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FCMQ and Woody’s collaboration

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Snowmobile safety is a primary and constant preoccupation for the Fédération des clubs de motoneigistes du Québec (Quebec federation of snowmobile clubs, or FCMQ).

This is precisely the reason behind the FCMQ’s decision to ally itself with International Engineering & Manufacturing Inc., better known by its trade name Woody’s, for the launching of a new safety campaign geared to promoting and encouraging stud use on snowmobile tracks.

Based on the theme “Snowmobile safety… get a grip!”, the campaign espouses the virtues of these safety enhancement devices which have been proven in numerous studies and whose use is endorsed by industry experts. Offering unrivaled traction in icy and low-grip conditions, stud use is a reliable and sure safety investment for all snowmobilers, notably in a world in which trail conditions are increasingly icy and unpredictable.

“With trail conditions becoming increasingly variable, stud use is an important and significant contributor to the safety and well-being of trail riding snowmobilers”, notes Stéphane Desroches, FCMQ General Manager. Tanya King, Marketing Manager at Woody’s, the world’s foremost producer of studs and runners for snowmobiles, adds that “we are proud to be able to contribute our expertise in this important field and collaborate towards the increased safety and well-being of Quebec’s snowmobilers. Use of traction products, including carbide runners, improves stability and balance, helping to make for a safer and more enjoyable snowmobiling experience.”

The campaign will be featured in various FCMQ communications vehicles throughout the 2016-2017 season, including the provincial trail map, the Services guide and Motoneige Québec magazine.

About the FCMQ – The Fédération des clubs de motoneigistes du Québec, a sectorial tourism association, is a not-for-profit organisation that has been serving its members for more than 42 years. It is dedicated to the development and promotion of safe snowmobiling throughout Quebec. The FCMQ defends the interests of its 200 member clubs and their 90,000 individual members. More than 4,500 volunteers contribute in excess of 800,000 hours annually towards the maintenance of the provincial snowmobile trail network. Some 14,000 jobs are created thanks to snowmobiling, resulting in a level of annual economic activity totaling $3.27 billion, of which $1.9 billion is attributable to the activity itself with a further $1.37 billion coming from related manufacturing activity.

About Woody’s – International Engineering and Manufacturing Inc. (IEM), makers of Woody’s® traction products, is based in Hope, Michigan, USA and is known worldwide as the industry’s premier producer of snowmobile performance and safety traction products for skis and rubber tracks. IEM is family owned, currently on its second generation, and keeps up with the latest technology and equipment. Over 48 years, IEM has transformed from a part-time business to an international corporation. This expansion came from perseverance, hard work, innovation, an unwavering commitment to quality products and following through with excellent customer service. Commit to a life with Woody’s Traction Products because trust and reliability are the best foundation for any terrain..

YAMAHA’S NEW MID RANGE SLED

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We recently commented in Supertrax about the shelf lives for certain Yamaha models approaching their stale dates. One particular target is the Phazer with its high-strung 500cc powerhouse and incredibly unique styling.

If you’ve ever had the opportunity to ride a 4-stroke Phazer, you know how much fun the sled is and how well it performs, particularly on trails.

It’s been around for quite a few years and, frankly, its price is pretty high compared to the competition’s mid or entry level 2-strokes. Sure, it is a 4-stroke but with sleds like Cat’s 4-stoke ZR5000 and Ski-Doo’s 900 ACE, from the showroom window it’s difficult to justify old technology versus new.

We think Yamaha may have a Phazer replacement in the works and we have a hunch what it might look like… It begins with a 129-inch ZR chassis using gas cell shocks and a 1-inch deep track. Power would come from the new 998cc triple used in the SideWinder, certainly naturally aspirated (no turbo) and using single throttle body EFI. Power would be detuned into the 95 to 100-horse range – just enough to one-up the ACE 900 (90-hp) and justify a price increase over the competition.

This power output would separate it nicely from the Viper and keep pricing lower than that sled but likely higher than the Phazer. Think we’re crazy? Maybe, but this engine-chassis combo with a number of cost-downs would be a big hit with the same type of customer who loves the ACE 900.

It’s tough to deny the ACE 900 has been a huge success for Ski-Doo and there are plenty of riders out there who like the idea of a 100-hp 4-stroke snowmobile.

TEST RIDE: M8000 SnoPro 153 Limited

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SnowTrax Television Co-Host Luke Lester evaluates Arctic Cat’s 2016 M8000 Sno Pro 153 Limited.

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ARCTIVA REGULATOR BASE LAYER

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Arctiva introduces new Women’s Regulator Base Layering

Keep It Close To The Skin. Do the lady in your life a favor this Christmas, give her the gift of WARMTH!

The most effective way to keep warm on the trails is to start with the right base layers. Recently introduced by Arctiva is the new Women’s Mid-Weight Regulator. Built with a comfortable polyester/spandex blend provides 4-way stretch for range of movement and comfort. Get both the shirt and pant for a mere $30.00 per piece! Available in sizes XS thru 2XL.

ARCTIVA produces a complete line of apparel for the snow enthusiast.

For more information visit us at arctiva.com.

SURE GRIP DOLLIES INNOVATION

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2016 marks yet another advancement for the Sure Grip system as the company introduces a redesigned, detachable forward security cable.

Available as an option when ordering, the new feature accommodates Ski-Doo snowmobiles with Pilot TS adjustable skis. The added height of the adjustment knob is easily accommodated with the detachable security cable that clips back in place once the ski is positioned on the dolly.

Sure Grip dollies are designed to accommodate virtually all makes and models of snowmobiles along with today’s leading aftermarket ski designs. Standard Sure Grip Dollies can also be adjusted for skis up to 7-1/4-inches wide and for the extra wide mountain skis measuring up to 10-inches in width the mega-wide dollies are available.

Sure Grip Dollies continues to be the top choice of snowmobile enthusiasts for moving their sled on hard and uneven surfaces. Those who want to protect their carbides, keep driveway and garage surfaces gouge free and also protect their back from heavy lifting all agree that Sure Grip answers their needs best!

– Sure Grip dollies are also used by the US Marine Corps in California to access the snow line for winter mountain warfare training camps.
– Sure Grips have proven useful for DNR officers in state and national park services to access trail systems for patrol and rescue when snow cover is marginal.
– They have also been found to be an ideal tool for use in the fall to assist the driver portion of various youth snowmobile safety-training programs.

Sure Grip Dollies are 100% made in America and are constructed of solid plate steel, utilizing proven SURE GRIP Premium grade 5-inch solid rubber wheels mounted on graphite bearings. For a non-running sled, a swivel track dolly is included, the only question that remains is: What challenges do you have for the SURER GRIPS?

See them in action at suregripdolly.com or call 320-252-0278.

TEST RIDE: 2016 Ski-Doo Renegade Enduro 800R

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SnowTrax Television Co-Host Luke Lester evaluates Ski-Doo’s 2016 Renegade Enduro 800R.

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Snowmobiling in West Yellowstone

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AJ’s in West Yellowstone with a friend doing some off-trail exploring aboard his Polaris RMK!

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Polaris Celebrates the Life of David Johnson

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MEDINA, Minn. (Oct. 9) – Polaris employees and Polaris riders worldwide are celebrating the life and mourning the passing of one of the company’s co-founders, David Johnson. He passed away yesterday in Roseau, Minn., after an extended illness. He was 93 years old.

Since he helped start Polaris in the early 1950s, David focused his career on product engineering and manufacturing, and developed a deep connection with Polaris employees during his four-plus decades with the company. In the years following his retirement in 1988, he remained one of the faces of Polaris as he enjoyed visiting the Roseau manufacturing facility and often gave tours at the Polaris Experience Center located near the plant.

“David Johnson embodied the Polaris culture and work ethic, and his positive impact on the company continues to inspire us today,” said Polaris Chairman and CEO Scott Wine. “David valued hard work, passion for the riding experience, and an unwavering spirit of innovation. He set a tremendous example with his dedication and commitment to the company and employees. We are saddened by his passing and offer our sincere condolences to Eleanor and David’s family and friends.”

After working together for a few years, David and his two cousins, Edgar and Allan Hetteen, officially founded Polaris in1954. Polaris produced a variety of products, including several agricultural products such as straw cutter attachments for combines. But David Johnson and several co-workers who were avid outdoorsmen envisioned a vehicle – a snow machine – they could use in winter to reach their remote hunting shacks. In late 1955, David and his cohorts created the first Polaris snowmobile, a machine that made its first run across a snowy Roseau field in January 1956.

Polaris began producing snowmobiles and helped create the global market for the versatile winter machines. David later said that while Polaris did not invent the snow machine, the company was the first to successfully market snowmobiles. With David in production roles such as Vice President of Manufacturing, Polaris became the snowmobile industry’s long-time market share leader, the dominant brand in snowmobile racing, and the brand known for delivering the best ride and handling. By the time David retired in 1988, the company had begun to diversify and was also producing and marketing off-road vehicles.

David was inducted into the Snowmobile Hall of Fame in 1999, and he received numerous honors from snowmobile clubs and associations worldwide.

David Johnson is survived by his wife of 68 years, Eleanor, and their children, Rodney, Mary, Mitchell, and Aaron. Information about funeral services is forthcoming. All Polaris employees are honorary pallbearers for the service.

About Polaris
Polaris Industries Inc. (NYSE: PII) is a global powersports leader with annual 2015 sales of $4.7 billion. Polaris fuels the passion of riders, workers and outdoor enthusiasts with our RANGER®, RZR® and POLARIS GENERAL™ side-by-side off-road vehicles; our SPORTSMAN® and POLARIS ACE® all-terrain off-road vehicles; VICTORY® and INDIAN MOTORCYCLE®midsize and heavyweight motorcycles; SLINGSHOT® moto-roadsters; and Polaris RMK®, INDY®, SWITCHBACK® and RUSH® snowmobiles. Polaris enhances the riding experience with parts, garments and accessories sold under multiple recognizable brands, and has a growing presence in adjacent markets globally with products including military and commercial off-road vehicles, quadricycles, and electric vehicles. www.polaris.com

ARCTIC CAT SUPPORTS CANADIAN SNOWMOBILING

Minneapolis, Minn. (Oct. 1, 2016) – Arctic Cat introduces the “Ride Free This Winter Event” Free Trail Pass (direct to consumer rebate) for this coming riding season in Canada. Arctic Cat is pleased to continue its support of their dealers, the Canadian Snowmobile Organization and Arctic Cat customers to promote enjoying the Canadian snowmobile trail systems.

Arctic Cat will be providing a FREE Snowmobile Trail Permit with every new/unused 2013 – 2017 Arctic Cat Snowmobile purchased from an authorized Arctic Cat dealership from October 1 – November 30, 2016.

“The Ride Free This Winter trail pass program is one more way Arctic Cat is providing the Ultimate Off-Road Riding Experience to our consumers,” said Greg Williamson, Arctic Cat Chief Marketing Officer. “We want to make it easier for our customers to enjoy the vast snowmobile trail systems that span the Provinces across Canada. The Provincial Associations and Snowmobile Clubs work very hard to support and maintain those trails, and Arctic Cat greatly appreciates their hard work and dedicated efforts.”

For every 2013 – 2017 Arctic Cat snowmobile retailed during this promotional period, Arctic Cat will issue a refund to the consumer for the cost of the Snowmobile Trail Permit. Each consumer would complete a form with a copy of proof of purchase of the Snowmobile Trail Permit, copy of the Arctic Cat snowmobile warranty registration and mail it directly to Arctic Cat. Once received, Arctic Cat will issue a check to the consumer for the cost of the Snowmobile Trail Permit. Limited to one Snowmobile Trail Permit per snowmobile. Buy your trail permit where you ride! Ask for rebate form at your local Arctic Cat dealer for more details.

About Arctic Cat
The Arctic Cat brand is among the most widely recognized and respected in the recreational vehicle industry. The company designs, engineers, manufactures and markets all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), side-by-sides and snowmobiles, in addition to related parts, garments and accessories under the Arctic Cat® and Motorfist® brand names. Arctic Cat Inc.’s world headquarters is located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Its common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the ticker symbol “ACAT.” More information about Arctic Cat and its products is available at www.arcticcat.com.

ARCTIC CAT ANNOUNCES BLACK CATS PRO TEAM

Arctic Cat announced four of the Pro Black Cats Backcountry team members at the 50th Anniversary Sno Baron’s Hay Days event including Rob Kincaid, David McClure, Cory Davis and Brett Turcotte. Today, six Pro Lite riders have been added to that roster; Luke Nokelby (AK), Cooper Street (AK), Morgan Gamache (BC), Jordan Nieters (MT), Levi Johnson (UT) and Taylor Meuwissen (CO).

The Black Cats backcountry Pro ambassadors will take their competitiveness to new arenas on 2017 M 8000 Mountain Cats representing Arctic Cat and their partners in power like Speedwerx and Motorfist at the highest levels during Arctic Cat Dealer Shows, Snowmobile Events and further increase a strong presence within the Social Media community with captivating content.

The six Pro Lite riders will execute the same initiative aboard new 2017 M8000 Mountain Cats, and will showcase why the best mountain riders in the industry choose the durability and performance of a Mountain Cat, along with Arcticwear clothing and accessories.

“Every world-class athlete deserves a world-class team, and that’s what the Black Cats Factory Backcountry team will be,” said Arctic Cat’s, Erik Nelson VP/GM of the Snow Division. “We have stated in other areas of our business that there are significant opportunities when you re-imagine what’s possible. Arctic Cat has the best athletes on our brand, and the Black Cats Team will bring them all together under one Factory umbrella.”

You can follow the Black Cats Team exclusively on Instagram: @arcticcat_blackcats, on the Arctic Cat_Snow social media channels, as well as the individual athlete pages this season.

The Arctic Cat brand is among the most widely recognized and respected in the recreational vehicle industry. The company designs, engineers, manufactures and markets all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), side-by-sides and snowmobiles, in addition to related parts, garments and accessories under the Arctic Cat® and Motorfist® brand names. Arctic Cat Inc.’s world headquarters is located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Its common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the ticker symbol “ACAT.”

More information about Arctic Cat and its products is available at arcticcat.com.