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KLIM Backcountry Team Ride 2018

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KLIM just released the latest 2018 Backcountry Team Ride video, where their mountain athletes spend two days riding epic Rocky Mountain terrain in KLIM’s testing grounds.

There’s really nothing like it. When KLIM takes premier snow athletes to the mountain west, it’s nonstop action. The third annual Backcountry Team Ride was yet another excellent opportunity for these athletes to ride together, push each other, and learn the constant improvements in gear. The level of riding skill here is truly unmatched, so it’s a chance for the pros to challenge each other with bigger climbs, jumps and aggressive riding.

It’s not just games and playtime, though. The KLIM Backcountry Team Ride is a perfect place for KLIM to continue gathering feedback on new gear. These athletes are extremely hard on their equipment, so KLIM greatly values the ability to get real, live feedback on the newest products.

The Backcountry Team Ride is also a chance for KLIM to sit down with the athletes and update them on the latest gear technologies, as well as train them on the differences between KLIM and any other snowmobile gear company. Constant development means it’s important to show these riders why gear is made the way it is, and how it’s built to further improve their time on the snow.

KLIM gear is engineered from real world experience and by listening closely to rider feedback. This continued drive to enhance the riders experience wouldn’t be the same without a dedicated team of backcountry riders pushing sleds and gear to the limits.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ycThkrWdH-E&t=339s

https://www.facebook.com/KlimUSA/videos/1878388005579409/

HYPERSLED ENGINES: Polaris Patriot 850

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Polaris saw the writing on the wall with Ski-Doo’s 850 E-TEC being such a big hit when it was introduced.

Although Polaris’ Liberty 800 was and still is a formidable powerhouse, from a marketing perspective it just flat-out wasn’t an 850.

Enter the Polaris Patriot 850. This big-inch Cleanfire Semi-Direct injected 2-stroke addresses the wants of the marketplace with increased power and torque and all the sizzle ownership of “King of The Hill” status can bring.

Obviously, Polaris knew what it had to deliver with the Patriot 850. While Ski-Doo was enjoying sales success with their new engine, Polaris had a distinct advantage bringing the Patriot to market.

They began developing their 850 before they introduced the Liberty 800 in 2015 and long before anyone saw the Rotax 850! Important issues like NVH and ensuring belt durability with the Patriot’s huge power had time to be thoroughly tested and fully vetted.

The bullet is in the chamber and Polaris has the 850 Rotax in their cross hairs. Get ready – it’s time for you to pull the trigger.

Producing power wasn’t Polaris’ first concern: This engine had to be as reliable as a Supreme Court judge and live a long, trouble-free life for its owners.

Thus, all 2019 Polaris snowmobiles powered by an 850 Patriot come with a transferable 4-year engine warranty. That level of confidence in an engine looks to us like long-term value. However, in order to give consumers this kind of coverage there had to be some differences.

Polaris started at the bottom end with humongous crank bearings and a beefier crankshaft. The crank bearings measure 40 x 80mms compared to the 800’s 35 x 72mm!

Power transfers into the primary clutch via an enlarged taper where a much larger drive belt, distinct to the 850, lies. Belt life is a big deal and something Ski-Doo has struggled with. Polaris engineers have expressed a high level of confidence in both belt durability and clutch performance.

A lot of this confidence comes from new engine mounts that do an incredible job of cancelling vibrations throughout the chassis without the use of a torque stop.

Externally, the 850 is surprisingly compact and despite all of its strength-enhancing architecture only weighs 6.5-lbs more than the Liberty 800. Huge 50mm throttle bodies are used and the claimed uptick in horsepower (over the 800 Liberty) is rated between 7 and 9-percent with a noticeable increase in torque.

By casting water passages internally, external cooling hoses have been eliminated and new electronically controlled exhaust valves use a “smart” servo-operated actuator for better accuracy.

Our early appraisal says this engine impresses with its incredible smoothness, kick-in-the-butt bottom end and its ability to pull tall gearing because of its ample power.

Is it faster than an 850 E-TEC? We’ll let you know as soon as the snow flies.

HYPERSLED ENGINES: Ski-Doo 900 ACE Turbo

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There’s been plenty of scuttle circulating about Ski-Doo’s new 900 ACE turbocharged engine available in almost ever segment of snowmobiling this year.

First we need to explain that the 150-hp rating of this engine is a bit of an understatement.

Although the dynamometer may read 150, the copious amounts of torque this engine generates makes it feel and perform like a much bigger engine.

We don’t have access to that particular torque info yet, but in comparison to 150-hp 2-strokes, this engine pulls way harder and can easily take advantage of taller gearing without an eyeblink.

Although the 900 ACE engine has been around a few years, this version has been considerably beefed internally to handle the extra pressure of the turbo.

It uses new, beefier connecting rods and different pistons with strength added on top where combustion happens and in the wrist pin area.

Naturally there have been adjustments to camshaft profiles, cooling, oil circulation and timing to deal with the estimated 55-horse increase over the naturally aspirated 900.

The big story is the turbocharger itself. This liquid-cooled, oil lubricated unit is wholly manufactured by Rotax and is not an import from another supplier.

The advantage here is that Rotax was able to control the specifications of what was required and did not have to adapt someone else’s design to get exactly what it wanted. We’re told it is engineered to operate in the 100,000 to 170,000 RPM range (that’s a pretty big range).

The turbo is actually mounted within the exhaust manifold very close to the exhaust ports so the compressor vanes can spool much more quickly as engine RPMs increase, thus reducing lag.

The compressed air charge is then routed through an intercooler, dropping the temperature of the compressed air entering the engine (cooler air has more oxygen). Boost is controlled by an electronic wastegate.

For those who are disappointed in Ski-Doo’s claims of 150-hp when the competition are already at 180, be encouraged by the fact the same engine and turbo already make a claimed 175-ponies in production Can-Am X3 side-by-sides.

This evidence tells us the whole story hasn’t been told on this engine and Ski-Doo is carefully field-testing it this year to ensure there are no glitches before it unleashes its full power potential, probably next year, in an all-new model.

2019 SKI-DOO MXZx 600RS

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BRP introduces the 2019 Ski-Doo MXZx 600RS E-TEC racing snowmobile with a new look, lighter weight and longer track designed specifically for snocross racing in North America.

The 2019 MXZx 600RS E-TEC, which is based on the REV Gen4 platform for superior rider ergonomics and handling in rough conditions, features significant changes designed to provide better race starts, faster turning, better bump absorption and a weight reduction.

The Gen4 layout retains the narrow design featuring centralized mass for agility and responsiveness while the Ergo Step side panels and beveled tunnel gives racers enormous freedom to ride the way they want – without interference from the chassis.

New this year will be a 137” track length for more traction and better holeshots, a lightweight hood, new lighter LED headlight, larger and newly Kashima coated KYB Pro shocks. Additional refinements to many systems result in more power at the track, a lower center of gravity and even sharper handling.

The RAS 3 front suspension will feature a new longer, stronger spindle that allows higher cornering speeds and a unique power steering system that provides ultra precise handling with less effort so racers can change lines easily. The Pilot R ski, first introduced last year, is further reinforced in 2019 for more durability and features a very aggressive profile.

The Racing rMotion skid frame in back is completely redesigned for the 137” length track with new motion ratio geometry for both front and rear arms. All four KYB Pro shocks (40 mm front and 46mm for both rear) will be Kashima coated for less friction, longer life and consistent performance. All shocks have new calibrations and the rear shock adds rebound adjustment to the high and low speed compression adjustments.

Also introduced last year, the very special – for racing only – Rotax 600RS E-TEC engine gets updated with new calibrations, new hot start button and new stainless steel tuned pipe. The Rotax engine features E-TEC direct injection, that always delivers quick response and perfect calibration no matter the altitude or weather conditions so racers and their crew have one less thing to worry about.

Other features include booster injectors first deployed on the Rotax 850 E-TEC, a short intake tract with double reeds and digital eRAVE. The new calibrations focus on improved acceleration, mid range power and easier use of the hot start feature. The new stainless steel tuned pipe contributes to the weight savings.

New in 2019 will be a throttle block with two positions that coincides with ECM updates allowing easy changes for Junior classes where the throttle is limited to 50%.

With all the power the MXZx 600RS produces, racers also need great brakes and the Brembo four-piston brake caliper mated to a stainless steel rotor delivers. For 2019 the rotor is 20mm larger in diameter for 15% more stopping power and better consistency in long races. The caliper is also repositioned for easier maintenance.

Chassis changes in addition to the lightweight Lexan hood and LED light include new engine mounts, new lighter belt cover with better airflow and new high flow left footrest vent.

The drive line is updated with a new, lighter drive axle, revised slip gear for better durability and new pDrive calibrations ready for the snocross track.

2019 MXZx 600RS Highlights

• REV Gen4 Platform –
• NEW 137” Track
• NEW Lightweight Lexan Hood
• NEW LED Lightweight Headlights
• Reinforced E and S modules
• Taper/tilt tunnel
• Short heat exchanger (Replaceable rear part of the tunnel)
• MX inspired seat with New foam for durability
• Racing foot box
• 5-gallon fuel tank
• Lower center of gravity
• NEW High Air Flow Left Vent
• RAS 3 Front Suspension
• NEW Kashima coated 40mm KYB Pro R Series shocks (High Speed /Low Speed compression and Rebound adjustments)
• NEW shock calibration
• Rack steering with power assist
• NEW longer Spindle design (Stronger + better speed cornering)
• Lightweight Pilot R2 Ski – Reinforced

Racing rMotion Rear Suspension

• NEW 137” length
• NEW Lightweight Front and rear arms
• NEW Kashima coated 46mm KYB Pro Series piggy back center shock w/ compression adjustment (High Speed – Low Speed)
• NEW Kashima coated 46mm KYB Pro Series piggy back rear shock w/ rebound and compression adjustment (High Speed – Low Speed)
• Revised geometry (New motion Ratio front and back)
• Rotax 600RS E-TEC Engine (599.4 cc)
• E-TEC direct injection
• Intake booster injectors (850-inspired)
• Shorter intake length (850-inspired)
• Double reed valves (850-inspired)
• Mono block cylinder design with Plasma coating
• eRAVE (850-inspired)
• NEW lightweight exhaust system (Stainless steel tuned pipe)
• NEW engine calibration
• NEW Throttle Block – Ready for 50% throttle applications
• NEW engine mounts
• NEW Hot Start Button (Easier to use)
• Drivetrain
• pDrive primary clutch
• TEAM TSS-04 secondary clutch
• Revised slip gear – Better durability
• NEW RS drive axle (Lighter)
• Brembo Brake System – 20mm larger diameter rotor, better consistency – Relocated for easier maintenance
• NEW lightweight belt guard – better air flow

Polaris® Introduces New Woodys® Traction Control Products and New PIEPS Avalanche Safety Products

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MINNEAPOLIS (Sept. 8, 2018) – To ensure that Polaris® snowmobilers have the best possible riding experiences, Polaris has introduced several premium new accessories, including outstanding traction control products from industry leader Woody’s®, and avalanche safety technology from PIEPS, a globally respected supplier based in the Austrian Alps.

NEW TRACTION PRODUCTS

Among the new Woody’s traction products available through Polaris snowmobile dealers are Woody’s Dooly™ Skags in a choice of two lengths, and the Woody’s Slim Jim® Dooly™ Skags, also available in two lengths.

Woody’s Dooly Skags, available with carbides of 4″ or 6″ in length, provide recreational trail riders with confidence-inspiring control and easier handling on the trails. Each Dooly Skag has two 7/16” Flat-Top® runners with 60º carbides. With its four runners – two parallel runners per ski – the Dooly Skag helps a rider avoid the grooves made by other sleds. Its tucked front end design enhances stability, and pressure is distributed between two points for easier steering than a skag with a single pressure point.

Woody’s Slim Jim Skags reduce darting, like the Dooly, and they deliver more-aggressive cornering. They feature dual runners and are more than 30-percent lighter than the Dooly. Slim Jim Skags have 60º turning carbides in a choice of 4” or 6”.

The new Storm 150 Stud Kits make it easier than ever to stud a Storm 150 track for enhanced traction and control. This kit includes everything you need to stud your track, including studs, nuts, backer plates, track marker, track drill, and template.

PIEPS AVALANCHE SAFETY PRODUCTS

Based in the Austrian Alps, PIEPS is recognized worldwide for its outstanding avalanche safety products, and two new PIEPS beacons and an airbag system are now available through Polaris snowmobile dealers.

Made exclusively for Polaris, the PIEPS JetForce SC 20L provides a rider with the latest advances in avalanche airbag technology. It uses the new Alpride E1 airbag system, which is electrically powered by cutting-edge super capacitors. This powerful, fan-based system charges via both a micro USB and AA batteries, and is housed in a 20-liter pack that stores essential avalanche safety equipment as well as the gear used on a day in the backcountry.

The system is compact and simple to use, with a single on/off switch and blinking status indicator lights that can be visibly checked from the outside of the pack while it is being worn.

PIEPS BT Beacons are the ideal complements to the new JetForce SC 20L. The PIEPS Powder BT Beacon is Bluetooth®-enabled so updates can be sent to the transceiver. Its functions include Extensive Self-Check, Auto-Search-To-Send, Auto-Antenna-Switch, and iProbe Support.

The PIEPS Pro BT Beacon includes all features and functions of the Powder BT Beacon, and it also has the Group Check & Scan function.

These products and all other Polaris snowmobile accessories are available from Polaris snowmobile dealers and at www.Polaris.com.

All-New 2019 Polaris® 600R Race Sled Delivers Greatly Improved Performance from the Holeshot to the Checkered Flag

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MINNEAPOLIS (Sept. 8, 2018) – The new Polaris® 600R Race Sled is better everywhere on the race course, from the holeshot through jumps, bumps, and corners, which gives Polaris racers a decided advantage heading into the 2018-2019 race season. The new race sled features an all-new 136” RX2 Rear Suspension with new shocks, improved steering geometry, a new tunnel, and enhanced cooling, braking, and racer ergonomics.

“Even though it’s new, the Polaris 600R Race Sled is also proven,” said Polaris Racing Manager Tom Rager, Jr. “We had seven different racers – Pro, Pro Lite, Sport, and Junior – testing the sled last winter and in extensive post-season testing. It’s a winner and it gives Polaris racers a decided edge over the competition.”

New 136” RX2 Rear Suspension

The all-new 136” RX2 Rear Suspension is engineered and tuned for improved performance everywhere from the holeshot to corners and rough terrain. It is a proprietary Polaris Racing design, not a copycat suspension, and it features new ideas, and components such as an all-new rear arm and revised coupling block geometry. RX2 components are designed and manufactured for optimized strength and light weight, and the limiter strap is adjustable so a racer can fine-tune the ski pressure.

The front and rear track shocks are new Walker Evans® 2” Velocity Series Shocks. These shocks are adjustable and proven to withstand the rigors of racing and reliably soak up impacts throughout a long main event.

Above the rear suspension is an all-new tunnel that is stiffer and provides increased track clearance. A new one-piece tunnel heat exchanger provides improved cooling that is complemented by tunnel snow scoops that help reduce temperatures on the starting line and all around the race course.

The new running board design increases ground clearance, provides greater strength, and enhances snow evacuation.

Improved Steering Geometry

The new 600R Race Sled has improved steering geometry that provides a tighter turning radius and flatter cornering so a racer can carry more speed all the way through the corners. Plus, less effort is required of the racer, which will help minimize fatigue.

The IFS is equipped with proven, outstanding, and adjustable Walker Evans® 2” Velocity Series Shocks, and the sled has all-new C&A XCS skis that are less aggressive, a change made possible by the significantly improved rear suspension performance.

The 600R Race Sled is powered by the proven title-winning, quick-accelerating 600 engine, which has a new ignition system that provides increased spark energy. This helps produce extra power for improved top speeds and better high-RPM performance. The Hayes brake’s pads feature a new compound for improved durability and optimized performance

Racers who tested the 600R Race Sled helped refine the new seat design so it significantly improves a racer’s comfort and control. With the new seat, the ergonomics are enhanced to provide the racer with greater stability that is especially noticeable in corners. The racer is positioned to control the sled with less effort, which reduces fatigue. And the new seat cover has additional grip ribs that further improve racer stability.

Timbersled® ARO Snow Bike Lineup Expands with Addition of New Timbersled® ARO 129 LE

Snow bikers now have more choices of industry-leading Timbersled® ARO™ snow bike systems with the introduction of the new Timbersled® ARO™ 129 LE, which gives riders all the great benefits of the ARO™ 120 with 12% more flotation.

The Timbersled ARO 120 is widely recognized as the ultimate do-everything snow bike, and the new Timbersled ARO 129 LE shares many of its features – with a new rail and 129 hyfax, new extended side panels, and a new 129 Traverse Track that is instrumental in the system’s 12% greater flotation.

The Timbersled ARO family offers riders a full line of snow bike systems, with an ARO kit that’s just right for each type of rider. Along with the Timbersled ARO 120 and the new Timbersled ARO 129 LE, there’s the Timbersled ARO 137 for the deepest snow and steepest climbs.

Each Timbersled ARO system features a durable, proven, state of the art platform design, that delivers a true bolt-on design making them the easiest to install and convert. They provide the best handling on- and off-trail, giving riders the ultimate deep snow agility and climbing capabilities along with confidence-inspiring trail handling and cornering.

Key elements of the ARO systems that make them the industry’s best-handling snow bikes include:
· A 1:1 ski-to-track ratio for the most precise cornering and best side-hilling control.
· Direct Bolt-On System with no required bike modifications
· The Traverse Track for improved trail handling and deep snow lift
· High strength aluminum frame to make it Timbersled Tough

The ARO Rear Suspension features an advanced design that mimics the feel of a dirt bike with a track approach angle optimized to improve lift in deep snow. It delivers 30% more front track shock travel and 2” more overall suspension travel than the previous Timbersled® chassis. The exclusive ARO shielded brake system reduces ice buildup and provides improved, consistent on-snow performance.

The ARO system is the easiest to convert because it’s a direct bolt-on system with no bike modifications required. With the bolt-on spindle there’s no need to drill, the brakes are pre-bled, and there’s no air box modification required. Once installed, the direct bolt-on suspension is easy to tune to suit a rider’s preferences.

New ARO 129 LE Features
The new Timbersled ARO 129 LE has a new 129” Traverse Track, new longer rails and hyfax, new extended side panels, and a new extended tunnel top that offers expanded cargo space. The new ARO 129 LE comes in Titanium Matte Metallic and has color-matched features including the bumper, frame standoffs, graphics, rails, suspension arms, QS3 shocks, white ski hoop, and spindle.

The ARO 129 LE also has the Timbersled Traverse Ski 2.0, which has an aggressive tri-keel shape and ski skags for improved strength, grip, and precise handling. This ski provides better lean angles on hard pack and greater control in deep snow.

Timbersled Tough
Timbersled models have proven their durability in the fiercest competition and in the toughest terrain. Timbersled snow bike systems are the #1 choice of regional and X Games champions because of their proven durability.

About Polaris
Polaris Industries Inc. (NYSE: PII) is a global powersports leader that has been fueling the passion of riders, workers and outdoor enthusiasts for more than 60 years. With annual 2017 sales of $5.4 billion, Polaris’ innovative, high-quality product line-up includes the RANGER®, RZR® and Polaris GENERAL™ side-by-side off-road vehicles; the Sportsman® and Polaris ACE® all-terrain off-road vehicles; Indian Motorcycle® midsize and heavyweight motorcycles; Slingshot® moto-roadsters; snowmobiles; and pontoon, deck and cruiser boats. Polaris enhances the riding experience with parts, garments and accessories, along with a growing aftermarket portfolio, including Transamerican Auto Parts. Polaris’ presence in adjacent markets globally include military and commercial off-road vehicles, quadricycles, and electric vehicles. Proudly headquartered in Minnesota, Polaris serves more than 100 countries across the globe. Visit www.polaris.com for more information.

NEW PREMIUM T-SHIRT ASSORTMENT FROM ARCTIC CAT

St. Cloud, Minn. (August 20, 2018) – Enjoy comfort and expression with the latest selection of premium T-shirt options from Arctic Cat .

The men’s OIL CAN T-shirt features a classic purple heritage oil can set against a Heathered Charcoal background. It’s enhanced with a vintage wash that offers an extra-soft feel for the relaxed fit, 52 percent cotton and 48 percent polyester shirt. Available in S – 2XL sizes with an MSRP of $25.95 U.S./$35.95Canada.

The women’s relaxed-fit STENCIL t-shirt is made from breathable and durable 100 percent cotton. It comes in Heathered Charcoal or Purple in S – 2XL sizes, with an MSRP of $25.95 U.S./ $35.95 Canada.

Get your braap on with the new TEAM ARCTIC BRAAP youth T-shirt. It’s made from durable heavyweight 100 percent cotton and comes in Black or Orange in S – L youth sizes. The MSRP is $15.95 U.S./$21.95 Canada.

These and dozens of other new Arcticwear T-shirts are available now at most Arctic Cat dealerships and through the Arctic Cat online store at www.store.arcticcat.com.

New ELEVATION 3-IN-1 JACKET FROM ARCTIC CAT

St. Cloud, Minn. (August 20, 2018) – Ride with the ultimate versatility and technical features with the new Elevation 3-in-1 Jacket from Arctic Cat. The 3-in-1 jacket system includes a non-insulated nylon shell with mesh lining featuring the waterproof and breathable Sno-Shield three-layer fabric with full taped waterproof seams that keeps the water out while allowing moisture to escape for maximum dryness. Two handwarmer pockets are matched by an interior chest pocket that’s compatible with a headphone cord for ample storage options. Zippered vents on the front and back enable quick and easily customizable climate control. Lycra® inner cuffs with thumbholes keep out wind and snow, while YKK zippers set the standard for quality and durability. A removable liner features 60g of insulation and can be worn by itself. The Men’s jacket is available in Black/Green or Orange in S – 3XL adult sizes, while the Women’s jacket comes in Black/Green or Black/Purple in S – 2XL sizes.

The MSRP is $391.95 U.S./$529.95 Canada.

This and other new Arcticwear items are available now at most Arctic Cat dealerships and through the Arctic Cat online store at www.store.arcticcat.com.

New CUSTOM ZR 200 ACCESSORIES FROM ARCTIC CAT

St. Cloud, Minn. August 20, 2018) – Arctic Cat expands its line of custom and performance accessories for youth-model ZR 200 snowmobiles. These are just four of the nearly 20 items available for all 2018 and 2019 models.

The new Snocross Handlebar Kit for the ZR 200 features a 27-inch wide bar that’s 4 inches wider than the stock bar. The kit also includes a 5-position riser that adjusts up to 4 inches higher than stock and allows handlebar rotation adjustability. The MSRP is $195.95 U.S./$264.95 Canada.

Larger and more aggressive riders will appreciate the new Heavy-Duty Suspension Kit for a ZR 200. It includes a coil-spring for each ski shock plus two torsion springs for the rear suspension. The MSRP is $102.95 U.S./$139.95 Canada.

Designed for racers and riders who want to look extra-fast, the new Number Plate Kit is custom-made from durable polyethylene and mounts to ZR 200 tunnel and seat support. Sold in pairs with an MSRP of $35.95 U.S./$48.95 Canada.

Monitor speed, distance and engine RPM on a ZR 200 with a new Speedometer Kit. Calibrated for precise monitoring, it mounts to the hood for easy viewing and includes a speed sensor. The MSRP is $411.95 U.S./$556.95 Canada.

These and other new Arcticwear items are available now at most Arctic Cat dealerships and through the Arctic Cat online store at www.store.arcticcat.com.