On Snow Magazine Spring 2011 Issue

SCENE IT: WINTER X-GAMES 2011 PICTORIAL

TOP OF 2012

CUSTOM SLED CORNER GOLDEN YEARS - YAMAHA GS 340 COLUMNS BY TUCKER HIBBERT, PAULCUSTOM THACKER, LAVALLEE & MORE! SLEDLEVI CORNER VOL 25 • NO 5 • SPRING 2011 • $ 5.95

DISPLAY UNTIL SEPT 23, 2011

GOLDEN YEARS - YAMAHA GS 340 COLUMNS BY TUCKER HIBBERT, PAUL THACKER, LEVI LAVALLEE & MORE!

SPRING BUYER’S GUIDE

OSM-MAG.COM

Photo by Todd Williams

THIS WINTER, EXPERIENCE SNOWMOBILE HEAVEN Get ready to discover serious snowmobiling in the land where the snow machine was born — beautiful, breathtaking Québec. Chart a course for unlimited adventure: down 33,000 km (20,000 mi.) of silver trails featuring fresh-groomed powder, past pristine forests and awesome snow-sculpted landscapes. Relax — everywhere you go, you will come across friendship, hospitality and an unforgettable warm Québec welcome will be waiting. Celebrate the freedom to ride — right into the best winter adventure ever.

START YOUR VISIT NOW bonjourquebec.com/snowmobile

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FEATURES 22

SCENE IT - 2011 WINTER X GAMES PICTORIAL FROM OUR VISIT TO THE WINTER X GAMES

TOP 40 FOR 2012

TOP 40 For 2012 p.38

FORTY THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ON THE 2012 SLEDS

SPRING BUYER'S GUIDE SOME GREAT PRODUCTS FOR SPRING 2011

GOLDEN YEARS YAMAHA GS 340

CUSTOM SLED CORNER ONE PIMPED OUT XP

COLUMNS 14

DRIFTS - PUBLISHERS NOTE RICHARD KEHOE

TRAIN TRACKS TUCKER HIBBERT

WINGING IT WITH LEVI LEVI LAVALLEE

FOR THE RECORD PAUL THACKER

NUTRITION & TRAINING DREW ROBERTSON

KELLY SHIRES BREAST CANCER SNOW RUN SUZY STENOFF

FLOATBOWL PAT BOURGEOIS

DEPARTMENTS

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INDUSTRY NEWS

NBFSC REPORT

OSM LISTINGS

ON SNOW MAGAZINE

EXTRAS 21 24 26 27 36 82

MOTORFIST MULLET CONTEST WINNER CRUISIN’ YOU TUBE HUCKIN’ THE WEB PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT - SLEDWRAPS READER SUBMISSIONS LAST GASP - TOM DELANOY • 509

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We had the privilege to rally with former national Snowcross star and backcountry extreme talent, Carl Kuster this past spring. Kuster played an instrumental role in the development of the Ski-Doo Freeride along with other jockeys such as Rob Hoff, Dan Treadway and Heath Frisby. Kuster made flights like this one seem routine. Rider: Carl Kuster Photographer: Todd Williams

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Meet the newest member of the On Snow Magazine Rumpus Riders, Tyler Swarm. Swarmy, as Bourgeois officially dubbed the young Idaho rider, showed off his mountain riding prowess during our four day shoot before returning to his other winter “gig”- teaching others how to conquer the backcountry as a part of the Next Level Riding Clinic snowmobile schools in Alpine, Wyoming. Rider: Tyler Swarm Photographer: Todd Williams

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE

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For more F e information visit vis sit www.PowerMadd.com www.P PowerMadd.com m RIDE E INNOVATION TM

VOLUME 25 NUMBER 5 SPRING 2011 FOR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES CONTACT

1-888-661-7469 President & Publisher: Richard Kehoe

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Photographers: Todd Williams Photography www.toddwilliamsusa.com, Gary Walton of Action Graphics • www.actiongraphics.net, Virgil Knapp, Paul Mason, Wayne Davis

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General Manager: Michael Blakoe Sr. Manager Sales & Marketing: Andrew McEwan Advertising Sales: 1-888-661-7469 Brad Stokes, Kim Graham, Warren Geer

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Contributing Writers: Ross Antworth Ken Avvan, Pat Bourgeois, Chris Burandt, Tendra Crossman, Tucker Hibbert, Richard Kehoe, Levi LaVallee, Ed Long, Andrew McEwan, Drew Robertson, Suzy Stenoff, Paul Thacker Subscriptions 1-888-661-7469 or info@osm-mag.com

SUPER PRICING!! Patents Pending

OFFICIAL CAMERA OSM is published fives times a year by OSM Publishing Ltd. Office address and undelivered copies and change of address notice is: 1195 Stellar Drive - Unit #4, Newmarket, Ontario, Canada L3Y 7B8. Telephone (905) 898-8585. Printed in Canada by Dollco Printing • Copyright 2011 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) $14.00 per year, $22.00 for 2 years. $28.00 for 3 years.

4O<B@N JA 4C<MF 'DIN "Q<DG<=G@ W.DG? OJ 8DG?X We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund (CPF) for our publishing activities

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DRIFTS

PUBLISHER NOTES

RICHARD KEHOE

THANK YOU FOR AN AMAZING SEASON!

pretty sure weĘźre all in agreement on what a great sleddinĘź season this was! The amount of snow that fell was incredible, and the riding was amazing. We piled on the miles out in New Brunswick with Ross, Harold and the guys, and almost 2 feet of fresh white powder fell as we rode â&#x20AC;&#x201C; again incredible! We railed out on the beautiful, hard packed trails of Quebec a few times, and saw a killer storm drop 5 feet which shortened one of our rides. We even took in the beautiful scenery of the Muskoka

IĘźm

Region and Algonquin Park as we rode through one of OntarioĘźs top destinations. But the beautiful scenery and good times werenĘźt just reserved for north of the border. Minnesota, New York, Wyoming and Montana provided some of the best times as well. But the one ride that makes me smirk from ear to ear, and was one of my favourites this year, was the THE WOBLE (Waconia or Bust Leafspring Expedition). This was an expedition with over 50 riders, all on leaf spring snowmobiles, motoring 50 something miles and keeping everything together. The ride ended at a vintage race, show and swap meet, where we all gathered for an old school cookout and an outdoor awards ceremony. I even won a prize for being the rider that came from farthest away to take part. Unfortunately, the prized sticker has already peeled off the back of my truckĘźs rear window, robbing me of the opportunity to gloat to passing motorists here at home. A big thank you to Pat Bourgeois for this ride, and to all that made the memorable trophies at the WOBLE. All I can say is ĘťShat-taĘź? Anyway, thank you to all the guys that had me out on the trails and in the white, dusty heaven that we all live for each year. I had an absolute blast! I racked a lot of miles and more importantly, stored a lot of great memories. We hope you enjoy our last issue of this season. Take a sneak peek into the 2012 models with our Top 40 list, browse

some of our favourite products for spring in the BuyerĘźs Guide, and enjoy some great pics of Winter X-Games. WeĘźre really looking forward to entertaining you next season. It all starts in September with our next issue of OSM, where weĘźll have quite a few tricks up our sleeves. Not only will we have the best photography of the OEM 2012 line-ups, more great columns and feature stories; weĘźll also have chickens and bunnies, product installs and reviewsâ&#x20AC;Śit just never ends. Until then, IĘźll be in the garage removing the plow from my ATV, Bar-B-Queing in the back yard, resting in the sun and enjoying a cold one. Drop us a line at info@osm-mag.com or you can check us out online and on FaceBook. Have a great summer! - Richard

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE

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IND US TR Y

SPRING TOURS NEWS

NEW WORLD RECORD! SKI-DOO’S 24 HOUR RECORD BREAKER FOR BREAST CANCER

As winter comes to a close and spring creeps in, us OSM staffers always find ourselves with mixed emotions. While the doors to the riding season are about to close (except for our annual Spring cross-country swamp run in the far Northern regions of the snow belt), it’s also time to get up close and personal with next winter’s new sleds. Fortunately you don’t have to be a lowly staffer at a snowmobile magazine to check out the new iron in person. All four manufacturers host new model Spring tours across North America, and best of all, they are FREE. Ski-Doo hosts a tour called the Ultimate Playground that showcases not just 2012 snowmobiles, but all of their product lines including ATVs, and watercraft. You can check out the entire schedule at www.ski-doo.com. The other three manufacturers (Arctic Cat, Polaris, and Yamaha) have joined forces for the Manufacturer’s Sneak Peek Tour, where you can see the latest sleds from all three makers in one location. To find a Sneak Peek near you visit www.snowsneakpeek.com.

SIMONS WINS USCC CHAMPIONSHIP Nick Musters attempted to break the current Guinness World Record for the furthest distance travelled by an individual rider on a snowmobile over a 24 hour period on March 8, 2011, by travelling a professionally surveyed track approximately 10 kilometres in length on Lake of Bays encompassing Bigwin Island. The previous record was 2906 kms. The event was quickly named “Ski-Doo’s 24 Hour Record Breaker for Breast Cancer”. In order to ensure all was in order for the folks at Guinness, each lap was monitored by official time keepers and filming of laps for extra validity. Top performance and safety were made possible with the help of qualified support staff including: Bombardier Certified Technicians, EMS Paramedics, Fuelling Personnel, Local trail grooming staff, and an event coordinator. Constant communication with Nick was possible throughout this venture by high end radio systems provided by Racing Radios where Nick shared his on-going enthusiasm the entire time. Unofficially (until the gang at Guinness verifies), Nick completed the 24 hour challenge and is the new World Record holder surpassing the current record riding 3069 Kms on a snowmobile with his last lap being the quickest at 3.56 minutes and hitting speeds of 190 Km/h. Although more funds are still coming in, Nick and his team were able to raise more than $12,000 for the Kelly Shires Breast Cancer Foundation through their record breaking feat which was presented to the charity on February 5th at their annual all-women snowmobile event. The Kelly Shires Breast Cancer Foundation would like to extend its sincere gratitude to Nick and his team for choosing to take on this task in honour of the Charity. For more information on the event please visit www.24forbreastcancer.ca or for more information on the charity please visit www.kellyshiresfoundation.org. 16

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE

While he failed to win a single Pro 600 event, Christian Brother’s Racing jockey, Ryan Simons, drove with consistency throughout the season, always finishing within the top-5 race after race, and in the process stockpiling his points lead over his competitors. Fellow Cat racer and teammate, DJ Ekre had a solid season as well, claiming three wins, and giving both Arctic Cat and Christian Brother’s Racing perhaps the most dominant natural terrain drivers in the country. Congrats!

TORONTO SNOWMOBILE, ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW • OCTOBER 14-16

Just because the 2010-2011 winter season is winding down doesn’t mean sled fever ends around the OSM office. While most guys are out polishing the gel-coat on the powerboat, we’re busy preparing for the biggest Snowmobiling/Powersports show on earth. The Toronto International Snowmobile, ATV & Powersports Show returns October 14-16 at the Toronto International Centre. Mark you calendars now, get a kitchen pass from the wife early, and we’ll see you there this fall. Visit www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com for details.

IND US TR Y

HAYDEN POISED NEWS FOR CSRA CHAMPIONSHIP

With two races remaining on the Canadian Snowcross Racing Association (CSRA) tour as of this writing, last year’s runner up, Iain Hayden is poised to capture the year-end championship. Hayden, who finished second last winter riding for Yamaha, made the jump to Polaris after Yamaha closed-up factory snowcross efforts at the end of last winter. Joining Hayden in the Rockstar/Polaris hauler was last season’s champ, Lee Butler, who currently sits third in points behind Ski-Doo rider David Joanis. In Semi-Pro, Ski-Doo rider Dylan Hall is leading the point’s chase in both Semi-Pro Open Mod and Semi-Pro Stock. The CSRA awards banquet will be held in Huntsville, Ontario, May 7, and you can keep up on the year-end chase by visiting their website at www.snowcross.com

WE LOVE BIRTHDAY CAKE Word on the street is Arctic Cat has a birthday celebration in the works for this coming summer in their hometown of Thief River Falls. Of all the makers, Cat may have the strongest ties to its customers as well as its roots, and if you’ve never been to the edge of the prairie town, this is a great opportunity to visit and feel the Cat passion. While no details are etched yet, keep your calendar open and check our website www.osm-mag.com; or follow us on Facebook to get the latest on the birthday bash.

HIBBERT / THOMSEN CROWNED ISOC CHAMPS At times he looked to be unstoppable, while at others Hibbert appeared to be almost human; no matter, Hibbert captured the International Series of Champions (ISOC) year-end titles as the final races of the season barely left the line. With a large enough margin over Polaris ace Ross Martin, Hibbert merely had to take the start of the Pro SuperStock and Open main events in order to secure the championships. Hibbert however showed signs of vulnerability this season, as he failed to podium on three occasions and often had to overcome poor starts, working his way through the field and hunting down and passing the fast starts of Ross Martin, who along with Ski-Doo talent, Tim Tremblay, have both proven they have the speed to not only compete, but at times, beat Hibbert. But not this season, as Tucker attained his goal of both year-end titles for Arctic Cat. In the Semi-Pro ranks, Cat reigned supreme again as Cody Thomsen captured the title, beating out Polaris pilot Mike Bauer. While much of the focus on snowcross remains on the pro ranks, the Semi-Pro class is probably the toughest of any to win, with more talent-laden drivers than anywhere else. Congrats to both.

CROSS COUNTRY LOSES VISIONARY The tragic and sudden passing of Pat Mach, the founder and president of the United States Cross Country (USCC) circuit, hit the snowmobile community hard this past February. Mach, who was killed in a snowmobile accident, was without a question the person responsible for the incredible rebirth and growth of crosscountry racing. His passion and vision saw the USCC circuit grow in leaps and bound over the past few seasons, and with plans of returning the legendary International-500 back to its original Winnipeg to St. Paul route next winter, the future looked incredibly bright. Yet, while the circuit and community was initially filled with sadness and uncertainty, the Mach family, friends, and fellow racers pushed on, just as they all agreed Pat would have wanted it. Former terrain racer Jesse Strege served as the interim Race Director and the Mach family led by Pat’s father Harold, continued USCC operations throughout the season. What’s more, the circuit looks to push on through the efforts of the Mach family and fellow racers. Pat was 42 and is survived by his wife Lisa and son Adam, and parents Harold and Mary Mach. For information on the USCC visit their website at www.usccracing.com

THE FIST GOES COLD 18

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE

The wildly successful upstart, high-tech outerwear company, MotorFist, which has made dramatic inroads into the western market, now has its sites set on the colder ride zones of the Midwest and East. On Snow Magazine had a chance to checkout the new 2012 line-up of insulated gear this past winter and in two words – looking good! The new Redline jacket looks similar to their western focused Rekon, but features insulation for those cold January nights. Visit www.motorfist.com for details.

THE GREAT GASPÉ PENINSULA TOUR!

This loop ride will take you around the fabulous regions of Bas-Saint-Laurent and Gaspésie.

For ride details, lodging options and packages, visit our website.

YOU COULD WIN A DREAM SNOWMOBILE VACATION FOR 4!

snowmobilequebecmaritime.ca

IND US TR Y

EDGAR HETTEEN 1920-2011 NEWS

The winter of 2011 will be remembered not so much for its epic snows, but rather for the passing of Edgar Hetteen, without question one of the sports most important and prolific entrepreneurs, visionaries, and promoters. Edgar founded both Polaris Industries in 1954, (along with brother Allan and brother-in-law David Johnson) and Arctic Cat in Thief River Falls in 1961 (originally known as Polar Manufacturing). What many snowmobilers may not know is Edgar was also responsible for creating other successful businesses including the May Corporation, which designed and built powered wheelchairs and All Season Vehicle (ASV), makers and suppliers of rubber tracked construction vehicles. Undoubtedly, Edgar will be best remembered for his incredible contributions to snowmobiling. While he didn’t invent the snowmobile, he undoubtedly was the sport’s true champion, as he envisioned its near-limitless opportunities with a clarity and passion unlike any other. While much has been written about Edgar, the book titled “Breaking Trail” written by Edgar and Jay Lemke, best traces Edgar’s visionary path through not just the eyes of the snowmobile industry, but on a personal level as well.

IMPACT OF JAPAN

The news has been filled with images and reports from the devastated northern Sendai region of Japan. It appears the threat of a complete nuclear disaster may have been averted, the impact that these series of tragedies will have on the rest of the modernized world is yet to be fully felt. While the Sendai region is less populous and is home to far few manufacturing plants, the impact on the resources within the island country could very well affect manufacturing elsewhere in the country. So what does that have to do with snowmobiling you ask? Aside from the obvious maker, Yamaha, who builds snowmobiles in Hamamatsu, which is located about 400-miles south of the affected area, Japan supplies approximately 16 to 30-percent of the world’s electronics. This can include ignitions, engine management systems, and much more, all items found on today’s modern snowmobile. Experts foresee manufacturers stockpiling these items for fear of a shortage. While other vendors quite possibly exist, timelines are most likely not realistic to meet manufacturing dates. Currently, North American snowmobile OEMs see no potential issues on the horizon, but are keeping a watchful eye on developments in Japan.

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE

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WINNER The hair was flowing, the votes were tallied, and a winner was crowned in the MotorFist/On Snow Magazine Mullet contest. With the latest in MotorFist outerwear with a value in excess of $1,000 up for grabs, it was the golden perm of JJ who sported a home grown blue-jean cut-off vest, beating out the Henderson family from Wisconsin. With nearly 70,000 votes in all, it was a battle to the finish, with JJ taking the top prize of a MotorFist Rekon Jacket, Bib, and their yet to be released Stomper Boot. The remaining 5 finalists each received a Hydrophobic Jacket and MotorFist Beanie. Congrats to all, and keep rocking the mullet!

About the Champ! Minnesota • Circa – 1988 Back when JJ was cranking up Twisted Sister on his parents all-in-one console stereo with an 8-track, he had big dreams of making it on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine. While he came up a bit short on his rock and roll career, we can at least fulfill his dreams of magazine glory. JJ tells us: “The shirt says it all! I designed the punk rocker on the back of my cut-off jean jacket, my mom was most likely responsible for the perm, and my little brother looked on in the background with admiration.”

ON SNOW MAGAZINE

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ACC ESS

ON SNO WM AGA ZIN E

SCENE IT?

WINTER X-GAMES • PHOTOS BY GARY WALTON

WWW.ACTIONGRAPHICS.NET

Winter X Games 15 once again proved to be one of the pinnacle moments of the snowmobile season. Amongst the television cameras, gold medals, boarders, rippers, and gawkers; Winter X has become a red carpet of sorts for the snowmobile community, making it the scene to be seen.

Still the man to beat on any given day, Tucker Hibbert claimed his fifth consecutive gold medal, putting him into stratosphere level amongst all X Games athletes.

Daniel Bodin was feeling it at Winter X 15. After capturing just one medal in four trips, he made it count this past January with a pair of gold medals in Freestyle and Best Trick.

Brothers Colten and Caleb Moore from Texas of all places, shook up Winter X with their two-up back flip. While the trick didn’t count, Caleb Moore (shown) captured the Silver in Best Trick, while his brother Colten came up just short in fifth.

Five-peat and counting. No Tucker’s wife Mandi isn’t just flashing a smile and wave for Gary’s lens, Winter X 15 marked the fifth consecutive gold medal for Hibbert in snowcross and his tenth overall medal at Winter X.

National Semi-Pro Cody Thomsen experienced his first ever Winter X Games and finished a very respectable sixth in the final. Cody is also poised to win the year-end ISOC championship with just one race remaining at this writing. 22

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE

There’s plenty of time for chillin’ at Winter X, as this Freestyle meeting of the minds illustrates. Word is the tan lines would have made a farmer proud.

ALL ACCESS

Don’t think freestyle athletes just hurl themselves at ramps and make up tricks on the fly. Just like a good rock band, a set list helps guide them. Somewhere after the fold you’ll find groupies and backstage party penciled in.

Mike Schultz returned to Winter X to compete in the adaptive snowcross competition where he took the gold with little doubt. “Monster Schultz has been an inspiration to many of us who despite having a devastating crash and subsequent limb loss, has persevered with more vigor, determination, and love for life in the past two years, than most of us will experience in a lifetime. The high tech artificial limb is of his own design.

Early X Games gave little thought to fans in attendance, instead focusing solely on the made for TV aspects of the competitions. But that has changed dramatically in recent years, as fans by the thousands descend upon Aspen to take in the competitions and after parties that accompany them.

On Snow Magazine sponsored rider Joe Parsons, threw down his bag of tricks against his fellow Monster rider Heath Frisby. But it was the speed Parson’s exhibited through the moguls that gave him the edge and the gold in Speed and Style.

Adaptive snowcross had two components this year, with a separate class for athletes with paralysis. Jesse Gildea captured silver in the class, behind former motocross champion Doug Henry.

Despite his injury from his insane, world-recording setting long distance jump, OSM’s Levi LaVallee was in attendance at Winter X and no matter where he decided to chill, the cameras and interviews followed. Levi just recently geared up and mounted his sled for the first time since the accident… the “Launch” is back!

The song remained the same at Winter X, much like it has throughout much of the season. Ross Martin (Polaris) jumped out to an early holeshot, only to be hunted down and disposed of by Hibbert. T-Train and Ross finished one-two in the Winter X snowcross final.

It seems Ski-Doo pilot Robbie Malinoski has an obsession with the number 3 this winter. He’s finished three times in third place in the ISOC National Pro Open class, and that’s also where he finished at Winter X behind Ross Martin and Tucker Hibbert.

Hats off to track designer Joe Duncan for creating a monster track at Winter X that took emphasis off the holeshot by providing lots of passing lanes throughout the highly rhythmic track. ON SNOW MAGAZINE

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GREAT SNOWMOBILE VIDEOS WE WANT TO SHARE FROM YOU TUBE VIEW ALL THESE BY VISITING WWW.OSM-MAG.COM AND C CLICKING ON THE CRUISING YOUTUBE BANNER

ICE

Knock Some Sense

CH O

The clip is short, but so too is the thought that went into this double trouble slow speed maneuver. No one’s home and the lights are no longer on.

VIEW AT WWW.OSM-MAG.COM

SIC

Redneck Yacht Club Full sized aluminum jet boats wreck havoc of shorelines while sleds sky above and below the surging spring water, all set in front of a majestic trailer house. Now that’s living.

VIEW AT WWW.OSM-MAG.COM

OUCH!

Momentum Killer

Spearing or Skipping

Reason number 689. Why trees always win, even when you run them over, but these guys plead ignorance by blaming the sled.

VIEW AT WWW.OSM-MAG.COM

Usually skipping is a Springtime open water sport, but these knobs use the cut-ice spearing technique with ill-fated results.

VIEW AT WWW.OSM-MAG.COM

ED! OWN Tail Stand Failure

Feeling Groovy with Cat

Showboating for the camera that ends in a busted ego is worth a watch. And having your buddy laugh like the devil at you is priceless.

Some things are classic, some things are old, but we’re suckers for vintage snowmobile jingles and “The Year of the Cat” is a classic.

VIEW AT WWW.OSM-MAG.COM

Got a favorite snowmobile related YouTube video? Send us the link to info@osm-mag.com 24

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE

Marketer Shows, OSM, Richard Kehoe Productions, Inc. or Patrick J. Bourgeois and its affiliates are not responsible for the content or actions of others in these videos. The comments expressed and the activities performed in these videos do not reflect the opinions and position of Richard Kehoe Productions, Inc., Marketer Show, OSM or Patrick J. Bourgeois and its affiliates and is no way an endorsement of such comments or activities.

HUCKIN’THE WEB ON SNOW MAGAZINE

FXR WWW.FXRRACING.COM

WWW.OSM-MAG.COM Keep in touch with todayʼs snowmobile gear, tourism, sleds and aftermarket parts and accessories.

EQUINOX WWW.EQNX.BIZ Transporting your goods can be quite the mission on a snowmobile or ATV. Equinox makes it easy to get the job done. They have everything you need from snowmobile trailers “Boggans” to ATV trailers to help you tackle the job safely. So if you are moving fire wood from point A to point B or transporting your ice fishing gear out to your hut, see what equinox has to offer. For more information check out www.equinox.com

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE

After Snowshoot we were so blown away with the new 2012 line-up from FXR we had to make sure we got the good word out. Check out www.fxrracing.com for all the new designs for this upcoming season. They have everything you need from the latest casual wear, ATV Wear and of course the very best in snowmobile wear.

TORONTO INTERNATIONAL SNOWMOBILE ATV & POWERSPORTS SHOW WWW.TORONTOSNOWMOBILEATVSHOW.COM It's never too early to be thinking about next seasonʼs snowmobiling! Be sure to mark October 14-16, 2011 on your calendar for the official start to the sled season at the Toronto International Snowmobile, ATV & Powersports Show. This show has everything and anything youʼll need for the upcoming sled season, with a first hand look at the 2012 snowmobiles, all the new gear on the market, to the famous freestyle show. For more information on the show visit www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com or email info@snowmobileatvshow.com

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

SLEDWRAPS GRAPHIC KITS

Sledwraps.com Graphic Kits has everyone on their ski tips! Even BRP has gone to the extravagant side with their 2011 Freestyle Ski-Doo Summit graphic kit. As snowmobilers, we strive to be different and get noticed on the trails. Sledwraps.com owners, Shannon and Bruce have taken their passion for graphic design to the snowmobile, making graphic kits for all brands in every color. Sledwraps.com entrepreneurs in the graphic sticker business are successfully racing forward and standing out with smart and memorable slogans like, “Wrap it before you ride it!” OSM approached Shannon last season at the 2010 Toronto Snowmobile, ATV and Powersports Show to talk about wrapping a 2010 Ski-Doo XP. Shannon did one better, allowing us to have

a design from their illustrator graphic design board, not scheduled to be released until the 2011 season. But OSM had exclusive use to sport the new 2011 graphics for the whole 2010 season – SWEET! Looking a little girlie, but then again that was our intent, OSM minds came together and decided to finish the build by taking the XP 600 to SHOCKIT Suspension to have the A arms removed and painted fuchsia pink to match the Sledwraps graphics. From snowcross races to out on the trails of our winter paradise, we hear over and over, “Awesome Sled!” These rugged Thick-N-Sticky Decals held up amazing!

www.sledwraps.com for design ideas or call 802-775-1221 VOTE FOR A WINNER AT Visit WWW.MOTORFIST.COM

ON SNOW MAGAZINE

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TRAIN TRACKS TUCKER HIBBERT

PRESSURE AND PROM

Cat was a dominate force in snocross during the 2001-2002 season and it was often a sea of gree at the start. Here Tucker (#68) lines up adjacent to Blair Morgan (7C) while Tuckerʼs father Kirk (41) joins his son at the start a Pro final in Duluth, Minnesota.

winning both SemiPro National Points Championships and Winter X Games during the 2000/2001 season, it was time for me to make the move to the pro ranks. I was feeling on top of the world after having a “Cinderella” snocross season and that summer was just as exciting for me. In August, I qualified for my first pro AMA Motocross National in Millville, Minnesota. It was a dream come true. I worked hard all summer racing motocross and getting ready for my first season as a full-time pro snocross racer. I had a lot of hype to try to live up to after winning Winter X and wanted to prove to everyone that my success in the Semi-Pro class wasnʼt a fluke. I was now a Factory Team Arctic rider and was expected to win. At only 16 years of age, I had full factory ride. With it came the smartest snowmobile engineers anywhere working on my snowmobile, along with a tremendous

After

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE

amount of resources at my fingertips including a shop full of new race sleds, a shiny new semi tractor/trailer to race out of, and Blair Morgan as my teammate. The factory ride formula apparently worked well for both Arctic Cat and us. Between Blair and I, we won every main event and split the National Championships. It was an incredible season, and my only let down was crashing in the Winter X Games final where I had lost my brakes while leading the race. Despite racking up wins throughout the season, I also felt pressure, a lot of pressure. Pressure from my team, sponsors, and above all, pressure from myself. On any given weekend, when things at the track didnʼt go as well as they could have, the stress and pressure would start to build. So much so, that racing would become a chore, not fun. Add to this travel, school, and still being only 16 years old, and it all got pretty tough at times. Looking back, I sometimes wonder how I did it. Thankfully a handful of

Photo courtesy of John Sandberg/arcticinsider

Without question, no one was prouder than Tuckerʼs father Kirk, who looks on with Russ Ebert as Tucker is interviewed by ESPN. Photo courtesy of John Sandberg/arcticinsider

key people, including my family, made so many sacrifices to provide me with what I needed to balance my life between a professional racer and 16-year-old kid. The winter of 2002-2003 marked my second season as a full-time factory pro. It was also the same year when Blair Morgan left Arctic Cat to form his own team with Ski-Doo. That move left me as

TRAIN TRACKS TUCKER HIBBERT

Their battles were at times epic on the track, but Tucker (left) and Blair Morgan became great friends, and their friendship remains true to this day. Photo courtesy of John Sandberg/arcticinsider

the primary person responsible to carry the flag for Arctic Cat and with it came a ton of responsibility. The pressure I put on myself was overwhelming. I was a senior in high school but I certainly wasnʼt living the typical high school life. Instead of worrying about homecoming, prom, and senior pictures, I was busy training, testing, and mentally preparing to win both National Championships. Racing kept me focused. I didnʼt have time to get wrapped up in high school drama and that certainly wasnʼt a bad thing. I did however make it to prom with my then girlfriend, and now wife Mandi. The move by Blair Morgan to Ski-doo was good for the sport. It fueled more people to become fans of snocross, and it intensified our battles on the track. While the media tried desperately to build a

heated rivalry between us, the truth is, win or lose, I had more fun racing with Blair than I ever had or most likely ever will with another competitor. He raced me clean (most of the time), and taught me valuable lessons about how to race and out-smart the competition. On the track, we raced each other hard, but off the track we were friends and still are today. In the spring of 2002, I officially entered the “adult” world after graduating from high school. For me however, the rigors and stress of an adult life had been part of my life since I won Winter X gold in 2000. With high school finished, I could now dedicate 100-percent of my time and energy towards racing. That summer was filled with motocross and training, and I was ready to work harder than ever to win more Championships.

However, the 2002/2003 season did not go as planned and what started out as a season filled with hope and promise quickly turned to one of the most challenging Iʼve ever experienced. A combination of mechanical issues and on track decisions made by the race series and its officials effectively took us out of both Championships. At times it was difficult to simply find the motivation to line up to race, and the stress and emotions that came with knowing I would not have a chance of competing for a Championship was at times nearly overwhelming. I was frustrated with the series for making poor decisions when the team and myself had put in so much hard work into our program. As the season wore to a close, I decided I would not be returning to the national snocross series the following year and would put all my energy into progressing my motorcycle racing career. I had been improving each summer in motocross and was anxious to try supercross. So that was it – at the 2003 yearend banquet in Lake Geneva, I announced that I was leaving the sport to race motorcycles full-time. I was 18 and I was leaving a “dream job” to follow my dream. People told me I was out of my mind, but I didnʼt care. I packed up my motor home and talked my best friend into moving to California with me to race motocross and supercross. Racing motorcycles moved me all over the country and eventually brought me back to Minnesota and the sport of snocross. Itʼs been a wild ride but I donʼt regret any of it. I learned to never be afraid to follow your heart, to chase your dreams, set your goals high, and be prepared to work hard along the way. ✪

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE

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WINGING IT WITH LEVI LEVI LAVALLEE

ALMOST WORKED… Photo by Marv Watson

wouldnʼt believe the last couple months of my life. I went from doing something that no one else has done, (the most insane long distance snowmobile jump) to almost dying! Fortunately that was not the case and now I can tell you all about it. Back in September, Red Bull approached me about doing a distance jump for the Red Bull New Year No Limits event. After seeing the success that my friend, Travis Pastrana experienced after jumping his Subaru off the Long Beach Pier, I was all about doing the event. That discussion was immediately followed by talk of locations and what we were capable of doing with a sled. Red Bull asked if we could run a sled without snow and if so, for how long? Fortunately for us, Glenn Kafka (Co- Owner/Crew Chief of Team LaVallee) has a ton of background in Ice and Grass Drags, and he said for certain that we would have enough time to do a distance jump before the sled got too hot. Knowing that, the location search was wide open to anywhere we could find enough room and an adjacent 300-foot obstacle to hurdle myself over. It didnʼt take long for Red Bull to come back to me with San Diego, and I started thinking how celebrating New Years in a warm climate might not be so bad. So that was it; we decided San Diego was the spot. With the location and the 300-foot plus gap of the Port of San Diego determined, we began to look at more of the details surrounding the jump. For me there were two things that really came to mind. First, could we get the speed we needed out of a full suspension sled to achieve the distance I needed to go? Glenn knew he could get my sled going well over the speed I was looking for, so we had that one covered. My second question was what was going to happen once I get in the air at 100+ mph? I had watched the videos of the “Distance King” Paul Thacker, and knew he

You

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE

had some issues with his sledʼs front end coming up in the air at higher speeds. On his most recent record-breaking attempt, Paul made a special nose cone to help the sled cut through the wind instead of having the sled catch the wind like a kite. It worked awesome and he was able to stomp the old record, becoming the first person to ever jump over 300 feet on a snowmobile, with a 301 foot leap! With that, I knew I would need something to help my sled fly through the air at the speed we were looking at. A trip to the wind tunnel, along with a variety of nose cones helped us sort out the issue. Soon we were able to find a good set-up and I couldnʼt wait to get to the test site to start jumping! Upon getting to the testing site, I was super excited to jump, until I saw the 150foot gap from the back of the ramp to the back of the landing. Iʼve jumped well over that distance in the past, but the only snowmobile riding I had done in the past 8 months was a 10-minute session on a wood-chip track. On that track was a whopping 70-foot tabletop to help me get ready for 300-foot distance jumping - Ha Ha! Before I took off for my first test jump, they told me I should be going around 60mph when I hit the ramp. Knowing that, I come ripping into it, staring at the radar board. As I get closer and closer, I still donʼt see any numbers coming up. Before I knew it, Iʼm within 50-feet of the radar board and there are still no numbers. At that point it was too late to turn out or back off, so I pinned it! Fortunately, I landed a perfect 190-foot jump. When I came back around and told everyone there were no numbers on the radar board, we discovered the gun wasnʼt even turned on. Needless to say, I was more fired up than if I had just slammed 32 ounces of Red Bull! LOL From that point on, things went really well. I was able to start jumping bigger and bigger gaps, and we only had one issue

with carburetion throughout testing. In fact, we thought we had the problem solved as we made jump after jump, day after day with no issues. As the days clicked off, we kept making the run up to the ramp further, and the distance between the ramps longer and longer. On my final day of testing, I jumped a gap of 361-feet (the current and new World Record Distance). Things had gone so well to this point, we decided to take a break and start preparing for a nighttime, under the lights, dress rehearsal jump. As darkness fell and it came time to jump, everything leading up to the jump went exactly as planned. I hit the ramp at the right speed and once I got into the air, I hit the brake to bring the front end down, just like I had done in previous jumps. But then, when I went to give the sled a little gas, (just as I had done during previous jumps) the motor gurgled and went silent. The engine never picked back up and the landing turned into a 360-foot endo! I jumped off just before the ski tips hit the ground and was knocked unconscious almost immediately. You can imagine just how bad a 360-foot, 100+ mph crash might be, so I wonʼt go into the details. But for as bad as it was, it couldnʼt have gone much better! I didnʼt get hit by the sled, I didnʼt hurt my arms or legs, and best of all; Iʼm still here to tell you about it! I ended up cracking my pelvis, broke a handful of ribs, fractured some vertebrae, and collapsed both my lungs. After a week in a California hospital, my lungs were good enough for me to leave, and I left on a walker. I donʼt remember anything about the crash. In fact, I donʼt even remember hitting the ramp! Iʼm glad I donʼt remember any of the bad stuff. The last thing I remember was landing my longest jump, and thatʼs way better than the thought of crashing via the biggest endo ever! Since then, things have been going really well with my recovery. Itʼs tough having to watch all the guys racing and having fun on the track, but it continues to motivate me to come back next season and have more fun than ever. ✪

Stay Connected TeamLaVallee.com Twitter.com/Levi_LaVallee Facebook.com/LeviLaValleeFanPage

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FOR THE RECORD

PAUL THACKER

BACK IN THE SADDLE

much has been going on these last few months, Iʼm not sure where to begin. I write this On Snow Magazine column while sitting in my new temporary home in Las Vegas, Nevada. Iʼm living with my Dad, who is based here for his job as a private pilot, (he flies a bad ass Gulfstream) and he has a nice single level condo that works perfect for me until my legs decide to start working again, which at the rate Iʼm going, should be in no time. I guess I should back-up first for those who may have been out of touch for much of the winter. Way back in November while training for the start of the season, I experienced a “get-off” that at first seemed innocent enough, but left me with a broken back and no feeling from my chest down. However, after a trip to Regions Hospital in St. Paul, Minnesota where they put me back to together, Iʼve been on a rapid and focused road to recovery. After leaving the Minneapolis area, I spent some time in Colorado at Craig Hospital in Denver. Itʼs one of the best, if not the best rehabilitation facility in the country for spinal injuries. After a little more than a month I was discharged from Craig, well ahead of my expected discharge date. My progression there was so rapid that they started having me teach classes for other injured patients. I worked my ass off while I was there, and I even

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE

broke a few records for all kinds of agility and strength activities as well as for the speed of my progression. Moving to Nevada seemed to make the most sense for my rehab versus the sub zero temps found in Minnesota or Alaska. Thereʼs even a spinal rehab facility not far from where Iʼm staying. Needles to say, my bones are happier with me here than if I had spent the remainder of the winter in Minnesota. As far as how my rehab and healing process is going, Iʼd say in a word… rocking! Iʼm fortunate to be weeks and months ahead of where anyone would have expected to be. Every day Iʼm getting new sensations further and further down my body. When I left the hospital my injury was actually upgraded from a T4 to a T6, which means that in a month I gained two more lower vertebrae worth of feeling; definitely not the norm. As well as the feeling, Iʼm getting more and more lower abdomen and back muscle activity as well. Clearly, as the swelling goes down and the healing takes place, Iʼm getting more and more function back in my body. Itʼs only a matter of time before that function is wiggling my toes as far as I am concerned! After I was discharged from Craig Hospital, my first stop wasnʼt more recovery time at home, but instead a trip directly to ESPNʼs Winter X Games 15. Late last fall, I was asked by ESPN if would help announce the events I wouldnʼt be compet-

ing in. As fate would have it, I was able to announce all of the sled events! What a great X Games! The boys really raised the bar once again. I definitely had mixed emotions about watching and not competing, and also felt that if I had been healthy, I would have been in the mix this year for a medal. Nonetheless, it was definitely nice to still be a part of the Winter X scene, and it was awesome to see everyone. The well wishes and positive feedback was unreal and almost overwhelming at times. Iʼm not sure people expected me to be at X this year, but it would have taken tie-down straps to keep me from being a part of this always epic event. Overall, I think snowmobiling at X went super great, and this exciting event should really grow our sport! Without a doubt, the highlight of my recovery thus far had to be Friday night at Winter X, just before Speed and Style took the stage. I happened to see my Polaris Rush sitting all alone and looking for some companionship. So with the help of a couple of close buddies, I wheeled myself over, hopped on, fired it up, and was off like a flash. I was absolutely stoked! I ripped around for about half an hour just shredding back and forth and I have to say that it felt really good. ESPN interviewed me right after the ride, and it was noted during the interview that I couldnʼt stop smiling! It was an amazing feeling that, just two months after my crash I was back on a sled, ripping! I rode a couple of more times throughout the weekend, and loving it the entire time! With the warm sun of Vegas helping me heal, Iʼm now planning my next events. There are lots of things on the horizon, and not only do I plan on being back on the sled for a full spring film season, but fully plan on being upside down again. If I could do a flip at last year's Winter X with no hands the whole time, I can surely do flips without my legs working! Till the next issue of OSM, stay tuned and keep those positive vibes and prayers coming, because clearly itʼs working! Again, a quick shout out to all my sponsors: Monster Energy, Slednecks, Polaris, Oakley, Shoei, RSI, HMK, C&A Pro, FOX Shox, Alaska Spine International, Bikeman Performance, Kicker, Stud Boy, and ArcticFX. Thank you all for sticking with me as I get back on my feet and back on my sled. ✪ - PT11

READER SUBMISSIONS READY TO RALLY

Hey guys at OSM! I love readin your magazine. I basically live for the powder. Thanx a lot! Gavyn Jackman

BLOWN AWAY

IT'S GOOD TO BE DIFFERENT

pleased with the graphics, the whole style and look of the helmet, along with the unbeatable price. My favorite product is their polarized goggles; they relieve the biggest strains off of my eyes while riding on bright sunny days. They eliminate glares and make it possible for me to not squint when riding. The helmet has an aggressive look and has surprised me with how warm it really is. My family was sceptical on how warm it could be but I have to say it is the warmest open face helmet on the snow and an all around great buy because of the superior price for this awesome product. Thanks, Dave

POWDER LOVER Hi my name is George Lye, I’m 38 years old, married with three kids. I live in a little town called Warminster just west of Orillia, Ontario. I love Snowmobiling.This photo was taken in Oro-Medonte Township, the sled is a MXA Blizzard 800 Ski-Doo 07. I love your OSM Magazine. It would be a dream come true to be featured in your mag. Thanks guys this means a lot to me, you guys are the best. George Lye

GROOVIN’ THE 509 I would like to comment on the winter’s buyer’s guide of OSM magazine. I purchased the 509 black ops helmet back in the fall when it first arrived; I was very 36

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE

BRAVO!

I was reading the October edition a few days ago and came across The Golden Years article. I noticed that the discussed sled this time was the Yamaha Bravo, and I immediately sat down and read the whole thing. The Bravo was my second sled I owned (which was a 1985) and is easily the most fun sled I have ever rode. To my disappointment after 23 years of never giving up, the stator finally went two years ago. Due to the hefty price tag on a new stator, it sat in my backyard until late last winter when I decided it had sat silent for too long. A month or so ago I had it running again, but this time it wasn't you're average Bravo. It now has a Yamaha 340 motor, 2 extra leaf springs on the front, and a modified 1993 Yamaha Phazor rear skid, taking the original footprint of 384 inches to roughly 600. The only thing left to do is fix up the seat and continue the pain staking wait for the winter. Thanks OSM for the awesome Magazine! Sincerely, Myles White

TYTIAN ROGERS SLEDDING OUT BY LAKE SIMCOE.LOOKING GOOD TYTAIN!

WHEELIN’ FOR OSM

HEARING FROM THE READERS

First, thank you for the sweet mag! I was getting a little bored with the others as they are just a little too old school. As a 30something flatlander, your fresh take is what I want to read about. Seriously, it captures the new and exciting face of the sport and for that I thank you OSM! As I opened my new issue I was blown away by the pic of Joe Parsons on the 'Doo 800R Gade-X etech. Hats off! This is a great shot. Can I get a digital copy of this? In a sea monitor wallpaper depicting sunsets and silly pets I want to represent! Thanks and keep it up! Terry Franklin, Milwaukee, WI.

My husband just got his issue of OSM in the mail this week....very nice! Feels different, looks different and the layouts, graphics and articles are so much more current than a lot of the other stale magazines. Well done---just needed to tell you. Thanks Paula Fargo, North Dakota

FEATURE

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE

TOP BY PAT BOURGEOIS

OF 2012

NEW COLORS, NEW CHASSIS, NEW SUSPENSIONS AND NEW NAMES; HERE ARE 40 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE NEW FOR 2012 SNOWMOBILES.

Switchback Goes Pro

It won’t be the first time you’ve heard about the continued growth of the crossover segment, and most likely not the last. The versatility, additional ride compliance, and storage capabilities of the longer tracked crossover sleds is appealing to many riders. Plus with purchase cycles stretching, and all of us trying to do more with less, the models within the crossover segment make sense. Polaris is not blind to this growth, as 2012 finds them adapting their inside-out suspension technology known as Pro-Ride to

a longer 136” rail for their Switchback series. All Switchback sleds, save the price-point Shift 136” and the backcountry focused Switchback Assault, will feature the new 136” Pro-Ride Suspension, making those models the hot new buggies in the Polaris fold. The adaptation is fairly straight forward, with the front two-thirds of the Pro-Ride chassis being identical to the Rush, and the rear-third showcasing slightly longer running-boards, a stretched Pro-Ride skidframe, and a new wider, more comfortable seat (more on that later). Just like the short track Rush segment, the Pro-Ride Switchback is available with either 600 or 800 Liberty two-stroke power and standard FOX IFP shocks or Pro-R Walker Evans Piggy-Back dampers.

Power Steering Expansion

When we first sampled power steering on the 2011 Apex, we were frankly a bit indifferent to the technology. Aside from low effort, low-speed maneuvers, we were hard pressed to rally behind the technology. That changed however, once we had The Rush and Switchback look pratically like cousins, save the better Switchback seat the the chance to spend considerably more added tunnel length behind the wishbone time aboard our season-long demo unit this past winter. After several 200-mile plus running board supports. days, sub-zero snow pack trail conditions,

APEX

and end of the day fatigue, we were soon wearing tuning fork t-shirts as our Sunday best. The easy steering, low impact enhancements of electronic power steering (EPS) are too good to ignore, and now those benefits will be found on three additional models for 2012. By adding the variable assist steering system to the RS Vector, RS Vector LTX, and Venture Lite, Yamaha has effectively doubled their power steering offering for 2012. The system is identical to the one introduced last winter, with an electric motor placed in-line with the steering post. Four sensors measuring steering post torque on both sides of the motor, vehicle speed, motor speed, and motor current, feed information to the ECU, which in turn determines the correct level of assist for conditions. The true variable system offers full assist during parking lot maneuvers to zero assist when speeds approach the top of the Vector/Venture spectrum. ON SNOW MAGAZINE

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TOP 40 of 2012

Motion Response

MXZ XRS 800

When the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor on that fateful day in December, some within the high ranks of the Japanese military questioned the move, saying it may have awakened a sleeping giant. While no one will question the move by Polaris to drop the radical Pro-R rear suspension upon the unsuspecting industry in 2010, it most certainly awoke the snoozing yellow giant in Valcourt. Up until 2010, Ski-Doo could do no wrong, enjoying unprecedented success in nearly everything it did, dating back to the launch of the game changing 2003 Rev platform. Yet with all the success, little had changed with regard to suspension. Instead, the focus was on chassis, weight, and direct injection power.

The new rMotion skid comes with the running board mounted quick adjust system and funky bend rear drop link shown here, or a very traditional looking version with preload and damper adjustments where you’d expect to find them. Performance attributes are identical

F1100 TURBO LIMITED EDITION SNOPRO

While the jury remains in deliberation on the long lasting impact of the Pro-R suspension, Ski-Doo has launched the first volley back and it’s called rMotion. The “r” stands for rising, as in rising rate shock motion, a trait Polaris claims has never been achieved with an inside the tunnel suspension… until now. To be honest, the new rMotion suspension looks eerily similar to any other dual arm, rear scissor suspension from Ski-Doo or anyone else for that

matter. But the difference is in the design and more importantly, the ride. Featuring an extremely long front arm and a drop link rear suspension mount, the rMotion delivers a true rising rate stroke, with minimal shock motion during the initial 2-3 inches of travel, to increasingly greater shock stroke at full compression. The result is the most “true” rail travel of any OEM suspension in the industry, (according to Ski-Doo) and a broad shouldered ride that is the best anywhere (according to our butts). Ski-Doo has managed to take their much loved SC-5 suspension of old and made it better, requiring even fewer adjustments for terrain, and keeping it all tucked inside a traditional snowmobile chassis.

Damn Sexy

Typically, when an all-new body style of snowmobile is introduced, it takes a while for most of us to accept or reject the design. The 2003 Rev for example, was quirky looking, but once the beaver tail was lost and the performance attributes of the vehicle became subliminally married to the sled, the vehicle just looked right. Such is not the case with the Pro-Chassis Cats. While we held judgment upon first seeing them at an eclectic theatre in mid-town Minneapolis this past January, we found them nothing short of dead-ass sexy after seeing them on the snow in March. Styled by in-house designer Nathan Blomker, who beat out highbrow competitors from such hallmark design countries including Germany, the lines and appeal of the new line of Cats, in our opinion, is nothing short of stunning. Whether we were riding them, ogling them parked, or snapping photos of them in action, the new look Cat is a homerun.

800 SWITCHBACK PRO-R

Track to Trail

Borrowing greatness from the racetrack is certainly not new in the world of snowmobile development. Makers like Arctic Cat put heavy emphasis on learning and development from the competitive world, but for Polaris it has been nearly 20 years since the Roseau maker truly embraced a racetrack bred concept and employed it on their consumer-focused modelsâ&#x20AC;Ś until now. For 2012, all Pro-Ride models will feature a front suspension that is a direct adaptation from their successful IQ Racer. The IQ Race IFS delivers a 20-percent reduction in steering effort, versus the sometimes heavy-handed Pro-Ride models of old. The system uses all new upper and lower control arms as well as the same spindle extrusion found on their red racer. With reduced caster and subsequently less trail, the system should give the 2012 ProRide models more accurate steering with a reduction in steering effort. Both the upper and lower arms along with the extruded spindle are direct deposits from the race champion IQ Racer. The change for 2012 reduces steering effort by a claimed 20-percent.

Improved Trail Ski

We would be the first to tell you that Yamaha has had its struggles with quirky handling traits in recent years. But through efforts in 2011 and now the 2012 model year, it looks as if the Yamaha handling house is starting to get its cards in order. While a set-in-stone spec was

yet to be finalized when this writing went to press, we do know the new 8HV ski will feature increased trail performance. This was done by moving the mounting point of the spindle ahead in the ski-saddle by 15-millimeters. This small change gives the ski improved bite, especially from mid-turn through exit. While this same change is often associated with a slight increase in steering effort, the buttery effects of power steering now gracing more models, virtually nullifies this negative trait. The new 8HV ski will make its way onto all 2012 trail models.

HITCH TIONS A L L A INST

LICENC ED MECHA NICS ON SIT E By moving the spindle mount forward in the saddle, the new 8HV ski exhibits more trailing carbide for more bite.

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TOP 40 of 2012

Whizz Bang Quick Adjust

We value simplicity, especially in a high performance snowmobile. While the new for 2012 Quick Adjust rMotion option is loaded with frills and parking lot attention, we are hard pressed to find ourselves oohing and aahing over the true need for the running board mounted adjustments. Let’s face it; the idea of from the saddle, handlebar, and even tunnel mounted suspension adjustments is nothing new. What clouds the need for the Quick Adjust system in this instance is how broad the performance spectrum of the rMotion suspension is. With the new

Time will tell if the Quick Adjust system is here to stay or passing fad like others before it. Hard to argue the easy to tune capabilities though.

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE

XF1100 LXR

geometry, once you find the sweet spot for your body weight and riding style, you rarely if ever need to change the rMotion settings. Still, if you are the kind who simply loves to spin compression settings and pre-load adjustments at every trail junction, it’s hard to argue the cool factor of those big dials dangling off the back of your running boards.

Stoopid Fast

Before we ever had a chance to ride the new models from Arctic Cat, members of the top brass briefed us during their technical download on the weight reduction efforts and the

freewheeling nature of the new chassis. To backup for bit, it’s no secret that the 1100 Turbo Cat is one fast feline, even when housed in the somewhat portly twin-spar confines. Pumping out an absurd 177 ponies and joined by an equally impressive fat torque curve, the Z1 Turbo sleds were pure rocket ships. That same power plant is now housed in a much lighter chassis, (off the line weight of the new F1100 Turbo is approximately 550lbs) as well as one that offers much less rolling resistance. Cat will have little trouble living up to its selfproclaimed title as “World’s Fastest Snowmobiles”. While our test sleds still required further calibration, the 1100 Turbo models were scary fast.

No Direction

With EPA levels of cleanliness continuing to ramp upward and becoming more stringent as we approach the 2014 threshold, (the final year of agreed to, and written requirements from big brother government) we expected Polaris to finally peek-a-boo their rendition of direct injection two-stroke technology in 2012. Clearly, Polaris has chosen twostrokes as their power for the future - with focus on their 800 and 600 domestic twins and their four-stroke 750 receiving little love or fan-fare, despite being a rock-solid performer. These actions, in conjunction with

Ski-Doo continuing to gain accolades and traction with their direct injection ETEC motors, leaves us wondering when Polaris will finally show their version of the future of two-strokes.

Rip Saw Again While many may not know it or remember, but it was Yamaha in conjunction with Camoplast who’s responsible for what is perhaps the most popular track in all of modern day snowmobiling - the RipSaw. The track was so effective, that as soon as the exclusive agreement expired between Camoplast

and Yamaha, the RipSaw was found on virtually every other trail performance sled in the industry. Now the two companies are at it again, creating what is appropriately dubbed the RipSaw II. Found on the 2012 Nytro RTX, the RipSaw II touts a new lightweight, single-ply design with a new lug pattern that produces less side bite for improved cornering. By allowing the track to break loose slightly, the RipSaw II allows the Nytro to pivot through the corner, thereby reducing unwanted ski lift. Like the original, the RipSaw II is an open window, fully clipped chunk of rubber, but is said to have increased durability and improved performance.

They Still Turn

800 SWITCHBACK PRO-R

The second generation RipSaw track was developed as a cooperative effort between Yamaha and Camoplast. The new track has less side bite which Yamaha claims allows the Nytro to track flatter in the corners.

Every year when we return from Snow Shoot, we gather our collective thoughts under the allure of a few tall cold ones, to compare notes and discuss overall traits of the new buggies. This year, as it has in the past, Ski-Doo continues to wear the crown for king of the turn. While the new Pro Cross platform from Cat is damn good, (read the Cat list for more details) and Polaris has improved the Pro-R, the XP chassis continues to set the mark for its ability to hold a line with accuracy and predictability across the board.

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TOP 40 of 2012

Spade or Neuter Your Cat

Perhaps the most interesting and highest tech nugget found on the new ProCross and ProMountain chassis Arctic Cats, is the fixed center-to-center technology they’ve dubbed the Arctic Drive System (ADS). For 2012, the new breed of Cat has abandoned the Diamond Drive System, which reduced parts by eliminating the jackshaft and chaincase components of the drive system. The new ADS system brings those tried and true methods of power transfer back into the fold but with a unique and ingenious twist. The heart of the ADS system is its ability to retain a fixed center-to-center distance between the drive and driven clutches. Any snowmobile tuner worth his clutch weights knows an inconsistent center-to-center distance results in lost and inconsistent performance, reduced acceleration, and shortened belt life. The breakthrough design features a machined aluminum plate that ties the engine crankcase to the jackshaft-bearing mount. Instead of having PTO engine mounts at the block, the engine mount becomes part of this engine plate and driven end of the jackshaft, allowing the entire drive and driven combo to

The ADS plate is rather simple in design, tying the crankcase of the engine to the jackshaft mount. The PTO side engine mount is then positioned rearward, near the secondary, allowing the entire assembly to act as one.

FX NYTRO XTX

move as one, as the engine torques under load or rpm. In order to allow the jackshaft to flex, special bearings and seals on the chaincase side had to be developed to allow the shaft to “walk” slightly. The new system features a longer center-to-center distance as well, (12.2” on 800s, 11.5” on 1100s versus 10.5” previously) and in total, the design should lower belt temps, extend belt life, deliver more consistent performance, and quicken acceleration.

Bigger Butts, Bigger Seats

If you watch the Biggest Loser like some of the OSM staffers, you know all too well that North Americans are getting big; too big. While we’re not about to tell you to mix up a salad, we can say Polaris has been listening and has developed a new, wider, and much more comfortable seat for their Pro-Ride Switchback models. The new seat shares the same seat base with the short track Rush seat, but adds 2-more inches of width in the “sweet-spot” and tapers gradually towards the rear to accommodate a broader range of riders. After just four days of riding the new models, the seat is perhaps one of the biggest improvements on the 2012 Polaris

line. By keeping the front of the seat narrow, just like the Rush cushion, the Switchback loses little in terms of mobility and gains plenty in comfort. According to some Polaris engineers, the seat was considered for Rush models too, but the narrowed seat was retained for another year… bummer.

Mono Shock II Gets Simple

The staff here at OSM have long been advocates of the less is more approach to performance snowmobiles. It’s a design philosophy deep-snow engineers have employed for several years and when we see the same approach applied to trail sleds, we sit-up and take notice. For 2012, both the RS Vector and RS Vector LTX get simple by eliminating the remote adjust dial mounted on the side of the tunnel that tuned the large single shock compression damping traits, and replaced it with a simple, easy to access, on the body clicker. If you’re like us, once you tune a sled to your liking, you rarely change it and that’s the same rationale held by Yamaha engineers on their move away from RA to CK (remote adjust to clicker). Aside from this change, the Mono Shock II suspension retains all of the same ride geometry and ride quality held previously.

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More Freedom to Ride

The kids who shot those first backcountry extreme videos over ten years ago had no idea at the time that they were setting the tone for an entirely new category of snowmobiles, some ten years later. But that is just what has happened as both Polaris and Ski-Doo have carved out several models aimed specifically at the backcountry, extreme riders. For 2012, the first year SkiDoo concept sled, appropriately named the Freeride, goes to a full on model, with three track lengths, top shelf suspension goodies and a host of loud and obnoxious wrap options to cover its plain vanilla skin. Added to the mix are suspension tweaks to the two longer options that should help reduce trenching and deliver better flotation.

Missing in Action

To be honest, everyone in the industry expected Cat to unveil something big this spring. Aside from the twin spar missing the mark with Cat faithful,

F800 SNOPRO

as Cat readies a new clean-tech, high horsepower two-stroke to proudly wear the “World’s Fastest, Most Horsepower” crowns in the middle bore arena.

Your Roots are Showing

2012 also marks the feline’s 50th anniversary. To introduce all-new models in three categories (short track, crossover, and mountain) is huge, and we really weren’t surprised to find the same batch of motors from a year previous, nestled within the confines of the new chassis. The new 800 is a beast and the 1100 in Turbo form is untouchable. Even the normally aspirated 1100 is an overachiever in the 120-pony category. What’s missing however, is heart of the market, 600 two-stroke power. For now, Cat is thumping the chest of the 1100 four-stroke as the answer, and truth be told, it performs beyond expectations in the now significantly lighter chassis. However, we have to believe that 2012 is a stopgap year,

Flashback to the early boom years of the sport and colors helped to truly define the maker. Ski-Doo was obviously yellow; Cat was black with hints of purple; Yamaha was white with red; and Polaris was the all American red, white and blue brand. In more recent years, the color lines have sometimes become blurred, but for 2012, Polaris appears to be returning to their star spangled roots, at least ever so slightly. While strolling the compound at Snow Shoot, both Ski-Doo and Cat were clearly identified with their respective yellow and green hues. In addition, Yamaha has effectively claimed blue for the past 10 years as their corporate color. That has left Polaris searching for identity, and while the star of the north brand continues to offer more colors, graphics, and styles than most, we were pleased to see a consistent theme of white, red, and black return. In our opinion, there's still too many graphics, too many colors and too many insignias, but we like the direction.

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TOP 40 of 2012

FREERIDE 146

So You Say It’s Your Birthday

It’s hard to believe, but model year 2012 marks the 10th anniversary of four-stroke power for Yamaha. Okay, we know fourstroke technology has been in and out of the snowmobile industry for much longer than that, but it was Yamaha who effectively changed our opinions about the validity of four-stroke power as it pertains to a performance snowmobile. A limited build 2002 RX-1 did just that, and the rest as they say is history. For the ten-year celebration, Yamaha has outfitted select models in a rich black hue with an accompanying 10th Anniversary insignia.

Full Delivery 800 ETEC

Last model year, the long awaited launch of the direct-injection 800 ETEC was clearly the top news item in the Ski-Doo stable. However, the big twin that produced over 160-ponies was available only in limited numbers, and according to Ski-Doo brass, they had to turn away many orders and even return deposits to a small number of hopeful 800 ETEC owners. Rationing of the highly coveted 800 engine will be a thing of the past for 2012, as the engine hits full production stride and will be found across much of the line-up, including the trail luxury GSX segment. With a run quality that can be likened to a Swiss watch, the 800 ETEC lived up to the hype first delivered by its smaller 600 ETEC sibling. Instant starts, no smoke, no smell, instant response, and fuel sipping traits were all there. But so too was an above average thirst for oil, a trait not held in common with the smaller bore 600. Ski-Doo admits oil usage is not at levels where they would like them to be, and there was no word mentioned of an improvement in store for 2012.

The fuel sipping and precision characteristics will be available fully for 2012, with an additional offering in the GSX fold 46

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Race Track Marriage

Racetrack DNA has been a design trait of Arctic Cat sleds for virtually their entire 50year history. More so than any other brand, Cat continuously brings race tested designs, ideas, chassis, motors, and more from the track to the trail. The new Pro-Chassis is no different. When the Twin Spar design failed to catch on with Cat faithful, which ironically is one of the few designs where Cat didn’t draw from the race track first, the crew in Thief River Falls knew they had to return to their checkered flag heritage. However, they also knew they had created some goodness in both their older M-chassis as well as the Twin Spar. With the race proven SnoPro chassis leading the way, Cat engineers combined the best attributes of all three into the new ProCross and ProMountain chassis, while keeping a watchful eye on weight and performance goals. To put it best, the new Pro-Chassis takes all the talent of the race chassis and softens the edges and eliminates the brashness. What’s more, the new design allows all three segments; the short track on-trail, (F-Series) crossover (XFSeries) and mountain models, (M-Series) to use the same chassis core, with only changes made to the steering geometry and rear tunnel sections.

Unlike the SnoPro racer, the new Pro series chassis mounts the upper and lower A-arms at a 30-degree angle for strength

King of the Hill

No question, Polaris is the undisputed king of kings when it comes to deep snow performance. Starting with their more purposeful built IQ RMK models, the return of the Rocky Mountain King to the throne was completed last winter when the RMK 800 found a new home in the Pro-Ride chassis. In terms of sales, Polaris was unstoppable in the western markets, and those who bought the nimble and easy to ride RMK, gushed about its performance. So what does Polaris do for an encore? Simple; lower the proven 600 Liberty into the same flick-able Pro-Ride chassis and offer up three 600 RMK models – 600 RMK 144, 600 RMK 155, and the 600 PRO RMK 155. The king has spoken.

Inside and Outside

Always sticklers for improved fit, finish, and noise reduction, the new for 2012 one-piece extrovert drivers are said to reduce noise and vibration, while also reducing weight and serving up the same benefits of reduced ratcheting of the two-piece design it replaces. The new driver is found on the Nytro RTX in an eight-tooth configuration as well as both Nytro MTX models as a 7-tooth specimen.

The new one-piece Yamaha extrovert driver was designed to reduce noise and vibration.

Big Knobs

Two seasons ago, SkiDoo overhauled their shock offerings and associated names in an effort to simplify the message and clarify premium components from model to model. Since then, incremental improvements have continued to follow. This year the big improvement comes in the form of big knobs; great big red knobs that incorporate both low and high speed compression damping adjustments in one, easy to turn with your gloves on clicker. The big knobs are only found on the top of the line KYB Pro 40 shocks, but we hope to see this “big” change filter down to other KYB/Ski-Doo offerings.

MX_Z_X-RS_front_shock with Caption. The large knob at the top of the KYB Pro 40 shocks now controls both compression and rebound with a single click

XF800 SNOPRO

SWITCHBACK ADVENTURE

Ergonomically Speaking How a sled feels is almost as important as how a sled performs, and when those two attributes come together, it can be sweet bliss. When the Twin Spar was launched, Cat made a lot of noise about the sled’s ability to adapt to different riders with whizz-bang features like an adjustable seat, handlebars, and toeholds. That however, is now yesterday’s news, as Cat has put more focus on designing a more ergonomically correct sled. Our first impressions are that this version is a home run, and could get our endorsement for the best out of the box ergonomics, period. Oh sure, ergonomics involve a lot of personal preference and must take into respect body size and dynamics as well. But the “feel” of the new Cat is already an OSM favorite and we suspect it will only get better as we log some long-term miles on a few next winter.

Upon completion of our first encounter with the ProCross and ProMoutain chassis, we have a hard time finding fault with the ergonomic “feel” of the sled. Even our finicky back side like the new seat shape and texture.

Feeling Adventurous

Time will tell if the newly created Adventure segment by Polaris is little more than marketing hype or a true niche in need of a dedicated model. Either way, the new 600 Switchback Adventure Touring is an interesting model worth a closer look. Patterned after the on-road motorcycle market where sport touring bikes have become very successful, the 600 Switchback Adventure attempts to mimic those same attributes by combining a nimble, high-tech, performance snowmobile with long-haul, solo touring features. The Adventure starts with the new for 2012 600 Pro-Ride Switchback as its foundation and then piles purposeful features including mirrors, electric start, wind deflectors, dual 12-volt outlets, and most importantly, an aptly named Adventure Cargo System. Rather than simply adapting existing soft-sided bags to a Switchback, the Adventure features purpose built hard sided bags with soft-sided removable liners. Both bags then quickly attach and detach from the trellis framework with the Polaris patented and toolless Lock & Ride system. Adding even further storage is the Trellis designed rear rack with a capacity of 45-pounds and an accessory soft-sided bag that too can be secured with Lock & Ride fasteners.

Often times, OEMs simply grab an off-theshelf accessory and attach it to a model and call it good. Here the reverse was true, with Polaris developing hard sided bags specifically for the Adventure. ON SNOW MAGAZINE

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TOP 40 of 2012

Keeping it Real

All too often, both the media and the manufacturer’s marketing machines get singularly focused on the extreme aspects of the sport. From backcountry freaks hucking cornices, to warp speed trail riders, we all love to aspire to ride like many of them. Yet the truth is, extreme riding is just a small fraction of the overall snowmobile pie. We give kudos to Yamaha’s 2012 marketing campaign, which gives a nod of recognition to the rest of us… real world trail riders, families, and friends.

A Wee Bit of Storage

Part of the success of the crossover Renegade model from Ski-Doo, as well as the standard fare MXZ, was their ability to offer behind-the-seat, or on-the-tunnel storage. But when it came to the more coveted and race-bred MXZ-X models, storage options faded fast. For 2012, those nagging storage complaints should fade, at least a little, with the development of the

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available, albeit small in-seat storage for all X model trail sleds and select Summit models. The split door design is necessary to accommodate the beveled rear seat, and if you pack with planning, you should be able to squeeze two bottles of hydration and spare pair of goggles for the day’s burn.

It’s not cavernous, but XP performance seat will now accommodate about 6 Big Macs (squished).

Brakeless Feel

For all that Cat got right for the first year Pro-Chassis, we did find a few nags too. The braking system is new from the disc and caliper, all the way back to the master

cylinder. Taking a few cues from high-tech superbikes, the new master cylinder is radial in design, meaning the piston is mounted in parallel symmetry to lever action. Other brakes often have the piston mounted in a way that places it at a right angle to the lever arc. The radial design is said to deliver greater braking force. At the other end of the braided line, a new dual-piston caliper is mounted on the far-forward portion of the direct-to-drive-shaft rotor. The positioning helps to reduce brake pad “knock-back” when the chassis is driven hard in whooped out terrain. The rotor is also lighter and 12percent larger than the previous design and the decrease in knock-back allows Cat engineers to use smaller caliper pistons and shortened lever “throw”. On paper, the brake system should be the Cat’s meow, (excuse the pun) but our early experience with the new system has resulted in brakes that are “right-now” ready but offer little to no feedback. This view shows how the master cylinder piston is aligned in the same relationship with lever stroke, hence the fancy “radial” name

FX NYTRO MTX

600 RUSH PRO-R

Flatten the Turn

If we could improve one thing on the 2012 Pro-Ride buggies versus their 2011 predecessors, it would be their cornering attributes. While the focus has been on the rear skid, and its uncanny ability to nearly eliminate those massive spine-tingler G-out holes, the handling traits took a back seat. Unpredictable inside ski lift and a tendency for the vehicle to switchblade in the

corners became a deficiency for the ProRide. For 2012 Polaris took aim at flattening those tendencies, at least on short-track ProRide models, by raising the front arm mounting point at the rail. By doing this, the front arm lays flatter in the skidframe, making the suspension “act” as if the front arm is longer, thus reducing ski-lift. Early rides indicate it clearly improves the situation; however the new Switchback Pro-Ride models retain the lower mount geometry, which according to Polaris, was done for better off-trail performance and flotation.

Force Feeding the Charge

On the eve of Haydays this past September, Yamaha brass, along with representatives from Push Turbo and Mountain Performance Incorporated, (MPI) showcased boost offerings for the MTX lineup of Nytro sleds that boosted power by as much as 45 ponies. Certainly, neither super-charging nor turbocharging was new to the snowmobile world,

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TOP 40 of 2012 but having a manufacturer stand behind such performance products and offer it through its dealer network was. Obviously the relationships along with the performance and reliability of both boost kits was a success this past winter, as Yamaha returns for 2012 with the same offerings from both companies, but this time the offer gets sweeter (read cheaper). When first introduced, both the Push Turbo and MPI Super Charger came with a hefty asking price of $3,995. This MSRP remains for 2012, but for Yamaha customers who purchase a new 2012 Nytro MTX during the spring Power Surge promotion, they can take advantage of boosted power close to 180-ponies at just $1,500 (United States offer only). Both kits are designed for use above 6,000 feet, and when installed by an authorized Yamaha dealer, will not void your warranty. Yeah you read that right. SUMMIT X

Lugging More Snow

31 At just $1,500 during their Spring Power Surge program, we suspect very few if any 2012 Nytro MTX snowmobiles will leave dealerships next fall with out a MPI Super-Charger or pictured Push Turbo. At 180-ponies we are patiently standing in line

800 RMK ASSAULT

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Deep snow mountain sleds continue to evolve, and with their increased capabilities, western sledders are riding in places and climbing mountains once never thought possible. With the new PowderMax track found on Summit X models, the boundaries most likely got stretched again. Featuring a whopping 2.5” lug, the tallest offered by any OEM, the lugs of the new track are actually hollow, thereby reducing overall track weight by 1.2lbs on a 154” track.

RS VECTOR

Yeah, the lug just got bigger – 2.5”

The Year of the Cat

The 2012 model year marks a significant year for the Thief River Falls, Minnesota manufacturer as they celebrate 50 years of all things Arctic Cat. To mark the milestone, Cat will offer â&#x20AC;&#x153;throw-backâ&#x20AC;? graphic packages and extra features on several F, XF and M four-stroke models. All black, with classic SnoPro graphics, the 50th version was one of our favorites.

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No Adjustment Necessary?

When Pro-Ride first hit the scene in 2010, Polaris engineers flocked around every Pro-Ride Suspension, measuring shock lengths, spinning springs, and dialing up and down compression damping settings for every rider who merely breathed on the new sled. While every suspension requires adjustments, the Pro-Ride skid has a ride bandwidth that is narrower than most, meaning it needs more frequent adjustments to adapt the ride quality to changing terrain. However, with two years of calibration under the seat, the 2012 version of Pro-Ride, especially in the longer Switchback form, has broadened

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TOP 40 of 2012 its ride zone. While it still requires more adjustments than competitive suspensions, Polaris has made those adjustments easier, while the 136-inch length more effectively bridges bumps.

MXZ X 600

Nary a Whisper of an ACE?

After moving the remote reservoir onto a support tube, adjusting damping on the ProRide suspension is way easy. Now if only preload were that easy.

Less Ski, More Track

It’s no secret that Yamaha is a small share player in the deep snow markets of the western United States and Canada. But for those who value rock solid dependability, Yamaha has carved out a small niche of customers who are more than satisfied with their MTX offerings. Knowing that, the tuners at the tuning fork have thrown a few bones to the western legionnaires in the form of a new lightweight ski and an allnew Ascent mountain track. The skis, dubbed the MT-9 (yeah, sexy name right?) is said to reduce steering effort, offer improved flotation and shaves a combo total of just over 3.5 pounds. Joining the new ski is yet another Camoplast joint venture track called the Ascent. The new 2.25” track features a lug that has a very durable and stout base, but a flexible tip for improved lift in powder snow. This combination should help the Nytro gain the lift it needs, without sacrificing durability on a platform that rarely goes without aftermarket power adders.

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Last season, Ski-Doo was a-buzz with excitement and pride over their new twincylinder, four-stroke, highly efficient 600 Advanced Combustion Efficiency (ACE) engine. The 60-horsepower motor was offered in a host of models, despite its first year stripes, and was dubbed the fuel mileage king by Ski-Doo for its ability to sip up to 29 miles to a gallon. For 2012, the ACE returns, but with little to no fanfare. Too bad; after we had a chance to sample its entry level power at sea-level this past winter, we here sold on the potential markets the 600 ACE could capture as the industry looks for ways to build interest and growth once again.

XF800 LXR

Why So Tall?

There is no doubt the new front suspension found on all ProChassis models from Arctic Cat is a direct descendant from their competition savvy SnoPro race sled. While the new version of the Arctic Race Suspension (ARS) is mounted to the chassis at a 30-degree angle to enhance strength, reduce flex, and allow for an overall lighter design, it’s those crazy tall spindles that give the suspension and the entire sled for that matter, a very distinct look. So, why so tall? Think of it this way; in any dual A-arm suspension now found on virtually all modern day snowmobiles, when the spindle encounters forces and/or bumps, the top of the spindle wants to tear away from its current vertical plane. It’s the job of the upper A-

The forged one-piece spindle is tall, uber tall, and helps Cat engineers to build a stronger, yet lighter front suspension.

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arm to keep the spindle in its correct location and arc. The taller the spindle, the greater leverage you have and ability to control the position and arc of the spindle. Arctic Catâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mega tall forged spindle allows them to have greater chassis strength due to the greater distance between the arms, while allowing the upper arms to be lighter.

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800 RUSH PRO-R LE

Part Time Pro

If you’re looking for the ultimate Pro-Ride snowmobile, you’d better act quickly and get your order in for the Limited Edition Rush 800 Pro-R. Aside from the loud, proud, and orange Pro-R emblems on the side panels, the LE version brings with it some nice-tohave features, along with three attributes we’d like to see as standard fare in the future. Once you get past the standard electric start, adjustable ROX handlebar riser, and personalized nameplate, the heart of the LE can be discussed. First and foremost is the upgraded Walker Evans shock package that features adjustments for both compression and rebound. Where the rubber meets the snow, a more aggressive Cobra track with a hook-up-and-go 1.325” track lurks, while fastened at the rear of the Rush seat, a standard Trellis style rear rack will finally give owners storage space, albeit small and requiring an accessory soft-sided bag. The Pro-R 800 LE is available with three different side panel configurations – white, black, or orange.

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Summit Freeride

Phazer Still Set To Stun

MXZ X 600

The one sled we honestly thought had an outside chance at a 2012 makeover was the Phazer. While the Phazer may look quirky and is damn cold to ride on 100 mile mid-January jaunts, the foundation of the Phazer model still has the makings to address the industry wide need for an 80100 horsepower snowmobile at a palatable price. Maybe next year…

PHAZER RTX

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RENEGADE BACKCOUNTRY

No Love for Average Joes

Back in the mid-90s, when snowmobiling was experiencing near record growth levels, the spring order program offered by all four makers was a runaway success. Highly coveted models were sold out long before summer arrived, and manufacturers and dealers alike where enjoying record sales at near MSRP levels. Of course that has all changed, but the OEMs continue to push for ways to capture early spring orders through limited offerings, special equipment, and special financing. Ski-Doo, with their X package offerings, arguably has been the most successful. And for 2012, those X package offerings include the new rMotion suspension. After several outings on the new skid, we can attest to how good it is. Yet 2012 in-season buyers won’t have a chance to experience the same.

Like Butter

One of the first things you’ll notice once you ride a new 2012 Cat is how easy and smooth the steering system is. While riding the sleds in Montana

M800 HCR 56

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this past spring, in what was often heavy wet snow, we were still amazed at how easy and linear the steering felt and performance remained. While we’d have like to have seen a bit less front arm and more bite dialed into the overall setup, the simplified system that eliminates additional joints, steering racks and linkages, has lots of promise.

F1100 TURBO LIMITED EDITION SNOPRO

SPRING BUYER’S GUIDE MASTER LOCK One of the most important things to do this spring is to make sure your machine is safely stored for the summer. The last thing you want is for your prized possession to grow legs and walk away. Master Lock has a large variety of locks to protect your investment, including specific locks for your trailer and snowmobile. For more information please visit www.masterlock.com

FUEL STORAGE SOLUTIONS We all know we need to use a fuel stabilizer when putting machines into seasonal storage, but the introduction of ethanolblended fuels means that traditional fuel stabilizers and gas additives that rely on 50-year old technology just donʼt work with todayʼs new fuels. The solution is simple: todayʼs new fuels demand new fuel additive technology. Star Tron Enzyme Fuel Treatment is an innovative, unique and very effective way of solving a wide range of fuel-related problems. Engines powered by Star Tron-treated fuel start easily and run smoothly even after sitting idle for extended periods. Additionally, Star Tron helps prevent phase separation that can occur when water and ethanol bond together and then “fall out” of the gasoline, resulting in degraded fuel and an engine that canʼt perform at its best. Star Tron works in all 2 and 4-cycle gas-powered engines, regardless of size or age or the number of cylinders. It is made in the USA by Star Brite www.starbrite.com. For more information, log onto www.startron.com or call (800) 327-8583.

TWIN ZZ SNOWMOBILE / ATV LIFT The Twin ZZ Snowmobile or ATV Lift is a great product that can safely support your machine making it easy to work on in your garage or driveway. The optional bike bench will allow you to use it for working on your motorcycle. For more information visit www.royaldistributing.com

SURE GRIP DOLLIES With Winter at a close, youʼll want to move your sled to a clean dry surface, and the best way to do that in or out of season is with the SURE GRIP Dollies system. Theyʼve proven to be a crucial tool in many shops and garages. Imagine no more heavy lifting or getting off your sled to swing the back end around. SURE GRIP works like a wheel kit, you simply strap the dollies to your skis, allowing you to drive under your own power. For more information visit www.surgripdolly.com or call 320-252-0278.

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CLEAN R POLISH There is nothing better than having a shiny new toy. The IPONE Clean polish can make your sled look shiny and new after a long winter season. IPONE cleaner can be purchased at www.royaldistributing.com

GREAT PRODUCTS FOR SPRING 2011

E-Z TRAXX FOGGING OIL There is a right way and a wrong way to store your machine, and the right way is to use Fogging oil. With a unique design which allows you to spray the can in any position. It protects all engines from corrosion during storage and clings to all exposed metals parts. Fogging oil is designed to keep your engine lubricated so when it comes time to fire it up, it will be fresh and ready to go. For more information visit www.gammasales.com

RIDE INN This is one of those products that has 100 uses and can be used in every season. If you don't have a garage, or room in your garage to store your machines, you need to check these out. Ride Inn provides extra protection for your power sports vehicles and is an excellent way to keep your most prized possession out of sight and out of mind. Store your Snowmobile, ATV, Boat or Motorcycle in any season. For more information on the Ride Inn visit www.rideinn.ca

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BATTERY TENDER It wouldn't hurt to pick up a battery charger over the off-season. You never want to head out for your first ride and find you have no spark, so make time to remove the battery and charge it up. For more information on the Battery Tender Junior visit www.gammasales.com

ICE AGE Sliders and Wheels should be checked every spring, and if they show wear, they should be replaced. If you do have to replace them, think about the bad boys available through IceAge Manufacturing. They are stronger than stock and look cool. For more information visit www.iceagemfg.com

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EQUINOX RECREATIONAL PRODUCTS - THE BRUTE For those of you that are looking to get a little extra use out of your “Equinox Brute” sleigh this spring, you now can with the replaceable ATV conversion kit. This allows you to use the “Brute” in every season. The Brute is an extended capacity polyethylene sleigh for serious loads and heavy duty hauling. The Depth with allow for greater hauling capacity, making it ideal for work or play. For more information visit www.eqnx.biz or call 800-665-7487.

OGIO GOLF BAG With Spring upon us, you should probably make sure your golf bag is fresh and ready for action. These Ogio bags are the real deal; they have more pockets than you know what to do with, but you can be sure that youʼll have a place for anything and everything. Most of them even come with a built in ice cooler, we guarantee that ours wonʼt be filled with Iced Tea. For more information on these bags go to www.ogio.ca. ON SNOW MAGAZINE

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THE GOLDEN YEARS MEMOIRS OF AN ADDICT: CHAPTER “11”

YAMAHA GS 340

have been truly fortunate in having had the opportunity to ride, at one time or another, almost every make and model of snowmobile produced up to 1985. Unfortunately, I had the opportunity to ride an original 1969 Yamaha when first released. I sometimes quip that the sled got faster as the day got longer, because of all the parts [read weight] that fell off. The first Yamahas had great engines, but the sleds themselves were devoid of any locknuts,

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lock washers, or thread lock. It was not uncommon to find parts littering the trail. Yamaha continually improved the early 70ʼs SL and SM models, and then raised the bar even higher with the GS 340. The SL and SM were considered solid family trail performers. They came standard with bogie style suspensions, barely adequate seat materials and under stressed engines, sans Yamalube if I am not mistaken. Like most mid-engined sleds of the era, they were top

heavy and in spirited trail riding, they took corners on the outside ski as the inside one had a tendency to lift in corners. I was fortunate enough to be loaned a 1976 GS 340 a few years later, due to the untimely breakdown of my personal sled at the time. The thing I best remember about this day of riding was the ribbing I took, due to my rather vocal dislike of Yamaha sleds up to this time. The GS 340 did nothing wrong and was perfectly behaved, with trail manners that encouraged the driver to push the envelope. It was impossible to get into trouble, and believe me I tried. This was one great offering from Yamaha. The SL and SM series were replaced by the GS series in the fall of 1975 [1976 model year]. Immediately noticeable was the use of lock nuts and lock washers on all fasteners. Nothing shook loose or fell off this sled no matter how hard you rode it. If you were a Ski-Doo rider, you felt right at home on the GS 340. Apparently, Yamaha went looking for the best seat on the market and then cloned Bombardierʼs, using three layers of various density foam. My only complaint about the seat, which I also found in the late 90ʼs on the SRXʼs, was the tendency for the driver to slide forward, causing leg strain from pushing back all the time. The GS 340 was the first family trail sled offering by Yamaha to ride on a slide rail system. The slide rail system used in the GS was a modified GPX unit. I believe it was redesigned to be lighter, the shock valved and the springs changed to be trail friendly, compared to the competition based GPX skid frame. While investigating for this article, I came across a lot of conjecture, but no facts regarding the length of the slide rails and the vertical travel of both suspensions. The 76 - GS 340 track was 114 inches long, whereas the 74 - GPX had a track length of 118 inches. It would be natural to assume the GS slide rails were shorter. However, most collectors feel the GPX had more travel than using the same length rails. One collector also noted that the drive sprockets and rear idlers were a larger diameter on the GPX, which accounted for the longer track but same length slide rails. Kimpex notes the 1976 GS 340 slide rails as 42 5/8 inches, and the 1976 SRX slide rails as 36 3/8 inches. All I know is that the GS 340

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suspension was as good as, or better than the Olympic 340 slide suspension, in my opinion. The system, as was common with other offerings, had one set of idlers to assist the slide rails in low snow conditions. It needed more. The coil springs were adjustable and had a dramatic effect on weight transfer. Fine tuning the suspension on any sled with 25 +/- HP, is vitally important to performance. Like most sleds built in this time period, the molded-in cleats were approximately ½ inch deep, and not exactly aggressive.

Yamaha did not stand pat on the front suspension. They added wider skis, while maintaining the 29 inch skis width [centre to centre]. New springs and ski shocks also helped keep the sled on track. The GS 340 used 30 ¼ inch non carbide runners, whereas the SRX used 22 ¾ inch runners. The longer skis on the GS series added to directional stability. Unfortunately, all this good work never corrected the inside ski lift on corners, which resulted in a tippy feeling. Surprisingly, the sled reached 40 degrees +/on the tilt table before unloading; quite good for a sled with a 15 inch wide track and 29 inch skis center. The braking system left a lot to be desired. There was adequate pressure exerted by the caliper without too much driver input on the brake lever. However, the brake pads were prone to premature fading. Friends of mine who owned this sled, tell me that Yamaha brought out new replacement pads, but did not warranty the originals. The parking brake was easily manipulated and worked quite well. Then again, how much braking do you need on a sled that was alleged to top out at 50 MPH. Addicted. The 338 CC motor with two into one exhaust, baffled intake system and single Keihin diaphragm carburetor, allegedly delivered 22 to 23 MPG in everyday driving.

The sled was known for its acceleration and not its top speed. This was impressive performance for a trail sled with a 25HP engine. Clutching was the typical Yamaha CVT unit and not the hydraulic units used in the TW and the Prestige 440. The GS 340 came with all the standard safety equipment including, but not limited to; key shut off, handlebar mounted kill switch, tether kill switch, increased lighting back and front, handlebar padding and stout bumpers. Standard features also included an oversized pull cord handle, large “D” handles for the passenger, tool storage, 4.5 gallon fuel tank and 2.4 gallon oil reservoir. I especially liked the chrome exterior mounted hood hinges and have used them on various other sleds over the years. ✪

Specifications: 338 fan cooled twin, bore & stroke 60MM/59.6MM, 6:60 to 1 compression, magneto ignition, Yamalube oil injection, steel chassis, dry weight of 367 pounds, length = 102 inches, overall width = 33.5 inches and a height {top of windshield} = 38.5 inches. Ed Long, Former President Antique and Classic Snowmobile Club of Canada

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CUSTOM SLED CORNER 'CUSTOM' JOHN BORS

ONE PIMPED XP!

Hey sled heads! Well it's been a great snowmobile season since the big snowmobile show, and what a show it was! There is so much to see and do at the show, and the freestyle show alone is worth the gate charge. Even if you're a trail guy and not up for the back flip thing, you will really respect what these guys do for the crowd. The demo ATV rides and tracks, and all the cool aftermarket products to check out, plus all the tourism spots and trial info – everything you want to know about sleds you can learn at the show. I will say it one more time, if you missed the show you missed out big time! The show crew is already working on next year’s show, and it promises to be a great one. Now on to our story - I have been customizing sleds for over 7 years, and have always been preaching that itʼs a fun challenge, and once you do it youʼre hooked. Over the last few years I have seen a lot more custom snowmobiles around. Did I have something to with it? Not to sure, but I have to tell you itʼs really cool to see so many out there. I also have been saying that if you have a cool custom sled, then drop me a line because I would love to see and hear about it. So let me introduce you to Tim! Tim contacted me earlier this winter and told me about his pimped out XP. He was really trying to get it done for the October Snowmobile show but he just ran out of time. 62

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Hey John, I have been dreaming of having my own really trick custom sled for a few years now; since I was about 14 I think. Well I am now 19 and I saved all my pennies and built a pretty nice sled. I wanted to have it ready for the custom sled show but it didn't happen. Here it is. That's me in the background in the white Ski-Doo jersey; I was racing a different sled. I was wondering if you would let me show it at the sled show in October? Thanks, Tim

Thank you for writing in Tim. After reading over his story and checking out his photos, I had to ask myself if his sled was worthy to be in the pages of OSM. Hell YA! The passion I got from this letter was moving, and he did a great job of it too. He had the whole sled striped and rebuilt, making it his own. Hereʼs a few of the modifications Tim made; • 2009 TNT sled build • 2009 Blue Everest hood and console • 2010 White TNT panels • Custom graphics and numbers by Advantange-Vinyl of Brantford Cosmetic Modifications • 2011 Summit Freeride white nose cone • Modified seat with RS tail light and 2" of water resistant foam added, redone in blue vinyl • Tricked Toyz Billet pull handle, Billet choke lever and brake reservoir cap • New white USI railer skis with blue mounts

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CUSTOM SLED CORNER Modifications made to the Shocks and Chassis: • 2002 440 front piggyback shocks with dual rate springs (out for powdercoating) • 2007 440 centre shock with dual rate springs and stainless hose added • 2010 RS rear shock. All shocks rebuilt and revalved by Ian at Monster Performance • 2010 Ski-Doo RS rear axel with 4 wheels RS front wheels, solid Billet rear wheels (not sure if I am going to use them) • 2006 440 2 ply 120" with 84 studs • Ski-Doo bulkhead and tunnel protectors • 2010 Ski-Doo RS outer tunnel extrusions • 2009 Ski-Doo RS rear footrests • 2010 Ski-Doo RS steel rear skid mounts • 2010 Ski-Doo RS steel front skid mounts • 2010 Ski-Doo RS steel running board braces • 2010 Ski-Doo RS aluminum running board braces • 2010 Ski-Doo RS footholds • 2010 Ski-Doo RS snowflap • Custom Graphic 2010 Ski-Doo RS motor brace Mods to Motor, Gearing, Clutching: • 23 RS top gear • 49 bottom gear • RS chain • Higher engagement spring • Ski-Doo temperature module • 2010 Ski-Doo RS dual Intake kit • Pipe cover powdercoated blue Mods to Handlebars • 2007 440 steel handlebars • 2003 440 "Bat-Wing" handgaurds wrapped in white vinyl • Preheat button for wired RER • 2007 440 headlight switch • 2007 440 kill switch • 2007 440 aluminum throttle block and lever • Powermadd 6" riser

We hope to have Timʼs sled at the October Snowmobile Show next year. If you see Tim and his sled out on the trail, let him know what a good job heʼs done and Iʼm sure it will pump him up. A few more mods that Tim plans to do: • Second limiter strap • Rail reinforcements • Center shock lower cross brace • 2011 600RS upper A-arm bracing • Set up secondary clutch as per race department recommendations. And don't forget, if you have a cool custom sled; drop me a line at info@customsleds.ca, and you could be featured in the pages of OSM! Next year we will be doing a show and shine, with prizes and trophies at the Toronto Snowmobile Show, so start thinking of ideas for your sled. It will be another long summer with lots of time to build a cool custom sled! See you on the trails, Custom John Bors

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NUTRITION AND TRAINING DREW ROBERTSON

ASSESS AND IMPROVE

ello OSM readers! Thanks to all the readers that emailed me and picked up the links to my favorite yoga DVDs! Hopefully, everyone has tried Yoga and found they are now more flexible and efficient through motion; meaning that they can ride harder for longer! Now last time I went over a bunch of pointers, from precautions for dealing with the flu season, to switching up your cardio program, as well as Yoga and how to assess the weaknesses in your overall program. On the last point I have had quite a number of emails from people, asking me how to improve their riding techniques and how to properly assess their weaknesses. So the first part of this article will focus on that, with a segment on what to do after the season ends to finish things off! Like I said in the last article; first you have to be honest with yourself. If you’re reading this and you aren’t winning all your races by a good margin, or are looking to step up a class sometime soon, then you need to make improvements! Even the top athletes in our sport are constantly working to improve one, two, or more aspects of their

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riding, so let’s see what we can do and where to start. First off, I believe that the best assessment tool is the video camera. Most of us have one and if not, they are well worth the investment. You can start by having a mechanic, a friend, or someone you know, film you while you’re practicing, making sure that they are in a position to get the whole track. At the same time, have someone running a stop watch and recording your lap times. Later that day, or in between practice sessions, you can watch it right on the video camera. Or if you have it available, plug your video camera into a laptop or a TV. Watch yourself ride, looking for areas where your forward momentum is coming to a stop, which is usually in corners, or you’re jumping too high, meaning your track is off the ground for a longer time than is necessary. After deciding what area you are going to focus on, go out to your next practice session and work on that area by either sweeping through a turn, or staying a little lower on the jumps, making sure to film this session and once again record your lap times. After you’re done riding, go back and watch the film and see for yourself if you

have made improvements. And since you’ve recoded lap times, compare them and see if your times have improved! You can take the video camera to the track on race weekends and repeat this same procedure, allowing you to watch yourself after practice, or in between heat races. You can also film some of the other riders, either in your own class or one of the pros, and see how they’re getting through a certain section. Then when you go back out again, give that line a try! I see riders watching other races all the time. They’re watching how other racers pick their lines, or how they set up for a section. This is great to do, but make sure you have an idea of how you’re getting through the section, so you have an idea of what you need to change. Your line might be the same, but your body position might be what you need to change, and the video will help you diagnose that. I’ve worked with a lot of riders and they are their own worst critics, and when they see themselves ride, they usually see a few areas that they can work on. So for the few hundred dollars you can spend on a video camera, you’ll find that it’s one of your best invest-

ments when it comes to improving your riding skills. Now we are nearing the end of the season, and hopefully a successful season at that. But as soon as they’re done racing, so many of the athletes quit working out, figuring that they have another 6 months before they’re going to be on the sled again…. Yes they have 6 months or so before they ride again, but completely stepping away from your training routine is not the best idea. Now before everyone gets excited, let me explain the madness behind my method. Let’s say you’re riding 2-3 times a week and you’re training 3 times a week. This means that you’re burning a lot of calories and eating a lot, focusing on top quality foods! So now we remove riding, which will mean we are burning a lot less calories. However, it takes 2-3 weeks for our bodies to adjust our metabolism, so for that time we are consuming more than we are burning… guess what this means?? Yes, you guessed it; those extra calories are going straight to our bellies our hips. Now imagine what would happen if we completely stopped training our body. OH MY… we would have to work extra hard next season to work off the unwanted weight that we have put on. Now in the month or so following the season, we should back off the intensity of our training, focusing on longer aerobic activities; running, jogging, longer bike rides; say 60-75 minutes, 2-3 times a week. When hitting the gym, think about lifting weights 2 times a week, focusing on re-balancing the body. Now when I say this, I’m not talking about the ability to stand on one leg while juggling. I’m referring to the imbalances from side-to-side and front to back that develop throughout the season. Most common imbalances I have seen occur, are an anterior roll of the shoulders; meaning that our shoulders round forward. Of course, during the season we are working on this imbalance, but riding tends to “help” make this anterior roll worse. And now that you’re not riding, this is an ideal time to deal with this issue. If you need ideas on some exercises to help with this, please send me an email. I have a .PDF that has some exercise descriptions that will help. As always, if you have any questions about training, nutrition, or supplements, drop me a line. Find the time to take care of yourself and look at your season. Come up with a game plan for next year and go after it. Also, watch for updates on our 2nd annual training camp to be held again in Ontario, later in August! This year we are going to have quite a few of the top pros I work with, out there helping me coach, so make sure to sign up early!

Drew Robertson drew@evolvednutrition.com

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DANCING LIKE NOBODY’S WATCHING I am dreaming please donʼt wake me because it has been over a month since the 12th Annual Kelly Shires Breast Cancer Snow Run took place and we are still in awe of how

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each year it keeps getting bigger and better! With all of the support the charity has received we are ecstatic to announce that this past event was most successful. Over 125 women suited up for the 12th annual event, raising over $435,000 bringing the 12 year total to a whopping $2.5 million dollars raised to help those battling breast cancer. Snowmobilers may be considered to be a small demographic but certainly create a huge impact when we all come together for an amazing time benefiting a wonderful cause. What started out as Kelly Shires Dream, before she lost her battle to the disease in 2004, has grown to be a widely recognized success fundraiser with overpowering energy and fun. If you have participated in this snowmobile event you know exactly what we are we are talking about, if you havenʼt then you donʼt want to miss out on it next year –save the date February 5, 2012 (location to be announced soon).

The main attraction of the event is the all-ladies snowmobile ride but the whole weekend is packed with fun that allows participants to play a part in as much or as little as they want – itʼs a ladies weekend to have fun and “dance like nobodyʼs watching”. Friday when participants arrive at the Resort they are greeted by the most wonderful grounds crew, who are there to help off-load snowmobiles and help with parking of trucks and trailers before heading up to check in at the resort. Early Friday afternoon the “Pink Market” is open, where vendors showcase a variety of items that you can purchase and all support the cause. In the heart of the pink market you will find our amazing registration team who get the ladies all organized and set for the weekend, starting off with the fundraising incentive gifts and goody bags. Once ladies register they have a few hours before the next planned activity starts and are welcome to go for a blast on the trails or relax at the resort. In the evening, the Friday night “MeetʼnʼGreet” takes place hosted by Carey Moran from Kicx FM 106. The idea behind the “MeetʼnʼGreet” is to get the ladies to mingle and also allow ladies to the chance to catch up with friends they have met at previous

KELLY SHIRES BREAST CANCER SNOW RUN events. It is a fun-filled evening with a casual buffet dinner, team building games, fun activities and the famous decorated bra contest (Congratulations to Trina Chruszcz who won this yearʼs contest). Saturday morning riders are treated to a full buffet breakfast before heading out to the staging area. While we are all enjoying breakfast the grounds crew is ensuring everything is perfect for opening ceremonies and this is also when the panel is out secretly judging the decorated sled contest sponsored by Woodyʼs Traction Control (Congratulations to this year ʼs winner – Jill Summers). Opening ceremonies is always a bitter sweet time where riders are welcomed, a moment of silence is observed in honour of those who have lost their battle with the disease, then everyone dances like nobodyʼs watching to the event theme song “Man, I feel like a woman” by Shania Twain (the theme song was chosen by Kelly Shires). Once everyone is warmed up, the teams are ready to hit the trails. (This event has a team for every level of rider and riders choose their team based on their riding ability and/or comfort level). Teams were cheered on as they left the staging area and headed out on the Muskoka trails, which were superbly groomed by the local snowmobile clubs. Teams then met up at this yearʼs lunch destination in Kearney and were treated to a delicious lunch catered by the Kearneyʼs Seniors Group. The teams then headed back out

on the trails and headed back to Hidden Valley Resort. Upon arrival the ladies are greeted with coffee, hot chocolate and treats donated by RadioWorld and HV Resort. While the riders are relaxing and getting ready for the eveningʼs festivities, the volunteers are busy inside setting up the silent auction and banquet for the evening. The banquet commenced with grace given by Kellyʼs father, Bob Childerhose, hosted by this year ʼs emcee, Kim Maguire and graciously sponsored by Royal Distributing. A special guest speaker, Gillienne Smith, breast cancer survivor and recipient of funds from the Charity, shared her journey with the group. The evening was filled with fun, silent & live auctions, awards and raffles. Congratulations to the following award winners:

Betty Black Memorial Award (highest pledges) Trina Chruszcz Kelly Shires Memorial Award (creative fundraising) Terra Carlisle Kim “Sparks” Fish Memorial Award (love of life) Chrissy Farrell The grand finale of the banquet is the announcing of the winners of our annual raffle who were:

1st prize - 2011 Ski Doo (donated by BRP and Factory Recreation, Midland) Debra Nicholls, Sundridge 2nd prize - $500 Gift Certificate for Royal Distributing (donated by Royal Distributing, Guelph) Ray Hacquard, Wasaga Beach 3rd prize – Stay for 2 at Holiday Inn, Oakville (donated by Hidden Valley Resort) Gregor Gillam, Toronto After dinner, the group really embraced Kellyʼs favourite saying and danced like nobody was watching into the early hours. Sunday morning everyone was treated to breakfast before heading home full with wonderful memories. Over and over we keep hearing this year was the “best Snow Run ever” so we want to make sure that future events have just as much enthusiasm and keep the momentum going. Our Ontario Event committee are working hard to “take it up a notch” next February and look forward to seeing every one of your smiling faces! Special appreciation to the Ontario Event Committee, who works so hard throughout the year– Sarah Adams, Brian Fish, Barb Mair, Blair Munn, Dara Haggarty, Helen Stenoff, Suzy Stenoff, Jeff Wice, Joan Wice and Deanna Mair, along with every single volunteer who made this event intimate and colossal at the same time, in Kellyʼs Honour.

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KELLY SHIRES BREAST CANCER SNOW RUN

Particular gratitude all of our sponsors with special mention to our platinum levels sponsors, BRP INC., Choko Designs, Factory Recreation – Midland, FXR Racing, Royal Distributing and The Toronto International Snowmobile, ATV & Powersport Show. Your unwavering support gives us the strength to make an impact together – thank you. Sincere appreciation is extended to everyone who participated in this event, whether you were a first time participant, volunteer or Sponsor, without you, none of this would be possible! Thank you for keeping Kellyʼs legacy and dream alive. We look forward to seeing you February 4-6, 2012 for the 13th Annual event! Be sure to come and visit us at the upcoming Toronto Snowmobile, ATV & Powersport Show, October 14, 15 & 16th at the International Centre. Calling all ATVʼs - We are excited to announce that the charity will be hosting its 2nd annual ATV ride in conjunction with the Can AM Spring Jam ATV event in Parry Sound April 29 & 30. Participants will be offered a chance to ride for the cause, with proceeds to the Kelly Shires Breast Cancer Foundation. For details please visit r www.trax4bc.com The Kelly Shires Foundation provides financially assistance to breast cancer patients across Canada with items that are not covered by OHIP or private medical plans. To learn more about the event or to make a donation, please visit www.breastcancersnowrun.org. For more information on the charity, visit www.kellyshiresfoundtaion.org. Together we DO make a difference!

Kelly Shires Breast Cancer Snow Run

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President’s Report We started off the season with some very poor weather, especially in our Southern / Western areas, zones 8, 4 and 7. We received record amounts of rain in November and again in December. This caused havoc for many of our volunteers with washouts totalling over 1 million dollars in damage. We had trail closures due to the extent of the damage, clubs were busy looking for re-routes and trying to fix what they could. With the cold weather and snow that followed into January things began to look up and trails started to get open. This season most of the storms have been coming up the Bay of Fundy and swirling back around in the Northumberland Strait, dumping huge amounts of snow in our Southern snow belt from St John to Moncton and then North to Bathurst. Other areas in the Province have had less than normal snowfall amounts, mainly in our North Western areas. Trail permit sales are on par with last year and moving in a positive direction despite our lack of snow before Christmas. The NBFSC had its 8th Irving Oil Presidents Ride on the 21st / 22nd of January, this year held in

Zone 6. The ride left Moncton on Saturday morning with 52 people, stops along the way were the Sugar Camp, Rexton Curling club, the Gun club and back to the Hampton Inn & Suites Moncton for a great supper. Twenty Six of the 50 clubs were represented along with guests and past president’s, a good time was had by all. We were lucky to have 2 teams of the ORVE Unit to escort us though some of the busy crossings and attend the ride. A special thanks to Zone 6; their director Alphee Leblanc and to the clubs, Moncton / St. Antoine, Safari 2000, Bouctouche and Rexton for all their extra work in making this ride excellent. The 1st of February was our ‘Go Snowmobiling’ Ride. This year it was held in Woodstock and for the second year in a row we had the Premier of New Brunswick in attendance. Guests included the Hon. David Alward, our Minister of Tourism and Parks Hon. Trevor Holder, MLA York Carl Urquhart, Rick Lingley BRP, Pat Hicks Yamaha, Chris Thebeau Arctic Cat, Dale Hickox President PEISA along with 3 of his directors. A big thank you to John McLellan, Past President of NBFSC and Scott Ralston, President of the Woodstock Trailmakers Snowmobile Club all their volunteers who put this ride together, an excellent showing of their trails and dedication. A good time was had by all with many stops along the trail for photo opportunities and site seeing - overall we spent 4 hours and put on 100km. Go Snowmobiling rides are also held in the month of February in Nova Scotia and in Prince Edward Island. Jody Tower President , NBFSC

www.nbfsc.com

Snowmobiling is New Brunswick’s Winter Tourism… 72

Rapport du Président

Nous avons entamé la saison avec de très mauvaises températures, surtout dans les régions sud et ouest, soit les zones 8, 4 et 7. Nous avons reçu des montants records de pluie en novembre et une fois de plus en décembre. Ceci a causé du chaos pour plusieurs de nos bénévoles avec des délavements représentant plus d’un million de dollars en dommage. Nous avons eu des fermetures de sentiers à cause de l’étendue des dommages ; les clubs furent occupés à trouver de nouveaux trajets et à essayer de réparer ce qu’ils pouvaient. Avec les températures froides et la neige qui ont suivi en janvier, les choses ont commencé à s’améliorer et les sentiers ont commencé à ouvrir. Cette saison, la plupart des tempêtes ont remonté la baie de Fundy et à s’enrouler autour du Détroit de Northumberland, déposant de gros montants de neige dans notre ceinture de neige du Sud, de St. John à Moncton, et ensuite en direction nord vers Bathurst. D’autres régions de la province ont reçu des montants de neige en dessous de la normale, surtout dans les régions NordOuest. Les ventes de permis de sentier sont au même niveau que l’an passé et vont dans une direction positive, en dépit de notre manque de neige avant Noël. La NBFSC a organisé sa 8e Randonnée annuelle Irving Oil des Présidents, les 21 et 22 janvier, qui avait lieu cette année dans la Zone 6. La Randonnée a quitté Moncton le samedi matin avec 52 personnes, des arrêts le long du chemin incluaient une cabane à sucre, le club de curling de Rexton, un club de tir et le retour aux Hampton Inn & Suites

à Moncton pour un merveilleux souper. Vingt-six des 50 clubs étaient représentés, ainsi que des invités et des anciens présidents ; ce fut un bon temps pour tout le monde. Nous avions la chance d’avoir 2 équipes de l’Unité policière de la LVHR pour nous escorter et aider à traverser certains chemins achalandés. Un remerciement spécial à la Zone 6 ; leur directeur Alphée Leblanc, ainsi que les clubs Moncton / St-Antoine, Safari 2000, Bouctouche et Rexton pour leur travail acharné afin d’assurer le succès de cette excellente randonnée. Le 1er février, c’était notre randonnée « À vos motoneiges ». Elle avait lieu cette année à Woodstock et, pour la deuxième année consécutive, le Premier ministre du NouveauBrunswick y participait. Parmi les invités, l’Hon. David Alward ; notre ministre de Tourisme & Parcs, l’Hon. Trevor Holder ; le MAL pour York, Carl Urquhart ; Rick Lingley, BRP ; Pat Hicks, Yamaha ; Chris Thebeau, Arctic Cat ; Dale Hickox, Président PEISA, ainsi que 3 de ces directeurs. Un gros merci à John McLellan, ancien président de la FCMNB, ainsi qu’à Scott Ralston, président du Woodstock Trailmakers Snowmobile Club et tous leurs bénévoles qui ont organisé cette randonnée, pour leur dévouement et leurs sentiers excellents. Ce fut un bon temps pour tous, avec plusieurs arrêts le long du sentier pour prendre des photos et admirer les panoramas – dans l’ensemble, nous avons passé 4 heures et avalé 100 km. Des randonnées « À vos motoneiges » sont également organisées en février en Nouvelle-Écosse et à l’Île-du-Prince-Édouard.

Jody Tower Président , FCMNB

www.nbfsc.com La motoneige est le Tourisme d’hiver du Nouveau-Brunswick 73

Rider Responsibility NEW - For the 2011 Snowmobile - Winter Tourism season there have been changes to provincial legislation enacted regarding the operation and riding of your snowmobile. The NBFSC, the province’s snowmobile Trail Manager has developed a new program entitled “Rider Responsibility”. The new program improves the security, viability and long term sustainability of New Brunswick’s winter tourism – snowmobiling. In this communication we felt we would expand upon some of the existing “responsible riding practices” that support the new Rider Responsibility program. In fact, if all riders acknowledged, adhered to and obeyed the rules or concepts of the following programs, everyone would arrive home safely and snowmobiling would set the precedent for individual responsibility. RESPONSIBLE RIDING PRACTICES: All riders, operators and passengers should become aware of, acknowledge and practice the NBFSC’s adopted International snowmobile safety program, “Safe Riders, You make Snowmobiling Safe”. See www.NBFSC.com or www.snowmobile.org. Organized snowmobiling promotes the following Safe Rider’s pledges; 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12.

Snowmobiling and Alcohol Don’t Mix. Cross with Care (highways). One is the Loneliest Number. Ride Smart, Ride Right. Smart Riders are Safe Riders. Know before you Go (water/ice). Snowmobiling has Changed, Have You? Snowmobiling is a Fun Family Sport. Ride Safe, Stay on the Trail. When Night Riding, Slow Down. Know the Risks and be Prepared. Promote your Right to Ride.

The NBFSC has won a National Award for their utilization of the International Safe Riders, You make Snowmobiling Safe campaign. All riders, operators and passengers should become aware of, acknowledge and practice the NBFSC’s adopted International snowmobile alcohol program, “Zero Alcohol, The Smart Choice”. See www.NBFSC.com or www.snowiasa.org 1. The NBFSC supports and promotes a standard of Zero Tolerance for Alcohol and Drug consumption while operating a snowmobile. 2. If the operator of a snowmobile is convicted under the Criminal Code (Canada) they can lose their privilege to operate other motor vehicles and carry a personal criminal record. The NBFSC was instrumental and a leader in developing the newest International Zero Alcohol campaign. All riders, operators and passengers should become aware of, acknowledge and practice the NBFSC’s adopted Canadian environmental program, “Snowmobilers care about our Environment, Keeping Nature Beautiful”. See www.NBFSC.com or www.ccsoccmo.ca Organized snowmobiling promotes the following National Environmental pledges; 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

Leave Tracks, Not Trash. Maintain your Sled. Protect Wildlife. Leave it Stock. Stay on the Trail. Respect Sensitive Areas. Embrace New Technologies. Spread the Word

All riders, operators and passengers should become aware of, acknowledge and practice the NBFSC’s adopted International riding program, “Go Snowmobiling, Take a Friend”. See www.NBFSC.com or www.GoSnowmobiling.org Rider Responsibility Is simply the recognition that snowmobile riders and operators have the best opportunity and primary responsibility to control the outcome of their activities through responsible riding practices.

www.nbfsc.com

Snowmobiling is New Brunswick’s Winter Tourism…

Conducteur Responsable

La FCMNB s’est mérité un Prix national pour son usage de la campagne internationale Motoneigistes Prudents ! Vous rendez la motoneige sécuritaire.

DU NOUVEAU – Pour la saison 2011 de la motoneige – le Tourisme d’hiver de la province, il y a eu des changements à la loi provinciale qui furent proclamés concernant l’opération et la conduite de votre motoneige.

Tous les motoneigistes, opérateurs et passagers devraient être conscients, reconnaître et mettre en pratique le programme international concernant l’alcool et la motoneige adopté par la FCMNB : « Alcool Zéro, le choix intelligent ». Visitez www.FCMNB.com ou www.snowiasa.org

La FCMNB, la Gestionnaire des sentiers de motoneige de la province, a mis au point un nouveau programme intitulé « Responsabilité au conducteur ». Le nouveau programme améliore la sécurité, la viabilité et la durabilité à long terme du tourisme d’hiver du Nouveau-Brunswick – la motoneige. Dans la présente communication, nous voulions élargir sur certaines des « pratiques de conduite responsables » existantes qui appuient le nouveau programme de Responsabilité au conducteur. De fait, si tous les motoneigistes acceptaient, respectaient et obéissaient les règlements ou les concepts des programmes suivants, tout le monde arriverait chez-eux en sécurité et la motoneige établirait le précédent pour la responsabilité individuelle. PRATIQUES DE CONDUITE RESPONSABLES : Tous les motoneigistes, opérateurs et passagers devraient être conscients, reconnaître et mettre en pratique le programme international de sécurité en motoneige adopté par la FCMNB : « Motoneigistes prudents ! Vous rendez la motoneige sécuritaire ». Visitez www.FCMNB.com ou www.snowmobile.org. La motoneige organisée promouvoit les promesses suivantes reliées aux Motoneigistes Prudents ! : 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12.

La motoneige et l’alcool ne se mélangent pas. Traversez prudemment (les chemins). Un… c’est le chiffre le plus solitaire. Conduire intelligemment, Conduire bien. Les motoneigistes intelligents sont sécuritaires. S’informer avant de s’aventurer (eau/glace). La motoneige a changé… Avez-vous changé ? La motoneige est un sport amusant pour la toute la famille. Conduisez prudemment et demeurez sur le sentier. Ralentissez quand vous conduisez la nuit. Informez-vous des risques et soyez prêts. Défendez votre droit de faire de la motoneige.

1. La FCMNB supporte et encourage une norme de Tolérance Zéro en matière de consommation d’alcool et de drogues pendant la conduite de la motoneige. 2. Si le conducteur d’une motoneige est condamné sous l’égide du Code criminel (Canada), il peut perde son privilège de conduire d’autres véhicules à moteur et avoir un casier judiciaire. La FCMNB a joué un rôle prépondérant et fut un leader dans le développement d’une nouvelle campagne internationale sur Alcool Zéro. Tous les motoneigistes, opérateurs et passagers devraient être conscients, reconnaître et mettre en pratique le programme environnemental canadien adopté par la FCMNB : « Les motoneigistes ont a coeur l’environnement, Préservez la nature ». Visitez www.FCMNB.com ou www.ccso-ccmo.ca La motoneige organisée promouvoit les promesses environnementales nationales suivantes : 1. Laissez des traces, mais pas d’ordures. 2. Faites l’entretien de votre motoneige. 3. Protégez la faune. 4. Laissez le sentier en bon état. 5. Demeurez sur le sentier. 6. Respectez les zones sensibles. 7. Adoptez les nouvelles technologies. 8. Répandez la bonne nouvelle. Tous les motoneigistes, opérateurs et passagers devraient être conscients, reconnaître et mettre en pratique le programme international de promotion de la motoneige adopté par la FCMNB : « La motoneige… Embarquons un ami ! » Visitez www.FCMNB.com ou www.GoSnowmobiling.org Responsabilité au conducteur est tout simplement la reconnaissance que les conducteurs et les opérateurs de motoneige ont la meilleure occasion et la responsabilité principale de contrôler le résultat de leurs activités par l’entremise de pratiques de conduite responsables.

La motoneige est le Tourisme d’hiver du Nouveau-Brunswick 75

Edmundston Pres du Lac â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Grand Falls

DINING & ACCOMMODATIONS

To advertise your business in this section call: 1-888-661-7469 ONTARIO

ONTARIO

Bancroft Best Western Sword Motor Inn

ã MAP PG. 33

(613) 332-2474 • Resv. 1-866-BANCROFT • Fax (613) 332-5110 www.bestwestern.com/ca/swordmotorinn 66027@hotel.bestwestern.com DIRECT ACCESS FROM MAIN TRAIL—on rail line trail look for the bridge over the York River right beside the Sword. Only accommodation in Bancroft with 46 rooms & suites, Licensed Family Restaurant, Large Indoor Pool, Gym & Fireplace Suites “13 room” Club building. Free High Speed Internet in all rooms. Trailer parking and plug-ins. Special group, and long stay rates. We cater meals to groups. Only 3 min walk to stores BEST VALUE IN TOWN.

Nearby

} MAP PG. 33

30 Nicklaus Drive Bancroft, Ontario K0L 1C0

146 Hastings Street, Bancroft, Ont. K0L 1C0

1243

ONTARIO

Bancroft River’s Edge

5678

Tel: (613) 332-4653 E-mail: teeoff@golfriversedge.ca • www.golfriversedge.ca Located in beautiful Bancroft Ontario, River’s Edge Golf Club and Community is within convenient reach of Haliburton, Apsley, Peterborough and Belleville. Carved from 500 acres of wooded terrain with stunning scenery of the Canadian Shield and the Eagle’s Nest Lookout, River’s Edge Golf Club and Community also lies along the York River, a lovely historic river which runs from Algonquin Park to the nature reserve Egan Shutes. All season you will find a variety of activities and events in which you can participate. And of course, there’s the Clubhouse, able to accommodate up to 145 guests, and complete with patio, snack bar, banquet facilities, and bar. Visit us - East on the 401 to Hwy 115. North on Hwy 115 to Hwy 7 East (to Ottawa). Go east on Hwy 7 to Hwy 28 by-pass (formerly 134), head north. Travel north on Hwy 28. Veer north on Hwy 28 at driving range. Go north on Hwy 28 through Apsley to Bancroft.

Gowganda <SEE MAP ATLAS PG. 13 Auld Reekie Lodge 6 Auld Reekie Camp Road, P.O. Box 58 Gowganda, ON P0J 1J0 Hosts: Urs and Diane Brunner Reservation: 1-800-511-1191 info@auldreekielodge.com www.auldreekielodge.com Centrally located between Shinning Tree and Elk Lake right on the A107C Trail in Northeastern Ontario, we offer the finest in accommodations, meals and service. Warm up by the fire in our Licensed Dinning Room, Bar & Grill or heat up in our Wood Burning Sauna or Hot Tub that sits under the stars and milky-way.

23456

ONTARIO

Gowganda r SEE MAP ATLAS PG. 13 Quick’s Gowganda Lake Lodge

Harcourt SEE MAP ATLAS PG. 33 MartinWood Resort & Golf Course

Matheson SEE MAP ATLAS PG. 14 Perry Lake North Country Lodge

Hwy 560, General Delivery, Gowganda, ON P0J 1J0 info@gowgandalakecamp.ca (705)624-3446 www.gowgandalakecamp.com Fax(705)624-2166

P.O.Box139, 4727ElephantLakeRoad Harcourt,ON Canada K0L 1X0 Tel:705.448.1920 • TollFree:1.877.552.0970 Fax:705.448.1933 info@martinwoodresort.com • martinwoodresort.com

RR #3, Matheson, Ontario P0K 1N0 Highway 101 between Matheson and the Quebec Border, 1 hour east of Timmins, Ontario Phone: 705-236-4455 • Fax 705-236-4141 www.perrylakelodge.com • info@perrylakelodge.com

Our 4 season resort has groomed trails to our door. Located in the center of A107C and the south end of L136 (north shore of Gowganda Lake) or drive directly to us on Hwy 560. We have 5 deluxe cabins, 4 which will hold up to 6 people, and 1 cabin that will hold up to 10 people. All units are fully furnished with 4 pc baths, full kitchens and satellite TV. General store, LCBO, beer store, and fuel are all on site. Meal plans are available with reservation. Accomodation as low as $30 pp/pd.

23451

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MartinWood Resort is open all year round offering a full range of summer and winter activities. Visit our licensed sports bar, snowmobile on groomed trails, fish, take a swim, explore the lake on one of our canoes or boats, hike, ski, ATV—or simply kick back and enjoy nature at its very best. Suitable for business conferences, special events or family vacations, this pet-friendly resort is located on beautiful Benoir Lake in Haliburton County (west of Bancroft), and comprises over 800 acres of trails and wilderness for your enjoyment. MartinWood Resort & Golf Course is located between Haliburton and Bancroft—just south of Algonquin Park—in Ontario. The nearest town is Harcourt. A newly renovated (2009), heated swimming pool is also available for our guests.

• Located on scenic L-91 off the Top A trail at Ramore • Endless bush trails at our door. • Lounge area with stone fireplace and a scenic view of Perry Lake. • Satellite TV, LLBO, and gas available at the main lodge. • Gourmet meals to burgers in our dining room. • First rate accomodations: lodge rooms or fully equipped cottages. • Trailer parking for guests

ONTARIO

NEW BRUNSWICK

Parry Sound/Mactier WMAP PG. 30 H & H Restaurant & Resort

Wawa . SEE MAP ATLAS PG. 11 Wawa Motor Inn

Bathhurst Atlantic Host Hotel

P.O. Box 179, Mactier, Ont. P0C 1H0 Tel & Fax: 705-375-5323 www.hhresort.ca • www.handhresort.com hhresort@rogers.com Located on Kapikog Lake, west of Hwy #69 off Healy Lake Road. With directed access to C trail and only 15 min from Georgian Bay. H&H has been a favourite spot for snowmobilers for over 20 years, known for its great food and friendly atmosphere. 2 bedroom cottages with fireplace and satellite TV, Motel units some with kitchenettes overlooking the lake. Open 6 days a week, closed on Tuesdays.

2345

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678

NEWFOUNDLAND

Deer Lake The Driftwood Inn

118 Mission Road, Wawa, Ontario P0S1K0 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 and Lounge; home of the largest fireplace in the North. Easily accessible to snow trails and ample parking.

Nearby

538

P.O. Box 910, 1450 Vanier Blvd., Bathurst, NB E2A 4H7 (506) 548-3335 • 1-800-898-9292 Fax (506) 548-9769 thehost@nbnet.nb.cawww.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 nearby. Comfy, clean rooms, excellent restaurants, pub-style lounge, heated indoor pool, sauna, whirlpool, even a racquetball court. And did we mention we’re the only hotel in New Brunswick located directly on NBFSC trails?

24368

www.atvworldmag.com

3 Nicholsville Rd, Deer Lake, NL A8A 2E8 www.driftwoodinn.ca Res. 1-888-635-5115 Phone-709-635-5115 Fax- 709-635-5995 Located in the Snowmobiling Hub of Newfoundland and Labrador, the Driftwood Inn offers 24 rooms, an Executive Suite, restaurant and bar/lounge. We're right on the snowmobile trail, in downtown Deer Lake. Free wireless internet, snowmobile gear storage unit and laundry on site. We'll set you up with a guide. Snowmobilers Discounts.

234

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Nearby

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2 Lodging 5 Gas 3 LLBO 6 Rentals 1 ATV Friendly 7 Sales 4 Food 8 Repairs

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SALES AND SERVICE

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BRADFORD

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ONTARIO

DRAYTON

t#84 •MAP PG 48

61 Guelph St GEORGETOWN, ON (905) 877-0314 Email: mark@outdoorpower.ca www.outdoorpower.ca

19890 Hwy 11, Bradford, ON L3Z 2B6 (905) 775-1717 • Fax (905) 775-0518 MARKHAM

• MAP PG 41

GEORGETOWN

For 24 years Outdoor Power Equipment has provided sales and service of quality outdoor BRP recreational and assorted lawn & garden power equipment to the West Greater Toronto Area (GTA) from its location in beautiful Georgetown, Ontario, Canada.

Come be satisfied by the rising starts of POLARIS. York Region's newest, biggest dealer.

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PETERBOROUGH O OUG

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4 RETAIL LOCATIONS! SNOWMOBILE

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+ • MAP PG 41

Marine Cradle Shop

Over 25 years of building quality trailers and custom steel fabrication, backed up by our manufacturer’s guarantee to provide worry free ownership.

We have a large inventory of all types of trailers including snowmobile, ATV, utility, motorcycle, horse, livestock, equipment and dump trailers. Always a large selection of open and enclosed trailers in stock as well as a large selection of parts and accessories. We also provide a full in house service department for repairs and maintenance.

52 Ellisview Rd. Sutton West, ON L3P 3P2

Highway 89, Shelburne, Ontario L0N 1S6

(905) 294-3507 sales@cradleridetrailers.com

705-295-4283

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519-925-2089 1-866-925-2089 www.scottreinharttrailers.com

All the new Polaris sleds are here! We put our customer's needs first. Located right on Main Street.

5531 Main St., Stouffville, Ont. L4A 7X5

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•Fully Amphibious •All Season •All Terrain •Up to 6 Passengers

Call for a FREE TEST RIDE! 1-877-274-6288 • ARGOutv.com Vehicles shown with optional accessories. 78

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2 Lodging 5 Gas 3 LLBO 6 Rentals 1 ATV Friendly 7 Sales 4 Food 8 Repairs

SALES AND SERVICE

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TORONTO

UXBRIDGE

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WHITBY

• MAP PG 41

MANITOBA

www.mt-llc.com

We have cylinders waiting so you don’t. Thousands of stock cylinders are on the shelf for exchange. Conveniently located in Metropolitan Toronto on Kennedy Rd. between Lawrence Ave E. and HWY 401, Drop in and check out our showroom for New and Pre-Owned Snowmobiles, ATV’s, Personal Watercraft and Motorcycles. We offer fair competitive pricing.

1255 KENNEDY ROAD TORONTO, ON M1P 2L4 TEL: 416-752-1560 TOLL FREE: 1-877-SNOWCITY (766-9248) WWW.SNOWCITY.COM UXBRIDGE MINNESOTA, USA GREENBUSH

Durham Re Durham Regio Region's gion's n's #1 Sk Ski-D Ski-Doo/Sea-Doo, i oo/ oo Sea Sea-Do -Dooo Sportboat, Can Am dealer. Full line of Ski-Doo sleds, parts, clothing and accessories.Trail starts at our door. 3 Douglas Road, Uxbridge, ON L9P 1M7 (905) 852-5884 • 1-800-668-SLED uxbridgemotorsports.com ONTARIO

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M • MAP PG 40

1007 Cowan Park Road Utterson, ON P0B1M0 Phone: (705) 769-3671 info@northlandrecreation.com www.northlandrecreation.com

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FLOAT BOWL PAT BOURGEOIS

LOST OUR TURN

The art of the turn… the world of ice oval racing has it in spades.

From the dawning of the FAST M-10 suspension in 1990, and the introduction of the long legged Polaris XLT XTRA-12 in 1995, the snowmobile industry and its enthusiasts have been on a phenomenal ride, best described as the suspension revolution. Much like off-road motorcycles experienced in the mid to late 1970ʼs, snowmobiles transformed the way we viewed and rode terrain. With the M-10 pegged as the suspension that started the revolution, we quickly saw suspension travel numbers grow. Sophisticated internal floating piston, gas charged shocks emerge, and other cuttingedge designs developed; from the saddle and auto-sensing ride controls appear, and eventually the term long-travel suspension becomes the norm. Beyond suspensions, the snowmobile chassis itself changed, especially in the past 10-years, all in an effort to subdue the bumps. The REV unquestionably is the best example of this; moving the rider forward and higher on the vehicle, forcing the driver to become more actively involved in the absorption of the bump. Today, virtually all snowmobiles incorporate some type of rider forward or more accurately, rider upright configuration in comparison to older sleds. Even the marketing tactics from the manufacturers became more and more focused on conquering the bumps. From simple

From

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE

statements of a smoother ride, to bold brand promises of “Terrain Domination” or “Body Saving Ride Technology”, the messages all speak to the same improved capabilities todayʼs snowmobiles allow you to ride over bigger bumps faster, in more control, and for more miles than ever before. For more than 20-years, modern snowmobile engineers have worked tirelessly to smooth the ride. But in their efforts to subdue the bumps, something was lost; something that any racer in virtually any discipline will tell you is ultimately the paramount difference between winning and loosing … the ability to turn. This past winter was one for the record books, at least in my small corner of the global snowbelt. Snow came early and often, and a mid-winterʼs melt never came. I rode often; sometimes solo, other times with friends. And as the days clicked by, I rediscovered this loss on more than one occasion. I made notes about it during our inaugural OSM Throwdown, where we spent the better part of a week comparing the latest crop of 800 sleds. I fought fatigue due to its waning capabilities as we completed a 300-mile day in the wee-hours of the night, with 35 miles of twisted trail still standing between us and a warm bed. I even begged for it as I navigated the turns of a local snocross track during a friendly, grassroots, run-what-ya-brung, race series. Ask any racer, save those who only race in

a straight line, and theyʼll most likely tell you there are two key areas in winning a race. One is getting out front and the other is the ability to carry speed through a turn. In both NASCAR and Formula 1, arguably North Americaʼs two most prominent and popular racing disciplines; races are won and lost by a competitorʼs ability to negotiate a turn. Even in the world of AMA motocross and supercross, where the bumps and jumps are much larger than those experienced in our national snocross events, most passes are made coming into or out of a turn. Simply put, the art of the turn ultimately spells the difference between enjoying the trail or conquering it; following your buddy or beating him; and turning a good day of riding into a great one. Snowmobiles like the 2011 Yamaha Apex, with its electronic power steering, have somewhat unknowingly rekindled the interest in, and ultimately the search for, our long lost turning friend. The easy to steer Apex allowed us to dramatically dial up the bite of the big trail four-stroke this past winter, and along with the installation of a pair of over-the-top wear bars, the Apex became one of those sleds that never got left behind, no matter the ride. Elsewhere in this issue, youʼll read about our continued respect for the Ski-Doo XP chassis and its ability to hold a line better than most, as well as the new ProCross Arctic Cat chassis, and its light and appealing steering effort. While the all-new Cat sled may have more work to do in order to completely regain the art of the turn, we were encouraged by its early capabilities and what its future may hold. Polaris is also addressing the need to improve upon the turn, with a race derived front suspension and tweaks to the front arm of their radical Pro-Ride snowmobiles. Thereʼs no question that todayʼs sleds are incredibly adept at taming the worst terrain, especially in a straight line, at speeds nearly unheard of just 10 years ago. But throw in a series of turns, hairpins, and offcamber decreasing radius twists through the woods, and my money goes back to the low slung, ape hanger sleds of yesterday. Still, Iʼm not foolish. Iʼm not about to give up my modern snowmobile for the more adept corner carvers of yesterday. But like any enthusiast, I want my cake and eat it too. Weʼve lost our turn, and its time to get it back. ✪

Tom Delanoy, owner & founder of 509. Established in 2003, Spokane, Washington. 509 transgressed from a backcountry filmmaker to one of the most prominent goggle and helmet manufacturers in the snowmobile business today, designing a better product specifically for the sled industry.

Last snowmobile ride you took? My last ride was in May in Revelstoke, British Columbia. Great snow, great weather, but my sled blew up, so I finished the trip on a rental M8.

Last thing you had to eat? A protein shake mixed with race fuel.

Last band you listened to on your iPod? That would be Kid Rock.

Last great idea you had? It's a secret. Let's just say it involves snowmobiles, riding gear, and a huge dose of awesome-ness. Coming soon… stay tuned.

Last thing you sold? Set of Sinister goggles to a guy in Colorado.

Last thing you bought? Plane ticket to the Boise snowmobile show.

Last movie you watched?

LAST

GASP Tom Delanoy Owner and Founder of 509

Tropic Thunder.

Last broken bone? Broken pelvis and tailbone from a sled accident.

Last near death experience? See above. My sled tangled with a tree, busted me up, and I had to spend the night on the mountain and travel out the next morning.

Last time you went over 100mph? Last week... in a Boeing.

Last time you were scared? Never been scared in my life.

Last time you lied? See answer above.

Last person you hugged? Ummm... not sure?

Last time you threw up? Haha! That I don't remember.

Last time you were ejected from a sled? Frequently, probably the last time I rode last year.

Last time you were lost? On my way to work this morning.

Last magazine you read? OSM... for real.

Last beer you drank? Grain Belt... trucked over from Minnesota.

Last time you pulled an all-nighter? Itʼs been awhile.

Last time you were inspired? All day, every day.

Last celebrity you met? Mike Metzger.

Last foreign country you visited? Canada… eh?!

Last time you were arrested? Never! 82

✪

ON SNOW MAGAZINE

Last time you got schooled? Never been schooled son.

OCTOBER 14, 15, 16, 2011 • INTERNATIONAL CENTRE

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