazy for me to think that in ten years, I’m going to be saying, “I can remember when that 2020 Polaris Axys RMK was the king of the mountain and there’s no way it could get any better!”

Photo by Stephen Clark.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

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snapped ROB ALFORD

SUMMER R&R

T

his summer has been a real busy one for my wife Chelsea and me! We just had our first child, a healthy baby boy who we named Bronson. This year, I even missed Hay Days, but I think it was for a very good reason, as our little guy was born. It’s quite the experience, and I can’t believe how tough women are! Thank goodness for good people, friends and family. Earlier this summer, my wife and I were able to track down a kid’s dirt bike from fellow Ski-Doo Ambassador, Carl Kuster, and Chelsea’s father had already purchased a mini-z for Bronson, so he is all set to hit the snow. Between Carl and Chelsea’s father, we’re ready for him to start riding as soon as he’s ready, no matter what season it is. With Bronson on the way this summer, I decided for the most part to use the summer of 2019 for some resting and relaxing. Meaning that instead of doing my usual yardwork and house maintenance, I chose to go biking. The ski hill in Revelstoke, Revelstoke Mountain Resort, opened a lift and operated downhill mountain bike trails, so I’ve been hitting them hard this summer on my Devinci e-mtn bike. There is a pile of other cool trails in the surrounding Revelstoke area, so there’s many options to explore. Not only have I been riding my Devinci this summer, but I have also been spending a lot of time riding my enduro KTM 300xc, and vertigo 300 trials bike. Biking is great cross training for sledding. The only real difference is that it’s not a soft powder landing, which if need be, can be forgiving. The landings are hard dirt, meaning that you have to be a little smarter when it comes to landing your bike. As October nears and fall is on us, I’ve been forced to cut back on the biking and refocus on my firewood project for the Chalet. Getting the Chalet organized for the winter and ready for our guests requires some serious labor-intensive hours. My new Ski-Doo snowmobiles just arrived, which is a further reminder that the start of the season is really close. Getting them early means that I get to put them together, accessorize them, and get them ready for the season the way I want them, so that I can show them off to my friends and let them drool over them. LOL. One thing for sure this season is that I will be slaying the “pow”, and I have to say that the new Summit Expert is the best sled to date that I have ever ridden! The stoke is high!

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TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


CROSSOVER

RACING

xt • mini

xcs

MOUNTAIN

TRAIL

BX • MTX

XPT • RZ

HIGH-PERFORMANCE SNOWMOBILE SKIS

www.caproskis.com | 1-888-321-6789

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

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

Full standing ovation to Brain Pickard from New Brunswick for his fantastic Lawn Ornament submissions. Well-done Brian, you made our day! You can tell that he is a true Lawn Ornament Photographer. Here, he allowed the greenery to grow just enough to complement the old Bronco, but didn’t let it cover it either. Plus, the character and originality that the ole’ punch buggy gives, are second to none.

We found this Ornament on the side of the road while travelling to the OSM and STV headquarters. This one was so perfectly placed and angled directly in the middle of the house it seemed almost staged. We applaud the owner for dosplaying the Moto-Ski with such pride.

We found this Phazer Mountain Max late in the season just outside Bozeman, Montana. Judging by the snow bank in front of it and the snow on the seat and hood, it’s probably safe to say her owner feels she’s safe until the snow melts.

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TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


You can try and hide a late 90’s Formula SL, but we’ll sniff it out! There is pride of ownership here, Ski skins, mirror, and protective plastic on the running board. It’s safe to assume she’s been properly winterized from being hidden behind a spruce tree. And the removal of the windshield a necessity for the season, it ensures that it won’t cloud and will stay clear for another year.

It’s obvious that this late ‘80s MX is still running like a champ. This road rasher is equipped with ski-skins, a fox sticker and supports custom paint from a spray can. The best theft deterrent would be a cord of wood in front of it. Check!

When the snow hits, this guy will be ready to jet. We see his time saving method of storing his snowmobile and snow blower outside for the warmer months without covers proves convenience comes first. Why cover something when you’re just going to uncover it? They’re advice for summer storage is, “Just shut the gate”.

Long-time Lawn Ornament photographer the “Big Bear” aka “The JeerBear”, Sir Jeremy Payne had the opportunity to snap this beauty of an old but never forgotten Moto-Ski. Looks like the cottager that owns this buggy is trying to bury it with leaves…. and hoses, and tables instead of selling it for near new parts.

We caught this Viper staring around the corner in the early spring. It’s like the snow left a long time ago and the owner just left the sled sitting there in protest.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

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honey haulers

1949 DODGE

POWERWAGON

T

here is a long history with the Seymour Paint’s company, and it all started with the founder Ed Seymour back in 1949, when he first opened the doors to his company with his invention of Aerosol spray paint. To mark Seymour Paints 70th year in business, current President Chris Heatley wanted it to be celebrated with one of his passions - a vintage truck. Chris found a 70-year-old truck to celebrate his company’s 70th year in business. After purchasing the ’49 Dodge Powerwagon, Chris had it shipped to 5R Trucks in Colorado, where it would undergo some rebuilding on their TV Show, “The Lifted Life”. Shortly after the Show, the Powerwagon added a sled deck and a track kit. Braap Werks is the official owner of the truck and is a powersports brand of Aerosol manufacturer Seymour of Sycamore offering cleaners, chemicals and lubricants for the powersports industry.

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TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


THE NEW

INDY XC 129 THE TRAIL PERFORMANCE S TA N D A R D F O R 4 0 Y E A R S P o w e r f o r A n y Te r r a i n Rider Balance Control Unrivaled Acceleration

Peak Powersports Oakville * Barrie peakpowersports.ca

polaris.com/snowmobiles Polaris recommends that all riders take a safety training course. Do not attempt maneuvers beyond your capability. Always wear a helmet and other safety apparel. Never drink and ride.


HOW DID THEY DO IT?

This custom Powerwagon is based on the 1949 frame, but had to have some modifications to handle the drivetrain and the ATS built 24 valve Cummins turbo diesel. The engine, transmission, transfer case and axles are all from a 2007 Dodge Ram 2500. The Intercoolers, radiators and cooling fans had to be modified to fit under the chassis, and are very much needed because of the Cummins engine. Other features of this truck include a custom BDS suspension with Fox Coil over shocks, a custom bumper with a 9,000 lb. Warn winch, and a custom sled deck with a headache rack. When not cruising up the mountainside, the 1949 Powerwagon rolls on 20’ American Force rims with 37” Nitto tires.

IT’S NOT JUST ALL SHOW!

Not only is this 1949 Dodge Powerwagon a complete show piece that is regularly used at events and in booths, it’s also used for recreational driving, and if you’re in the Steamboat Springs, Colorado area, you just might be lucky enough to see it on the road, or tracked up around Rabbit Ears Pass.

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TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com



snap decision

RACE ON E 1980 JOHN DEERE LIQUIFIRE 440

Growing up in the Midwest a lot of my friends’ parents worked for John Deere and we raced the entire collection of Deere around the neighborhood. When the Liquifire came out with the Kawasaki Twin we were all amazed!

COLLECT ONE 1972 SUZUKI NOMAD

Kirk Zach

Owner and Founder of HMK Kirk has been on the snowmobile scene since he was a young lad growing up in Prescott, Wisconsin. His passion of winter sports took him to the west coast in 1990 but not in the snowmobile industry, but rather the snowboard industry. Kirk witnessed the snowboard boot revolution which believe it or not started with snowboarders wearing snowmobile boots. It didn’t take long for the snowboard industry to make their own high-performance boot leaving their snowmobile boots for shoveling their driveways. Kirk went to the 2000 Winter X Games at Mt. Snow in Vermont and watched the snocross race, noticing that the racers were wearing snowboard boots. He talked with some of the top racers and asked important questions around their idea of what would be a perfect boot. Knowing Kirk, we’re guessing that the ride back to Oregon to design his first prototype boot could not have been longer for him. Upon the release of the HMK Highmark boot, the snowmobile footwear market hasn’t quite been the same. Since Kirk released his first version, his entire boot line-up has exploded and expanded to include multiple models for both men and women. HMK has also expanded its product lines to include snowmobile suits, jackets, layering systems as well as a full lifestyle line. We met up with the guy that started the snowmobile boot movement, Mr. Kirk Zach and asked him four simple questions to get four quick answers…and GO!

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Red, White, Blue and screamed America - Mine belched gas, oil and exhaust while you rode, and the aroma stuck around for days after a ride. This was the first sled I ever owned. I only paid $50 and I was able to fix it up in the small engine repair class I was taking in school. I remember riding it home during a blizzard and running it out of gas in a ditch not too far from the house. My parents were not amused.

WRECK O NE 1999 POLARIS RMK 600 WITH THE 136” “LONG TRACK

I wrecked one of these on Mt. St Helens with a giant crew. I hit rocks the size of houses and the sled and I flipped over them and came to rest well below. I lost the entire left side of the sled, ski, trailing arms, and it pushed the motor back, etc. The sled still ran, and we rode it out, and I only suffered a bruised ego, but I had a great story to tell. We rebuilt the sled and continued to use it for backcountry riding and snowboard access. This is one of the sleds we had at the start of HP Boots that went on to become HMK as we know it today.

RIDE O NE 2005 ARCTIC CAT M7 141” – EFI

A game changer for our crew as well as Arctic Cat. This was the first sled I owned that had amazing rider positioning for standing up and aggressive riding right from the factory. You can really rip the powder with this sled!

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


THOUSANDS OF RESCUES MADE

COUNTLESS

lives touched

ADVENTURE AWAITS. 2-WAY SATELLITE MESSENGER

SPOT X provides 2-way satellite messaging so you can stay connected to family, friends and co-workers whenever you’re outside of cellular range, including direct communication with Search & Rescue services in case of a life-threatening emergency. SPOT X even provides you with your own personal mobile number so others can message you directly from their cell phone or other SMS devices at any time.

SPOT X

TM

For the latest offers on SPOT Products, visit www.FindMeSPOT.ca/OSM


GREG GOODWIN Earlier this fall we caught up with snowmobile racing legend, Greg Goodwin of Goodwin Performance for this issue’s Fab 4 with OSM. Greg and his brother Jeff from Zion, Illinois have been intrentched in the snowmobile scene since the early 1970’s. Snowmobile racing was a pulse for the brothers and most of their racing success was on the oval track. The Goodwin brothers raced a few brands before settling in as Factory Ski-Doo oval racers. In 1991 aboard his Ski-Doo, Greg won the very prestigious World Championship snowmobile race in Eagle River, Wisconsin. 1991 proved to be a busy year for the brothers as they also launched their business Goodwin Performance, which in the year 2020 will be going into its 29th year of operation. After Greg’s World Championship victory the race team added two more World Championship titles in 1993 and 1995. In 1997, the team notched another big victory winning the gruelling 24-hours of Eagle River. The business, Goodwin Performance has constantly been evolving and developing more products however clutching, clutch components, shocks and suspension rebuilds, continue to be the focus. In recognition of Greg and Jeff’s winning ways the Goodwin Brothers were inducted into the Snowmobile Hall of Fame in 2019. After we caught our breath catching up with Greg, we asked one question. “What are your four all-time favourite snowmobiles?” Without any hesitation, Greg answered like the hole shot of a properly clutched sled on the ice at Eagle River.

1

2

1998 POLARIS XC 700

In 1998 Polaris was introducing torque based twin cylinder motors, this along with proven great handling made the XC 700 a solid trail sled.

3

Being the last year for the REV chassis prior to XP, this sled was very refined with a great shock package as well as the bulletproof 600SDI engine.

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This sled was lightweight and very fast. The 2003 ZR 700 was the performance benchmark for a couple of years.

4

2007 SKI-DOO MXZ 600 SDI XRS

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2003 ARCTIC CAT ZR 700

2019 SKI-DOO G4 MXZ 600R XRS

This sled has the throttle response of 600R motor and the great handling G4 chassis. Up until now, this is the best trail sled I have ever ridden!

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


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Belt

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Myths

MYTH:

BELTS SHOULD BE WASHED BEFORE INSTALLATION.

ANSWER:

FALSE

Drive belts do not need to be washed. Mould release agents used in modern belt production don’t leave any residue on the finished belt. Early belt production would leave a residue that needed to be washed off with soap and water, and this is the origin of this myth.

MYTH: ANSWER:

R

BY: JEFF STEENBAKKERS ecently, the STV and OSM crew got the chance to experience the Timken Ultimax Belt factory in Springfield Missouri. We were able to check out how belts are made, and some of the machinery used to make snowmobile drive belts. Incredibly, the machinery that is manufacturing today’s snowmobile belts is the same machinery that produced some of the first belts used by the first manufactured snowmobiles. The technology that is used in the design of todays snowmobile belts has improved by leaps and bounds, however the manufacturing process remains largely unchanged. To help set us straight on a number of belt myths or old stories that have been handed down from generation to generation, that we believed to be true, is Eric Murray, Ultimax’s belt guru. Here’s what he had to tell us:

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FALSE

Drive belts utilizing high tech components like Aramid cord are engineered to not stretch. If it looks like the belt has gotten longer, it’s because the belt has worn slightly in width, and is sitting lower in the clutches. This doesn’t mean the belt is worn out though. Simply adjust your clutches, and keep on riding!

MYTH:

BELTS ARE DIRECTIONAL.

ANSWER:

FALSE

Drive belts can be installed in either direction, without a reduction in performance or belt life. However, once a belt is run in one direction, it should always be reinstalled in the same direction it was removed in. That’s why it’s advisable to install a belt with the writing in the right direction, to make it easier to know its run direction.

MYTH:

ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 34 • ISSUE 2

BELTS STRETCH.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


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MYTH:

BELTS CAN BE STORED INCORRECTLY.

ANSWER:

TRUE

Belts can be stored incorrectly. Bending a belt back on itself or turning the belt inside out, in an effort to store it in a tight space on a sled, should be avoided. BackBending a belt can put tension stress on the rubber that would normally be under compression of the cord layer, and this could lead to cracking.

MYTH: ANSWER:

COGS ARE FOR COOLING.

FALSE

Cogs on the top of a belt are not for cooling. Instead, they provide additional side to side strength in compression between the sheaves. The same can be accomplished without cogs, but the cog design reduces wear, and flexes better as it rotates around the clutches.

MYTH:

MYTH:

BELTS CAN FREEZE

ANSWER:

TRUE

Drive bets can freeze, or reach a threshold of glass transition temperature, where the rubber will no longer flex, and simply shatter like glass. This temperature is not something typically found in nature or at least temperatures most people would consider riding in, but it’s still advisable to warm up a belt after a cold night, or bring it inside when the temps really fall.

GRIPPIER BELTS ARE FASTER.

ANSWER:

FALSE

A grippier belt can actually make your sled slower, not faster. CVT systems are designed with a specific frictional characteristic type of belt in mind for peak performance. A grippier belt can increase friction as the sheaves compress the belt, increasing resistance and making you slower. To run a grippier belt, the entire clutch system may have to be modified to work with the new belt.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

And there you have it! Everything you did, or did not know about snowmobile drive belts, according to Eric Murray, Ultimax’s Belt Guru.

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BY MARK BONCHER

CROSSOVER SLEDS THAT WILL MAKE YOU NEVER SAY NO TO A RIDE, ANYWHERE:

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0 TRY X-RS 146” 85 UN CO CK BA O DO ISK 8000 146” ARCTIC CAT RIOT 850 POLARIS SKS 146” day? Yes! Do ride the trails to Do you want to day? Yes! Do e the powder to you want to carv rth all day? Yes! fo d both, back an do to nt wa u yo on’? Then be this ‘yes pers Would you like to ds. These are an these three sle look no further th the 50/50 crowd, on at are focused th ds sle r ve so cros d for serious trail y be the right sle but could honestl rail riders. Each boondocking off-t riders OR serious a certain style to at bend slightly th cts pe as s ha sled three boast 150+ ecifically, but all ile of riding more sp incredibly versat options, and are hp motors, new ds. performance sle

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


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IF YOU WANT TO TAKE FLIGHT, YOU WILL HAVE NO WORRIES ON THE NEW ARCTIC RIOT. WE LOGGED OUR FLIGHT PLANS ACCORDINGLY.

DON’T GET CAUGHT WATCHING!

I

f you’re friends are not careful, the new Riot from Arctic Cat will catch every one of them sleeping! It’s not an 850, but most riders won’t notice. We reported a little bit on this sled already in our 2020 sled previews at the end of last season, and like we said earlier, this sled is really a 60/40 on-trail versus off-trail sled. We liked the 15x146x1.6 track option more than the smaller 1.35-inch lug optional track. The 1.6-inch lug does not give up too much performance in the trail, and adds significant versatility off-trail. Plus, you can still stud the 1.6-inch lug track if

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you want to, and not have as much worry about super-long studs pulling through the track, as you would on a longer 1.75-inch lug crossover track. For folks who want the ultimate trail, lake, off-trail, and all-snow condition track… this is pretty close! The reason we would classify this as a more trail-oriented sled versus more off-trail, is that it still has the ARS II (Arctic Race Suspension) front suspension with the standard trail A-arms, spindles, and spindle angle. Yes, it is adjustable from a 42-43 inch ski stance and has a little different roll center and different geometry, but for all intents and purposes, this is still the

WE WILL JUST MENTION THIS AGAIN, FOR PROBABLY THE 20TH TIME - WE LOVE THE PUSH-BUTTON ELECTRIC START AND REVERSE, PLUS THE TETHER THAT COMES ON THIS SLED.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


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same race-inspired snocross and crosscountry racing suspension that the trail sleds are using. It is not the AMS front suspension that comes on the Riot X and the mountain sleds, which is not a bad thing, but we are simply stating the fact that this is a trail front suspension for the most part. The ARS with Fox 1.5-inch diameter QS3 3-position, compression adjustable ski-shocks, in combination with the 1.6-inch lug track, plus the optional ski stances, makes this sled highly versatile. Don’t forget, there’s an entirely new rear suspension in this attitude-filled machine. The Cross-Action rear suspension is marketed as a having great performance in deep snow and more transfer, as well as big bump capability. However, just like we have realized with new crossover suspensions like the cMotion from Ski-Doo, and the IGX suspension from Polaris when it came out, is that this skid is also incredible on-trail. Most of our test riders appreciated the AMS suspension more on-trail than the shorter, slide-action rear suspensions from Cat. It still has the full 13.5-inches of rear travel like the trail sleds, and our test vehicle had the Fox IFP 1.5 shock in the front of the skid, and 2.0 diameter Zero QS3 in the rear shock spot. We will just mention this again, for probably the 20th time - we love the pushbutton electric start and reverse, plus the tether that comes on this sled. In addition, the reinforced running boards and rear rack system are a bonus. Clutch calibration is good for most any place east of the Rocky Mountain foothills at 0-5,000 feet. All that said, the cool-looking rack system is not as well thought out as others in the industry. It does not have as many quickplacing options for accessories. Cornering was better or best in this group of three sleds, and corner to corner speed was on par or better than the others, but top end power and trenching off-trail were two areas of issue. That’s just what the consensus of our riders was. The 794cc motor is an over-achieving engine for an 800 twin EFI, but still does not 100% compete with the 850 motors from Polaris and Ski-Doo.

GET OFF THE BEATEN PATH WHEN YOU WANT ON THE RIOT, IT CAN HANDLE IT. THIS IS NOT A NEW ALPHA BY ANY MEANS, BUT FORAYS INTO THE DEEPER FRESH SNOW IS CERTAINLY AN OPTION, WHENEVER YOU FIND YOUR HAPPY PLACE.

A CROSS-ACTION REAR SKID OFFERS THE BEST OF ON-TRAIL PERFORMANCE AND OFF-TRAIL HANDLING CAPABILITIES.

QS3 SHOCKS AND A NEW SPINDLE ARE JUST A COUPLE OF NEW TRICKS UP THE SLEEVE OF CAT’S NEW RIOT.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

ELECTRIC PUSH-BUTTON START AND A VERY USABLE CONTROL BLOCK ARE BIG POSITIVES THAT CAT HAS INTRODUCED RECENTLY. ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 34 • ISSUE 2

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THE BACKCOUNTRY CAN PLACE YOU BACK IN THE WOODS AS FAR AS YOU WANT TO GO AND YOU CAN ALWAYS PICK YOUR WAY OUT.

TO THE BACKCOUNTRY CK BA D AN CK BA G IN GO EP WE KE

T

here’s a lot to be said for one of the most active and responsive snowmobile chassis platforms on the snow, the G4 chassis from Ski-Doo. However, there is not much new on the Backcountry 146 machine this year. We alluded to this in an earlier article on the 154-inch version… which is actually a new length for 2020. Even though there is technically not much new for this 146-inch machine, other than a new optional gauge that is bigger

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and better, and a new runner on the ski, it is still very technologically advanced. The SHOT push-button starting system, powered by an ultra-capacitor is a major advantage over other boondocking sleds in particular, but also trail sleds in many situations. With just one or two easy pulls in the morning, you can have electric starting capabilities all day, with a major weight loss to the starting system. The record continues to skip, but we believe this should be an option on EVERY Ski-Doo sled, like now. However, we

THERE ARE SO MANY GOOD THINGS WE CAN SAY ABOUT THE BACKCOUNTRY X-RS, AND I’LL BE HONEST, IT IS ONE OF MY FAVORITE SLEDS CURRENTLY BEING MADE

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


70 Guest Rooms Suites & Wheelchair Accessible 18 Log Chalets with Fireplaces In-Room Coffee Cable Television WIFI High Speed Internet Fax and Photocopy Services Complimentary Guest Computer Station Guest Laundry Fitness Centre Fully Licenced Dining Room 118 Mission Road Wawa, Ontario Canada P0S 1K0

www.wawamotorinn.com

RESERVATIONS TOLL FREE: 1-800-561-2278

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

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aren’t the BRP bean counters, and I am sure they have calculated a business or technology life-cycle analysis as to why customers should wait for this option to be rolled out to other models. Back to that new gauge; one thing I like in particular is the metric/imperial setting via the menu. Our family splits a lot of time between riding in Canada and riding in the U.S., with one of us being from north of the border, and one being from the States. I like having the option of both systems on the gauge. The display also auto-corrects to dim or brighten to the light around it, which sounds great in theory, in that you can go from day/night/ foggy/super snowy/bright sun and other conditions, and see the gauges well. So far it has been great, but many more conditions and goggles/lenses will be tested in combo with this new tech. Like the Riot, this sled has an adjustable ski stance. We think all sleds, but crossover sleds in particular, should have an adjustable ski stance. We also think that more Ski-Doo’s should have the quick-disconnect sway bar as well, especially the longer crossover sleds like the 146-inchers. Also, to make this a truly 50/50 on-trail versus off-trail sled, our test riders agreed that the 2.0-inch lugged Powdermax track was the correct choice. It is formidable on the trail, and is hard to beat in the corners, even with the bigger lug, but loses a bit of top-end. However, with the Powdermax it is a fantastically fun, off-trail sled. There are so many good things we can say about the Backcountry X-RS, and I’ll be honest, it is one of my favorite sleds currently being made. But the cMotion rear skid is a big reason why this sled is a favorite of so many test riders. Easy transfer, playfulness on and off the trail, ability to take a big mogul hit, are all very big kudos given from real riders. When you add KYB Pro 40 Easy-adjust shocks with 22 clicks of compression to this skid, it easily takes on anything the trail can throw at it. I mean, this is basically Ski-Doo’s race sled in a crossover chassis with lots of specific additions. Isn’t that enough?!?!

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ON TRAIL, SKI-DOO’S ARE ALWAYS LOCKED-IN, AND LEGENDARY PINPOINT PRECISION IS NO DIFFERENT ON THE BACKCOUNTRY THAN ANY OTHER SKI-DOO IN THE LINEUP.

KYB CLICKER SHOCKS THAT ARE SUPER ADJUSTABLE HAVE BEEN A STAPLE OF THE XRS FOR YEARS, AND THE NEWEST ONES CONTINUE TO IMPRESS IN RANGE AND DIALING IN YOUR RIDE.

NEW VENTING KEEP THIS SLED COOL, AND THERE ARE PLENTY OF CUSTOM TOUCHES LIKE THE EMBOSSED SEAT.

SHOT IS AVAILABLE ON THE BACKCOUNTRY, AND THIS ULTRACAPACITOR STARTING SYSTEM IS THE MOST LIGHTWEIGHT STARTER TO DATE.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


ON SNOW MAGAZINE PRESENTS SNOWMOBILER TELEVISION

STARTS JAN 2ND

THURS: 8:00 PM STARTS DEC 30TH

MON: 8:00 PM WED: 11:30 AM

THURS: 3:30 PM FRI: 5:00 AM

STARTS JAN 4TH

SAT: 9:00 AM

VISIT WWW.SNOWMOBILERTV.COM FOR STATIONS AND TIMES IN YOUR AREA


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THE SKS IS AT HOME ON THE TRAIL, IN THE AIR, OR OFF TRAIL. EVEN WITH THE RMK MOUNTAIN DNA, THIS SLED CAN HUG THE CORNERS AND A LITTLE BIT OF BODY ENGLISH GOES A LONG WAY IN CHANGING THE ATTITUDE OF THIS MACHINE.

SKS IS A SUPER KOOL SLED!

T

his one is really the best of these three sleds for the off-trail crowd. The SKS 146 with the 850cc Patriot, powerful 2-stroke motor is more of a 70/30 off-trail versus on-trail machine. Why? Plain and simple, this is an RMK. It sits in the AXYS chassis which is meant to sidehill, it is meant to clear obstacles under the snow, it is meant to be narrow and easy to maneuver in deep snow, and it comes with a 2.25-inch lug track, but that’s not the whole story. The newest 850cc motor on the market is Polaris’ Patriot and it only competes with the Ski-Doo E-Tec 850 if you want instantaneous, rider-friendly, manageable power. Well, plus the 165+ horses. This motor in the shorter 146-inch SKS means incredible track speed and an ability to perform

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tight powder turns in very little space. Plus, the AXYS chassis has an amazing ability to stay on top of the snow, and can literally dig its way out of holes. Since the day this sled came out, we have been stacking it up against another crossover sled from Polaris, one of our all-time favorites, the Switchback Assault 144. The difference? The SKS is a little easier to initiate side-hills with the narrow 39-41-inch adjustable front end, and the ability to ‘creep’ along in deeper snow and off-camber situations off-trail. On trail, the Assault still wins, but the non-adjustable ski-stance was an issue for the Assault for many off-trail riders for years. If there was ever a 50/50 crossover battle regarding the best rear skid, then the IGX rear suspension from Polaris versus the cMotion from Ski-Doo is the best

TWO MORE STANDARD FEATURES OF THE SKS THAT THEY DON’T BOAST ABOUT, BUT WE ARE BIG FANS OF, ARE THE LED STANDARD HEADLIGHTS AND THE GRIPPER SKIS.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


IT’S IN OUR BLOOD HUNTS

WEST

WEDNESDAY 20:00 EST

Trent Gofers TKO OUTOORS

THURSDAY 23:00 EST

Mark Skage START’EM YOUNG

Luke Oke TRAIL BREAKERS

Jason Dyck GUIDE LIFE

AIRING EXCLUSIVELY ON


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competition. There are definitely areas that both excel in, but neither is bad at anything. Personal opinion is that the IGX is better off trail, and the cMotion is better in all conditions… maybe it’s why Polaris put this sled in the ‘ultimate crossover’ category this year. However, the difference is minute, and the IGX on the SKS is stellar, and an overachiever in churning big snow when you pull a hard up-hill sidehill. One thing folks don’t think about all that much until their boots, or ice, or the mysterious twig-monster slip them off the running boards in deep snow, is how important grip is on the running boards. Well, the PowderTrac boards are one of my all-time favorites and are great for snow evacuation, zero ice build-up, and very good grip. Two more standard features of the SKS that they don’t boast about, but we are big fans of, are the LED standard headlights and the Gripper skis. Both are not expen-

sive, but very helpful and utilitarian. We all need to see better at night than we have in the past, hence wider- spanning and better penetrating LED lights. We need to also have easier ways to get unstuck, and not be stuck in the first-place. Hence, ribbed skis on top like the Gripper, so we can stand on them and not slide off, plus, have the underneath steering side be great as well.

FINDING YOUR WAY AND SEEING WHERE YOU WENT IS EASY WITH THE NEW POLARIS GAUGE. IT IS BIG, EASY TO SEE, AND SETS IT APART FROM THE COMPETITION.

HANDLEBAR AND LIGHTS ON THE SKS ARE NOT CONTROLLED ON THE BARS LIKE THE OTHER SLEDS IN THIS GROUP, BUT SIMILAR TO THE RMK MOUNTAIN SET-UP.

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PUTTING THE SKS INTO ORBIT IS EASY, AND THE WALKER EVANS SHOCKS EQUAL BUTTER SOFT LANDINGS, EVEN FROM THE 3RD STORY UP.

THE SKS HAS PLENTY OF PADDLE TO HELP YOU WADE THROUGH SNOW THAT ONLY OTHER PURE MOUNTAIN SLEDS CAN GO.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com



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WHAT SHOULD I BUY? First, do not ask your significant other, just buy what you want. But if you want the newest, coolest, most popular name in the industry for 2020, get the Arctic Cat Riot. It’s a great trail sled with some additional super-positive off-trail opportunities. Second, if you speak French, which is pretty persuasive, then talk your significant other into buying at least one, preferably two, Backcountry X-RS 850’s. Neither of you will be disappointed. Even if you only speak redneck, this sled will be worth every nickel you spend on it because you can be as excited to ride on-trail, off-trail, or off the biggest highschooler made jump in your neighborhood. Third, if I bought a Polaris SKS 146 with the 850 Patriot, I would take all the decals off it, put some old school stickers on it, and then make all the 162-inch ‘mountain riders’ look silly while riding a little 146-inch sled. Come on, that would be fun! At the end, the most versatile 50/50 sled is the Backcountry X-RS 146inch from Ski-Doo, but every weapon has its purpose!

IF YOU SPEAK FRENCH, WHICH IS PRETTY PERSUASIVE, THEN TALK YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER INTO BUYING AT LEAST ONE, PREFERABLY TWO, BACKCOUNTRY X-RS 850’S. NEITHER OF YOU WILL BE DISAPPOINTED.

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TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


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YAMAHA SIDEWINDER XTX LE 141

R

BLUE TEAM KEEPS IT LEGIT!

ealistically speaking, the Sidewinder is still the fastest and most powerful production snowmobile to date. It is also best in crossover versions, in my opinion. There are plenty to choose from, even after Yamaha cleaned up their lineup with fewer total machines. A personal favorite of many of our riders is the XTX LE with its 141-inch long track. Why? Lots of reasons, but top of the list is still the 200+ hp turbo, 998cc fuel injected triple cylinder 4-stroke motor. There is no perceivable lag with this motor, and it’s not like turbos of old, and it is not even comparable in performance, lag, or excitement, even to other current turbo systems. This is more of a 60-40 on trail versus off-trail sled as far as where it shines best, but it is fully capable to hang with any sled through the twisties on a groomed, woodsy trail, or through 2-feet of powder off-trail. Oh, and you will ALWAYS be first in any impromptu drag race. No snowmobile-blooded person can tell me that it isn’t totally mind-blowing to grab this throttle. Up front we like the single keel mountain skis that come standard on this 40-inch wide front end, and of course, the coil-over Fox Zero QS3 shocks to suck up any big hits and easily adjust to the conditions. The uncoupled SR 141 rear suspension adds playful abilities off-trail and more transfer, but still has plenty of bump-soaking ability with the QS3 shocks in it as well. The Backcountry track with 1.75-inch lugs is a perfect snow thrower and allows for on-trail performance, with enough paddle to move it through the powder as well. Yamaha quality and standard features are tops here too with a heated-seat, automotive style DC output for your gadgets, LED headlight, electric start, reverse, and more. The Hayes Brake shortie brake lever is a big plus too, especially for folks with smaller digits, but it also allows better feel through your gloves which is of utmost importance on a machine that goes 0-awesome in 2 seconds flat. As far as new features go, you’ll get new, lightweight suspension rails with an extra set of idler wheels. Plus, there is a new Stealth control system on the handle bars which allows easy toggling through the gauge and push-button starting… which is much better than the old key-start. Finally, you’ll see a new, medium tunnel bag on the top of the tunnel with more storage. All-in-all, this is a good-looking speed demon with lots of versatility.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

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What you really need to know!

M BY MIKE DUFFY

ost of you have heard the basics, and reasons for safety guidelines when riding in avalanche country. I’m going to give you the important details you’ll need to know. This article is based on years of researching avalanche accidents, mountain rescue, guiding experience, avalanche instructing, and training, and these are tips from 25+ years of being an avalanche educator.

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The Basics I have outlined the basics of what you need to know to begin, and this info is courtesy of ISMA.

5 Key Safety Guidelines

Get the Gear… everyone in your group will need an avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe, and knowledge on how to use each of these pieces of equipment.

Get the Training… Everyone in your group should, at minimum, attend at least one avalanche training course.

Get the Forecast… The weather report is a must, and it’s constantly changing. Make a riding plan based on the current avalanche and weather forecast.

Get the Picture… If you see recent avalanche activity and unstable snow exists, then you must assume riding on or underneath slopes is dangerous.

Get out of Harms Way… Always go one at a time on all slopes, and don’t go up to help your stuck friend, and don’t group-up in avalanche run-out zones.

The details on the details Transceiver: The quickest way to find someone who is completely buried

is with a transceiver. This beacon transmits a signal that can be tracked by others in your group with their transceivers. Having one is absolutely necessary. Trying to find someone with only a probe can take hours and even days. You’re not going to just dig yourself out of the snow if completely buried. Furthermore, it doesn’t do you much good if you’re just wearing a transceiver and aren’t proficient in how it works. At the time of rescue isn’t the time to learn how to use it. You will want a digital 3-antenna avalanche transceiver. This new technology means advanced features, ease of use and faster rescues.

Shovel:

Get one that is metal, with a larger blade and high quality. I prefer one with an extendable shaft which makes it easier to dig deeper. Inexpensive and plastic shovels could break. I carry two shovels with one in my airbag pack, so that if I get separated from the snowmobile or the snowmobile gets buried, I can still pull off a rescue. The second shovel is on my tunnel bag and it’s a hoe type shovel (so I can move snow faster in many situations). If stuck in or below avalanche terrain, I don’t have to remove the pack to access the shovel, therefore losing the safety of the airbag. If I have only one shovel, it’s always in my pack.

Probe: Get a large diameter aluminum one or carbon fiber that is 300cm or longer. This length allows you to stand upright and probe deeper. Flimsy probes will deflect to the side or could break. Also, get a probe you can deploy with your gloves on. Pack: Get one that fits your body. I don’t wear a pack larger than 25 liters. Lighter/smaller volume packs are more comfortable, then it won’t tire you out, and wont’t hinder your technical riding. Make sure all the essentials for survival, rescue, and first aid goes into your pack. Also make sure your transceiver is worn on the body, never in the pack. Packs can get separated from riders in avalanches. Airbag packs: They work, but are used in conjunction with advanced training, educated decisions, good judgement, and terrain selection appropriate for the avalanche problems. However, it is not the end-all for surviving an avalanche. Unfortunately some avalanches are just not survivable. Too many riders are forgoing advanced training and buying an airbag instead, which is not a recipe for success. I wear a protective vest that incorporates an airbag pack that is transceiver and radio compatible. I always wear the leg strap so my pack doesn’t get ripped off my body in an avalanche. Pack Contents: Be ready to spend the night out, administer first aid and get help to your location. A GPS satellite messenger is a great tool that every group in my opinion should have. I use the Garmin InReach Explorer. Other items should include a map and compass, fire starters, headlamp, spare batteries, bivy sack, first aid kit, survival kit, saw, food and water, tow strap, knife, tools, clear goggles, and extra clothes. Essentials for survival, rescue and first aid go in pack, extras go in the tunnel bag.

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Getting the training There are many levels of avalanche training and all are positive, to some extent. You can start here with free training on these websites, but don’t stop here. www.backcountryascender.com or www.avalanche1.com Being skilled takes hands-on, on-snow training, practice and feedback from professionals. Take the time to take a class, no one I’ve ever met over decades of classes and sessions have ever regreted it. Don’t learn about avalanches through trial and error. Your one mistake could be your last, and avalanche accidents are easily avoidable with the right knowledge and terrain selection. This doesn’t mean staying at home or staying on mellow terrain all the time, it could be as simple as picking the right terrain for the conditions. The higher the danger, the higher the skill you require. Get your entire group trained, so everyone is on the same page and at the same skill level. If you’re the only one with training and get buried, you’re out of luck.

Never go out without knowing the weather. You can get vital information on the current avalanche and weather forecasts.

Know what is happening within the snowpack All snow looks good, and you need to understand that certain layers within the snowpack can fail under more weight (you on your sled). Approximately 90% of the fatalities in avalanches are triggered by you or someone in your group. The avalanche danger rating is not the key factor you should be looking at in the forecast. What you need to know and understand is the “avalanche problem” or type of avalanche(s) you are dealing with and the terrain that is suggested for the problem. Even on a moderate danger day, a slope with a persistent weak layer and connecting slopes should be avoided. Remote triggers are likely with persistent weak layers. These avalanches can be very unpredictable and the stability varies greatly. Tracks on the hill, do not mean it’s safe, it usually means someone has not hit the weak spot yet. Stability can vary greatly from slope to slope and on the same slope. Educated riders know when to back off when persistent weak layers are present. Moderate danger with a persistent weak layer essentially means it is harder to trigger, but if it does go, it could still be large and deadly. Patience to wait until conditions are right and the discipline to alter your riding according to the problem are essential.

Just wearing a transceiver isn’t good enough! You have to know exactly how it works. When you need it you will not have time to refer to the instruction book.

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Airbags like the BCA Float 42 Avalanche Airbag 2.0 feature 150 liter airbag and not only does it create buoyancy and decreases your burial depth but it also protects your head and neck from trauma in an avalanche.

On the top, all snow looks good. You need to understand the layers within the pack to know the real dangers.

When going anywhere where you might get stuck it’s recommended that you bring a shovel and saw.

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Getting out of harm’s way ALWAYS GO ONE AT A TIME ON OR UNDER AVALANCHE SLOPES. Multiple complete burials in North America statistically result in a fatality. It is much easier to rescue one person than multiple. A rescue is delayed if you as a rescuer gets caught. NEVER GO ABOVE YOUR PARTNER. GET OUT OF THE WAY IF YOU ARE BELOW A RIDER. Going above or going to help your friend on an avalanche slope can trigger the avalanche. Don’t help someone who is stuck on the hill. The additional weight can trigger an avalanche. If they can’t get their own sled out, they shouldn’t be riding the slope. This is a common mistake that has resulted in many fatalities.

HAVE A PLAN, AND COMMUNICATE IT. Radios have changed snowmobiling. It is so much easier and safer to ride with them. Have decision points and constantly discuss options. • Who’s first, who’s last? • What is the route. • Where is your stopping area. • Where are safety zones, where viewers will watch. • Escape route. STAY IN VOICE OR VISUAL CONTACT. If you’re in avalanche terrain out of view of the group and get caught, first they need to realize you’re missing, then they have to spend time looking. This can significantly delay the attempted rescue. Radios can warn riders of conditions, routes, oncoming avalanches and easily locate stuck riders. Use the buddy system in trees. ALTER YOUR RIDING ACCORDING TO THE AVALANCHE PROBLEM(S). For a long career riding in the mountains, you must adapt your riding to the avalanche problems, otherwise you are just relying on luck. Sad to see so many fatalities when dangers were obvious to educated and informed riders.

Keys when riding pote

ntial avalanche areas

IS THE SLOPE STEE P ENOUGH TO SLIDE? Get an inclinometer (slope meter) or slope angle app. Mo st riders are not even close to being accurate in guessing the steepness and do n’t realize they are in avalanche terrain. With a slope meter, you become much be tter. I use the Avalanche Inclinom eter app by Iterum, LLC and the BCA ap p.

Klim has made it really easy with this survival pack. This 3 in 1 pack provides medical supplies for dressing wounds, stabilizing fractures and treating illnesses; survival tools to signal rescuers, start fires and to stay warm. There’s also an ultra-light nylon organizer bag with detachable pouch for shorter trips.

ARE YOU IN THE RU NOUT ZONE? Will the avalanche hit you? Are nearby tre es damaged or missing branches from gettin g hit by avalanches? Th e run out zone is ho w far the avalanche can run an d where the debris en ds up. A generalization is the avalanche can run out 2.5 times the ve rtical fall of the avala nche. Too many riders park too close. Are you in or above a terrain trap that will compound the consequences of an avalanche? Look at the trees, rocks, cliffs, de pression, steep creek bed, or narrow valley.

A good set of radios should be mandatory when you are on the slopes.

I hope this has been helpful. It’s just a start in being a smart mountain rider and preparing for what you could incounter. Implement what you have learned and take advanced classes – be prepared. Have a great winter. Mike Duffy

A good pack like the FXR Ride Pack 20 will help keep all of your tools and supplies organized while allowing you to easily bring them up the hill. When deciding on a backpack make sure it’s waterproof, has good weight displacement and will properly carry your shovel and probe.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

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ce President, Craig Kennedy, Vi through-ander bil avid snowmo ionate down to through is a pass snowmobiler. earth experienced he e, ag g From a youn primanded re ing be s er rememb of new as for sketching his ide getting of d tea ins snowmobiles ne. his homework do

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I

n his 22 years with Arctic Cat®, Kennedy has held various engineering and leadership positions where he has excelled to become the Vice President. He started with the company in 1997 as a Tigershark® Watercraft Engineer. After serving in a few leadership roles as a supervisor of engineering in both watercraft and offroad, Kennedy moved into an engineering product management role for all ATVs that he held for over 10 years. His final engineering project was leading the development of the original Wildcat®. In 2012, Kennedy moved into international business working with Scandinavia, Europe and Asia for off-road vehicles, snowmobiles, along with parts, garments and accessories. After two years, he became the product strategy director for offroad vehicles where he was responsible

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for global multi-generational product plans and providing guidance and leadership for business financial objectives. After the acquisition of Arctic Cat by Textron Inc. in 2017, Kennedy was promoted to Vice President of Snowmobiles and International Powersports. His deep knowledge and understanding of the industry saw his responsibilities expand in early 2019 when he became the Vice President of Arctic Cat (Snowmobiles and Off-Road). In his current role, he has general management responsibilities for Arctic Cat, within Textron Specialized Vehicles. Basically, Craig is a really big deal, his expertise is unmatched and he probably really does bleed green! In his spare time, Kennedy enjoys the outdoors on anything motorized, with an occasional mountain bike ride. Lucky for us, Craig was able to meet up with us for a quick interview.

THERE HAVE BEEN SEVERAL RUMORS CIRCULATING ABOUT ARCTIC CAT THAT ARE NOT TRUE. WE ARE NOT FOR SALE OR BEING SOLD, AND WE WILL HAVE A RACE TEAM AND WE HAVE A FULL TEAM OF ENGINEERS WORKING TO BRING YOU EXCITING NEW PRODUCTS FOR 2021.

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COCHRANE CLASSIC VINTAGE RIDERS

SNOWMOBILE MUSEUM Located at the Polar Bear Habitat & Heritage Village 1 Drury Road, Cochrane Ontario Tel 1-705-272-2327 OPEN 7 days a week except for Christmas and New Years. Summer hours are 9am to 5pm. Winter hours are 10am to 4pm. Please note last viewing for the bears is 1 hour before closing time. Email ccvr655@hotmail.com or call 705-262-6816 for special arrangements for guided viewing when available. @Cochrane Classic Vintage Riders Club & Museum

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We’re thrilled to have this opportunity to talk with you today. How are things these days at Arctic Cat? Things are going very well. We have taken the off-season to get our house in order and focus on making Arctic Cat profitable. We knew we couldn’t be profitable operating the same way we always have. We took necessary steps to get our dealer channel and business healthy. Our Snowmageddon presale event we implemented for our 2020 model year was extremely successful. We presold three times the amount of sleds of any other presale we have done. This season, we will fire on all cylinders and I’m confident in the future of Arctic Cat. The industry has been buzzing the last few weeks with rumours circulating about the future of Arctic Cat, and who might be looking at purchasing the company in the near future. Can you tell us more about this, and put an end to these rumours? There have been several rumors circulating about Arctic Cat that are not true. We are not for sale or being sold, will have a race team and we have a full team of engineers working to bring you exciting new product for 2021.

It’s a busy time of year, and here we are already heading in to the 2020 snowmobile season. How excited are you with the fresh approach that Arctic Cat is taking? I’m very excited. You can only do things the same way for so long. Times are changing and we recognized we needed to adjust our business model. The industry needs a rejuvenation and fresh ideas infused into it for the future of the sport. We will continue with our presale-only business model and we will announce our 2021 products earlier as part of that. In 2017 Textron purchased Arctic Cat, how if at all has this impacted Arctic Cat? Textron is a large, profitable company who knows how to run successful businesses. While there were some growing

pains and difficult changes, it is sometimes what is needed to get a business back in the black. The combination of Arctic Cat’s legacy and the new ideas Textron has brought has set Arctic Cat up to be a successful and viable business. Arctic Cat moved its corporate office out of the Twin Cities and back to Thief River Falls, how has that move back to the factory helped the company? The people of Thief River Falls are the heart and soul of Arctic Cat, and it is my job to ensure they are taken care of. Being there gives me a finger on the pulse of the business. Arctic Cat has a lot of strong dealers with a lot of loyal customers across the Snowbelt. What is the dealer strategy moving into 2020? We’ve worked in the off-season to make our dealer chain healthy. This included aligning with dealers interested in being great business partners. We worked to get inventory levels down so our dealers could run a viable business. We were successful at reducing non-currents and the channel is much stronger. The implementation of the pre-sale only Snowmageddon business model gives us the opportunity to produce what the dealer needs vs what they think customers want. This sets them up to run a healthier business where they can focus on customer service instead of worrying about selling through noncurrents. Is there availability of product for customers that did not ‘snow check’ a snowmobile last Spring? Snowmageddon was pre-sale only so it’s unlikely. There could be the occasional situation where a dealer took a deposit on a 2020 and a customer doesn’t follow through with the purchase. There are

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HWY 48, Pefferlaw, Lake Simcoe 705-437-1122 • quinnsmarina.com

JUST 50 MINS NORTH OF TORONTO

® TM and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates.

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PHOTO CREDIT AARON KENNEDY

It’s a mutually beneficial relationship that will continue.

some non-current models in the channel. A customer should check with their local dealer to see what’s available. You have been riding Arctic Cat’s for a long time and have been working there since 1997, what is your all-time favorite Arctic Cat snowmobile? I absolutely loved the 700 Firecat! It was a rocket ship. Lots of great memories on that snowmobile. And, it’s still getting it done in the grass drags today, all these years later.

Being an avid snowmobiler, what sleds are you most excited to ride in the 2020 season? You know, it all depends on where I’m riding. It’s hard not to love the Alpha in the mountains. It’s so light and nimble feeling. And, a ZR 800 RR is so great at attacking the trails. We had a lot of late snow last

winter in Thief River Falls, that made the new Riot incredible fun, whether on trail or off. For those conditions, I had a smile on my face for hours! Thank you Craig for taking the time to talk sleds with us. We very much appreciate your time and we hope to see you on the snow for a rally this winter.

We’ve heard from many snowmobilers that they were hoping for a new 850, or even a larger engine for 2020 and many were thinking that you would be releasing a new platform. Can you give any insight for the 2021 Arctic Cat line-up? I cannot give specifics on the lineup until it launches, but I can tell you we will have several new sleds introduced. Racing runs deep in Arctic Cat’s history and has always been a large part of the brand name. What is the plan for the 2020 race season and the future 2021 season? We will continue to race at a level that makes sense. Arctic Cat has a legacy in racing and we will continue to support it. On the sidelines Arctic Cat and Yamaha have a great working partnership and an important one. Will this partnership continue and possibly grow in 2021? Yamaha is a great partner, and we work very closely in snowmobile development.

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BY JEFF STEENBAKKERS

YAMAHA’S GT CLASS DELIVERS

T

CLASS AND PERFORMANCE

here is absolutely no question that the 4-stroke engine has become an accepted power option for snowmobiles, from work sleds, all the way up to the very top of the hyper sled market. Even die-hard 2-stroke guys (like me) are starting to realize that the 4-stroke sled is now part of my paradigm when it comes time to choosing a sled to lay down some dough on. Yamaha foresaw this trend a long time ago with the introduction of the RX1 in ’03, and has been steadily improving the upper end of this market. The current Sidewinder is, and has been at the top of the horsepower mountain since its introduction, and has spread out laterally across the top of the Yamaha lineup. For 2020, Yamaha has brought back the GT for touring riders who really want it all. The abbreviation “GT” originated in Italy as “Gran Turismo”, a term to describe exot-

ic performance touring cars that were gaining popularity across Europe after the war. It’s been said that Ferrari was the first to use Gran Turismo on its 1955 250 GT, but the GT origins may go back as far as 1951 with the Lancia Aurelia B20 GT. Since then, GT has been found on all kinds of motorized vehicles, and is supposed to give the upscale buyer the assurance that they have something special, specifically designed for spirited, high mile tours. Sometimes manufactures get the GT description right, other times not so much… The 2020 Yamaha GT sleds got it right. If ever there was an exotic GT class snowmobile, these sleds are it. Targeted right from the beginning to attract a snowmobile buyer that is looking for an exclusive high-class look, with specific touring features to make big number days go by effortlessly, the new GT lineup delivers.

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2020 SRVIPER L-TX GT

N

ot exclusive to the GT lineup, all 2020 SRVipers are now clad in the Gen 2 bodywork, drawing on the styling of the Sidewinder line. What’s exclusive is the deep, almost candy Velocity Red that is found across the GT line. On the snow, this colour stands out without shouting out. This should appeal to owners who want to be noticed, but not mistaken for someone who greets riding buddies with “Yo-Dude”. Under the brightwork is the updated Genesis 1049cc engine. A new ECU tune is responsible for a small uptick in power

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on the 3-cylinder mill. Although difficult to feel the change in power, the 2020 engine seems to come alive a little quicker than in previous generations. Competing in the 125-horsepower class of sleds, the Viper puts the power down through the 137 Ripsaw track with authority, thanks to a strong 4-stroke torque curve. In addition, this engine has become a standard for efficiency and durability, against which all others are judged. I suspect this is one thing that hasn’t changed for 2020. Additional features which should appeal to the high mileage crew are a tall windshield and heated seat. Riding the

ADDITIONAL FEATURES WHICH SHOULD APPEAL TO THE HIGH MILEAGE CREW ARE A TALL WINDSHIELD AND HEATED SEAT

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GUIDED & FULLY SUPPORTED SNOWMOBILE TOURS IN ONTARIO AND QUEBEC (705) 790-7267 amcfarlane@ontsnow.com

www.ontsnow.com

Since 1930, we’ve helped customers find the best vehicle to meet their needs and offered the highest level of service

powellpowersports.ca (613) 472-2633

1/2 Mile West of Marmora –102317 Highway 7, Marmora, ON

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SRViper GT into the cold evenings is not a problem behind the big window, and the heated seat takes just enough of the edge off to be effective. Personally, I thought a heated seat on a sled was about as useful as an inflatable dartboard, but after experiencing a heated seat on a particularly cold night in Quebec, I see the light, or rather, I felt the heat. However, if there was one suggestion I’d make to Yamaha on this one, I’d ask for just a bit more temperature out of the system. Under the front end of the SRViper GT is the new ARCS front suspension which improves the roll centre with a redesigned forged spindle and lightweight A-arms. Holding it all up are Fox 1.5 ZERO QS3 front shocks, and their easily adjusted 3 position clickers on the shock body. Out back is the Dual Shock SR137 skid frame. The front shock is a 1.5-inch HPG, while the rear shock is three position Fox 2.0 ZERO QS3. Every one of our riders agrees the FOX QS3 is the way to go for how well they work and their simplicity to adjust for non-geek riders. However,

it would have been nice to have the electronic iQS versions of these shocks on the GT version of the Viper. After spending some time on the Viper GT in the closing miles of last season, I feel consumers who opt into the GT version will come away more than satisfied with the performance of the engine and suspension systems, along with an appreciation to the details and elegance the GT designation provides.

The 137 inch Camso Ripsaw with 1.25” lug is found on both the Sidewinder L-TX and SRViper L-TX GTs. This track delivers awesome all around performance when it comes to acceleration and braking.

SNOWMOBILER PACKAGES

Weekend Package 2 Nights: 30 Tapatoo Trail www.grandtappattoo.com Otter Lake, Seguin, ON 705-378-2210 P2A 0B2 info@grandtappattoo.com Parry Sound

*$225 per person • Daily Breakfast and $30 Dinner Credit • Late check out 12pm • Deluxe accommodations • Access to all resort amenities

Weeknight Package 1 night *$125 per person • Daily Breakfast and $30 Dinner Credit • Late check out 12pm • Deluxe accommodations • Access to all resort amenities * Based on double occupancy * Subject to availability * HST and gratuity is not included

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The Yamaha line is built on a super rigid triangulated SRV chassis. The pyramidal design centres the mass around the rider while strengthening the chassis without excessive weight.

ALL WINTER LONG ON-SITE DINING AND LOUNGE ON THE TRAIL INDOOR POOL SAUNA FITNESS CENTRE FREE WIFI FREE PARKING

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eam. T A B The B d n a t h urand B s i r hroug h t s C e s m a rn fro purch a e e r l o t & S utube h t e o i y n i r l w u n e o ng o tO Rid r maili cribe t urand

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2020 SIDEWINDER S-TX GT

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completely new model for 2020 is the Sidewinder S-TX GT, which is the Grand Poohbah of 2-up touring sleds. That’s right, you and a friend can experience 200 turbo’ed horsepower in luxury and style as you blow past just about everything else on the snow. All kidding aside, this sled should fill a niche in places like Quebec, where triple-triple 2-up touring enjoyed a good run back at the turn of the century. This model carries the now familiar Velocity Red that is the best visual cue to

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identify the GT line, along with the large windshield, engineered to direct airflow around the riders. The 2-up GT also features king and queen heated seats, a fully adjustable backrest and extra storage. The GT storage case also offers an additional 15 litres of fuel capacity in its auxiliary tank, bringing the total fuel load to 49.9 litres. The rear suspension is a Dual Shock SR 146 skid-frame with overload springs that can be engaged as rear loads increase. Cam style flippers rotate up, allowing the composite leaf springs to assist the torsion

ALONE ON THE S-TX GT, THIS MACHINE FEELS VERY SIMILAR TO OTHER SIDEWINDERS IN THE YAMAHA LINEUP, ESPECIALLY ONES WITH THE LONGER REAR SKIDS.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


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spring on the rear arm for a simple and effective solution to control the weight of a passenger and extra gear. The front suspension does not receive the ARCS update. However, the 3-position adjustable Fox QS3 shocks have found a home in the S-TX. Alone on the S-TX GT, this machine feels very similar to other Sidewinders in the Yamaha lineup, especially ones with the longer rear skids. In fact, without the big windshield and support of the backrest, the ride experience is very similar to an X-TX. And like other Sidewinders the endless power of the 998 Genesis Turbo engine is a thing of beauty, but it demands respect. 2-up, ride characteristics do change with the addition of a second person. Handling and speed have a direct connection to the involvement of the passenger. Getting in sync as two riders, a surprising pace can be maintained in the curves, then a quick shot of throttle will propel you and a passenger back to the back bumper of just about anyone in front of you. Get out of sync and the pace will slow, but when things straighten out, the turbo power will get you caught up to the group in a hurry.

The 146” skid frame on the S-TX GT, has easily deployable overload springs for those heavy days.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

The backrest can be adjusted forward for 1-up riding, or can be removed along with the passenger seat if that’s the way you want to roll.

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2020 SIDEWINDER L-TX GT

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he Sidewinders L-TX GT is aimed squarely at the top of the touring market. Legendary Genesis Turbo power and luxury touring amenities have come together to create this sled, which is again found in the classy Velocity Red livery. Squeezing the trigger on the L-TX GT is every bit as exciting as other Sidewinders in the lineup, but this one comes with features that even non-GT class riders will crave. It may sound like a little thing, or it might just be that I’m getting older, but the wind protection of the large windshield

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and warmth of heated seat are welcome additions to this Sidewinder. In fact, any Sidewinder for that matter, given the speed these sleds can achieve. In the GT line, this protection comes standard. The suspensions on the Sidewinder L-TX GT are very similar to the SRViper L-TX GT. Like the Viper, this model receives the new ARCS front suspension with its improved geometry, along with the Fox ZERO 1.5 QS3 shocks. And like the Viper, we wish it had the electronic iQS versions. In the rear, the Dual Shock SR 137 rear suspension is providing the excel-

ON THE TRAIL, THE GT IS A PLACE WHERE YOU CAN SPEND A DAY, AND THEN SPEND ANOTHER DAY, AND EVEN ANOTHER DAY AFTER THAT.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


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lent bump absorption, with an HPG centre shock and Fox ZERO 2.0 QS3, similar to the Viper’s setup. On the trail, the GT is a place where you can spend a day, and then spend another day, and even another day after that. For big mile, multi day tours, you can’t get any better sled out of the Yamaha barn than the Sidewinder L-TX GT. There isn’t even any compromise for a short-day ride either, this machine is very well rounded. Even the engine, despite being the most powerful available in the snowmobile industry, is equally at home at the radar run, or puttering around all day on a family ride, where speeds barely reach double digits. To wrap things up, we have to acknowledge that bringing home any one of these GT models is not going to be a cheap option. These are pricy sleds, with no apologies made for that fact. But they do give back a significant return on the investment when you factor in the longevity Yamaha snowmobiles are known for. These sleds have been conceived to burn down one high-mileage season after the other.

Every GT gets the Fox QS3 shocks out front, but only the Sidewinder and Viper GT’s get the new ARCS front suspension.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

The big windshields found across the GT lineup will keep riders happy on cold, big-mile days by keeping you out of the jet stream.

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future look

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here is no denying it, with the emergence of manufacturers like Tesla, Rivian, Taiga and special automobile models like the Bolt, Volt, Leaf and E-tron, that there is a movement to shift from the conventional dinosaur burners to electric motors. Charles Bombardier sees electric vehicles as the future, and while nobody has a crystal ball to say when all vehicles, including snowmobiles, will be electric. Most futuristic concept vehicles like the Lakemaster are designed and powered by a non-combustion engine. In the case of the Lakemaster, it’s a Lithium-Sulfur battery, powering an electric motor.

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future look

YOU CAN TRAVEL AS FAR AS YOU WANT IN TO THE FUTURE, AND YOU STILL WILL FIND SNOWMOBILES “SUMMERING” UNDER TREES.

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he concept of the Lakemaster is quite simple. Its focus is speed, and it’s designed to be the first one across the lake without compromising handling. Charles designed the Lakemaster with the memories of his teenage years, riding his black Ski-Doo Mach 1 with his friends around Valcourt, Quebec. Frequently, Charles and his friends would be found racing each other down Lake Brompton, with all of his friends having the same vision of being first. With the dream of winning on Lake Brompton,

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Charles pictured a snowmobile with serious arm stretching torque, with a low drag resistance that would be able to beat any snowmobile, giving its owner the nickname “Lake Master”. The Lakemaster’s appearance is very similar to that of a sport motorcycle, with the rider leaning over the gas tank with the power being put to the snow through the track out the back, similar to that of the rear tire of a motorcycle to the asphalt. The front suspension and steering coming from forks to a single ski is also similar to a motorcycle’s front forks and front wheel.

LITHIUM-SULFUR BATTERIES COULD POWER THE SPROCKET MOTORS AND BE POSITIONED AROUND THE VEHICLE TO BALANCE THE CENTRE OF MASS.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


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WHERE’S THE POWER?

The sprockets in the track of the Lakemaster are motorized, like electric in-wheel motors, allowing for the use of a non-combustion engine which eliminates the need for fuel tank. LithiumSulfur batteries could power the sprocket motors and be positioned around the vehicle to balance the centre of mass. Lithium-Sulfur batteries are relatively lightweight and rechargeable, and are known for their high specific energy. For example, the solar powered aeroplane that flew the highest and longest of any other solar powered aeroplane used Lithium-Sulfur batteries. Needless to say, they’d be more than capable for the Lakemaster.

NO FUEL TANK NEEDED Using the space where a fuel tank would traditionally go is a gel filled pad equipped with an independent suspension that would support the rider while they’re leaning on the sled at high speeds, either down a straightaway, much like drag motorcycles, or taking corners at high speeds, similar to that of a motorcycle on a road racing track. The rider’s chest would rest on the pad that would be customized to support any body size and/or type of rider.

THE AGGRESSIVE SEATING POSITION WITH THE SINGLE SKI ON THE LAKEMASTER MAKES IT RESEMBLE A SPORT MOTORCYCLE.

NOT ALL RIDERS ARE CREATED EQUAL. THE LAKEMASTER COMES EQUIPPED WITH A SELF-BALANCING SYSTEM WHICH WILL HELP ALL RIDERS ON ICE, SLOW SPEEDS, AND IN THE CORNERS.

FOR ULTIMATE CONTROL AND AERODYNAMICS, THE DRIVER LAYS DOWN WHILE IN “SPORT MODE”, JUST LIKE ON A DRAG RACE MOTORCYCLE.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

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future look IT’S SMARTER THAN YOU THINK The Lakemaster is a “smart” vehicle and would learn and adapt to the driving style and preferences of its owner, much like high end automobiles. For example, seating positions, the way corners are taken by the driver for the self-balancing system, or the way information appears on your gauge cluster would all become seamless over time.

DEVELOPMENT

THE COLOUR COMBINATION REMINDED CHARLES OF A MOTO-SKI AND HIS OLD MACH 1. WHY THE NUMBER “314”, AND THE LETTERS “ATTM” REMAIN A MYSTERY THOUGH. IF YOU KNOW WHAT IT MEANS, SEND THE ANSWER TO INFO@OSMMAG.COM

The Lakemaster snowmobile is a vision for a different kind of sled that brings together various ideas like ergonomics, sprocket motors, self-balancing and adaptive systems. Like all of Charles’s designs, they are designed to start discussions and inspire others and their ideas.

The Designer

CONTROL The design is based on a front mono ski, which allows for less snow drag and wind resistance than conventional snowmobiles. Because of different skill levels that drivers have, the Lakemaster would also be equipped with a self-balancing system. While some riders would not require it as often others would, the self-balancing system makes sense both for safety and the fun factor. The self-balancing system would allow the Lakemaster to be stable and stay upright while travelling on ice at low speed, and would really give the driver confidence while making turns, and

especially while powering around corners at high speeds. To optimize comfort and control at all speeds the seat and foot pegs on the Lakemaster could slide to the back of the snowmobile, adapting the ergonomics of the driver and speed of the sled. This would allow the driver to go from a “low rider” or “touring” seating position while cruising, to a “superman” or “sport mode” seating in an over the gas tank type position, while driving fast on smooth trails, or drag racing down a lake like Charles envisioned the Lakemaster.

The Lakemaster concept was imagined in May 2019 by Charles Bombardier, and designed by Jorge Ciprian, an Industrial Designer from Argentina. Jorge graduated with a degree from the University of Buenos Aires, and he currently works as a freelance designer. TO MAKE DISMOUNTING EASIER, ELECTRIC MOTORS RAISE THE HANDLE BARS AND SEAT.

About Charles Bombardier The grandson of Joseph-Armand Bombardier, Charles has a wealth of experience in the design and engineering of vehicles during his time at BRP including the Can-Am Traxter, the second generation Ski-Doo Elite and the Can-Am Spyder Roadster. In 2008 Bombardier founded a private Research and Development Center and developed electric urban transporters and electric ATV prototypes. With a passion for innovation, Charles is deeply involved within the design community and acts as an expert and a consultant to support inventors, companies and basically anyone interested in new applications for mechanical engineering. His website www.charlesbombardier.com promotes open innovation and along with a team of designers they are constantly dreaming, innovating, and creating new concepts and publishing them for all to see. As Charles puts it, “Our mission is to inspire kids, students, inventors and tinkerers to improve existing modes of transportation and imagine what the future holds for us. We share our concepts with the world so they can grow faster, evolve and become a reality one day.”

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inter is on its way, and it’s time to start the search for a new vehicle to tow around the sleds. For some, this can be a daunting task, trying to navigate all the categories and options available, not only in the light truck segments, but also in the SUV lines can be about as much fun as digging your brain out with a dull spoon.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

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elying on dealership sales staff may only get you so far, but the staff should understand what you need in a wintertime tow vehicle. And if you’re not prepared by knowing your numbers before you hit the lots, it’s is a sure way to drive home in something that drives well, but may not check all of your boxes. Looking across brands and vehicle segments, there is an endless amount of new features and options that are geared towards recreational towing. Features like integrated brake controllers, backup cameras that take into account your trailer, even intelligent reversing systems that can backup your trailer for you can be handy features, but can also distract you from making the best buying decisions. Many of these features may or may not fit within your budget, as many seem to be only available within luxury groups. However, these things shouldn’t matter

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when it comes down to making your core vehicle choice. Without sounding like I’m stating the obvious with another Tow Vehicle article, I wanted to hopefully give you some sound advice, based on my trailer towing experience with all types of vehicles in all types of weather. I’ve been lucky enough to tow practically everything from single axle utility trailers behind small SUVs, all the way up to 53’ transport trailers behind semi trucks. I’m not a professional driver making my living OTR, but I do have a decent amount of experience, and I’m a snowmobiler, so I hope I can in some way give you some advice on choosing the right tow vehicle for you and your sled, or at least, one capable of doing the job. To keep things simple, you need to know three things - the total weight of the tow vehicle and its load, the total weight of the trailer and its load, and the maximum combination (truck and trailer) weight limit

of the tow vehicle, as specified by the manufacturer. When out shopping, its easy to get bogged down in Maximum Payloads, Maximum Towing Numbers, Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings, and Gross Combination Weight Ratings. Not to mention how these numbers can change between sub models within a vehicle family. Compound all these numbers with a sales agent that’s itching to move a stale vehicle off the lot, and it would be easy to find yourself in the wrong vehicle platform. Getting started, you have to know the weight numbers of what you are going to carry. Beginning with the trailer you already have, or one you may be buying, take a look at the VIN plate that’s usually located somewhere around the front left side of the unit. It should give you a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). This number is the maximum weight capacity the of the trailer that includes the weight of the

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


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I’M NOT SUGGESTING HERE THAT EVERYONE SHOULD CLASS UP TO 1 TON DUAL WHEEL PICKUPS TO TOW 2-PLACE ENCLOSED TRAILERS. trailer AND the load. I would suggest making the assumption the trailer is always fully loaded and use that number when calculating the combination weight for the truck and trailer. Figuring out the total load on the tow vehicle is a little more difficult than the trailer. Setting up a load list of everything to be loaded into or onto your tow vehicle can be a good place to start. Stuff on the

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list should include all the potential passengers, all your overnight baggage and snowmobile gear, spare fuel/oil, tools, miscellaneous load items, any special equipment like generators, the tongue weight of the trailer, and/or if you are in the pick-up truck market and plan on loading an extra sled in the box of a truck or install a sled deck. Some of these items like extra fuel or baggage may be carried in the trailer and you can adjust your list accordingly. In addition to payload, you also need to know what the vehicle weighs all on its own. This is sometimes referred to a curb weight and can change wildly with vehicle options and layouts. Adding everything up, making sure neither the tow vehicle nor the trailer are overloaded, should give you the total weight of your combination when going down the road. In my opinion, his is the most important number to know, and shouldn’t exceed the Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of your tow vehicle. Now… here is where trailering experience kicks in. Even if your loaded numbers don’t exceed the GCWR, I believe you don’t want to be pushing their limits

either. Trailering/towing at the maximum ratings is a sure way to induce a drive experience that will exercise your butt muscles. Add in bad weather and the fact that when we have our sleds loaded up, we’re often in for long road trips into more remote areas and roads, so there is just no margin for error. I wish I could give you a numerical value to put a percentage on how much you want the GCWR to exceed your load, but I can’t. Even here, variables like how often you tow, distance you expect to go, and the speed at which you like to travel come into play. If you only plan on one road trip a year, getting close to the maximums may be acceptable. However, if you are like me and expect to spend a good deal of time driving with a trailer hooked up, a little more capacity can make time at the wheel a lot less stressful. I’m not suggesting here that everyone should class up to 1 ton dual wheel pickups to tow 2-place enclosed trailers, but if you find yourself right at the top end of the capabilities of the ½ ton pickup class, maybe you’d option-out of the heated steering wheel package to free up enough budget to bring home a ¾ ton truck. In the long run, you’ll be happy you did. Going into the dealership knowing your weights, and how much time you expect to spend trailering, will ensure that you choose the correct class of vehicle that’s right for you. From that point, you can start thinking about option packages and luxury trailering features. My Dad always used the saying, “The tail doesn’t wag the dog,” and choosing the right tow vehicle will make sure that doesn’t happen.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


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The New Brunswick Federation of Snowmobile Clubs

President’s Report… New National Tourism Growth Strategy includes Winter announcing how the new Federal Tourism Growth Strategy will support economic growth in New Brunswick. We were also joined by MP Wayne Long, representing the riding of Saint John-Rothesay and MP Karen Ludwig representing NB Southwest. Parliamentary Secretary Lockhart highlighted how the strategy will empower communities of all sizes through short and long term measures. It will support growth in the (tourism) sector across Canada by: 1. Providing $58.5 million in funding through the Canada Experiences Fund (CEF). 2. Developing tourism investment groups. 3. Creating the new Tourism Industry Economic Strategy Table. The Government of Canada’s new federal (National) Tourism Strategy was announced on May 21st, 2019 as part of the Federal Budget, just weeks after we had stopped snowmobiling in some of the snowbelts of New Brunswick. This is fantastic news for the NBFSC and we are proud to have been included and helped to shape the categories and criteria of this new opportunity for snowmobiling – New Brunswick’s leading winter tourism sector. In October of 2018 at Ottawa we attended the Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organization’s (CCSO) national board meetings and participated in the National CCSO reception for Members of Parliament and the Senate of Canada. In a NBFSC meeting with M.P. Alaina Lockhart for Fundy Royal and the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Tourism, Official Languages and La Francophonie we invited Alaina to host our annual Federal “Go Snowmobiling Ride, Take a Friend” in New Brunswick for 2019. Later that day, at the national CCSO reception we invited the Hon. Melanie Joly, Minister for Tourism to come snowmobiling in New Brunswick. On January 9th, 2019 Hon. Melanie Joly, M.P. Alaina Lockhart and guests from our local snowmobile clubs and Corporate Partners joined the NBFSC at Adair’s Wilderness Lodge to ride the trails in the Fundy Highlands of New Brunswick (NBFSC Zone 8). While in N.B., Minister Joly and Alaina chaired tourism stakeholder’s session in Fundy Royal with the NBFSC as one of her guests. Then again on March 13th, 2019, Minister Joly enjoyed another snowmobile guided trip from our partner, Halcomb’s Moose Barn, near Miramichi (NBFSC Zone 5). On May 24th, 2019 the NBFSC was invited by Destination Saint John and MP Alaina Lockhart to join her in

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The NBFSC’s ongoing vision to grow New Brunswick’s winter tourism fits perfectly into the categories and criteria of the new National Tourism Growth Strategy. Investments will be made through the CEF and will focus on five categories. The efforts and hours given by our volunteer clubs fit into the first category; expanding winter and shoulder season tourism and also the second category of growing tourism in rural and remote communities. These two categories are very much a part of the NBFSC trails in New Brunswick. On July 8th, 2019 NBFSC General Manager Ross Antworth joined the Hon. Melanie Joly, MP Alaina Lochart and New Brunswick MLA’s Bruce Northrup, Glen Savoie and the Hon. Mike Holland to announce CEF funding and provincial funding for NBFSC Trail Groomers in New Brunswick for 2020. At the announcement we stated, “We applaud Canada’s new Federal Tourism Growth Strategy that recognizes two of the strategic pillars critical to New Brunswick’s economic tourism growth; winter activities and rural resources (volunteers). The NBFSC today graciously thanks our partners for supporting our vision and our objectives. We are proud to have created the premier winter tourism sector in our Province, we applaud that the scope of the Federal Tourism Growth Strategy is further supporting these efforts. “ Scott Ralston, NBFSC President, “A Volunteer Organization”

Snowmobiling is New Brunswick’s Winter Tourism…


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La Fédération des Clubs de Motoneige du Nouveau-Brunswick

Rapport du Président…

La nouvelle stratégie nationale de croissance du tourisme inclut l’hiver La nouvelle stratégie fédérale (nationale) sur le tourisme du gouvernement du Canada fut annoncée le 21 mai 2019 dans le cadre du budget fédéral, juste quelques semaines après que nous avions cessé de faire de la motoneige dans certaines des ceintures de neige du Nouveau-Brunswick. C’est une nouvelle fantastique pour la FCMNB et nous sommes fiers d’avoir été inclus et d’avoir aidé à formuler les catégories et les critères de cette nouvelle opportunité pour la motoneige, c-à-d., le principal secteur du tourisme d’hiver au Nouveau-Brunswick. En octobre 2018, à Ottawa, nous avons participé aux rencontres nationales du Conseil d’administration du Conseil canadien des organismes de la motoneige (CCOM) et nous avons participé à la réception nationale du CCOM pour les membres du Parlement et du Sénat du Canada. Durant une rencontre de la FCMNB avec la député Alaina Lockhart, de Fundy Royal, aussi secrétaire parlementaire de la Ministre du Tourisme, des Langues officielles et de la Francophonie, nous avons invité Alaina à agir comme hôte de notre Randonnée fédérale « À vos motoneiges, Embarquez un ami » au Nouveau-Brunswick pour 2019. Plus tard ce

jour-là, lors de la réception nationale du CCOM, nous avons invité l’Hon. Mélanie Joly, Ministre du Tourisme, à venir faire de la motoneige au Nouveau-Brunswick. Le 9 janvier 2019, l’Hon. Mélanie Joly, la député Alaina Lockhart et des invités de nos clubs de motoneige locaux, accompagnés de Partenaires corporatifs, se sont joints à la FCMNB à la « Adair’s Wilderness Lodge » pour se promener sur les sentiers dans les Hautes terres de Fundy, au Nouveau-Brunswick (Zone 8 de la FCMNB). Pendant qu’elles étaient au NB, la Ministre Joly et Alaina ont présidé une session pour les intervenants du tourisme à Fundy Royal avec la FCMNB comme l’une de ses invités. Une fois de plus, le 13 mars 2019, la Ministre Joly s’est amusée lors d’une autre randonnée guidée en motoneige en compagnie de notre partenaire, « Halcomb’s Moose Barn », près de Miramichi (Zone 5 - Miramichi). Le 24 mai 2019, la FCMNB fut invitée par « Destination Saint John » et la député Alaina Lockhart pour se joindre à elle dans l’annonce de comment la nouvelle Stratégie fédérale de croissance du tourisme va appuyer la croissance économique au NouveauBrunswick. Nous avons été également rejoints par le député fédéral Wayne Long, représentant la circonscription de Saint John-Rothesay, ainsi que la député fédérale Karen Ludwig, représentant NB Southwest. La secrétaire parlementaire Lockhart a souligné comment la stratégie va habiliter les communautés de toutes dimensions par des mesures à court et à long terme. Elle va appuyer la croissance dans le secteur (du tourisme) à travers le Canada en :

concentrer sur cinq catégories. Les efforts et les heures contribués par nos clubs bénévoles font partie de la première catégorie ; prolonger le tourisme d’hiver et d’intersaison ; et aussi dans la seconde catégorie, de faire croitre le tourisme dans les communautés rurales et éloignées. Ces deux catégories font vraiment partie des sentiers de la FCMNB au Nouveau-Brunswick. Le 8 juillet 2019, Ross Antworth, Directeur général de la FCMNB, s’est joint à l’Hon. Mélanie Joly, à la député fédérale Alaina Lochart et aux députés provinciaux Bruce Northrup et Glen Savoie, ainsi qu’à l’Hon. Mike Holland, pour annoncer le financement du FEC et le financement provincial pour les surfaceuses de sentiers de la FCMNB au Nouveau-Brunswick pour 2020. Lors de cette annonce, nous avons déclaré : « Nous applaudissons la nouvelle Stratégie fédérale pour la croissance du tourisme qui reconnait deux des pilliers stratégiques essentiels dans la croissance économique du tourisme au Nouveau-Brunswick : les activités d’hiver et les ressources rurales (les bénévoles). Aujourd’hui, la FCMNB remercie cordialement ses partenaires pour avoir supporté notre vision et nos objectifs. Nous sommes fiers d’avoir créé le plus important secteur du tourisme d’hiver dans notre province ; nous applaudissons le fait que la portée de la Stratégie fédérale pour la croissance du tourisme vienne appuyer ces efforts. » Scott Ralston, Président de la FCMNB, « Un organisme bénévole »

1. Fournissant 58,5 millions de dollars de financement par l’entremise du Fonds pour les expériences canadiennes (FEC). 2. Développant des groupes d’investissement dans le tourisme. 3. Créant la nouvelle Table sur la stratégie économique pour l’industrie du tourisme. La vision continue de la FCMNB de faire croitre le tourisme d’hiver du Nouveau-Brunswick s’insère parfaitement dans les catégories et les critères de la nouvelle Stratégie nationale de croissance du tourisme. Des investissements seront faits par l’entremise du FEC et vont

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La motoneige est le Tourisme d’hiver du Nouveau-Brunswick…


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KELLY’S TEAM IS TACKLING BREAST CANCER

21ST ANNUAL KELLY SHIRES BREAST CANCER SNOW RUN

As you are read this issue of OSM, our Event Committee will be in full swing finetuning all plans for the upcoming 21st Annual Kelly Shires Breast Cancer Snow Run. The event takes place January 31 – Feb 2, 2020 at Hidden Valley Resort in Huntsville, Ontario. Over the past 21 years you may have heard about this mighty all-women snowmobile event but you may not know how it all started or what we do what we do! (Other than have an amazing time!!) The story starts just over 21 years ago with the one and only – Kelly Shires. It was around this time of year in 1996 when Kelly Shires found a lump on her breast. She didn’t waste any time or procrastinate. She immediately visited her doctor and they determined right away she had breast cancer. Kelly was in the early stages of pregnancy with her first child at the time and the doctors decided it was necessary to terminate the pregnancy. She began a whirlwind of surgeries and on-going chemotherapy. It was just the beginning of what she would endure. From the onset, Kelly experience first-hand the realities that come along with a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. Right away Kelly wanted help others in the same or similar situation. She was a force to be reckoned with and there was no way that she wasn’t going to take this situation and turn it into something good! Early into Kelly’s journey, she noticed that there was a hole in the system for financial support during a treatment/diagnosis period (19 years later this gap still exists and so does this disease). This is where the idea for the ‘Snow Run” was born and when Kelly and Suzy Stenoff teamed

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up and launched its first Kelly Shires Breast Cancer Snow Run for Fun in January 2000. Kelly’s vision was to have an all-women snowmobile ride in support of financial assistance for breast cancer patients. The concept and planning for the first annual event began late fall 1999 with its inaugural event set to take place January 2000. Taking on an event of this sort (21 plus years ago) was a huge undertaking and not one that was without hiccups. Mother Nature decided to throw in a little extra challenge and decided that the end of January was the perfect time to rain! The

first “ride” was officially “rained out”, but this did not deter Kelly nor the 55 participants who signed up for this inaugural adventure. In its first year people quickly realized the importance of this event, so even with no snow and no open trails the ladies forged through the weekend. Instead of riding their sleds however, the ladies rode the route on a bus, where at the designated lunch spot they were treated with live entertainment and fun contests. The entire group who attended had a fantastic time and the first annual event raised $10,000! Kelly’s cancer was in remission for a short time but then came back and this time also moved into her bones and liver. She never stopped her chemotherapy. There was no way that Kelly was going to let cancer stop her love of life, she fought back hard. 2004 was the last event that Kelly rode in, she wasn’t feeling well but she never let that get in the way and was always smiling no matter what. Not only did she ride in this event, she led one of the teams and at her last Snow Run she would see it raise over $250,000. A big leap from the $10,000 raised just 5 years earlier. On October 31, 2004 Kelly lost her long hard battle with breast cancer but continues to be an inspiration to us all. Losing Kelly was devastating to everyone around her but it was also a lesson in determination, strength and that together we can accomplish anything. Over 21 years, this “small” volunteer driven charity have raised over $6 million dollars to

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


help financially assist those battling breast cancer across Canada. The charity exists and is run through the hard work of dedicated volunteers and just one part-time paid employee who helps manage the applications received for assistance from breast cancer patients. Expanding Kelly’s dream. In 2010 an ATV Jamboree event was added to the list of events in support of the charity (www. trax4bc.com). The 11th annual TraX4 Breast Cancer event will take place May 1 & 3, 2020 at Pinestone Resort in Haliburton and is open to both male and female riders. This past February, The Ontario Snow Run event raised over $600,000.00 We are thrilled excited to announce that this year’s theme will be a football theme – “Kelly’s team tackles breast cancer”. Please stop by our booth at the Toronto Snowmobile, ATV & Powersports Show October 25-27th! It is always great to talk to everyone at the show and! Don’t miss out on our 2019/2020 Raffle - tickets are still available at Royal Distributing locations for only $10 for your chance to win: Early Bird - 2020 Can-Am Outlander 570 XT (donated by Can-Am/BRP & Factory Recreation in Midland) – prize drawn October 27, 2019 1st prize - 2020 Ski-Doo Renegard Adrenalene 600 R (donated by BRP/Ski-Doo & Factory Recreation, Midland) 2nd prize - $500 Gift Certificate for Royal Distributing (donated by Royal Distributing) 3rd prize – Stay for 2 at Hidden Valley Resort, Huntsville (donated by Hidden Valley Resort) In honour of all those who we have lost to breast cancer, all the courageous warriors currently battling the disease and in memory of Kelly, we are going to continue doing this Kelly style and that means “‘Dancing like Nobody’s Watching”. To find out more about the event, register or make a donation please visit www.breastcancersnowrun.org or www.kellyshiresfoundation. org Thank you for your support!

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TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

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gear

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2

Ultimax XS Belts

Global Star Spot X

Get superior performance out of your machine with Ultimax XS Belts by Timken. These belts are designed for modern high performance snowmobilers that are designed to provide better consistency and great resistance to cracking because of their high temperature rubber compound. Ultimax belts has a formulated rubber compound found in no other snowmobile belt, which is why they stand out from the rest. If they can handle the brutality from top racers, than it can handle what you put it through out on the trails. Further details on Ultimax XS Belts by Timken at www.ultimaxbelts. com

3

Whether your ride in the mountains or out on the trails, safety never takes a holiday! Out in the backcountry, finding a cell signal can be a chore, so why not take that extra safety measure with Global Stars SPOT X. The SPOT X provides 2-way satellite messaging so you can stay connected to remote and lone workers, even outside of cellular range. Connect SPOT X to your smartphone via Bluetooth wireless technology through the SPOT X app to access your contacts and communicate easily. This includes direct communication with emergency services to pinpoint your exact location. SPOT X is flexible too; each unit has its own mobile phone number so units can be reached via cell or other SMS devices at any time. Go to www.globalstar.com today!

4

Kimpex Snowmobile Muff with Window

Keeping warm while out on the trails is on the top of every rider’s list, so why not add a pair of Kimpex’s Snowmobile Muff with Window to your machine this winter! With the Snowmobile Muff + Window you will notice a drastic increase in warmth around your hands. Yes this really works! With its neoprene lining that adjusts around your coat and its 600-denier nylon/polyester, polyurethane coating, and waterproof coating, oh you’ll keep warm. The addition of the high quality integrated plastic window, you’ll have the ability to see all of your handle controls clearly. Don’t be that guy this winter complaining about the cold and plan ahead to purchase the Snowmobile Muff with Window at www.kimpex.com.

FXR Pilot Transition Goggle

Make riding more enjoyable this winter with FXR’s Pilot Transition Goggle. This premium optical goggle with auto-darkening technology automatically adapts itself to different lighting conditions while out on the trails or up in the mountains. The Pilot Transition Goggle has an oversized, impact resistant, pre-curved polycarbonate lens that has a premium anti-scratch and UV lens coating. Take on any conditions with FXR’s Pilot Transition Goggle and enjoy the full ride. Head over too www.fxrracing.com

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TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


REVELSTROKE, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA Experience the serene ambiance of country log living surrounded by panoramic views and nestled at the base of Mt. MacKenzie. Situated on a parklike acreage, we are directly below Revelstoke Mountain Resort with the ski lifts on our doorstep.


gear

5

6

Scott’s DS Women’s Nonsuit Ladies are you looking for a new suite for the upcoming winter? Looking for one with style but with all the latest protection features… Check out Scott’s DS Women’s Monosuit. This one-piece suite provides the rider with ultimate protection from wind and water while still being breathable, soft to touch, and comfortable. You also have the added protection for you cell phone with Scott’s insulated mobile device pocket with napoleon pocket that keeps your phone dry and warm. Keep stylish and comfortable while hitting the trails or side hilling the mountains with Scott’s DS Monosuit. Further details and colour designs at www.scott-sports.com

KLIM F5 Helmet Here at On Snow Magazine we tend to ride from sun up to sunset, and the number one thing that we all look for is comfort, comfort, and comfort. Klim’s F5 Helmet ECE is noted as an all-day helmet providing you with the best design, comfort, and support that you need on the trails or in the mountains. Klim designed and built the F5 ECE helmet from the ground up with years of rider feedback, testing data, and cutting edge technology. This is a low weight, high ventilation carbon fiber shell helmet that is designed to satisfy all of your needs! Head over to www.klim.com for more details!

TAKE CONTROL

7

Dayco XTX HPX HP Belts

TRACTION BY

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

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


FXR M Elevation Lite Dri-Link 2 PC Monosuit

8

9

Plow & Summit Backpack Take all the necessities with you on your next ride with CKX’s Plow & Summit Backpack. Designed with comfort in mind, CKX added a padded shoulder and back for increased comfort, plus a waist and sternum adjustable strap to keep the backpack tight and secure. Included with the Summit Backpack are a forged aluminium shaft/blade, telescopic shaft, and a crosscut saw that is inside the shaft. Head over too www.ckxgear.com for purchasing details.

Introducing the industry’s first jacket and pants that are linked at the waist with a 360-degree zipper, giving you the rider, added protection from the cold. The Elevation Dry Link 2 PC Mono from FXR is similar to a monosuit but gives a more mobile fit like a two-piece suite. Advanced climate management technology gives the rider a durable poly shell, seam-sealed lining, and a dry vent system that is snow proof and moisture resistant at the chest, side body, and legs. Featuring waterproof zippers, hood, and adjustable wind skirt, bottom hem, and cuffs. Purchase FXR’s Elevation Dry Link 2 PC Mono at www.fxrracing.com

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TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

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gear

Fly Incline Jacket

The Incline Jacket is FLY Racing’s most advanced gear to date. Meticulously designed to fight back against the harsh and chaotic conditions riders face on cold days. The Incline Jacket features a Sympatex Shell that is 20,000mm waterproof and 20,000mm breathable rated. Additional features include an adjustable powder skirt with silicone grip, 2Cool Mesh vents, detachable hood, and 2-year warranty. Great for the mountains and when paired with Fly Racing’s all-new mid layer, or on it’s own on the trails. Go to www. flyracing.com for more details.

11

Ford Hard Roll-Up Tonne au Bed Cover Ford’s latest tonneau cover provides the security of a hard folding tonneau with the convenience of a roll-up tonneau. There’s no heavy lifting required; and with the easy one-handed rolling design, opening and closing is a snap. This bed cover provides 100% access to the bed when rolled up, compact design for maximum visibility through the rear window, and the locking rail design secures the cover over the full length of the bed when it’s closed. Designed with an easy, clamp on, no drilling installation, you can’t go wrong. Go to www.ford.ca or to your local ford dealer for further details!

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Ski-Doo Gen 4 850 E-Tec Trail

gear

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Fly Mid-Layer Even riders who embrace the cold need an extra layer every once and a while. FLY Racing is proud to release an all-new Mid-Layer line. The moisture wicking, antistatic, single brushed material is versatile and comfortable no matter how hard your riding. The Mid-Layer also can be worn as a casual piece when walking through town after a long day on the trails. Go to www.flyracing.com for more details.

Elka Stage 5 High Performance Shock Absorbers

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With the winter weather knocking at our door, and the snowmobiles sitting on the shop floor, why wouldn’t we make a few upgrades to really kick it up a notch? Add a pair of Stage 5 Elka Suspension shocks, and toss out the old and bring in the new high performance snowmobile shock absorbers that have high hydraulic flow, lightweight components, and low friction internal moving parts. With Stage 5 Elka Shocks you will increase and maintain speed over rough terrain, heavy bumps, and they’ll prevent your sled from bottoming out. The boys over at Accelerated Technologies can get your sled set up for this year’s excursion. For shock setup and purchasing head over to www. acceleratedtechnologies.ca or purchase at www.elkasuspension.com

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That extra hand when you’re stuck – It works! See it in action at www.stuckmate.ca

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Looking to add a little BRAAP to your Ski-Doo Gen 4 850 E-TEC, may we suggest checking out MBRP’s trail exhaust? Made for the 2017-2020 Ski-Doo GEN 4 Chassis with enhanced sound in the lower to mid range and increase in sound at the higher RPMS, while still meeting 88DB at 4000RPM. The advantages you will get with MBRP’s Trail Exhaust is 2HP Gain, 7 pound weight savings, 304 stainless, 2 year warranty, and does not need any clutching or tuning modifications. Check out www.mbrppowersports.com for more details.

Ridge Jacket The HMK Ridge Jacket is suited for athletes and the everyday rider, no matter the conditions or riding style. The Ridge Jacket with the XR-Platinum Weather-proof Technology is a windproof, waterproof and breathable jacket that includes a fully articulated, advanced technical interior construction to keep you warm on the coldest of days. Other features include fully taped seams, interior goggle pocket, and forward facing ventilation. This is one jacket that has the style and all the features to go with it! More details on the HMK Ridge Jacket at www.hmkusa.com.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


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1450 Vanier Blvd. Bathurst, NB E2A 4H7 Toll Free: 1-800-898-9292 Office: (506) 548-3335 • Fax: (506) 548-9769 thehost@nbnet.nb.ca • www.atlantichost.com Known to all sledders as the place to stay in Bathurst. Located on Trail #19, or take exit #310 on Rte 11. Loading ramps, indoor sled parking, heated repair bays. Fuel on-site. Excellent accommodations, excellent restaurants, pub-style lounge, heated indoor pool, sauna and whirlpool. And did we meantion we’re the only hotel in New Brunswick located directly on NBFSC trails? Rp-R1

Tel: 705-856-2278 • Fax: 705-856-2171 Toll Free: 800-561-2278 Email: wawamoto@shawbiz.ca Website: www.wawamotorinn.com Your Superior Vacation Experience featuring 50 main building rooms, 20 cozy log rooms and 18 rustic Chalets with fireplaces. All main building rooms are 100% smokefree. Enjoy fine dining in the Fireside Dining Room; home of the largest fireplace in the North. Easily accessible to snow trails and ample parking.

Wawa . ONTARIO MAP 11 Wawa Motor Inn 118 Mission Road, Wawa, Ontario P0S1K0

Bathurst Atlantic Host Hotel

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rONTARIO MAP 13

Sudbury’s Best Motel Accomodations Right on the D111 trail, free continental breakfast, Royal Distributing close by, special rates & park’n’ride packages, rooms include fridge, microwave, coffee maker, and we offer extended stay kitchenettes.

350 Moonlight Ave Sudbury, ON, P3B3W3 PH: 1-800-424-0321 www.moonlightinn.ca ONTARIO

North Bay/Astorville q ONTARIO MAP 18

Cozy Camp Cottages Hwy 560, PO BOX 67, Gowganda, ON P0J 1J0 info@gowgandalakelodge.com www.gowgandalakelodge.com

Our 4 season resort has groomed trails to our doo. Located in the canter of A107C and the south end of L136 (north shore of Gowganda Lake) or drive directly to us on Hwy 560. We have 7 deluxe cottages, 6 will hold up to 6 people and 1 cottage that will hold up to 10 people. All units are fully furnished with 4 pc baths, full kitchens, wi-fi and satellite TV. General Store, LCBO, beer store, wood burning sauna and premium fuel are all on site. Meal plans are available with reservation. Accommodation as low as $30 pp/pd.

outdoor kitchens • pizza ovens outdoor fireplaces • bbqs

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#1, 49 Trails End Rd., Corbeil, Ont. P0H 1K0 Phone: (705) 752-2085 • Toll Free-1-877-752-2085 www.cozycampcottages.com Located 18 miles south-east of North Bay on Lake Nosbonsing, just off TOP Trail A102D. Modern housekeeping cottages. Fully equipped including microwaves, coffee makers, gas BBQs. Rentals by the season, weekly, weekends or mid-week when riding is the Best! Ice Fishing Packages also available. Snowmobilers serving snowmobilers. Check us out on the web! Your hosts Brian & Diane.

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Seguin/Parry Sound U ON MAP 30 Grand Tappattoo Resort Conveniently located a short ride north of the TOP A/B trail on trail 127, this location offers you a 100% smoke free environment with access to local amenities close by and even includes a hot breakfast bar in the morning before you hit the trails!

Holiday Inn Express Pembroke 8 International Drive Pembroke, ON, K8A 6W5 Tel: (613) 629 1990

30 Tapatoo Trail, Otter Lake, Seguin, ON P2A 0B2 705-378-2210 • info@grandtappattoo.com www.grandtappattoo.com

Weeknight Package 1 night $125 per person • Daily Breakfast and $30 Dinner Credit • Late check out 12pm • Deluxe accommodations • Access to full resort

Weekend Package 2 Nights: $225 per Person • Daily Breakfast and $30 Dinner Credit • Late check out 12pm • Deluxe accommodations • Access to full resort * Based on double occupancy

* Subject to availability

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* HST and gratuity is not included

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TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com 14-03-24 10:24 AM


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32nd Annual Toronto International Snowmobile, ATV & Powersports Show

PRESENTED BY

SHOW HOURS Friday Oct 25 1:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Saturday Oct 26 10:00 am - 7:00 pm

Sunday Oct 27 10:00 am - 5:00 pm

HALL 4 EVENT TIMES ULTIMAX FREESTYLE SHOW Friday October 25 3:00 pm 6:00 pm

Saturday October 26 11:30 am 4:00 pm

TMR CUSTOM JEEP ROCK CRAWLER SHOWS

All weekend long just outside of hall 4.

ALL DAY EVENT

TEAM EMPIRE

Friday October 25 4:00 pm 7:00 pm

Sunday October 27 12:00 pm 3:00 pm

Saturday October 26 12:30 pm 5:00 pm

Sunday October 27 1:00 pm 4:00 pm

120cc and 200cc Snowmobile and ATV Test Track

SEE BOARD SCHEDULE FOR DETAILS.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV AND POWERSPORTS SHOW 27083 Kennedy Road, Willow Beach, ON L0E 1S0, Canada Ph: 905-722-6766 Toll-free ph: 1-888-661-7469 info@torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

SPONSORED BY

MARK THE DATES

atvworldmag.com

MARK THE DATES FOR NEXT YEARS SHOW OCTOBER 23-25, 2020

osmmag.com

snowmobilertv.com

ADVENTURE BEGINS WITH

DEWILDT

INNISFIL

1982 & 1988 Commerce Park Dr. 888-656-8680

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PETERBOROUGH 1300 Highway 7 East 844-291-6330

HAMILTON 450 Lake Ave N 888-656-7570

dewildtmarine.com

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


W E LCO M E TO T H E

32nd Annual Toronto International Snowmobile, ATV & Powersports Show PRESENTED BY

O C T O B E R 2 5 , 2 6 , 2 7, 2 0 1 9 , A T T H E I N T E R N A T I O N A L C E N T R E TISAPS is one of the most interactive and family friendly shows with more things to do and more things to see.. Powersports Enthusiasts come from around the world to be a part of this yearly adventure. The BIG SHOW by the Airport, the WORLD’S LARGEST Snowmobile and ATV show, the show to bring your entire family to, and where you can meet up with your friends. Offering a live indoor entertainment/ stunt/freestyle area featuring more snowmobiles, ATVs and motocross bikes, all aspects of Snowmobiling and ATV’ing at one place, and at one time, only at the

International Centre where parking is free! The show where Snowmobiling and ATVing continues to grow! If you’re in to Snowmobiles, ATV’s, UTV’S and an all around Powersports enthusiast, this is the show for you and you wont’ want to miss it! This is the Show that offers something for everyone. Presented by AMSOIL, and sponsored by On Snow Magazine, ATV WORLD Magazine, and Snowmobiler Television, the 32nd Annual TISAPS will hit the International Centre, October 25-27, 2019.

Whatever you’re looking for, it will be at the show. If you’re looking for a Snowmobile or ATV, it will be there. Accessories, clothing, helmets, gloves, suits, goggles – it’ll all be there. Looking to plan a great ride? You can plan your trip at the show.

INTRODUCING

Designed to aid in keeping you afloat and mobile in the event of an unforeseen water emergency. Choko D esi gn

www.chokodesign.com TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

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FREE PARKING… SPONSORED BY

FREE PARKING… Once you arrive, not only will you have Free Parking at the International Center, sponsored by Snowmobiler Television, but after you hop out of your car, you’ll be able to catch a ride to the doors in the free Kubota shuttle service. Free door to car service provided by Kubota will be available for show attendees on a first come first serve basis.

OCTO

25, 26BER , 27

2019 AT T

HE NATIO CENTR NAL E

INTER

GREAT FEATURES You’ll be blown away with the incredible roster of exhibitors and the feature events taking place around the show, not to mention the new incredible Indoor Events Hall 4, Sponsored by Royal Distributing. You’ll find huge Manufacturer Displays showcasing all of the 2020 Sled and ATV line-ups. With more corporate manufacturer displays at this snowmobile and ATV Show than any other across North America, you’ll be sure to see: Arctic Cat, Can-Am, RAM, Honda, John Deere, Kubota, Kawasaki, Polaris, SkiDoo, CFMoto, HiSun, Suzuki , Yamaha,

Tracker, Ford, and Toyota to name a few. All of these machines under one roof, over one weekend, you can’t miss it! The Toronto International Snowmobile, ATV & Powersports show, presented by AMSOIL, has the unbeaten track record for bringing attendees more to see and more to do each year with features that are all included in the cost of admission to the show. Take a snowmobile Driver Training

Class provided by the OFSC, or register for the Free CASI ATV Rider Course. Try out the ZR 200cc and ZR 120cc Snowmobile test track and take a demo ride. Take in Freestyle shows with headliner Heath Frisby, Brody Wilson, Keith Sayers, and Kassie Boone. Ride in a Kubota from your vehicle to the front door, there’s always more to see and more to do at the World’s Largest Snowmobile and ATV Show, October 25-27, 2019!!

. RS S. E V ER AT TV R A FOOM FR

RTH NORICA’S E AM ING ATV AZINE

T

BES G

MA

GET IT! NOW

subscribe at 128

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DAY!

RIBE TO

www.atvworldmag.com

SUBSC

ONLY

$19 FOR ONE YEAR

1.888.661.7469

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com



TRAILERS GALORE

Thinking about a new trailer this season? Great, you’ll find Trailer manufactures and retailers on site and available with every type of trailer you’ve considered for moving your ATV or snowmobile. Whether you are in the market for an enclosed or open bed, single or four bed, budget or top of the line, you name it, it will be at the Show. Now what will you pull it with? Ford, Ram Trucks and Toyota will all have their factory displays showcasing their trucks and towing packages.

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More Deals

More deals, more bargains and more new products will be on sale all weekend long at ridiculously discounted prices with up to 75% off. This is the only place where you will actually be able to touch, feel, and purchase anything you want for the sport you live. Royal Distributing will have the largest booth at over 20,000 square feet, located in Hall 1 East. The BRP, Ski-Doo noncurrent, MEGA discount clothing booth is BACK on the show foor, Factory Recreation and Quinn’s Marina have once again joined forces to form a MEGA BOOTH to set up front and center in Hall 1. Find amazing savings and early season deals from Aberfoyle Snowmoibles, Spoiled Sports, Precision Power, Peak Powersports, Dewildt Yamaha or the huge display from Rosseau Rd in Hall 1.

PERFORMANCE

It’s 2019, and Performance products are continuing to grow at the show. No matter what type of performance you’re looking for, be it; suspension, engine, traction, clutching, lightweight or custom, you’ll find plenty of everything to choose from set up by well-known industry specialists. Meet with Dirty Life Off-Road or JT’s Snowmobile Repair specializing in ATV parts and Accessories.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


APPLY TODAY!


CUSTOMS

HALL

2

Are Custom Sleds your interest? Check out the amazing Custom display presented by OSM and ATV World Magazines. The amount of action surrounding the Custom Sled and ATV Village would be impossible to miss. Check out these custom vehicles from across North America and take advantage of the sights, and feel free to bring your camera.

NEW Kids HALL 4 Test Track

The ZR 200cc / ZR 120cc Demo Ride

This FEATURE caters towards the next generation of snowmobilers. Sponsored by On Snow Magazine and Snowmobiler’s Television. Contact us at info@torontosnowmobileatvshow.com to find out age, size and qualifications for this event.

One of the

fastest growing ATV/UTV Parts Retailer in Canada

AMAZING HALL 4 SPECIAL EVENTS

Not only will you see the amazing exhibitor displays, and tourism booths, there will also be special events and features that are included with Show admission. The Royal Distributing Indoor Events Hall 4, will be full of “must see” events for the entire family. Show Attendees will have the chance to see some of the greatest and well-known powersports athletes, like Brett Turcotte, Brody Wilson, Scott Murray, and Kaddie Boone, put on an amazing shows full of flips and tricks. Check out the amazing shows by team from TMR Custom Jeeps Rock Crawler.

TOURISM

HALL

2

Tourism is another focus at this Show, and with a whopping 10,000 sq. Ft. of tourism booths, you’ll get where you need to you go! Tourism regions from across North America will have representatives available to provide helpful information, handy pamphlets and useful maps on regions from across North America.

OCTO

25, 26BER , 27

2019 AT T

HE NATIO CENTR NAL E

INTER

All the Top Brands Available – Highest Quality Parts

“If You’re Looking to Upgrade Your Machine Dirty Life is the Place to Go!” If you can’t find it on our website dirtylife.ca contact us at www.facebook.com/dirtylifeatv or by phone 613-395-1999 or email customer-service@dirtylife.ca

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ULTIMAX FREESTYLE EVENT

HALL

4

Headlining the Royal Distributing Events Hall is the shocking Freestyle Event, presented by Ulitmax Belts, with returning Gold Medal athlete Heath Frisby, and Brody Wilson, Cody Elkins, and Kassie Boone back flipping their snowmobiles, ATV’s, and Dirt Bikes. This event is a feature attraction and has been a show favorite for over a decade. Remember the louder you are, the bigger they go! Shows are scheduled for Friday, Saturday and Sunday, you won’t want to miss out on one of the most talked about pre-season shows of the year. Bring your family and friends, only at the 32nd Annual Toronto International Snowmobile, ATV & Powersports Show, presented by AMSOIL, where the excitement for our sport and lifestyle continues to grow.

ANTIQUE AND CLASSIC SNOWMOBILES

HALL

2

The Antique and Classic Snowmobile Club of Canada has as been exhibiting at the Toronto International Snowmobile, ATV & Powersports Show for many years, and this booth has become an exciting feature at the Show and is an attendee favorite.

SPECIAL SHOW CONTEST HOW DO YOU LOOK RIDING ON A NEW POLARIS? Visit Spoiled Sports at their booth in Hall 2 at the Toronto International Snowmobile, ATV & Powersports Show Oct 25-27 at the International Centre. Try one of the new polaris snowmobiles on for size, snap a picture, and post it to facebook and instagram. Make sure to tag @spoiledsports(fb), @spoiled-sports(insta) & @onsnowmagazine. Share with friends, and the three most liked photos over the weekend will win an osm & spoiled sports prize pack!!

ON A NEW PUSH POLARIS FROM YOURSELF SPOILED SPORTS 1898 BASELINE RD, COURTICE, ON • 905-436-6487

WWW.SPOILEDSPORTS.COM WARNING: Professional rider on a closed course. Polaris recommends that all snowmobile riders take a training course. Do not attempt maneuvers beyond your capability. Always wear a helmet and other safety apparel. Never drink and ride. ©2019 Polaris Industries Inc.

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1ST – 3YR SUBSCRIPTION TO ON SNOW MAGAZINE, OSM T-SHIRT & HAT, A JUG OF OIL PROVIDED BY SPOILED SPORTS & A POLARIS T-SHIRT & SWEATER 2ND – 2YR SUBSCRITION TO ON SNOW MAGAZINE, OSM T-SHIRT & HAT, AND A POLARIS SWEATER 3RD – 1YR SUBSCRIPTION TO ON SNOW MAGAZINE, OSM T-SHIRT, AND A POLARIS T-SHIRT Runner up prizes for most shared photo and best action shot pretending to rip up powder on the 2020 polaris. OSM will feature the winners and runners up on facebook & instagram.

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


©Alija Bos

LONG WIDE WELL GROOMED TRAILS

SNOWWWILD. COM


ONTARIO HALL 2 FEDERATION OF SNOWMOBILE CLUBS THE USED HALL 2 SNOWMOBILE & ATV MARKET

will be back to accommodate snowmobile and ATV owners looking to sell their machines. You can register to sell your machine on the show floor October 25-27, 2019. $25 registration fee per vehicle, or $35 registration fee includes one adult day admission ticket. Registration forms can be found at www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com. Located in the Used Snowmobile & ATV Market you’ll find the Used Snowmobile & ATV Parts Salvage. You’ll find used and vintage snowmobile and ATV Parts. Join the SWAP - One day Only is the ONE DAY SUNDAY SWAP Meet. For one day only, Swappers will be set up early Sunday morning at the show in hall 3.

Looking to Join an ATV CLUB?

HALL

ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 34 • ISSUE 2

Book your trips, plan your rides at the show through out the Ontario Tourism Travel Pavilion. Looking for an adventure, visit the many interesting and exciting tourism pavilions and speak to the representatives from various resorts and lodging locations and find out more about local trails in their areas. Just look for the Blue Carpet!!

And back again is the OFSC Driver Training Classes. If you would like to take a course to obtain your snowmobile drivers license, you can do it right at the Show. Children over 12 can legally operate their own snowmobile once they have successfully passed the course, and the course is available at the Show. For more information please call the OFSC at

(705) 739-7669 Or Visit

ofsc.on.ca

2

If you’re looking to join your local ATV Club, clubs around Ontario will be at the show with their Clubs maps and draws. No matter where you like to ride, there’s a club that’s perfect for you!

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ONTARIO HALL 2 TRAVEL PAVILION

The Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs will be at the Show with not only the corporate booth, but also with all of their programs, including Ontario Trail Permits for sale. The OFSC corporate booth will be along side their Districts, with their maps on hand. If you are considering becoming a volunteer within the OFSC, you can find out more at the show.

NEEDing NEW GEAR?

Good, because there is so much to choose from. It’s absolutely incredible how much gear is available at this Show. There are closeouts from last year and the prices will make you scratch your head. Look at it all, compare it all, and purchase what you need for the upcoming winter season, right at the show. There are huge deals and savings to be had!

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


Find a dealer near you:


SPEEDAHOLICS

HALL

2

The speeds are incredible…. Check out the Ontario Snowmobile Oval Racers in hall 2 and see the 20 plus race sleds.

HALL 1 OFSC DRIVER TRAINING

Attend OFSC Driver Training Classes. Call (705)-739-7669 for more information or go to www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com.

R

OCTOBE

27 25, 26,

19 2A0 T THE

TIONAL INTERNA E CENTR

HALL 3 CASI ATV Safety Course

The CASI ATV RiderCourseSM is the most current, hands-on ATV safety program available in Canada. Sponsored by the Kawartha ATV Association and ATV WORLD Magazine, during these half-day sessions, students learn skills and understanding required for safe and responsible ATV operation. Sign up today for the ATV Safety Course at the Toronto International Snowmobile ATV & Powersports Show. Call 888-661-7469 or email info@torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

DON’T MISS OUT ON GETTING THE LOWEST PRICING OF THE YEAR WITH THE MOST UPGRADES!

We guarantee this will be the lowest pricing for the entire year with over $1,100 in FREE UPGRADES!

Take advantage of all of our show discounts at the October 25, 26 & 27th at the International Center - Booth 1433

ACTION SERIES ATST DRIVE IN/OUT LINE UP:

FREE 16’ FLOOR UPGRADE - $260 VALUE! Get the strongest construction in the industry with 16’ OC all around .

SINGLE AXLE - 17’ = $8,399 TANDEM AXLE - 17’ = $8,790 TANDEM AXLE - 19’ = $8,985

$1,100 + IN FREE UPGRADES!

TANDEM AXLE - 21’ = $9,589 TANDEM AXLE - 23’ = $9,898 TANDEM AXLE - 25’ = $10,191 TANDEM AXLE - 27’ = $10,985

WITH ANY ATST MODEL PURCHASED BETWEEN OCT 25-27TH

TANDEM AXLE - 29’ = $11,465 TANDEM AXLE - 31’ = $12,991 2019 PRO STAR 10’ CLAM SHELL TILT DECK WHILE SUPPLIES LAST

$4,499

OR PAY $86 MONTHLY OAC COMPARE AT $5,000 +

2020 PRO STAR 12’ HYBRID PROMO PRICE

$5,994

OR PAY $114 MONTHLY OAC

ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 34 • ISSUE 2

8 FREE D-RINGS - $96 VALUE! To die down what ever equipment you put inside your hauler. Includes hardware as well. Shipped loose. FREE UPGRADED 12’ THICK TWO TONE SLASH UPGRADE - $85 VALUE ! FREE ALUMINUM WALL UPGRADE - $435 VALUE! Purchase the deluxe interior pkg and receive FREE upgraded aluminum walls w/screwless interior (Sharpest interior pkg in the industry!).

2020 QUAKE SERIES ENCLOSED 6 X 10 + V-NOSE CARGO TRAILER INCLUDES:

COMPARE AT $6,500-$7,000

Ramp door w/flap, led lights, rv flushlock door handle, upgraded interior trim pkg

ALL PRO STAR MODELS INCLUDE: • Ski glides and traction mats installed - UP TO AN $800 VALUE! • Marine grade floor upgrade • Torsion suspension • Integrated sport tie down tracking

1-866-885-2569 | www.actiontrailers.ca 138

2020 PRO STAR BULLET 7 X 16’ INLINE HAULER 2 SLEDS OR 2 ATV’S

FREE CUSTOM INTERIOR TRIM PKG UPGRADE - $270 VALUE! Includes your choice of interior trim color + front & rear ramp door spring covers when you purchase the deluxe interior pkg + your choice of color for interior cabinet .

PROMO PRICE

$7,691

OR PAY $147 MONTHLY OAC COMPARE AT $9,000 +

LOWEST

PRICE

ED GUAR ANTE

!

$3,465

OR PAY $66 MONTHLY OAC

1-866-885-2569 | www.actiontrailers.ca

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com



Team EMPIRE LIVE SHOW

Check out the electrifying Live Stunt show by Team Empire. Team Empire’s live motorcycle stunt shows will be a huge entertaining feature at the show. You won’t want to miss it! HALL

4

Request a

$3.00 OFF one Adult Admission by visiting

www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com or email logan@osmmag.com

With more things to do and more things to see, powersports enthusiasts come from around the world. Don’t miss The WORLDS Largest Snowmobile, ATV & Powersports Show. Mark your calendars now! THE BIG ONE BY THE AIRPORT NEXT YEAR!! Mark your calendars now for next years show, October 23-25, 2020.

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MORE INFO

For more information on the Show, to purchase advanced tickets, or to be an exhibitor at the show, please call 1-888-661-SHOW (7469) or visit us online at www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com. please call 1-888-661-SHOW (7469) or visit us online at www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

LARGEST SNOWMOBILE AND ATV SHOW...ANYWHERE! EVERYTHING IN SNOWMOBILING, EVERYTHING IN ATVING O C T O B E R 2 5 , 2 6 , 2 7, 2 0 1 9 , AT T H E I N T E R N AT I O N A L C E N T R E

FREE PARKING SPONSORED BY

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TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCT 25-27, 2019 • TORONTO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE • www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com


CARBIDE RUNNER SHARPENING TOOLS Experience the maximum performance your sled has to offer More precision and accuracy for the safest ride in all conditions Ride on sharp carbide runners all season long Simple, convenient and effective

CARBIDE STUD SHARPENING TOOLS Sharp studs provide the ultimate in handling, performance and safety High quality diamond cutting media provides the sharpest tip for the best grip possible 60 degree tip allows for greater penetration Sharpen your studs without needing to remove them from your track

POLYURETHANE TM SUSPENSION TUNING RINGS Tune your stock suspension cost effectively for a greater level of performance Improved handling for greater control, cornering and overall stability Provides a more progressive spring calibration for faster reaction times Automotive racing suspension technology for the powersports industry

SEE ALL OF OUR PRODUCTS AND PROMOTIONS AT

BITEHARDER.COM


2020

SIDEWINDER X-TX SE

/// THE RIDE YOU NEED AT THE PRICE YOU WANT FOX® 1.5 ZERO QS3 SHOCKS I NEW VERSATTAK 146 REAR SUSPENSION I NEW 146" x 2.00" TRACK

TOP SHELF FEATURES FOR THE COST CONSCIOUS CUSTOMER


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