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The Evolution Of The Modern ATV - Part 1 Official
Newsletter Inside
IN THIS ISSUE:
How to Work Your ATV AOAA Update Where to Ride in PA and NY DCNR News VOLUME 1, ISSUE 5 • FEBRUARY 2012
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POLARIS SUPPORTS
PENNSYLVANIA POWERSPORTS
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To see the most complete line of ATVs and Side x Sides, go to Polaris.com.
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SPORTSMAN TOURING 500 H.O.
Vehicles are shown with optional equipment. Warning: ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety: Avoid operating Polaris® ATVs or RANGERs on paved surfaces or public roads. Be particularly careful on difficult terrain. Never engage in stunt driving, and avoid excessive speeds and sharp turns. Polaris adult ATV models are for riders aged 16 and older. Drivers of RANGER® vehicles must be a least 16 years old with a valid driver’s license. All ATV riders should take a safety training course. For ATV safety and training information in the U.S., call the SVIA at (800) 887-2887, see your dealer, or call Polaris at (800) 342-3764. In Canada, see your local Polaris dealer about Polaris ATVs. Check your local laws before riding on trails. O11TRFPE ©2011 Polaris Industries Inc.
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It’s Not Just an ATV. It’s a way of life – your life. It’s your connection to the great outdoors. It’s your passion. Protecting it is ours.
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© 2010 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc (BRP). All rights reserved. ™, ® and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates. In the U.S.A., the products are distributed by BRP US Inc. ∞All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. †Visco-Lok is a trademark of GKN Viscodrive GmbH. BRP reserves the right, at any time, to discontinue or change specifications, prices, designs, features, models or equipment without incurring obligation. Some models depicted may include optional equipment. BRP highly recommends that all ATV drivers take a training course. For safety and training information, see your dealer or, in USA, call the ATV Safety Institute at 1-800-887-2887. In Canada, call the Canadian Safety Council at (613) 739-1535 ext. 227. ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety: always wear a helmet, eye protection, and other protective clothing. Always remember that riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix. Never ride on paved surfaces or public roads. Never carry passengers on any ATV not specifically designed by the manufacturer for such use. Never engage in stunt driving. Avoid excessive speeds and be particularly careful on difficult terrain. BRP urges you to “TREAD LIGHTLY” on public and private lands. Preserve your future riding opportunities by showing respect for the environment, local laws and the rights of others when you ride. Make sure that all laws, regulations, and BRP’s warnings/ recommendations for ATV passengers are respected. Ride responsibly. 5108028
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Letter from the Editor Hi everyone, and
welcome to our first issue of 2012. I’m sitting here thinking back to the launch of Rec Rider just four short issues ago. At the time, I knew in my heart that there was a need for such a publication. However, in the same token, my mind was questioning if we could really pull this off in our slow economy, if the riders would enjoy it, and if the rest of the industry would feel the same passion. Fast forward to today, and so far, so good. As a matter of fact, it’s even better than that. There have been so many great comments and ‘that a boys’ that it almost blows my mind. You -- the readers and riders of our region -- have really had our back. From day one, the support and contributions have come in. The advertisers have joined in, and we continue to grow. I was really a little concerned about the issue you are about to read. I didn’t know if we would have the content in the dead of winter, and I didn’t know if we would have any income. Well, both have happened, so here we go, our first full year in publication. I have to again thank each and every one of you for wanting to be involved, for helping to guide, making suggestions, and for participating and sharing your stories from the trail. As we dive into 2012, we see the economy improving, slowly but surely. We have an election coming that could be monumental, no matter which way it goes, but best of all, we have new opportunities to ride. We have a chance to get out there and make a difference to establish more places to ride and meet new friends. Get involved somehow or someway, join a club, join the PA OHV, send in a story or a picture, tell us where we can ride and how we can continue to ride. Our sport is great; it lets us spend time with family and friends while staying in shape and enjoying the great outdoors. Turn off the TV, leave your cell phone in the truck, and let’s go have some fun. Again, please solicit the advertisers in our pages because without them we wouldn’t have a pub. Even though we’re free, buy a subscription if you can -- $15 gets you a whole year of Rec Rider delivered to your front door by mail, and it goes a long way to keeping us afloat. Send in a story or tell us about your upcoming rides. Like us on Facebook, and watch our website for regular updates between issues. If you own or manage a business that could benefit from advertising, buy an ad. We reach thousands of like-minded individuals with each and every printing. Together we can make a difference and continue to enjoy the sport we love. Thanks again, and maybe we’ll see you out on the trail.
– Jim Bull
Rec Rider Contributors Jim Bull, Tommy Pickup, Brady Marzella, Billy Kaster, Jimmy “Sprocket” Kann, Al Sain, Chris Banks, Chas McHenry, Dick Lepley, Bob Diehl, Jamie at Coal Country, Dave Miller and Lloyd Wenger.
Disclaimer The riders and actions portrayed in Rec Rider Magazine are of skilled individuals with many years of experience. Please do not attempt to imitate any action or stunt that is beyond your experience or capabilities. When riding an ATV, UTV or Off Road Motorcycle, always wear proper safety equipment, including, but not limited to the following: a helmet, eye protection, boots and protective clothing. Never ride any off-road vehicle on public roads or highways, and never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Always follow age recommendations, and seek out safety training whenever possible. See your dealer or call the ATV Safety Institute at 1(800) 887 – 2887.
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In This Issue Of
Rec Rider Magazine The Evolution Of Modern ATVs.......6-7
ATV Logging: Got Wood? .................23
Things To Do In PA This Winter .......9
Rec Rider Product Review ..................24
ATV New York .................................. 11
Plows And ATVs ...............................25
Front 67 Program...It Works! ..........12 SVT Gears Up For Snow! ..................15 Third Annual Coal Region Classic ...16
Sportin’ With Sprocket ....................26 Wrench Report ................................28
Finding An ATV Club With Trails....18
BMER ...............................................29
Where to Ride.............................20-22
A.O.A.A. Update .............................29
Upcoming Events........................22-23
Photo Excerpts From 2011...............31
Our Advertisers Action Motorsports ....................32 Burning Rock Outdoor Adv. Park ...17 Canyon Motorsports.................. 29 Don’s Kawasaki ....................24, 25 Findley Motorsports.................... 9 Gap Racing.................................18 Hollingers Sports N Turf ...........19 Karns Performance................... 29 Keystone Trailers........................ 4 Kymco USA ................................14 Lancaster Honda....................... 24 Lewis County Trails Depart .......10 Majestic Kamp & Lost Trails ..... 24 Mt. Holly Powersports................. 9 Offroad Motorsports ..................18 Pine Grove Yamaha ...................15
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Polaris Industries ....................... 2 Rausch Creek Trail Riders ........ 22 Reading Boat Works Inc ............17 Rec Rider House Account ..........27 Rider Insurance .......................... 8 Riemenschneider Insurance....... 3 Scott Powersports ..................... 24 Smith Marine USA ...................... 4 Street Track And Trail ................ 7 Tall Pines ATV Park ...................18 TNT Cycles Suzuki Kymco......... 25 TPC Power Center.......................18 Yamaha Ktm Of Camp Hill .........17 Yamaha Motor Corp USA............31 Ye Olde Cycle Barn .....................19 RETAIL VALUE $4.95
P.O. Box 500, Mount Joy, PA 17552 PHONE: 1-800-482-2886 • (717) 464-5381 FAX: (717) 492-2570 www.recrider.com Advertising: jbull@recrider.com Distribution: dclark@engleonline.com Editorial: jbull@recrider.com Rec Rider and logo are the property of Rec Rider. No part of this publication or its logo, may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. Rec Rider and its advertisers are not responsible for unsolicited material. The act of mailing any material shall constitute an expressed warranty by the contributor that the material is original and in no way an infringement upon others. For material to be considered, contributors must include their name, address and phone number for verification of information. Material will only be returned by instruction and with a SASE. Statements, opinions and conclusions expressed in this newspaper may be exclusively those of the author and/or his or her sources and do not reflect those of Rec Rider. Ads will be published in the received order, which may at time necessitate a waiting period. Rec Rider assumes no liability if, for any reason, an ad is omitted or for errors. Ads may be subject to editing and whenever possible will be supplied to the advertiser for review and proofing. ©2012 Rec Rider
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The Evolution of Modern ATVs By: Chas McHenry
The Stretcher cart was designed for drag racing purposes. Over the next few issues I thought it would be fun and worthwhile to follow the evolution of the machines we use in our sport, to see how we went from pull start lawnmower engines on frames to independent rear suspension monsters that can tackle just about anything. To do that, the best place to start is at the beginning, and finding the true origins of the Personal Recreational Vehicle has been an interesting journey, to say the least. I, along with many other people, often assumed that the ATVs we ride today were strictly descendants of the Honda U.S. 90. Having been a young man when “Three Wheeler Fever” took the nation by storm and seeing these wonderful machines running all over the place, it was a pretty common assumption. With the ban of three-wheelers in 1987 and the manufacturers’ knowledge of the ban coming, it seemed that passing into fourwheeled ATVs was almost as natural as going from crawling to walking. However, it was just a growing pain in the process of making safer and faster machines. As the aforementioned young man, I just rolled with it the best I could. It seemed that girls, school, music, cars and jobs seemed to fill the void. I never much thought about how these things came to be a part of our lives or where they were conceived, or, for that matter, what kind of person would think to themselves, “I want to drive over the undriveable and do it looking cool, going fast and having fun.” My curiosity got the better of me when we bought the first quads for our daughters. I remember very clearly watching them ride their 90’s in the backyard and thinking to myself what a battle it would be introducing them in this day and age. This, of course, led me to start thinking about which came first, the machine or the “nut” to ride it. After much research, I’ve come to believe that the “nuts” came first. But that’s a subject that could be debated after a long trail ride and
some cold beverages. For now I am going to stick with the evolution of the machines and some of the people who made it possible for us to be where we are today. To state that the U.S. 90 was the origin of our machines would be unfair. There were machines used by militaries and private industry to crawl over all kinds of terrain long before Honda decided to build a machine that farmers could use to help around their farms to make life a little easier. I’ll get more into that later. I want to keep this aimed toward recreational ATVs, and therefore you would instantly assume that Honda had it pinned as the first on the market. You would be wrong. As I looked back in history and found some people even older than me (who knew?), who loved this sport before it was anything more than a whim, I learned there were many different types of vehicles available from dealers, catalogs, and magazine ads such as Popular Mechanics and Boys Life. Most of these were kits you could purchase and build from parts readily available at local hardware stores. The first ready-to-ride personal ATV you could buy and hit the trails with was the Sperry Rand TriCart. This was a Fiberglass bodied three wheeled buggy, powered by a 2 stroke Rockwell JLO 230, that literally rode like a cart but was ridden like a motorcycle. It took your whole body to correctly ride this machine. There were foot pegs or running boards on either side of the forks at the front tire to help make steering possible. The handlebars were yoke shaped, and as you pushed up on them it actuated the rear disc brake for stopping. To open the throttle on the
JLO you pulled a chrome two finger throttle handle on the right side of the bars. It was driven by a centrifugal clutch to a sprocket, then a chain final drive to the solid rear axle. The gas tank was molded into the body of the cart, and the tires were 16x14.5-6 rear, and 16x116 on the front, which were great for adding to the stability of this low center of gravity sliding machine. The creator of this machine and almost certainly the Granddaddy of the modern ATVs is John Plessinger. I had the great luck to speak with him at length this fall and listen to him burst with pride as we discussed the TriCart. The cart was his graduate project from school, and it wound up taking him well out of school into a contract with one of the largest agriculture machinery manufacturers there was at the time. John said his goal was “to make a machine that took your whole body to control, which was more stable than a dirt bike but able to go over any terrain.” John met with many companies trying to get the TriCart built. One day at Sperry Rand, a division of New Holland, he had the luck of meeting with all three levels of management. It took a presentation to the “top man” on the ladder, who finally saw the
The Sperry Rand Tricart was the original ATV built for mass production beginning in 1968.
e s n e , o g
t s o n e t l e s s y t
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potential and made it happen. New Holland set up a “Special Products Division” in 1968 in Lebanon, Ohio, and that’s where the TriCart was made. John started his career in fiberglass making grocery store display tables, where he learned the art of working with fiberglass. He created the body of the TriCart in one piece as a frame and body weighing less than 50 pounds. Add the seat pan, engine, tires and wheels, and you still had an all-terrain vehicle you could pick up and stick in the trunk of your brand new 1968 Chevy Chevelle. This compact little machine was capable of fast speeds of over 60 MPH and was built with its center of gravity so low that if you wanted to cut the wheel and slide the rear-end out around a turn at 60, it would do it without a hesitation. It was also capable of climbing hills, crossing streams, jumping and racing. Sperry Rand was sending John and his invention all over the country for rides and races against other TriCarts and 6x6 vehicles before Honda even had a 90 on the ground in the USA. When I asked him what it was like racing the 90’s, he said, “It was a lot of fun; they would just lap them and keep going!” Once John’s machine became available to the public, there were quite a few copies made from his idea. They were available in all kinds of places and were designed with all the 1970s metal flake and chrome people could get on them, complete with a set of fiberglass fenders to keep the mud off. John went on to make a
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few other machines in the TriCart vein, including the TriCub, which had a smaller footprint and engine for younger enthusiasts, and a six and four wheeled amphibious machine. He also made a TriCart stretcher -- a 500cc model stretched, which was a four-rear-wheel-driven lightening bolt for drag racing. The TriCart was able to traverse a 30 degree side slope, a 45 degree climb, had a four foot turning radius and used a gallon of gas about every three hours. It was also the only three wheeled ATV ever designed to hold a passenger. John’s agreement with Sperry Rand was a lease on his patents, so when they terminated the program they bought him out of their lease, and he used the money to start his own company, going on to build more machines and one of the first Stealth Missiles for McDonnell Douglas, among many other things. He retired from his business in 2005 and retired from racing Formula 200 cars last year. When I asked what he thought about the present day quads, he replied, “I’ve never ridden one, but seeing what they do out there on the track makes me think those guys are nuts!” John’s story is a great one, and there is much more information on him and his machine available on the internet. There are still a few of us who love these little machines, and we are always looking to help someone get theirs running or rescue one from the back side of a barn. So, if you know
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of anyone who has one, feel free to contact me through this magazine, and we will help you get it all back together or find it a new home. Our sport is growing in popularity by leaps and bounds, and keeping the history of it available is an important part of it all. Stay tuned in the next issue of Rec Rider for part two of the history of our machines, and we’ll look further into the Big Four manufacturers, the ban of three-wheelers and the development of the machines we enjoy today.
Honda was the first Japanese manufacturer to jump in the game with the 1972 US 90.
o , f . o e o y w e
814-382-4821 877-STNT-YES 13723 Conneaut Lake Rd., Conneaut Lake, PA 16316
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Things To Do In PA This Winter Winter Playground Awaits Visitors to PA State Parks, Forests Harrisburg – Pennsylvania’s forest and park system offers a wide range of ways for visitors to enjoy spending time outdoors during the winter, according to the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. “Our state parks roll out the ‘welcome mat’ to winter visitors entering a new world of outdoor excitement and adventure,” said DCNR Secretary Richard Allan. “We invite families to find a steep hill at a nearby state park and take the sleds for a spin, or stroll on a trail and enjoy the beauty and peace winter landscape offers. “Our snowmobile and ATV trails are now open, and hunters and anglers will be seeking out our state forests and parks for late-season hunting and ice fishing.” To view scheduled activities around the state, visit www. getoutdoorspa.state.pa.us. “The Nature Inn at Bald Eagle now is an established, popular component of our park system, offering a great launching point for winter activities like cross-country skiing at Bald Eagle State Park or for other outdoor adventures in the Pennsylvania Wilds,” Allan said. The Nature Inn (http://natureinnat baldeagle.com/) offers modern overnight accommodations and breakfast. Guests can relax in front of a large stone fireplace in the great room to warm up after outdoor activities. This season, snowmobile riders in state forests and parks have access to 2,894 miles of marked joint-use state forest roads, closed roads, and trails in 18 of the state’s 20 state forest districts and 32 state parks. Winter ATV trails stretching more than 170 miles in seven state forest districts opened Dec. 11. Snowmobile enthusiasts are reminded Bureau of Forestry snowmobile maps have been updated to reflect considerable changes linked to gas operations and recent storm damage. Maps can be found at http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/forestry/ recreation/snowmobile/smplacestoride/snowmobiletrailmaps/ index.htm. Starting Dec. 13, DCNR will provide condition updates on its toll-free, snowmobile hot line, 1-877-SNOMBLE (1-877-7666253). Recorded messages, providing reports on snow depths and trail conditions across the state, are updated at about noon each Tuesday and Thursday. DCNR also provides weather and condition reports online for state parks and forests.
Snowmobile enthusiasts will find maps, conditions, and other detailed information at http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/forestry/ recreation/snowmobile/index.htm. Updated ice conditions— important to skaters and winter anglers—and snow depths also are available. All snowmobiles and ATVs in Pennsylvania must be registered with DCNR’s snowmobile/ATV Unit. For more information on registration, call toll free (866) 545-2476 or visit DCNR’s website. When winter weather cooperates, state parks and forests also are the scene of coordinated winter festivals with games, dog-sled races, sleigh rides and fun competitions for families. For cross-country skiers, more than 330 miles of marked cross-country ski trails are offered on Pennsylvania’s more than 2.3 million acres of state forestland. Also available are nearly 400 miles of groomed and un-groomed cross-country ski trails in 73 state parks. Downhill skiing is offered at Blue Knob State Park, Bedford County; Denton Hill State Park, Potter County; and Camelback (Big Pocono State Park), Monroe County. Skiing again is not being offered this season at Laurel Mountain, Westmoreland County. Most state parks with bodies of water are open, weather permitting, for ice-skating, ice fishing and ice boating. Sledding and tobogganing also are available at many parks. Archers, muzzle-loaders and other late-season hunters are reminded that more than 400 miles of normally gated state forest roads were opened for the late fall and early winter seasons to provide easy access to often remote areas. As much as 3,040 miles had been open to hunters, but openings and closings are at the discretion of local forestry officials and are weather-dependent. Hunters are urged to check with forest district offices about specific roads. Several state parks have winter cabin rentals available. Cabin reservations can be made online at www.visitPAparks. com or by calling the toll-free information and reservation line, 1-888-PA-PARKS (1-888-727-2757). It operates Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. For details on ice and snow conditions, or winter festivals at state parks and forests, visitors also may call the nearest state park or state forest district office. For general information, visit www.dcnr.state.pa.us or call 717-783-7941 (Bureau of Forestry) or 717-772-0239 (Bureau of State Parks).
Findley Motorsports ATV / Motorcycle service • parts • sales (new and used)
1690 kirkwood pike Eric L Findley Kirkwood, PA 17536 Technician 717.529.0201 findleymotorsports10@yahoo.com ebay store: FINDLEYMOTORSPORTS S727689
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Y T N U O C S I W E L E H T E D I COME R
M E T S Y S L I A R T V AT G AVAILABLE! S
ILES OF RIDIN HUNDREDS OF M
ILS, PLAY AREAS
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UPCOMING EVENTS: 9TH ANNUAL SNIRT RUN
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TRAIL DEVELOPMENT RIDE
SPONSORED BY THE TUG HILL ADIRONDACK ATV ASSOCIATION
SATURDAY, MAY 5TH, 2012• FIRST PRIZE $1000
If you have never been riding in New York, this is the perfect opportunity to visit us, go on an organized ride, hit all our hotspots, and go home $1000 bucks richer! All proceeds go back into the ATV trail system to maintain existing trails and develop new trails to make your riding experience the best it can be on Tug Hill and in Lewis County.
For more information visit: tughilladirondacksatv.com A Lewis County ATV Trail Permit is REQUIRED to ride our trails. This permit pays for the monitoring, maintenance, rehabilitation of existing trails as well as the building of new trails to expand our system.
Visit Adirondackstughill.org for more information.
FREE TOUR GUIDES
AVAILABLE FOR VISITING CLUBS, AND GROUPS OF 8 OR MORE!
CONTACT: JOE AT
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ATV New York You can actually ride in NY? Of course, I replied. We have an extensive ATV trail system on Tug Hill and in Lewis County. We also have five other counties surrounding Lewis County that are working to connect to our ATV trail system. The big picture here in upstate New York is thousands of miles of contiguous riding, from community to community, having your bags arrive ahead of you at your hotel, and waking up the next morning to ride your ATV to your next destination all the while getting food, fuel and adventure recreation along the way. “That’s the plan,” according to Bob Diehl, Lewis County Recreational Trails Coordinator and the man in charge of the ATV trail system push in upstate NY. “We have an extensive family-orientated ATV trail system in place, and we are ready to let riders from out of the area come ride with us!” Lewis County is about half the distance from PA as West Virginia and about 90 minutes north of Syracuse. The Lewis County ATV Trail System is made up of seasonal town and county roads connecting areas of off-road trails on private and county reforestation lands. There is no state land use to ATVs in New York State, and the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation’s ATV Policy is NO ATVs on state lands. You are forced to register and insure your ATV in NYS, but the state gives our ATV registration money to the general fund, where none of it is used
to promote ATV riding in any way, shape, or form. We are not even allowed to ride Sideby-Sides (UTVs) unless they are registered and meet the definition of an ATV in NYS, which is 60” wide or less and 1,000 lbs. or less, which, as many of you know, eliminates almost all of the UTVs out there. Even with the state against us and private citizens that make it their business to thwart our efforts at any and all points in the development of our ATV trail system, with varying groups and hundreds of others against ATVing, we are still moving forward, following the rules and regulations for trails and motorized recreation, usually going above and beyond what the minimum standards are. We have the perfect infrastructure in place here in upstate NY for ATV riding. Many of our towns have hundreds of miles of seasonal dirt roads, perfect for ATV riding and recreational tourism. Lewis County has taken this project on and partnered with the Tug Hill Adirondack ATV Association, consisting of eight clubs in five contiguous counties working together to create the only public ATV trail system in NYS. Our ATV trail system requires you to purchase an ATV trail permit to ride. This is a pay to play system, and the funding source generated through the permits allows us to monitor, maintain, fix, build, rehabilitate, and sign our trails. It
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By: Bob Diehl also allows us to do the maintenance where and when it is needed. Our trail permits also allow us to pay our Lewis County Sheriff’s Department to patrol, educate and enforce the laws of the system and county and to make our system safe for riders and residents alike. The permits also fund an ATV safety program run by the Lewis County Sheriff’s Department that teaches ATV safety to every sixth-grader in every Lewis County school. Many of our club members and ATV Association members have ridden many of the riding areas across PA. We’re trying to set up the best ATV trail system we can in Lewis County and would love our neighboring PA clubs to contact us, come up for a weekend, and let us tour them around our system, visit some of our clubs, and have a good time. It is this cooperation between clubs of different areas that will really spread the word about different riding areas close to where you live and help keep ATV trails and areas open and thriving. For more information on recreation in the county, visit www.lewiscountyrecreation. com. For information on the ATV trail permit and places to stay and other great things to do while here in Lewis County, visit www. adirondackstughill.org, and for the Tug Hill Adirondack ATV Association, visit www. tughilladirondacksatv.com. For information on tours and to set up a tour for your group, call Joe at 315-286-6621 or Lewis County Recreational Trails Coordinator Bob Diehl at 315-376-5972. Happy Trails.
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PaOHV’s Frontline 67 program… It
Works!
By Dick Leply Frontline at work #1 It began with a phone call from Scott Vogel, our Frontline 67 representative for Venango County in western Pennsylvania. It was one of those calls that went kind of like this: “Hey Dick, I have a relative who works with someone who knows a guy who’s interested in creating riding opportunities in Pa., and I wondered if you’d like to check into it?” That simple message led me to the head of one of western Pennsylvania’s regional tourist promotion agencies. From there, the conversation branched out to interested township supervisors, a handful of business people bent on progress, and a state legislator. The result was a conference call with the leadership at the Hatfield/McCoy trail system in West Virginia followed by a subsequent call with PaOHV leadership. The discussions and planning continue and have the potential to lead to significant economic growth and riding opportunities for western Pa. Frontline made it happen. Frontline at work #2 Jim Hovey, our Frontline 67 contact in Warren County, has for some months been the prime mover behind a PaOHV-sponsored effort aimed at securing grant money
that will substantially improve rest room and camping opportunities on a portion of the motorized trail system in the Allegheny National Forest. Jim has had a long history in the Allegheny and probably understands the trail system as much as anyone. His tireless efforts over the years have helped to maintain and improve the trails that so many of us enjoy, and his understanding of the value of grassroots efforts aligned with state association resources is one more example of Frontline 67 at work. Frontline at work #3 PaOHV is fortunate to have enjoyed a long relationship with the hard working folks of the Central Mountains ATV Association (CMATVA). They have been one of PaOHV’s most avid supporters, and the club continues to be an influential force in making things happen on the trail system in the Sproul State Forest in north central Pa., and PaOHV is proud to be a supporter of their efforts. Central Mountains ATV is working to improve access to parts of the motorized trail system in the Sproul, and during a recent planning session we asked our Lackawanna County Frontline 67 member Rob Gorczyk to join us. Even though Rob lives quite a distance from the Sproul,
he rides there often, and we felt his professional skills would be a good addition to our combined Sproul strategy. Rob is not only an avid ATVer, he is the VP of Integrated Facility Services, Inc., and as such he has extensive experience dealing with environmental issues, permitting, and myriad of other skills that stand a good chance of being needed as we move along. It’s another example of Frontline 67 at work. The next time you head into the woods on your ATV, dirt bike, or side by side, take the time to consider the privilege you’re enjoying and recognize that there are hundreds of committed individuals, club leaders, volunteers, enlightened legislators, who, along with your state association, are fighting to maintain and extend legal riding areas in the Keystone state. And then, GET INVOLVED! Join PaOHV, become a club member, or start a club if there isn’t one in your area. PaOHV has the tools to help you do it. And, consider becoming a Frontline 67 representative in your county. If you and your friends expect to ride TOMORROW…you need to get involved TODAY. You can begin the process by logging on at www.paohv.org. Thanks!
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Mission Statement Pennsylvania Off Highway Vehicle Association
• • •
Promote legislation with the purpose of developing and maintaining trails and open space favorably and legally accessible to OHV recreation. Become instrumental and influential in interactions with the public and private land managers. Defend the OHV community against discriminating legislation and regulation.
• • • •
Provide assistance for legislation favorable to trail and open space recreation. Inspire and foster camaraderie among motorized OHV users as well as all recreational trail user groups. Provide a medium for the dissemination of information and knowledge relating to the OHV industry.
• •
Own and/or lease property for association uses.
Seek and provide educational and programming opportunities for the proper riding procedures, intelligent safety choices, and the execution of appropriate environmental decisions. Promote research pertaining to the most desirable maintenance and trail construction techniques that are sustainable and compatible with the environmental resources.
Join and Support the PA OHV Association by becoming a member.
INDIVIDUAL MEMBERSHIP FORM For Club or Corporate Memberships please go to www.paohv.org
Annual Dues: $20 per member Name: Street Address: City: Email Address: Daytime Phone:
State:
Zip:
Evening Phone:
PLEASE FILL IN THE APPROPRIATE SECTION AND REMIT PAYMENT TO: PaOHV, P.O Box 61741, Harrisburg, PA 17106-1741
Certified Pennsylvania DCNR Youth Safety Instructor Contact Info Pennsylvania requires any child between the ages of 8 and 16 to have a Certificate of Completion for the Youth ATV Safety Course in order to ride any state land. Below is a list
of Instructors who have the training provided by the DCNR to offer these courses and provide the training necessary to complete it and receive a certificate.
Nicole Yiengst • York 717-577-5142 nichole@ecowater.us
Robert Smith • Minersville 570-527-6197 beerman08@verizon.net
Lance Schwartz Lewisburg 570-847-6102
Ed Geehan Bucks County / Pocono. Eddiecharles11@yahoo.com
Dennis Felty • Pine Grove / Port Trevorton 570-640-5735 coalcountryriders@yahoo.com
Rich Rudzinski • Lower Bucks County 267-716-2450 rrudzi@verizon.net
If you do not see an Instructor listed in your area, please call 717-783-7941 and ask for the nearest Instructor’s contact information. Children under the age 8 or over age 16 are not eligible to receive the certificate, but if your rider is between the ages of 8 and 16 they are eligible to take the course and receive the certificate. Proper safety gear and a safe machine are required to take
Chas McHenry • Bucks County 267-446-6176 McHenryCo@comcast.net
the course. By contacting your local Instructor, you can receive all the information you need to ensure your child has the proper gear to complete this course. Completing the course and receiving the certificate provides the knowledge and skill to operate the machines in the various manners necessary to ride trails with confidence, not to mention that most children think it’s really cool to get their “license” in the mail!
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See Your Area KYMCO USA Dealer for the Latest Retail Finance Offers and Promotions Today. BURGERS MOTORCYCLE SALES & SERVICE THREE BRIDGES, NJ 08887 908-782-2020 FULL LINE DEALER CYCLE EXCHANGE ANDOVER, NJ 07821 973-786-6966 4 WHEEL DEALER BILLS SAW SHOP SALAMANCA, NY 14779 716-938-9846 4 WHEEL DEALER CHARLIES CYCLE CENTER LIMESTONE, NY 14753 716-925-7023 FULL LINE DEALER POWERSPORTS X VESTAL, NY 13850 607-786-3323 4 WHEEL DEALER VALLEY MOTORSPORTS & SERVICE SINCLAIRVILLE, NY 14782 716-962-3150 4 WHEEL DEALER ANGEL'S WORLD OF CYCLES BELLE VERNON, PA 15012 724-379-7200 4 WHEEL DEALER BEERS AUTO ATV CYCLE WYSOX, PA 18854 570-265-8204 FULL LINE DEALER BLACKMANS CYCLE CENTER EMMAUS, PA 18049 610-965-9865 FULL LINE DEALER BUYNACK'S BIKES AND MOTORS EBENSBURG, PA 15931 814-472-7406 FULL LINE DEALER GATTO CYCLE SHOP TARENTUM, PA 15084 724-224-0500 FULL LINE DEALER
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MCADOO MOTORSPORTS INDIANA, PA 15701 724-354-2311 4 WHEEL DEALER MILLERS TURF & TRAIL MIFFLINBURG, PA 17844 570-966-1952 4 WHEEL DEALER MONTGOMERYVILLE CYCLE HATFIELD, PA 19440 215-712-7433 FULL LINE DEALER MOTORSPORTS AND MORE ASHLAND, PA 17921 570-875-1622 FULL LINE DEALER MXM MOTOSPORTS SUSQUEHANNA, PA 18847 570-853-4908 4 WHEEL DEALER NICK ROSA SALES LATROBE, PA 15650 724-532-1400 FULL LINE DEALER PEN ARGYLE CYCLE CENTER PEN ARGYL, PA 18072 610-863-5000 FULL LINE DEALER PLANET HONDA CHADDS FORD, PA 19317 610-361-8001 FULL LINE DEALER
SVT GEARS UP FOR SNOW! By: Lloyd Wenger
Winter is here, and the members of the Susquehanna Valley Trailblazers are busy gearing up for the fast approaching snowmobile season. Everyone is checking and “double checking” to be sure their sleds are ready to hit the trails, as soon as the white stuff flies! The SVT’s winter calendar is jam-packed with upcoming snowmobile excursions. Massive lake effect snowfall puts the Allegheny National Forest and the Tug Hill Plateau, NY, on the SVT favorites list! Additional rides are planned to Tuscarora, the PA Wild Lands, Ontario CA, and the Laurel Highlands to check out the newly completed snowmobile bridge crossing the PA Turnpike re-connecting two sections of the trail system. Demo and rental rides are also planned for those who don’t own a sled. There’s nothing like cruising over fresh powder on a snowmobile! It’s full speed ahead in the wintertime with the SVT! Come ride with us! Check us out at WWW.SVTRAILBLAZERS.COM.
RAY'S MOTOR SERVICE READING, PA 19606 610-582-2700 FULL LINE DEALER RIDERS EDGE GETTYSBURG, PA 17325 717-334-2518 FULL LINE DEALER TNT CYCLES WICONISCO, PA 17097 717-453-7265 FULL LINE DEALER
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SEE US FOR ALL YEEODUSR SNOWMOBILE N Pine Grove Yamaha • 570-345-8918 193 Tremont Rd. Pine Grove, PA 17963
Choose Your Own Path. KYMCOUSA.com Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/KYMCO.ATV
This document contains many of Yamaha’s valuable trademarks. It may also contain trademarks belonging to other companies. Any references to other companies or their products are for identification purposes only, and are not intended to be an endorsement. Rider shown operating an FX Nytro MTX SE 162. Always wear an approved helmet and eye protection. Observe all state and local laws. Respect the rights of others. Ride within your capabilities. Allow extra time and plenty of distance for maneuvering. Do not perform stunts. ©2010 Yamaha Motor Corp. U.S.A. All rights reserved. s yamaha-motor.com
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One of the groups getting ready for the ride.
CoalCountryRiders.com™ sponsored Third Annual Coal Region Classic
The waterfall above Newtown.
Helping each other out on the trail.
On a crisp autumn morning, in the third week of October, the sound of an air horn alerted riders that the day was about to start. It was time for the third annual ride from Trevorton to Donaldson, a 75-mileplus ride that encompasses a Tri-County area in the heart of the anthracite coal region. The staging area was the proposed A.O.A.A primitive camping area on Northumberland County property known as Heart Lake, a name given to the area because of the shape of the body of water the property is situated on. The riders, some who camped overnight, and others who were arriving that Saturday morning began to prepare for this annual trek. With an 8 a.m. departure time, riders began to assemble in an area known as Wright’s Field for a group photo before heading into the trail system. The riders were divided into two groups with knowledgeable trail guides in the lead. With much excitement, the group headed out with check point one being a fire tower in an area known as Burnside. As fate would have it, one of the riders’ dirt bikes encountered major mechanical problems two miles into the ride. The broken bike was towed back to camp, and the group was on their way again. Once at the fire tower, the guide was calling back, checking on the other riders. The first group, after a slight break, started on their way toward a mine fire in an area known as Locust Summit. As we approached, the plumes of smoke were evident. The cool morning was presenting a prime opportunity to view an underground mine fire. Several minutes into our stop, the sound of approaching riders meant the second group had made up lost time and was back on schedule. Our next destination was the wind mills in Aristes; there we took a brief tour through the nearly vacated town of Centralia. The trail would bring us up an abandoned stretch of Route 61, where large crevices were evidence of an even larger mine fire. With the wind mills in sight, something seemed odd; all of the windmills were rotating except for the last in line. Upon arrival, we came upon a repair crew on a work platform suspended by cables and tethered to two trucks, repairing a blade that had been struck by lightning. We were now headed to a mid-day lunch and fueling stop at Redner’s Market above Gilberton. Fuel cans had been stored in advance, and as riders headed to the store, several walked to the fuel island to supply
the group. Within 45 minutes the riders were ready to embark on the second leg of this journey. Coal-fired cogeneration plants visible in the distance, and we were off again. As we approached, there was a rough area washed out by recent rains, which would temporarily disable one rider’s quad. With prompt teamwork we were soon heading under an overpass for Route 81 above Frackville, with the destination being a large Culm pile known as “the top of the world” above Saint Clair. Beautiful aerial views are to be seen here, as the vehicle traffic appears to look like an army of ants converging on the local commercial district known as Coal Creek Commerce Center. With a short scheduled break we were now headed to the 901 Pub above Minersville for a quick pit stop. There we saluted a great day of riding and were on the near side of our destination, but daylight was getting sparse. Out to the trail we were now headed to a natural waterfall above Newtown. With a brief intermission, the group would then proceed to a concrete basin where water from the falls empties down the mountain. The riders were assembled at the head of the basin known as the Floom. As one rider went ahead to video the group, all were anxious to enter this interesting portion of the ride. With video camera running, all proceeded to splash their way to the end. With much enthusiastic talk to be heard, we were off on our final leg of the journey. With our destination in sight, we proceeded to an area where my friend Wayne and his family allowed us to park our trucks and trailers at a secure location across from their home. As we trickled in, smiling faces could be seen by those on the porch awaiting our arrival. Though many were a bit weary from the day’s ride, all made the journey. As machines were loaded for the return trip, the last remaining minutes of daylight were disappearing. With a 6 p.m. finish time, all that remained now was the trip back and a scheduled community cookout. After the long day of events, many returned to their campsites early for the evening. The ride, with forty- three in attendance, was a huge success with teamwork and cooperation. It is now a memory many will relish for many years to come.
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Funding an ATV Club with Trails By Al Sain – Indian Creek Valley ATV In my research of ATV Clubs in PA, as well as surrounding states, I find two kinds of clubs: those that have a private trail system and those that don’t. Typically, the ones that don’t are located near a public or private trail system, and they use the club to organize riding days, events, and, in many cases, work days to help to keep those trail systems open and safe. I have been an officer in the Indian Creek Valley ATV Club for about six years, and I know firsthand how difficult it is to lease (or own) land for ATV riding. Our club leases over 750 acres, and we have about 32 miles of trails with an annual budget of nearly $20,000 a year. Every year is a struggle to cover our costs while continuing to look for more property so we can grow our club. This year was, without a doubt, the best year since I became a member. For the first time in my involvement, we made money. (It is critical to note that this club would have closed long ago if not for the support of three Yamaha grants [2008, 2009, & 2010] and one Polaris grant in [2007].)
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Income Sources: Memberships account for about two-thirds of our income, and this year we surpassed our goal of 200 members with 211 family memberships. Our second largest source is our Open Houses, which were very well attended, netting about 10% of our income needs. Thanks to all of our members selling raffle tickets (and those who buy them) we received 14% of our income. This year we had our fist Dealer Event in which a local ATV dealer paid us to use our grounds to invite his customers for a day of riding. This was a win-winwin event since his customers enjoyed a great day of riding, we received some money, and those customers learned about our club. Guest rides are a great way to encourage potential members to try our trails. They pay a one-day fee, visit the trails, and if they join, the guest fee is taken off the membership price. Shirt and hat sales do not bring in a lot of money, but it does help to get the word out about our club. Expenses: Leases represent almost half of our costs. We pay the real estate taxes for the landowner in exchange for the right to use their land. Trail work includes the equipment we need to spray and trim as well as hiring heavy equipment to address erosion ruts and off-camber situations. This is an ongoing expense that should not be overlooked. Our insurance policy protects our landowners from liability suits. Operations and fees include things like renting a room for monthly meetings, website fees, map printing, etc. No member of our club receives any money for work done for the club. Officer efforts, trail maintenance, newsletter writing, etc. is all done on a volunteer basis. As outdoor riding enthusiasts, we should all be aware of the costs and efforts put forth by all organizations and businesses that keep these areas open. I am truly amazed that the for-profit riding areas like Mines and Meadows, Rock Run, and Majestic Kamp can remain in business paying for all the trailwork and staying profitable. Please continue to support our club and any place that makes riding areas available
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Tall Pines ATV Park | Andover, NY 50+ Miles of Trails, Mud Bogs, Hill Climbs
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DAY PASS: $20 WEEKEND PASS $30 Season Passes Available
CAMPING • PICNIC TABLES • SNACK BAR Get more info at: www.tallpinesatvpark.com
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BLOOMSBURG, PA Call David Porzi @ 570-784-0250
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Bob &
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FEBRUARY 2012 19
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Olde Cycle Barn 700 Route 405 Hwy. Hughesville, PA 17737 Tel: (570) 584-3842 Fax: (570) 584-4989
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TO LEARN MORE, VISIT CAN-AM.BRP.COM © 2010 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc (BRP). All rights reserved. ™® and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates. In the U.S.A., the products are distributed by BRP US Inc. BRP reserves the right, at any time, to discontinue ontinue or change specifications, prices, designs, features, models or equipment without incurring obligation. Some models depicted may include optional equipment. Read the side-by-side vehicle (SSV) Operator’s Guide and watch the Safety DVD before driving. For your safety: wear a helmet, eye protection and other protective gear. Fasten lateral net andd seat belt at all times. Always remember that riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix. SSV is for off road use only. Never ride on paved surfaces or public roads. Operator must be at least 16 years old. Passenger must be at least 12 years old and able to hold handgrips and plant feet while seated against the backrest. Never engage in stunt driving and avoid excessive cessive speed. *As per manufacturer’s official MY10 declaration to the California Air Resources Board. **Based on mileage estimates from BRP internal testing on most recent model year available at time of print. Test conducted under identical conditions and test procedure. This data should be used for comparison purposes only. Actual mileage will vary depending on trail conditions, conditions how you drive, drive maintenance of the vehicle, vehicle vehicle accessories, cargo that may be carried, and driver and passenger weight. †Visco-Lok is a trademark of GKN Viscodrive GmbH. ∞All other tradmarks are the property of their respective owners. 9100026 S728044
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WHERE TO RIDE - ATV Trails on State Forest Land SUMMER AND WINTER TRAILS
4 - Centre County
These trails are open during the summer and winter seasons. The summer season runs from the Friday before Memorial Day through the last full weekend in September. The winter season runs from the day following the last day of the regular or extended antlerless deer season as established by the Game Commission through the following April 1. There are some trails that remain closed until after the late muzzleloader season. Please check with the individual forest district to see when the trails will open for the winter season.
1
The Bloody Skillet ATV riding area, located in Centre County, consists of 37 trail miles (Phase 1 & 2) and is accessed from SR 144 approximately 18 1/2 miles north of Snow Shoe. Turn right onto DeHaas Road and travel 5 miles south to the Northern Terminus Trailhead. Registered Class II ATVs are permitted on this trail that are less than 58” in width and less than 1,200 pounds Contact: Sproul State Forest, 15187 Renovo Road, Renovo, PA 17764. Phone: (570) 923-6011
- Burnt Mills - Pike County
5 - Clinton County
7 miles of summer and winter trail. Access is from a parking area on Route 402, one mile south of Porters Lake. Registered Class II ATVs are permitted on this trail that are less than 58” in width and less than 1,200 pounds. Contact: Delaware State Forest, HC 1 Box 95A, Swiftwater, PA 18370. Phone: (570) 895-4000
2
The Whiskey Springs ATV Trail. Access is from the Two Miles Road, 1-1/2 miles west of Westport toward Kettle Creek State Park. Registered Class II ATVs are permitted on this trail that are less than 58” in width and less than 1,200 pounds Contact: Sproul State Forest, 15187 Renovo Road, Renovo, PA 17764. Phone: (570) 923-6011
- Adams & Cumberland Counties
6 - Lycoming County
36 miles of summer trail. During the winter season the trail system is expanded to 42 miles by using some dirt roads that are gated during the winter. Part of the trail system is shared with snowmobiles when there is sufficient snowfall. The trail is located between Big Flat and Pine Grove Furnace State Park. Access to these are from parking lots located at Big Flat along Shippensburg Road about 1-1/4 miles north of its intersection with Route 233 and on Piney Mountain along Bendersville Road south of Pine Grove Furnace State Park. Contact: Michaux State Forest, 10099 Lincoln Way East, Feyetteville, PA 17222. Phone: (717) 352-2211
17 miles of summer and winter trail. Trails are located near Haneyville and include the Button Road and a network of wooded trails built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Access to the trail is from a parking area located at the former parking area at the CCC Camp along Route 44, one mile south of Haneyville. Contact: Tiadaghton State Forest, 423 East Central Avenue, South Williamsport, PA 17702 Phone: (570) 327-3450
7 - Dixon R. Miller Recreation Area (Formerly the Pohopoco Tract) - Monroe County
3 - Snyder & Union Counties 7 miles of summer trails and winter trails. Access is at the Jacks Mountain Trailhead located along Route 235 three miles south of Glen Iron. The trail includes the East Kettle Road, which has been closed to other types of motor vehicles. Registered Class II ATVs are permitted on this trail that are less than 58” in width and less than 1,200 pounds. Contact: Bald Eagle State Forest, 18865 Old Turnpike Rd, Milmont, PA 17845. Phone: (570) 922-3344
13 miles of summer and winter trails. Access is from Route 115, five miles south of I-80. Registered Class II ATVs are permitted on this trail that are less than 58” in width and less than 1,200 pounds. Contact: Delaware State Forest, HC 1 Box 95A, Swiftwater, PA 18370 Phone: (570) 895-4000
SUMMER TRAILS
These trails are open from the Friday before Memorial Day through the last full weekend in September.
8 - Martin Hill - Bedford County 18 miles of summer trail. Access to the trail is from the parking area located on Route 326 two miles south of Rainsburg. Trail head GPS location: N 39° 52’ 24.69” W 78° 30’ 34.80” Contact: Buchanan State Forest, 440 Buchanan Trail, McConnellsburg, PA 17233 Phone: (717) 485-3148
9 - Sideling Hill - Fulton County 15 miles of summer trail in the Wells Tannery area. Access is from Ray’s Cove Road or Childers Ridge Road. Trail Head GPS location: N 40° 5’ 0.28 W 78° 10’ 12.17” Contact: Buchanan State Forest, 440 Buchanan Trail, McConnellsburg, PA 17233. Phone: (717) 485-3148
10 - Potter County 43 miles of summer trail. A loop trail located south of Denton Hill State Park. Access to the trail is from Lyman Run State Park, on SR 44 north of Cherry Springs, or the intersection of Rock Run Road and the Ridge Trail (ATV trail). Registered Class II ATVs are permitted on this trail that are less than 58” in width and less than 1,200 pounds. Contact: Susquehannock State Forest, P.O. Box 673, Coudersport, PA 16915. Phone: (814) 2743600
11 - Maple Run Tract - Pike County - 8 miles of summer trail. Access is from a parking area on Route 402, 1-3/4 miles north of the village of Pecks Pond. Registered Class II ATVs are permitted on this trail that are less than 58” in width and less than 1,200 pounds. Contact: Delaware State Forest, HC 1 Box 95A, Swiftwater, PA 18370. Phone: (570) 895-4000
State Game Lands ATVs are not permitted on State Game Lands except those used by disabled hunters.
Registration, Titling and Insuring Your ATV Who must register and title? All ATVs in Pennsylvania, except ATVs used solely for business or agricultural purposes, need to be registered and titled with DCNR. ATVs used in Pennsylvania must be registered and titled with DCNR’s Snowmobile/ ATV Section. The ATV registration and titling fees are NOT user fees for the privilege of using trails on stateowned land. The fees provide funding to administer the program, maintain trails in DCNR-managed parks and forests, and provide grants to profit and nonprofit organizations for developing additional riding opportunities.
Two Types Of Registrations Apply: •
•
Registration For ATVs used anywhere off of your own property or property leased by you, such as designated State Forest trails. $20 fee every two years Limited Registration For ATVs used solely on your own land or land leased by you. Free registration -No expiration, unless ownership of vehicle changes
Plates and Decals An ATV owner will be issued a registration plate for the vehicle. An expiration sticker to be affixed to the plate will be issued for standard registrations. Liability Insurance If you are using your ATV solely on land owned or leased by you, you are not required to get liability insurance. All other riders must carry liability insurance. Proof of that insurance must be carried with you when you ride. There are no minimum requirements or coverage standards established by DCNR or the Snowmobile/ATV Law for the liability insurance.
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12 - Allegheny National Forest
13 - Motorcycle and/or ATV Riding Areas
The federally-operated Allegheny National Forest has more than 100 miles of ATV trails. ATV trail season runs from the Friday before Memorial Day through the last Sunday in September. Winter season is from December 20 to April 1. Contact the Allegheny National Forest Supervisor’s Office, P.O. Box 847, 222 Liberty Street, Warren, PA 16365, (814) 723-5150. Effective July 1, 2002, the Allegheny National Forest implemented the Fee Demo Program for ATV and motorized bike trails. An annual $35 permit fee is required, and can be purchased from any Allegheny National Forest office, and some local vendors, or online at www.fs.fed.us/r9/allegheny.
Seven Mountains Ramble (Dual Sport Licensed Motorcycles) - Riding areas are located in portions of Mifflin, Snyder and Union Counties in the Bald Eagle Forest. Loop 1 starts at the 7 Mountains Campground, located just south of Potters Mill or west of Milroy on Route 22/322. Compensation for Campground owner for parking strongly recommended. Proceed on Sand Mountain road to the trailhead at Ground Oak trail. The loop is about 30 miles long. Contact: Bureau of Forestry District #7; 18865 Old Turnpike Rd; Millmont, Pa 17845; Phone: 570 922-3344
The following trails are within the Allegheny National Forest (ANF). Please contact the ANF using the information above concerning these trails:
Marienville ATV/Bike Trail on State Route 66 east of the town of Marienville.
Timberline ATV Trail accessed from State Route 948, north of Ridgway (also connects to the Marienville ATV Trail).
Rocky Gap ATV Trail
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FEBRUARY 2012 21
14 - Shade Mountain Trails (Non-Licenced Off-Highway Motorcycles) Riding areas are located in portions of Mifflin, Snyder and Union Counties in the Bald Eagle Forest. The Shade Mountain Riding area is located just north of McAlisterville, PA, on PA Route 235. Trail at dirt parking lot at the top of the mountain. Contact: Bureau of Forestry District #7; 18865 Old Turnpike Rd; Millmont, Pa 17845; Phone: 570 922-3344; Email fd07@state.pa.us
15 - Snow Shoe Rails to Trails ATV & SnowMobile
accessed from Township Road 3005, southeast of Warren.
Open Year-Round P.O. Box 314 Clarence, Pa. ATV - Snowmobile www.ssrt.org. SSRT requires membership for riding access. Detailed terms and conditions can be found at their website.
Willow Creek ATV Trail on the eastern side of the Allegheny Reservoir, just south of the New York State line. Closed during the winter season.
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FEBRUARY 2012
WHERE TO RIDE - Private Riding Facilities This is a partial list of riding areas that you can pay by the day to ride with some requiring annual memberships. Some offer riding for motorcycles or quads only, and others allow both. Please check with the individual businesses before you make the trip.
16 Blue Diamond MX Park New Castle, DE - 24 Irish Valley MX Park Paxinos, PA -
32 Rausch Creek Trail Riders Tremont, PA -
17 Breezewood Proving Grounds Clearville, PA - 25 Adirondacks Region Lewis County, NY -
33 Reading Anthracite Co. Pottsville, PA -
www.bdmxpark.com
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www.irishvalleymx.com
www.breezewoodprovinggrounds.com
www.lewiscountyrecreation.com
Dirt Soldiers MX Loretto, PA -
Lost Trails Dunmore, PA -
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www.dirtsoldiers.com
www.ridelosttrails.com
www.rauschcreekracing.com www.readinganthracite.com
Raceway Three springs, PA 34 Rocket www.rocketraceway.com
35 Rock Run Recreation Patton, PA -
Gap MX Newburg, PA 19 Doublin www.doublingap.com
Majestic Trails Rew, PA 27 www.majestictrails.com
Top Lodge Emporium, PA 20 Hill www.hilltoplodge.com
28 Mines and Meadows Resort Wampum, PA -
Rest Farm Marienville, PA 36 Shady www.shadyrestfarm.net
Evansville MX Park Berwick, PA -
29 Miles Mountain Motocross Elkland, PA -
37 Slippery Rock Dunes Slippery Rock, PA -
Seasons Resort West Finley, PA 22 Four www.campfourseasonsresort.com
30 Mountain Ridge ATV Trails Reels Corner, PA -
38 Tall Pines ATV Park Andover, NY -
23 Indian Creek Valley ATV Club Melcroft, PA -
31 MX573 Montrose, PA -
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www.minesandmeadows.com
www.milesmountainmx.com
www.evansvilleraceway.com
www.icvatvclub.com
www.rockrunrecreation.com
www.slipperyrockdunes.com
www.mountainridgeatvtrails.com
you’ll love
www.mx573practicetrack.com
www.tallpinesatvpark.com
If you have a riding area and would like to be listed in our pages, please contact Jim Bull at (717) 464 -5381 or email JBull@RecRider.com.
RAUSCH CREEK!
For Bike, ATV & UTV Riders Of All Ages 8,500 Acres of Trails for Year-Round Riding *Membership Required e Too! *Camping Available
Easy inteerstate access from all major north-eastern cities... 2 hours from bothh Philadelphia and New York City, 2.5 hours from Baltimore. GPS Coordinates: 40.614003,--76.564993
www.RAUSCHCREEKRACING.com
Upcoming Rides & Events Sponsored by
Event Updates
Please stay tuned to our website and Facebook page for event updates. Please also check www.ATVingPA.com for regular event postings. More events will no doubt be released by the time this issue comes to press. Thank You!
February 18-19 Motorama Indoor Races & Shows Harrisburg PA - Farm Show ATV & Motorcycle Races, speed show, go-cart & quarter midget races, Tunerwar, beauty pageants & much more. Advance tickets available online at www.motoramaevents. com or 717-359-7056.
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March 25 Ramey Fire Co. Poker Run - North of Altoona, PA All poker runs begin with registration at 8 am with rides beginning at 11 am The entrance fee is $15 per rider and $5 per passenger. For more information, phone Jaimie at 814-378-9710 or visit www.rameyfirecompany.com.
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FEBRUARY 2012 23
8” Shackle
Receiver Ring Insert
ATV Logging: Got Wood? By Dave Miller, Lehigh Valley ATV Assn., Inc.
Many of us with quads take advantage of their utility capabilities by using them for various chores and duties around our property. Tasks performed by ATVs are nearly unlimited, including mowing, plowing snow, hauling wagons and trailers, planting food plots, retrieving game during hunting season, and the list goes on. I got the idea for this article after realizing how much my family relies on quads for logging and cutting firewood and talking with like-minded ATV owners. First, let me start by saying that if you need to learn how to operate your chainsaw or sharpen the cutting chain correctly, you can stop reading this article now and go buy a copy of Chainsaws for Dummies. There’s WAY too much to cover on those topics for this article! What I wanted to describe is using ATVs for actual logging, whether in your backyard or on larger properties. When using your ATV for logging or wood cutting duties, be sure you don’t head into the woods alone. Riding alone is never a good idea, and logging and wood cutting chores require just as much respect as trail riding due to the range of things that can go wrong if you’re not careful. Assuming you’re going to use your favorite wheeler for the task at hand, there are a few things to equip yourself with that will make life easier when you head into the woods. Figure out how to haul your saw(s) and
accessories, wedges, chains and straps, as well as your machine’s attachment point for dragging and pulling. Using my 2006 Outlander 800 as the demonstration platform, I added a two inch receiver hitch some time ago to increase its versatility over the stock hole in the differential extension. With the two inch receiver, I can quickly switch between a tongue with a ball for pulling a trailer or wagon and a steel ring insert (see photo), which makes attaching a chain or strap a breeze! Our family farm was timbered off a few years back, and the lumberjacks left many “tops” of quality hardwood trees behind in small woodlots after the valuable chunks got hauled away. This has left a bounty of great firewood for the taking, if you can get to the pieces you want. Using an ATV not only gets you into the woods quickly and comfortably, but will also get you close to where the logs are. I’ve found it to be much easier to drag logs out of brush piles before cutting the pieces to correct length than it is to stumble around snarled branches with a chainsaw. Once the logs are in the open, your work goes much more quickly and safely! In order to save wear and tear on some expensive components (brakes and CVT drives, etc.), I prefer to anchor the rear of the quad to a nearby tree using a tow strap (see photo), then connect the winch cable to the selected log for dragging. Likewise, using the
tow strap between the quad and the log cushions the drivetrain while dragging the log as opposed to using a chain for the task. Don’t get me wrong, chains are VERY useful. I just prefer to use them as extensions for the winch cable to get to those hard-to-reach logs, yanking unwanted tree tops off the desired log(s), or increasing the winch’s reach down an embankment, etc. I also like to use a “D” shackle to secure the ends of the tow strap, which allows quick attachment and detachment when looping the strap around a tree or the receiver ring insert. You might be surprised to find out just how much your quad is capable of dragging once you start using it as a “logger.” I’ve pulled some pretty impressive logs out of the woods using the 4WD and low range features of the Outty 800. I typically select a level staging area to stockpile the logs, where I cut them to length without the aggravation or risks of sawing in a brush pile. Once you have the firewood cut to length, your trailer or wagon makes quick work of transporting your new fuel supply to its final destination. If you’ve never considered your wheeler’s abilities beyond trail riding, hill climbing, mud bogging and the plethora of existing recreational uses, consider lightening your workload with your quad the next time your wood pile needs to be restocked!
March 31 April 14 Moonshine Run hosted by Mountaineer Trail Riders Snirt Run - Lewis County, NY Burning Rock – Beckley, WVa. The SNIRT RUN™ Snow & Dirt = Snirt. Burning Rock Outdoor Adventure Park is a family-fueled,mom-approved, razz-your This ATV Poker Run is held on the second Saturday of April each year. buddies, go-big-or-go-home, beginners-always-welcome, muddy-and-proud-of-it way The event is sponsored by the Barnes Corners Sno-Pals Inc. (BCSP), the to have good time on a West Virginia vacation in the New River Gorge. ATVs are easy proceeds of which are used to maintain and improve trails in the 103-mile to ride, and trails are huge fun -we promise! We don’t know what the Moonshine Run trail system groomed by the club. For details, visit www.sno-pals.com. is, but contact 877-683-9240 for all the details or visit www.burningrockwv.com.
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FEBRUARY 2012
Rec Rider Product Review
Spillinex ...
absorption rate per pound, in that it only takes one pound of Spillinex to adsorb one gallon of oil. So, instead of needing a 55-gallon drum full of kitty litter, you only need a few pounds of Spillinex. Rick gave us his salesmen speech, and we decided to try it out for ourselves. We tried to pick out the stickiest, messiest liquids we could find, starting with PJ1 air filter oil -- not a problem for Spillinex. Then Suzuki chain lube (you know, the stuff made to stick to chains to lube them for miles on muddy dirt trails and track) -- again no problem. Even heavy trailer grease was no match for the awesome absorbent power of Spillinex. Now if that’s not enough for you, Spillinex will even pull petroleum products out of water. Because of its unique design, the molecules that make up Spillinex repel water. In fact Spillinex was used in the 2010 BP oil spill in the Gulf Coast because of its oil removing powers. So, unless you are someone who is absolutely perfect and never has an accident, then Spillinex is something you should check out. It is 100% recycled material, 100% eco-friendly, and 100% made in America. Check them out at www. spillinex.com or call toll free at 1-877-500-SPILL (7745) ext. 729.
S727684
Step 3: All the different oils and lubes we tested on Spillinex -nothing had a chance.
This article is for the guys and gals that have ever spilled any oil, gas or the like on the garage floor and used paper towels to clean it up. As for us, we have done it too many times to count. We have spilled anything from oil to paint and everything in between. We then rush around and either grab the kitty litter or the saw dust and throw it on the spill, or, in the worst case scenario, a paper towel. Well now there is something NEW. We were approached by Rick Eschenmann from Green Wave Distributors. Spillinex is an eco-friendly adsorbent powder that contains and adsorbs liquids. SPILLINEX™, a 100% recycled product of MONARCH GREEN, INC. (USA), is a revolutionary compound having the unique ability to contain and adsorb a wide variety of spilled liquids, including new and used oil, paint, diesel, gasoline, anti-freeze, hydraulic & brake fluids, cooking oils, syrup, eggs, honey and much more. Remarkably, SPILLINEX™ easily adsorbs oil in water, leaving clean water after removal. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) deemed SPILLINEX™ to be an environmentally safe sorbent for use during the 2010 Gulf Oil Spill. Spillinex™ is proudly made in the USA. The cool part about Spillinex as opposed to kitty litter is its
ATV TRAILS AT V ’ S • D I RT B I K E S • S I D E - B YY SIDES
Offering 2-loops of over 41 miles, Motocross & Camping 1-way directional riding Challenging mountainous terrain with a variety of riding to please all riders
3-Wheelers and Side-by-Sidess are always welcome! Majestic Trails is located just south of Bradford, PA. 1-Hour Southeast of Jamestown, NY.
VISIT US AT WWW.MAJESTICTRAILS.COM S727682
FITCHHILL@COMCAST.NET OR CALL
814-465-9979
S727674
Step 2: The chain lube all cleaned up; this is all that’s left, and it’s burnable.
the ultimate absorption product?
S728459
Step 1: Suzuki chain lube sprayed on tile floor.
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FEBRUARY 2012 25
Plows and ATVs
The what’s what of ATV Plow Systems By: Tommy Pickup Well, with winter in full swing, it will not be long before the flakes of white stuff are accumulating on the ground. To us, there is nothing better than being the first to cut some fresh tracks in the snow on a nice winter night! There is just something about driving through a wooded trail section in the dark with the flakes falling through the beam of the headlight. And that is the fun part! Now, when it comes to moving the snow ... well not so much fun. That is, unless you have a plow on your ATV! If you don’t have a plow system, well then read on and see what you may be missing. Our ATVs and Side X Sides can very easily assist in helping us with work around the house, from plowing snow to pulling a wagon. The first thing to understand about a plow system is do you have an ATV that is capable? Not all ATVs are capable of plowing snow. You should have a minimum of a 250cc engine and a utility model. The Suzuki Ozark250 and the Kymco MXU 300 are two examples of two wheel drive units that are capable of plowing. Now when making this choice, keep in mind that two wheel drive ATVs should have tire chains and are limited in the amount of snow they can push compared to a 4x4. The second is the components of a plow system. There are many different types of plow systems and attachments available for many different makes. One company that has been doing it right is Cycle Country. Cycle Country has been making plow systems since 1981, and they are made in America! Over the years, we have installed hundreds of Cycle Country products with great results. They have all the different blade sizes, mount systems, plow lift systems and much, much more. To that end, the plow system is made up of four main components, discussed below. The Blade: Plow blades are sized by the width of their blades measured horizontally side to side. Sizes range from 48” to 72” in several increments. Plow material is commonly steel, but several types
of plastic have appeared on the market in the last couple years. So what size is right for your ATV? Well check with each manufacturer for their recommended uses, but as a general rule of thumb use a 48” width for any 2 wheel drive or 4x4 under 500cc engine size. 501cc to 750cc up to a 60” and 751cc, and Side X Sides can usually handle a 72.” Push Tubes: These are structural tubes that connect the plow to the plow mount on the ATV. They allow the plow blade to swivel right to left ... and up and down. Usually the plow blade is bolted to the push tubes. The push tubes then have some sort of quick connect to attach to the plow mount and ATV. Plow Mount: This is the piece that bolts to the ATV frame and allows the push tubes to connect to the ATV. In the past, all plow mounts were a center mount, in that they usually mounted under the ATV’s foot pegs. However, today there are two common mount systems offered: the center mount and the new front mount. The front mounts allow you to lift the blade higher since it does not have the long push tubes that go under the ATV. Which one is right for you? Well, both work good, and hookup is pretty easy. The major advantage I experienced with the front mount system is that if you are loading and unloading your ATV on a trailer, you usually have to remove a center mount plow, as your approach angle on a trailer ramp is too steep for the plow to clear. A front mount, on the other hand, can lift a lot higher and allows you to load and unload, even on a deck over ATV trailer, without removing the plow. Lifting Device: This is the mechanism that raises and lowers the plow system. The basic is the hand lift. This uses a metal handle that you pull back to raise and forward to lower. The pros of this set-up are price and speed. This is the least expensive lifting mechanism available, usually $100. Also, it can be raised and lowered as quickly as you can move your arm ... which
leads us to the con -- you have to lift and lower it manually. It is not very hard, but it is repetitious, and you can’t switch arms mid-way through. The next is a plow lift. This is usually a little electric winch that attaches to the plow and the vehicle’s electrical system. A little “IN” and “OUT” button mounts to the handlebars and is pushed to raise or lower the plow. The next and most popular is a winch. People prefer this, as it does double duty on your ATV. Although the winch works great, it is not specifically designed to raise and lower a plow. Yes, it is within its lifting capabilities, but caution must be used when lifting and lowering. The most common breakage of winches occurs when the operator over-lifts the plow, causing the push tubes to bottom out against the frame of the vehicle. Make sure you get familiar with how high your plow can lift before you operate it. The next thing I see is breakage caused by shock loading the winch (loads which exceed the static load caused by rapid movement changes such as swinging, impacting or jerking). One way this can occur is when the winch is used to hold the plow off the ground, and you hit something. Cycle County Plows come with adjustable pads on either side of the blade that you can use to raise or lower the cutting edge and not expose your winch to this type of damage. Now, when purchasing a plow system, it is best to get everything from one manufacturer. Different companies use different mount points, and unless you know for sure, you could end up with several expensive components that do not work together. If you are going to use a winch as your lifting device, then you can get that from any manufacturer, but definitely purchase the blade, push tubes and plow mount from the same manufacturer. There are many things to know when plowing, and the manufacturer you choose will provide you with the basics. However, it is important to practice common sense and caution.
ATV PLOW KITS GET THE PLOW, PUSH TUBES & MOUNT FOR:
422.97!!!*
$
*See Dealer for complete details
www.tntcycles-atv.com
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S728460
Wiconisco, PA 17097• 717.453.7265
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FEBRUARY 2012
SPORTIN’ with SPROCKET Hello again from the far reaches of Potter County, Pa. I am here for a little R&R after a long but successful hunting season. Even though muzzleloader is currently in session, we are taking just a few days off to enjoy the year’s end. Once the new year starts, we will also start our quest to again fill the freezers. Since last we talked, my son Hunter and I were archery hunting every moment we could. His season ended with a missed shot on a five point at about 40 yards. Being that this is his first real year of archery hunting, he is having a little trouble with distances. His shot that missed the five point was in his mind about 15 to 20 yards. When I went to help look for signs of a hit, he showed me where it was standing. WOW, not 15 to 20, son, more like 40ish. Just a simple rookie mistake that probably every archer afield has made. But as I told him, it will come with time spent and more practice. York County is where we spend most of our archery season. This land is owned by my uncle and borders Pinchot State Park. During our time out in the woods at Unc’s property, we were able to see about 15 different bucks. The biggest, of course, is the one everyone has been after. We first saw him about two years ago, and he has eluded the freezer ever since. Hunter and I got to see him in the middle of October. He was laying along the lane that leads to my Uncle’s house. He is an 8-point with an estimated 22 to 24 inch spread. The rack appears to stand at least two feet high. Anyone that has seen him has the same thought: is this a whitetail or a mule deer? He is huge. I hope someday I will be able to show everyone my smiling face with this monster that I will have harvested.
Like I said earlier, we had spent many hours at Unc’s and got to see many deer, sometime 20 or more at a time. We were running out of time for the season, and neither one of us had put anything into the freezer except the frozen pizza from Giant. The last Saturday of the 2011 archery season came and found both Hunter and I back in the woods. As I was just enjoying the sun that was warming me up, a doe came running straight at me with a buck in toe. I stood up as fast as I could and as I came to full draw in an instant, the doe caught my movement and stopped right below my stand and made the buck stop in his tracks too. I had given the buck a once over and determined that he had enough rack to conform to the PA antler restriction. I
By: Jimmy “Sprocket” Kann
aimed, and in a split second found his chest in the peep sight. This was the only shot I could take, and in that split second, the buck was running away with an arrow embedded in his side. I texted Hunter and told him I had just shot a buck. He came to my spot to help me track, and in a mere 50 yards we found my next trophy, a 7 point. My next venture was bear season. It was the worst I had ever encountered. I started getting sick on the way to Renovo, Pa., where I hunt bear. I spent the whole week of archery bear with a fever and a lung infection. I never even left the house. Even for the regular bear season, I was still struggling to be quiet, but the coughing just would not stop. So my season was a total
bust. Next up would be deer season. I went home and after Thanksgiving headed back to Huntingdon County with both my sons, Hunter and Chase, and their Grandfather Bob. The weather was great for the Monday opener, and all four of us saw bucks, but none of us got anything till afternoon. Hunter was in his stand thinking what a waste of a day this was turning out to be when all of a sudden a noise from behind him changed his mind. He stood up and saw a doe heading down the mountain and right behind her was a peach tree chasing her. He did not have any time to think about anything and just shouldered his 30-30, and when the brown tree took over the scope, it was all over. Another one for the freezer. He called me on the radio and told me he had gotten one, and, of course, the first question I had was, “How big?” He told me big enough to be legal. Once he got to his trophy, he called again and told me it was an 8 point. It had five points on one side and three points on the other. For the rest of the season, Hunter had bagged a doe and so did I. This takes the freezer count to four for the year. Chase had missed one on the last Saturday and to date is still waiting to connect. Last year he had gotten his buck during the late muzzleloader season. He is banking on getting that mule deer at Unc’s house. Once again this year of hunting with my boys has etched a permanent spot in my memory banks. I am so proud of both of them for trying as hard as they did to get there deer and continue this great hobby that I have taught them. Till next time, keep those wheels on the ground and the bars pointed straight down the trail.
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re to Ride in PA Why Jo Rausch Creek in an ATV Club Tr Rec Rider Test ailriders – Park Review s – Pitster Upcoming Trai Pro XTR 230 SC l Rides VOLUME 1, ISSUE 1 • JU NE 2011
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Wrench Report BY: Tommy Pickup & Bill Kaster
Replacing Axle Bearings on Your Sport Quad I am sure that if you own a sport quad, at some point in time you have either blown out or replaced your axle bearing. Some of you, however, may not have done it yourself. Here is our step-by-step instruction on how to replace the axle bearings of a 2008 Suzuki Ltz-400. First, as with any project, gather all the tools you will need for the job at hand. For this particular job, it involved a 10mm, 12mm, 14mm, 17mm and 30mm socket, a BIG adjustable, a nice rubber mallet, a ball peen hammer and a pair of dykes. Then, in order to remove the old bearing from the bearing carrier, you are going to need some sort of long punch. You will also need a bearing driver to install the new bearing without harming them. We also used a torch to loosen up some rust and also expanded the metal aluminum carrier a bit to allow the bearing to drop into place. Also, make sure to put the bearings into the freezer to allow them to shrink as much as possible to allow easy installation. The bearings we are using are made by All Balls Racing. This kit comes with both the bearings and the seals. Some kits do not always contain every piece needed, so make sure to talk to your local shop to be sure you have everything you need to do the job. The final piece of the puzzle is simply some good grease to put everything back together all nice and lubed up. Now it is time to start the tear down. We started by removing the rear skid plate and rear tires. Next we loosened the axle nuts and sprocket bolts to remove the sprocket. What I now like to do is remove the chain and lay it into a pan with some sort of oil to soak the chain. This is the best way to lube the chain, and since you already have it torn apart you might as well take advantage of it. Now on the LTZ, the axle removes from left to right side (this may differ from model to model). This is where the torch sometimes comes in handy. The big axle jam nuts that hold the axle in the carrier had a little bit of dirt and rust holding them in place, so we put some heat directly on the nuts to loosen them up. After loosening the two big axle nuts and removing the rear sprocket, the castle nuts, and hubs and removing the rear brakes from the rear brake disc, the axle is ready to remove. Sometimes the axle
does not just slip right out. We specially made a punch to hit with the hammer that slipped over the axle nut threads, so as not to damage them. The brake disc can be kept in place because the axle slides out to that side. Once you have removed the axle, knock the bearings out of the carrier nice and easy with a long punch, working back and forth, so as not to jam it and break the carrier. We then took every part and cleaned them up first with a wire brush and then the parts washer to remove all of the old grease and dirt. Now it is time to put the new bearings and seals into place. This is done one side at a time by heating that side until it’s nice and hot, then dropping the cold bearing into place. (You may need to tap it into place; do this very carefully with a suitable bearing driver, and make sure it is going in evenly.) Do not forget to install the bearing spacer before installing the other bearing. We use lots of Bel Ray Waterproof grease on everything inside the bearing carrier. Now that the bearings are installed, put the seals into place with grease and place the bearing. Now reinstall the axle back into place. Once the axle is back into place, spin your two big jam nuts into place and torque to the recommended spec, reattach the rear brakes, and reattach the rear sprocket. Remove the chain from the pan of oil, wipe the extra oil off the chain, and reinstall the chain, loosening the chain tension bolts and sliding the sprocket all the way forward. After the chain is on the sprocket, tighten the rear tension bolt until you have 1-2 inches of slack. Now that the chain is adjusted, retighten the bearing carrier bolts and the rear brake bolts. Now that the axle is back to where it started, slide the hubs back on with a little grease on the splines and reattach the castle nut and cotter pins. Grab your rear wheels to throw them back on and tighten up your lug nuts. Now we always like to double check our work to make sure we have tightened everything back up and that all old parts and tools are removed from the work area to assure you are not letting anything extra on the quad to be lost later. The only thing left at this point is to get out and ride!
Warning: Working on motorcycles, ATVs and side-x-sides can be dangerous. You are working on heavy machines filled with flammable fluids. If you do not possess the skills necessary, please consult your authorized dealer. Accordingly, caution is advised.
Step 1: Loosen the axle jamb nuts on the sprocket side.
Step 2: With all nuts and bolts removed, slide the axle out of the carrier.
Step 3: While everything is removed, be sure to clean all parts thoroughly.
Step 4: Apply the proper torque to the jam nuts.
Step 5: Properly insert all cotter pins into the castle nuts.
Step 6: Be sure the open end of the master link clip is opposite of the drive direction of the chain.
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A.O.A.A. Update $1.5
Million Granted
December 28, 2011
BMER
The Back Mountain Enduro Riders hope all had a great holiday season. We are looking forward to a great 2012. We have three dates locked up and a couple more that we are working on. In the Pennsylvania State Championship Hare Scramble Series, we are hosting rounds six and round ten. Round six will be held June 17, and round ten will be held Aug. 26. We are also working on hosting an ECEA Hare Scramble on Oct. 20 and 21. We are planning on these events being held “Down by the River,” but we are currently working on alternate sites in case we have the similar issues as we did in 2011. Our Dual Sport Ride will be held Sept. 23 this year. Allan’s Farm will be the starting point again, and, as always, camping is free. Please keep your eye on www.bmer.org, or our facebook page, Back Mountain Enduro Riders, for up-to-date information.
www.canyonmotorsports.com
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The Northumberland County Commissioners are proud to announce the Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area project has come one step closer to a formal opening. The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources 2011 Community Conservation Partnerships Program grant awarded the Commissioners $1,500,000 for further development of the approximately 6,500 acre Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area. The AOAA is located in the townships of Coal, Mt. Carmel, Zerbe, and East and West Cameron. This grant will fund construction of motorized and non-motorized recreation including 200 miles of trails, trailhead amenities, parking, utilities, ADA access, security, and landscaping and project signage. This grant brings the project capitalization to $3,000,000 in grants, private capital, and in-kind contributions by the County and individuals working on behalf of the County. The Adventure Area was conceived to bring fresh money into the Lower Anthracite Region. The facility will serve as an economic engine to increase the revenue of local privately owned businesses. The Lower Anthracite Region has historically suffered from lack of private business employment, lack of business capital and business customers, and a diminishing real estate tax base. This decline began in the mid 1960s with the demise of the anthracite coal industry. The new money this project will bring to this area will help stabilize and partially reverse the economic decline. The added revenue will assist the school districts, municipalities and the County. The grants were facilitated by Senator Gordner, Representatives Masser and Culver, Commissioners Frank J. Sawicki, Vinny Clausi and Merle Phillips, as well as the Planning Department under Pat Mack and Kathy Jeremiah, who guided the project through the regulatory process. In talking with Pat Mack, this additional grant will be sufficient to get the park opened to the public. It’s great news for the area and for outdoor recreationalists from both PA and the surrounding regions. Located in the central PA Coal Region, this project will offer many great riding opportunities for a minimal cost. At this time there is no definite opening date; however, you can stay tuned to Rec Rider Magazine for updates as they occur.
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FEBRUARY 2012
“It just shut off?”
“Little Bill, Big World”
“Oh boy!”
“I got this!?!?”
Excerpts from our
Adventures in 2011 “Dude, I think it’s broke….” “I thought I could???”
“Yes, I’m Stuck :/”
“I can make that: O”
“I DID hit the brakes!!!” “Yeeeeehaaa!” “Feet on the Pegs!”
for more info
Now you can have the latest take on the original, high-performance, best-selling 450cc class machine – all in a super-light, surprisingly affordable package. The new YFZ450. Perfect for the trails, woods and dunes, it’s the ultimate “do it all without spending it all” sport ATV.
For the ATV dealer nearest you and to find out about Pro Yamaha dealers, visit
yamaha-motor.com
ATVs over 90cc are recommended for use only by riders age 16 years and older. Yamaha recommends that all ATV riders take an approved training course. For safety and training information, see your dealer or call the ATV Safety Institute at 1-800-887-2887. ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety: Always avoid paved surfaces. Never ride on public roads. Always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Never carry passengers. Never engage in stunt riding. Riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix. Avoid excessive speed. And be particularly careful on difficult terrain. ©2011 All rights reserved. Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A.
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