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2024 Annual Meeting

The SAM Board of Directors would like to invite you to celebrate your association at the upcoming SAM Annual Meeting and lunch on Saturday, April 13, 2024. ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, March 6, 2024 in Awards, General Announcements, News & Updates

Mill Valley Snowmobile Club

Founded and Incorporated in October of 1971, the Mill Valley Snowmobile Club, of Belchertown, Mass, has created and maintained a trail system of approximately 100 miles. Joining a club helps insure the future of the family sport of snowmobiling by ...Read more

Published on Friday, December 1, 2023 in Clubs

Bernardston Gill Leyden Snowmobile Club

Last Monday of the month at 7pm Bernardston Veterans Club 16 Hartwell Street Bernardston MA 01337 Our club newly elected officers and delegates Jared Smith, President Dan Hale, Vice President Camilla Thatcher, Secretary Jeff Miller, Treasurer Brad Stafford, Legislative Contact ...Read more

Published on Friday, December 1, 2023 in Clubs

New Hampshire Snowmobile Museum Association

A one-of-a-kind museum complex boasting a collection of over 80 snow-traveling machines and a large collection of memorabilia. ...Read more

Published on Thursday, November 9, 2023 in Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors

Rescom Exteriors

The window and door company New Englanders trust. ...Read more

Published on Thursday, November 9, 2023 in Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors

Hygear Suspension

Hygear Suspension specializes in the performance and handling of recreational vehicle suspension systems. ...Read more

Published on Thursday, November 9, 2023 in Current Bronze Sponsor, Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors

Prinoth Snow Grooming

Prinoth trail groomers are leaders of the pack with quiet, comfortable cabins, proven reliability and unmatched climbability. ...Read more

Published on Friday, November 3, 2023 in Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors

Adirondack Cross Country Snowmobile Race Series

The Northeast’s premier snowmobiling race series! ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, November 1, 2023 in Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors

Nitro Trailers

High quality trailers for your every need. ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, November 1, 2023 in Current Bronze Sponsor, Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors

How Our Club Works

Savoy Kanary Kats Snow Newsletter Submission {insert SKK new logo} How our club works… We all love riding the trails, but the vast majority of riders have no idea how much goes into making a club run, they just want ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, October 3, 2023 in News & Updates

Buckland Riders on the Move

Trail work this summer has been a challenge with all the rain, but we’ve managed to get out anyway and clear up most of the damaged from last winter’s storms. We sure hope the snow this year doesn’t come in ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, October 3, 2023 in News & Updates

EightFifty Co.

Our mission is simple, to create premium quality snowmobile inspired apparel that you can enjoy all year round. We believe that everyone deserves apparel that not only looks great but also feels comfortable. We want you to feel proud and ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, September 26, 2023 in Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors

RPM’s

Recreational powersports and motorsports supplies. ...Read more

Published on Thursday, September 7, 2023 in Current Bronze Sponsor, Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors

Knox Trail Sno-Riders Snowmobile Club

Published on Friday, August 25, 2023 in Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors

FWA To Allow Waivers For RTP Grants

https://unitedsnowmobilealliance.com/fwa-to-allow-waivers-for-rtp/ ...Read more

Published on Thursday, August 17, 2023 in Uncategorized

LJE Products

Since 2014 LJE Products has been designing and manufacturing high-quality helmet and snowmobile LED lighting. We are the originators of the Biteharder LED Helmet Safety Light. Designed and tested by riders over the last 8 years since being introduced, our ...Read more

Published on Friday, August 11, 2023 in Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors

Maine Snowmobile Association (MSA)

Published on Wednesday, August 9, 2023 in Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors

New Hampshire Snowmobile Association (NHSA)

Published on Wednesday, August 9, 2023 in Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors

Mission 22

Mission 22 provides support to Veterans and their families when they need it most: right now. Through a comprehensive approach of outreach, events, and programs, we’re promoting long-term wellness and sustainable growth. ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, July 11, 2023 in Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors

Sled Expo 2023!

Online registration for sponsors, vendors and clubs is LIVE! ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 27, 2023 in General Announcements

Public Input Sought on Local Land Conservation

Press Release from Hilltown Land Trust Contact: Katie Carr 413-628-4485 ext 5 For Immediate Release Hilltown Land Trust is seeking input from local residents on land conservation priorities for the Hilltowns. They have created a brief, online survey, and are ...Read more

Published on Monday, November 7, 2022 in News & Updates

Mack Studs, Inc

Mack Studs is a small family owned company doing our best to provide your customers with a great quality product at a reasonable price with unsurpassed customer service! We appreciate your business. ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, October 26, 2022 in Current Bronze Sponsor, Past Bronze Sponsor, Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors, Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

New England Trail GPS / GPS Trailmasters

Published on Tuesday, October 18, 2022 in Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

Hilltown Snowmobile Club

Published on Tuesday, October 11, 2022 in Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors, Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

SureTrac Systems LLC: JSR Enterprises LLC

SureTrac Systems sells Simmons Skis! — Simmons’ Flexi-Ski, Generation 2, Generation 3 — The finest trail skis on the market. Simmons Skis offer tremendous flotation in deep snow and increase your ability to side-hill. ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, October 11, 2022 in Current Bronze Sponsor, Past Bronze Sponsor, Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors, Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

AMSOIL: JSR Enterprises LLC

AMSOIL – Independent Dealer Simmons Skis – Authorized Dealer Product and Account options available at the Show!! ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, October 11, 2022 in Current Bronze Sponsor, Past Bronze Sponsor, Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors, Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

201 PowerSports, Inc.

Maine’s spectacular outdoor scenery must be seen to be believed. With the help of 201 PowerSports, you can get out there and explore more of it. Our sports rental services in Bingham, The Forks, and Jackman, Maine will make it ...Read more

Published on Monday, October 10, 2022 in Past Bronze Sponsor, Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

Get out and explore the Savoy Kanary Kats trail system!

We all love the crisp sound of the track in the snow, the sound of the skegs as they bite into a hard-packed, perfectly groomed trail. Did you ever catch yourself wondering what you’re driving past… an old farm from ...Read more

Published on Saturday, October 1, 2022 in News & Updates

An Officer and Two Gentlemen

Published on Monday, September 12, 2022 in Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors, Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

The Eighth “Be Bold, Ride Old” Vintage Sled and Tractor Show and Swap Meet

Sunday, September 18, 2022 from 9am–4pm | Here’s your chance to pull out that old snowmobile or tractor, clean it up, and and show it off at the eighth Knox Trail Sno-Riders Vintage Snowmobile and Tractor Show plus Swap Meet. ...Read more

Published on Thursday, September 8, 2022 in General Announcements

Vermont Association Of Snow Travelers

Founded 50 years ago, VAST is responsible for the organization of the sport of snowmobiling, maintaining and grooming over 4,700 miles of trails in Vermont. One of the oldest snowmobiling organizations in the U.S., VAST is a non-profit 501-c-3 orginization ...Read more

Published on Monday, September 5, 2022 in Past Gold Sponsor, Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors, Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

Southside Sales & Service Inc

South Side Sales & Service is a family owned business proudly serving Berkshire County and surrounding areas for over 40 years. Our priority is maximum satisfaction and top quality service for our customers. Our employees take pride in dealing with ...Read more

Published on Sunday, September 4, 2022 in Current Silver Sponsor, Past Silver Sponsor, Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors, Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

Plaistow Power Sports

Located in Plaistow, New Hampshire, just over the Massachusetts border and only a short drive from Maine. New Hampshire is a great place to enjoy year-round powersports both on road and off road. Plaistow PowerSports is a great place to ...Read more

Published on Saturday, September 3, 2022 in Current Gold Sponsor, Past Gold Sponsor, Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors, Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

Central Mass Power Sports

On June 21, 2013 Central Mass PowerSports joined New England PowerSports. NEPS has a long history of working hard at being a great PowerSports Dealership. NEPS can trace its origins back to 1969, and has evolved into a leader in ...Read more

Published on Friday, September 2, 2022 in Current Gold Sponsor, Past Gold Sponsor, Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors, Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

Blizzard Manufacturing, Inc.

Blizzard Manufacturing is an All Aluminum trailer manufacturer located in upstate New York. We have built our business on high quality and workmanship. Our trailers are made with a heavier frame construction, a roof truss bow system and have a ...Read more

Published on Thursday, September 1, 2022 in Past Gold Sponsor, Past Platinum Sponsor, Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors, Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

Connecticut Valley Sno-Riders

Published on Wednesday, August 24, 2022 in Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors, Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

SAM Legislation Outreach Tips and Guidelines 2021–22

First, thank you! Our advocacy efforts will not be successful unless our members (i.e. voters) exercise their rights to get involved. Please email Sue Smiley, Legislative Director directly if you have any questions. Please ask your members to try to ...Read more

Published on Friday, February 25, 2022 in Legislative Affairs, News & Updates

Off-roaders: Please stay off the trails!

The Knox Trail Sno-Riders and every snowmobile club work hard all year to keep the many unplowed town and state forest roads open, available, and groomed for a few weeks of the year for snowmobilers to enjoy this great sport. ...Read more

Published on Monday, January 24, 2022 in News & Updates
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Take the Pledge to Protect Trail Access

Learn why these snowmobile industry leaders have decided to Take the Pledge, then join them in taking the pledge by visiting: https://www.snowmobilerspledge.com ...Read more

Published on Friday, January 7, 2022 in General Announcements, In The News, News & Updates

iGrip Stud

Published on Thursday, November 4, 2021 in Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors, Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

New York State Snowmobile Association

Published on Thursday, November 4, 2021 in Past Bronze Sponsor, Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors, Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

Judged Gear

Published on Thursday, November 4, 2021 in Past Bronze Sponsor, Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

SAM Vintage Sled Display / Used Sled Corral

Published on Thursday, November 4, 2021 in Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

ISAT gauge LLC

Published on Thursday, November 4, 2021 in Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors, Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

BTR Suspension

Published on Thursday, November 4, 2021 in Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

Woodford Sno Busters

Published on Thursday, November 4, 2021 in Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors, Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

Snowbirds Snowmobile Club

Published on Thursday, November 4, 2021 in Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

Savoy Kanary Kats

Published on Thursday, November 4, 2021 in Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

Indian Head Snowmobile Club

Published on Thursday, November 4, 2021 in Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

Greater Whately Snowmobile Club

Published on Thursday, November 4, 2021 in Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

Goshen Highlanders Snowmobile Club

Published on Thursday, November 4, 2021 in Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

Easy Riders Snowmobile Club

Published on Thursday, November 4, 2021 in Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

Burgy Bullets Snowmobile Club

Published on Thursday, November 4, 2021 in Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors, Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

Buckland Riders

Published on Thursday, November 4, 2021 in Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors, Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

Bernardston Gill Leyden Snowmobile Club

Published on Thursday, November 4, 2021 in Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

Berkshire Snow Seekers

Published on Thursday, November 4, 2021 in Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors, Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

Adams Sno-Drifters Snowmobile Club

Published on Thursday, November 4, 2021 in Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

Lee’s Auto and RV Ranch (Lee’s Powersports)

At Lee’s Power Sports, our customers come first. Our mission statement is: “Building lasting relationships with our partners and employees while serving the recreational and outdoor enthusiast. Our core values shall be based on honesty, integrity and service to the ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, November 2, 2021 in Current Bronze Sponsor, Past Silver Sponsor, Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

Pioneer Valley Indoor Karting

Published on Tuesday, November 2, 2021 in Past Bronze Sponsor, Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

Massachusetts Environmental Police

Published on Tuesday, November 2, 2021 in Past Bronze Sponsor, Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

More Freakin Power

We are one of the biggest Powersports outerwear dealers in all of the Midwest. We have a massive snow selection of the top brands, such as; Klim, 509, TOBE, FXR, CastleX, CKX Mission, and Fly Racing. We pride ourselves on ...Read more

Published on Monday, November 1, 2021 in Past Gold Sponsor, Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

Scranton Powersports LLC

We are family-owned and operated and conveniently located in Vernon, CT. Scranton Powersports can provide you with the latest and best in powersports products to make your outdoor living more enjoyable. We carry both Polaris and Ski-Doo snowmobiles, along with ...Read more

Published on Monday, November 1, 2021 in Current Gold Sponsor, Past Gold Sponsor, Sled Expo: Current Live Vendors, Sled Expo: Past Live Vendors

2021 Annual Awards

Meet these great contributors at the EXPO on Saturday, November 20th at 6:00 pm where award recipients will be honored. Family of the Year – The Janik Family Nominated by Joseph Rogge of Adams Sno-Drifters Snowmobile Club Trail Worker of ...Read more

Published on Thursday, September 2, 2021 in Awards, General Announcements, Sled Expo

Adams Sno-Drifters Snowmobile Club

  The Adams Sno Drifters is Berkshire County’s first snowmobile club established in 1966. Made up of a group of avid snowmobilers, families and outdoor enthusiast alike. We maintain trails for all allowed user groups in state forests and privately ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 in Clubs

Berkshire Snow Seekers Snowmobile Club

Pittsfield, Massachusetts—Please join us in riding some of the finest trails in the heart of the Berkshires this winter. Our first class grooming fleet consists of 3 Tucker Sno-Cats, 1 Thiokol, a new Kubota RTV and 4 snowmobile based groomers. ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 in Clubs

Birch Hill Rangers Snowmobile Club

  We meet at the Royalston Fish and Game club (49 Main Rd, Phillipston, MA 01331) the 2nd Thursday of each month at 7:00 PM between September and April. Call Roy Smith, 978-249-9687 Welcome to the Birch Hill Rangers. We ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 in Clubs

Buckland Riders Snowmobile Club

2nd Monday of the Month, Sept. through March, 7 PM 6 Labelle Rd. Charlemont, MA 01339 Steve Howland, 413-522-3320 Join Today Frank Labelle Sales & Service 296 Ashfield Road Route 112 Buckland, MA, 01370 Phone: 413-625-2101 Hours: Monday – Friday ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 in Clubs

Burgy Bullets Snowmobile Club

2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month Sept-April, 2nd Wednesday of the month May-August Clubhouse in Haydenville 12 Laurel Rd Haydenville, MA 01039 Jon Tobin, 413-727-2297 Plenty of parking, right on SAM RT93. Always good food with a nice place ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 in Clubs

Chesterfield Four Seasons Club

As of January 1st, 2017. 2nd and last Tuesdays of the month at 7 PM Meeting are 2nd and last Tuesdays of the month at 7 PM in winter months. Goes down to once a month in summer. At Clubhouse, ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 in Clubs

Coldbrook Snowmobile Club

The 1st Monday of every month (unless a holiday) at 7:30pm at the King Philip Restaurant in Phillipston, MA King Phillip Restaurant 35 State Road Phillipston, MA 01331 Michael Wetherbee, club delegate Email Michael The Coldbrook Snowmobile Club is one ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 in Clubs

Colrain Sno-Drifters

2nd Wednesday of each month, 7:30 PM 125 Prolovich Rd Colrain MA 01340 MAP Rusty Coombs, 413-624-8850 Kyle Powers, Secretary  413-768-2374 Email: [email protected] The Colrain Sno-Drifters has 200 members and maintains trails in the towns of Colrain, Shelburne, and a ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 in Clubs

Conway Snowmobile Club

1st Monday of the month, September through April, 6:30 PM Conway Inn 43 Main Street Conway, MA 01341 Austin Snape, President Adam Sokoloski, SAM Delegate Like us on Facebook Join today! The Conway Snowmobile Club was founded in 1969 and ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 in Clubs

Easy Riders Snowmobile Club

Second Tuesday evening each month October–March at 7:00 PM. Marlborough Moose Lodge Family Center 67 Fitchburg Street Marlborough, MA 01752 Enter through the door facing the street. Mike Nicoli, 978-230-5450 Club President and Delegate Greg Conlan Club Vice President Chris ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 in Clubs

Florida Mountaineers Snowmobile Club

Second Friday of each month at Tim Keating’s House at 6PM. President and club delegate: Joe Therrien Vice president: Jeremy Harrington Secretary, legislative, grooming contract, membership, trails and map and club delegate: Tim Keating, 413.663.1659 Treasurer: Tony Irace The Florida ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 in Clubs

Goshen Highlanders Snowmobile Club

September through April, first and third Tuesday of the month at 7pm. May through August, first Tuesday of the month at 7pm. Spruce Corner Restaurant 190 Berkshire Trail West Goshen, MA Bryan Osetek, President/Delegate 413-297-6504 John Bird, Vice President 413-386-9667 Dan ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 in Clubs

Greater Whately Snowmobile Club

Second Monday of the month, September through April at 7pm Curt Hale’s Garage 126 Christian Lane Whately, MA 01373 President-Bob Sabola, 413-478-0733  [email protected] Vice President-Curt Hale, 413-687-3523  [email protected] Treasurer-Paul Bordua, 978-380-0022  [email protected] Secretary-John Devine,  413-537-0474 [email protected] 1st Delegate: Bob Sabola 2nd Delegate: Matt ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 in Clubs

Hadley Snowmobile Club

Second Wednesday of the month, September through May at 7pm. North Hadley Sugar Shack Steve Szymkowicz, (413) 586-9864 Steve Szymkowicz,  President   Paul Fitzgibbon, Vice President Matt Pipczynski, Secretary Steve Szymkowicz, Treasurer 81 River Drive Hadley, Massachusetts 01035 The Hadley Snowmobile ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 in Clubs

Harvard Snowmobile Club

Second Tuesday of the month at 7:30pm via zoom. Zoom conference calls President, grooming contract and club delegate: Mark Adams, 978-793-1089 Vice president, legislative and club delegate: Tony Shaw Secretary: Tracy Adams Treasurer and membership: Lisa Shaw Trails and map: ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 in Clubs

Hilltown Snowmobile Club

Second Tuesday of the month at 7pm. Check our Facebook page for info on meeting dates. Or email the club to be added to email list. Ashfield Fire station Eli Willey, E-mail Eli We are a small club located in ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 in Clubs

Indianhead Snowmobile Club

2nd Wednesday of the month October – February 7:00 PM Zoar Outdoor, zipline building 7 Main Street Charlemont, Massachusetts Matt Crowninshield, 413.337.5566 We are a club that maintains trails in Heath, Rowe, Charlemont, and Hawley we work on trails in ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 in Clubs

Knox Trail Sno-Riders Snowmobile Club

Second Thursday of the month at 6:00pm The Knox Trail Inn, 1898 E Otis Rd, East Otis, MA 01029 Mailing address: PO Box 363 East Otis, MA 01029 Ph# 413-931-3000  Email: [email protected] Officers Paul Richard, President Steve Palinkas, Vice President Theodore ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 in Clubs

Leicester Snowmobile Club

Club meetings begin at 7:00 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month October to March. Leicester Rod & Gun Club 1015 Whittemore Street Leicester, MA 01524 Our mission as a Snowmobile club has always been and remains family, friends ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 in Clubs

Lunenburg Snow Riders Snowmobile Club

Second and fourth Thursday of the month (September through April) at 7pm 312 Townsend Harbor Road Lunenburg, MA Melvin Bertram, 978.582.0242 The original Lunenburg Snow Riders was formed in the late 1970’s, and became dormant many years ago. In 2001 ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 in Clubs

Northfield Snowmobile Club

Club tries to meeting on the second Tuesday of the month at 7pm. To be determined Michael Scoville, Email Michael Click here to purchase a trail pass online for the Northfield Snowmobile Club. Club stickers are sold at Kidder General ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 in Clubs

Sandisfield Snowmobile Club, Inc

First Sunday of the month, September through March at 9:00 AM. 38 W. Hubbard Road Sandisfield, MA 01255 George Munson, President, grooming contract, membership contact, trail and map contact 38 W. Hubbard Road Sandisfield, MA 01255 Phone: 413.441.5943 Email Carlos ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 in Clubs

Savoy Kanary Kats

7:00pm on the second Friday of the month starting in September and ending with the annual meeting in April. Groomer Garage 90 Tilton Road Savoy, MA 01256 Dave Purple, President Rich Massey, Vice President Sean Anderson, Secretary Terri Bird, Treasurer ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 in Clubs

Snowbirds Snowmobile Club

The last Thursday of the month, unless noted otherwise on our Facebook page and website, September through March at 7:30pm. 4H Camp Marshall 92 McCormick Rd  Spencer, MA 01562 Recreation Hall across the street from the sled parking lot. Ashley Leger, ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 in Clubs

Snowmobilers United

Second Wednesday of the month 7:30 p.m. O’Connors Restaurant & Bar 1160 W Boylston St, Worcester, MA Mailing address: 6 Hazel Drive Shrewsbury, MA 01545 Ralph Corcoran, 508.845.6821 Click here to purchase a trail pass online for the Snowmobilers United. ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 in Clubs

Ware River Snowmobile Club

First Wednesday of the Month, 7:30 p.m. American Legion Hall 246 Prospect St. Gilbertville, Massachusetts Dean Zuppio:  [email protected]   The Ware River Snowmobile Club was established on November 1, 2006 with approximately 25 members. In 2007 the club grew to ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 in Clubs

Worthington Snowmobile Club

7:00 PM, 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month from September to May Worthington Fire House 51 Huntington Rd Worthington, MA 01098 Mike Sarafin, [email protected] We are a small club located in Western Hampshire County. We groom over 45 Miles ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 in Clubs

Snow Riders of the Nashaway

4th Tuesday of the Month – September through March – 7PM Slater’s Route 117,Bolton,Mass. President: Susan Smiley Vice President – Cliff McMullan Treasurer – Regina Weeks Secretary – Open Club Contact:  Sue Smiley Centered in Lancaster, MA and including Clinton, Sterling, Bolton ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 in Clubs

Buckland Trails

All Corridor trails are open an groomed. Rtes 93, 2, and 112. ...Read more

Published on Friday, February 12, 2021 in Grooming and Trail Reports
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Chesterfield 93 & 93 A

With new fresh snow they are going to be fantastic for the upcoming weekend. 4 Season Club house is open. Friday 6P – 10P Saturday 12P – 9P Sunday 12P – 9P We will have a limited menu, and will ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, February 9, 2021 in Grooming and Trail Reports
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Chesterfield 4 Season Club opening weekend.

Good news! The club will be open this weekend. Friday, Saturday and Sunday (Feb. 5-7) . We will be serving simple foods such as burgers, hot dogs and chili. Limited capacity, face masks must be worn per COVID guidelines. Hope ...Read more

Published on Thursday, February 4, 2021 in News & Updates
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!!! New Trail Route !!!

In Hadley, Behind Hopkins Academy, the trail to Cumberland Farms has been re-routed and clearly marked. Our club president met with a member of the school committee and marked this trail together, to route snowmobile traffic around the newly completed ...Read more

Published on Monday, February 1, 2021 in General Announcements, Grooming and Trail Reports, News & Updates

Goshen Highlanders January 29, 2021 Trail Report

Friday Trail Report Trails are Open except from GH-10 to GH-13 headed toward williamsburg. Corridor 9 from DAR to Ashfield was groomed yesterday however use caution as there will still be rocks and stumps exposed. This section always take a ...Read more

Published on Friday, January 29, 2021 in General Announcements, Grooming and Trail Reports
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Knox Trail Sno-Riders 11th Annual Snowmobile raffle

Knox Trail Sno-Riders drew the winning ticket to its Eleventh Annual Snowmobile raffle on Sunday, January 17 2021 at the Knox Trail Inn in East Otis. The winner of a 2021 Ski-Doo MXZ Sport 600 was John Polastri of Becket, ...Read more

Published on Thursday, January 21, 2021 in General Announcements, In The News, News & Updates

Goshen Highlanders

Goshen Trails as of 12/24/20 are closed due to warmer temps and 1-3 inches of Rain. Please respect our landowners. Think Snow!! ...Read more

Published on Monday, December 28, 2020 in Grooming and Trail Reports

WRSC RTE 32

Trails Closed Waiting for more snow Rte. 32 From Patrill Hollow rd. parking to the Hardwick house of pizza will remained closed till trailwork has been completed ...Read more

Published on Monday, December 28, 2020 in Grooming and Trail Reports
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Knox Trail Sno-Riders

Due to warm temps and excessive rain the trails had to be closed. ...Read more

Published on Monday, December 28, 2020 in Grooming and Trail Reports

Goshen Highlanders

As of December 19, 2020 trails are currently open. Expect early season conditions such as rocks, stump, and mud holes as there is no base. Stay off any body’s of water as the ice is not safe. Ride wide to ...Read more

Published on Monday, December 21, 2020 in Grooming and Trail Reports

Knox Trail Sno-Riders

Knox Trail Sno-Riders report for December 18, 2020. Just over a foot of snow fell in East Otis. The trails are open but be advised there is no base. The fresh snow hides rocks, logs, and water holes. Riding is ...Read more

Published on Friday, December 18, 2020 in Grooming and Trail Reports
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2020 Virtual Sled Expo

We are looking forward to a great season! Whether you are a beginner who has never tried snowmobiling or an experienced rider looking to upgrade your equipment, learn more about the sport with a visit to our Virtual Marketplace. ...Read more

Published on Thursday, November 5, 2020 in General Announcements, Sled Expo

Snowmobile Clutch Removal: The Water Trick

The scenario: You need to remove a snowmobile clutch but don’t have a puller, or traditional methods aren’t working. The theory: Water fills that void where the puller would go. By threading a bolt into the snowmobile clutch, hydraulic pressure ...Read more

Published on Monday, September 28, 2020 in Sled Expo: Tech Tips and Vids

Berkshire groups get $421,000 for trail projects

Hikers, mountain bikers and snowmobilers can expect more-accessible Berkshire trails, thanks to new state funding worth more than $421,000. The MassTrails Grants program has awarded tens of thousands of dollars to 11 Berkshires projects. The money will cover new or ...Read more

Published on Monday, September 21, 2020 in General Announcements, News & Updates

CANCELLED: 2020 Sled Expo

Snowmobile enthusiasts from all over New England have always saved the date for our annual Sled Expo. After 50 consecutive years, it is with a heavy heart that we make the decision to cancel the 2020 event for the safety of ...Read more

Published on Friday, July 10, 2020 in General Announcements

SAM BOD March Meeting

SAM’s monthly Board of Directors meeting will be held on March 5, 2020 at the Burgy Bullets Clubhouse on 12 Laurel Road in Haydenville, MA 01039 The meeting will begin promptly at 7:00 pm and end at 9:00 pm. All ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, March 4, 2020 in Uncategorized

Buckland Trails

All Buckland trails are open. Cover is thin, but rideable. ...Read more

Published on Sunday, February 16, 2020 in News & Updates

Knox Trail Poker Run and Picnic

The 2020 Poker Run and Picnic, originally scheduled for Feb. 2 and postponed to Feb. 16 for lack of snow has been cancelled for, you guessed it, lack of snow. ...Read more

Published on Friday, February 14, 2020 in News & Updates
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Florida Mountaineers Trails

February 11, 2020: Trail conditions this weekend should be great! We received 9 inches of snow yesterday. There is still lots of low hanging Branches on trails along with some debris here and there from the major Ice storm we ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, February 11, 2020 in Grooming and Trail Reports
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Bernardston-Gill-Leyden

Our Trails are Still Closed, almost had enough but didn’t quite make it. thanks for respecting our rules and trail status. Not that its worth damaging your sled, getting hurt, or messing up someones property. Hope we are able to ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, January 28, 2020 in Grooming and Trail Reports

Snocross at The Flat Track

The Eastern Snocross Tour will make its debut on the snow-covered dirt track when it rips into Loudon February 15-16, marking the first ever winter event on The Flat Track at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. ...Read more

Published on Friday, January 24, 2020 in General Announcements

Winter Festival 2020

Join the Coldbrook Snowmobile Club for family fun, food, music and dancing on Saturday, February 8! ...Read more

Published on Thursday, January 16, 2020 in General Announcements

SAM Meeting 1/2/2020

There is a SAM Board of Directors meeting at the Bluebonnet Diner in Northampton on January 2,2020. Dinner is at 6:30 pm followed by the meeting at 7pm. ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, January 1, 2020 in Uncategorized

Coldbrook

Trails north of 122 in Barre are open. Please use caution!!!! Thin cover. Best riding will be in Lake Dennison State Park in Winchendon. Get out and enjoy the weekend! Stay tuned for updates early next week (after Sunday, December ...Read more

Published on Monday, December 23, 2019 in Grooming and Trail Reports

SAM Ride In or Drive In

Join SAM on Sunday, March 1 for the 2020 Ride In or Drive In event at Ayrhill Farm in Cheshire! ...Read more

Published on Monday, December 16, 2019 in General Announcements, News & Updates

Coldbrook

Trails are now closed at this time. We didn’t lose all of our snow but with this weekends warm weather forecasted things don’t look good. Cross your fingers for next weeks storm. Groomers are fueled and ready to roll! ...Read more

Published on Friday, December 13, 2019 in Grooming and Trail Reports

Hilltown Snowmobile Club

All trails are closed and will remain that way until Dec 15th at the earliest!!! Most trails remain uncleared and fences unopened as well as unsafe ice conditions on Ashfield Lake. If trails are to open after the 15th we ...Read more

Published on Monday, December 9, 2019 in Grooming and Trail Reports
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Knox Trail Annual Poker Run and Picnic

The KTSR Annual Poker Run and Picnic is scheduled for Sunday, February 2, 2020 at the Alexander’s on D Street, Otis, MA, W26 on the map. Ride the route, collect the tokens, and present them for your poker hand. Best ...Read more

Published on Thursday, December 5, 2019 in General Announcements, News & Updates

50th Anniversary Apparel Fundraiser

Sunday December 1, 2019 (11:59pm EST) Click here to order your exclusive 50th anniversary apparel today! ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, November 12, 2019 in Featured, General Announcements, News & Updates

2020 Annual Golf Tournament

Join SAM once again for our annual golf tournament! Tournament will be played in a four-person scramble format. If you do not enter a team list, you will be placed with others. ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, November 12, 2019 in General Announcements, News & Updates

50 Years of Snowmobile History at the Largest Snowmobile Show in New England

For immediate release Contact: Rena Sumner, (413) 369-8092 WEST SPRINGFIELD — One snowmobile from each of the fifty years the Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts (SAM) has been in existence—this is how SAM will celebrate their 50th anniversary. Presented at their ...Read more

Published on Friday, November 8, 2019 in General Announcements, News & Updates, Sled Expo

Florida Mountaineers Christmas party

Our Christmas party will be held on Saturday 12/7/2019 at the VFW in North Adams. Social at 6:00 PM, followed by Dinner at 7:00 PM. $25.00 per person. Please bring a unwrapped gift to be donated to a needy Family ...Read more

Published on Thursday, November 7, 2019 in News & Updates

BGL Snowmobile club swap-meet

Join us for the 18th Annual Swap-meet and Vintage Sled Show. New Sleds – Accessories – Service – Used Sled/ATV/Motorcycle Corral – Raffles – Food and more! ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, September 17, 2019 in General Announcements

Sam Annual Meeting

The SAM Board of Directors would like to invite you to CELEBRATE YOUR ASSOCIATION at the upcoming SAM Annual Meeting and dinner on Thursday, April 4, 2019. ...Read more

Published on Monday, March 18, 2019 in Awards, General Announcements, News & Updates

RTE 32

Closed for year ...Read more

Published on Friday, March 15, 2019 in Grooming and Trail Reports
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Florida Mountaineers Trails

Trails were groomed Monday, corridor 2 was groomed last night, and we will groom Thursday night. Trail conditions are still good/excellent! Just have to hope that Fridays rain don’t crush it. This could be the last week of riding if ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, March 13, 2019 in Grooming and Trail Reports
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2019 Annual Golf Tournament

June 22, 2019—12:00PM Scramble Start ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, March 12, 2019 in News & Updates

March 2019 Board of Directors Meeting

The SAM Monthly Board of Director Meeting is open to all SAM Members. Meetings are held at 7:00 pm on the first Thursday of the Month unless otherwise noted. ...Read more

Published on Monday, March 4, 2019 in News & Updates

BGL club trails

As of March 1st all trails are open…. but not all have been cleared of debris from the last wind storm. Ride safe and with caution. see updates on our facebook page and club website www.bgl.snow ...Read more

Published on Friday, March 1, 2019 in Grooming and Trail Reports

Stan Kopala Ride Cancelled

Due to low snow conditions,the Stan Kopala Ride scheduled for Sunday March 3rd has been cancelled. ...Read more

Published on Monday, February 25, 2019 in General Announcements, News & Updates

Buckland Riders Trails

Trails are still in great shape. Should be a good weekend to ride. ...Read more

Published on Friday, February 22, 2019 in Grooming and Trail Reports
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Bernardston Gill Leyden Snowmobile Club

All trails were setup on January 26, this week we will try to get them packed down to get us through next weeks warm weather. ALL trails are OPEN but tread lightly and keep the rubber side down! ...Read more

Published on Friday, February 1, 2019 in Grooming and Trail Reports
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Buckland Trails

All Buckland Trails are open. Snow is still thin, so please ride carefully. ...Read more

Published on Thursday, January 31, 2019 in Grooming and Trail Reports
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Washout near the Goshen Transfer Station

The Goshen Select Board has been made aware of a washout that crosses the Wing Hill Extension Roadway near the Goshen Transfer Station. There is currently road closed indications in place. Please be aware that a washout is present in ...Read more

Published on Monday, January 28, 2019 in News & Updates

Conway Snowmobile Club’s Annual Pancake Breakfast

Sunday, February 3, 2019—All you can eat, eggs, Pekarski’s sausage, and of course pancakes with real maple syrup! ...Read more

Published on Thursday, January 24, 2019 in News & Updates

Florida Mountaineers Trails

Trails were groomed on Sunday, but we are experiencing very strong winds on Monday, as well as today. There is going to be very large drifts in the usual spots, so if you ride, do not go alone. People have ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, January 22, 2019 in Grooming and Trail Reports
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Rescheduled: 9th Annual Knox Trail Sno-riders Sled Raffle and Dinner

After careful consideration and review of the weather forecast for January 19 and 20, the Knox Trail Sno-riders feel it prudent for everyone’s safety to postpone the 9th Annual Raffle & Dinner to January 27, 2019 due to the inclement ...Read more

Published on Friday, January 18, 2019 in News & Updates

Create an Off-Highway Vehicle Club or Association

UP! Outside, in conjunction with the Executive Office of Energy and Environment Affairs, is holding a series of workshops across the State of Massachusetts to help enthusiasts form off-highway vehicle (OHV) clubs and associations. The purpose for the workshops is ...Read more

Published on Monday, January 14, 2019 in News & Updates
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Free snowmobile weekend announced!

January 25–27, 2019 has been designated free snowmobiling weekend for all out-of-state and Canadian snowmobilers in New York state! ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, January 8, 2019 in News & Updates
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Snowmobile Safety Course – VAST

January 29, 2019—We are offering a fun and informative day with newly certified instructors (also will have someone from Massachusetts Environmental Police) to share some great information with you. ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, January 8, 2019 in News & Updates
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Lancaster, New Hampshire: Annual Vintage Snowmobile Show & Cookout

Crane’s Snowmobile Museum located in Lancaster, New Hampshire is sponsoring it’s annual, Vintage Snowmobile Show and Cookout on February 2, 2019. ...Read more

Published on Thursday, January 3, 2019 in News & Updates

Spaghetti Dinner, hosted by Leicester Snowmobile Club

Leicester Snowmobile Club will be hosting their annual Spaghetti Dinner on January 12, 2019. ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, November 27, 2018 in News & Updates

Burgy Bullets Annual Christmas Party and Landowner Appreciation Dinner

We are having our annual Christmas party and Landowner Appreciation dinner December 1st. Full Prime Rib meal with all the trimmings. ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, November 14, 2018 in News & Updates

Vermont Snowmobile Safety Course

Join the Coldbrook Snowmobile Club from 9:00am – 3:00pm on Saturday, December 1, 2018 at the Oakmont Regional High School, 9 Oakmont Drive, Ashburnham, MA 01430. ...Read more

Published on Friday, October 12, 2018 in Education

DOT/FMCSA Compliance Seminar

With Sergeant Jonathan Bates of the Massachusetts State Police Webber & Grinnell Insurance is hosting a FREE informational event Wednesday, October 3, 2018 at The Delaney House in Holyoke, Massachusetts. Who should be at this event? Anyone or any business who operates a fleet ...Read more

Published on Monday, September 17, 2018 in Education, General Announcements, News & Updates

OHV Technical Assistance Program for OHV Club Creation

Find details on the MA OHV Technical Assistance Program for OHV Club Creation*. Learn what types of projects are eligible, and figure out if your organization is eligible to apply. *OHV: Off-Highway Vehicle. A two, four, or six wheeled vehicle ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, May 2, 2018 in Education, General Announcements, In The News, Safety

Florida Mountaineers Trails

I am sad to report that are trails are now closed. While We did groom this week, last nights rain and fog made some of the trails impassable, especially the trails on private property. Please respect our landowners and do ...Read more

Published on Friday, March 30, 2018 in Grooming and Trail Reports
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Florida Mountaineers Trails

Trails were groomed this week, and will be this weekend. This is looking like it maybe our last weekend, so get out and ride while you can. Trails are rated good to excellent. There are a few open water bars ...Read more

Published on Friday, March 23, 2018 in Grooming and Trail Reports
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Buckland Trails

Corridor Route 93 from Ashfield to Dubuque State Forest is open with plenty of snow, but also unfrozen wet areas, so please ride carefully. Route 2 from Conway to Ashfield has limited usability as lower areas did not get much ...Read more

Published on Friday, March 16, 2018 in Grooming and Trail Reports
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Florida Mountaineers Trails

It is still snowing as I type. Reports from Riders last night is there is a tremendous amount of snow on the trails. There is allot of huge drifts, so if You like powder come on up and help Us ...Read more

Published on Friday, March 16, 2018 in Grooming and Trail Reports
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Florida Mountaineers Trails

Trails are currently open. Trail Conditions range from good to excellent. There are a few areas that have wet spots and mud where the ground isn’t frozen. Trails were groomed Monday night in anticipation of Tuesday’s storm, and will be ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, March 13, 2018 in Grooming and Trail Reports, News & Updates
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Conway Trails

The March 7th/8th storm only left between 5-8 inches in Conway, with no base. We are not planning on grooming. If you ride be extremely careful as there is unfrozen ground, exposed hazards, and open water. ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, March 13, 2018 in Grooming and Trail Reports
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SAM Annual Meeting – April 5, 2018

The SAM Board of Directors would like to invite you to CELEBRATE YOUR ASSOCIATION at the upcoming SAM Annual Meeting and dinner on Thursday, April 5, 2018. We invite you to participate, relax and enjoy dinner with your friends, while you participate ...Read more

Published on Monday, March 5, 2018 in Awards, Charity, Education

Buckland Riders

All trails are currently closed. ...Read more

Published on Friday, February 23, 2018 in Grooming and Trail Reports

Knox Trail Vintage Ride [Cancelled]

The Knox Trail Riders Vintage ride scheduled for February 18th has been cancelled due to low snow conditions. ...Read more

Published on Friday, February 16, 2018 in Uncategorized

Stan Kopala ride cancelled

The Stan Kopala ride scheduled for March 4th,2018 has been cancelled this year due to lack of snow. The ride is scheduled for next year, March 3rd,2019. ...Read more

Published on Thursday, February 15, 2018 in Uncategorized

Mt. Greylock State Reservation.

Due to thin snow coverage at lower elevations,Mt. Greylock is currently closed for snowmobiling. We will post as soon as snow depths increase and Greylock reopens. ...Read more

Published on Thursday, January 25, 2018 in Uncategorized

Mt. Greylock State Reservation

Please note that Mt. Greylock State Reservation is currently not open for snowmobiling. There is not enough snow pack at lower elevations and snowmobile trails have been closed.  This message provided by DCR ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, January 24, 2018 in Grooming and Trail Reports

Florida Mountaineers Trails

All trails currently in the Florida Mountaineers trail system are  closed. Think Snow! ...Read more

Published on Friday, January 19, 2018 in Grooming and Trail Reports, News & Updates

Savoy Kanary Kats Vintage Ride [CANCELLED]

Do to the unusually warm weather last week ,Savoy Kanary Kats are forced to cancel their Vintage ride on January 20th.   ...Read more

Published on Monday, January 15, 2018 in General Announcements, Vintage

Goshen Highlanders Trail Report

All trails will be closed as of Thursday (1-11-18) night. This is to preserve the current base through the warm and rainy weather that is expected Friday and Saturday. Trails will reopen when the conditions allow. ...Read more

Published on Thursday, January 11, 2018 in Grooming and Trail Reports
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Florida Mountaineers

We are asking everyone to please stay off the trails on Friday and early Saturday, until the warm weather and rain is over. Right now the trails are good, and We are not sure whats going to happen to them ...Read more

Published on Thursday, January 11, 2018 in Grooming and Trail Reports
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Buckland Trail Report

All trails are groomed and open. Don’t know what this rain tomorrow will do to the trails, but hoping it is not too bad and that they will freeze up again this weekend so we can get them groomed again ...Read more

Published on Thursday, January 11, 2018 in Grooming and Trail Reports
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Knox trails open. Raffle sold out

These are busy times! We opened the trails and sold-out the raffle on the same day (1/4). The groomers are out packing and panning. There is a club meeting this Wed.(1/10/18) @ 6:30 at the Tannery Rd. clubhouse. This is ...Read more

Published on Saturday, January 6, 2018 in Grooming and Trail Reports, News & Updates
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Buckland Riders Trail Report

Route 93 is open, unless this darn wind drops more trees. we will be out grooming tonight. Route 2 is temporarily closed due to active logging on East Buckland Rd. We are trying to get that rerouted at least temporarily ...Read more

Published on Friday, January 5, 2018 in Grooming and Trail Reports
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Florida Mountaineers Trails

Please do not ride on any of the places at the Whitcomb Summit that has been roped off. Please stay on the Trail between the ropes. We have worked all summer to keep this very important Trail open with the ...Read more

Published on Thursday, January 4, 2018 in General Announcements, Grooming and Trail Reports, News & Updates

Know Before You Go…Are the trails OPEN?

Below is a message from the Conway Snowmobile Club to their members and a very important reminder to ALL SNOWMOBILER’S to confirm that trails are open before you take that ride.  Not all snow conditions across the state are equal and ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, January 3, 2018 in Education, Environment, Featured, General Announcements, Grooming and Trail Reports, News & Updates, Safety, Snowmobile Travel

Mount Greylock Main Trails

1-2-2018 Rode 40+ miles on Mount Greylock main trails starting at the visitor center. Trails conditions were excellent and we did not see another sled in 3+ hours of riding. ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, January 2, 2018 in Grooming and Trail Reports
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Mt. Greylock open!

Mt. Greylock has received 6+ inches of new snow this week and is open for snowmobiling. Grooming of trails and roads has not yet started. Stay tuned for latest grooming reports when they become available. ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, December 27, 2017 in Grooming and Trail Reports, Uncategorized

Mt. Greylock

Currently at this time the is not sufficient snow cover on Mt. Greylock for snowmobiling.Please check back when we receive more snow. Thank you for your cooperation. ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, December 19, 2017 in Grooming and Trail Reports

October Mountain State Forest – County Road in Becket

Good news: The top of the mountain is ride-able for the moment. Bad news: The Town of Washington’s parking area at West Branch Road has been reduced in size so it now only accommodates about 2 to 3 trucks. ...Read more

Published on Monday, December 18, 2017 in Grooming and Trail Reports

Vintage Rides Scheduled

3 Vintage rides scheduled for the upcoming season: January 20, 2018:  Savoy Kanary Kats/ February 11, 2018:  Bernardston-Gill-Leyden Snowmobile Club/ February 18, 2018:  Knox Trail Sno-Riders/ Stay tuned for more info on the rides in the next few weeks. ...Read more

Published on Sunday, November 26, 2017 in News & Updates

Club announcements

The Easy Riders Snowmobile Club is busy working on Trips throughout New England and Eastern Canada. We currently have one trip planned for January to Ft. Kent Maine and working on a 6 day Gaspe Quebec tour for January and ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, October 31, 2017 in News & Updates

Conway Trail Closure

We would like to alert all of the people that ride the Conway Snowmobile Club Trail System that there has been a permanent trail closure due to the construction of a new house.This closure on Trail 5 is from intersection ...Read more

Published on Thursday, October 19, 2017 in Grooming and Trail Reports
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Bernardston-Gill-Leyden trails

We have a new section of speed limited quiet zone… From the Leyden fire pit at intersection BG-12 running west on corridor 2 to The road crossing at Frizzle hill. This is due to kids and pets out in the ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, October 4, 2017 in Grooming and Trail Reports
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2017 Sled Expo

Published on Tuesday, September 5, 2017 in In The News, News & Updates, Sled Expo

2017 Massachusetts Trails Conference

Double Tree Inn by Hilton Leominster, MA Sessions, Hands-on Workshops Field Trips & Exhibition Hall New This Year! Learn how to construct an accessible trail, build a bog bridge, sustainable trail building basics, or get your chainsaw safety certification the ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, August 15, 2017 in General Announcements, In The News, News & Updates
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Stan Kopala, Snowmobile Advocate, Dies at 85

Stan Kopala, The Godfather of Greylock, known for his outspoken style, can-do spirit and love of snowmobiling, passed away Tuesday, June 27, 2017 at Berkshire Medical Center-North Adams. A dedicated member of the Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts, Stan also served ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, June 28, 2017 in General Announcements, In The News, News & Updates
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Never Saw That Coming! (Jeff Miller)

Snowmobiling is a year round sport. It is not uncommon to have regular meetings throughout the year to prepare for the upcoming season. Sledmass is no different. So it was not unusual to have a meeting of the executive committee ...Read more

Published on Friday, June 16, 2017 in In The News, News & Updates, President's Message
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Dan Gould Named Executive Director of New Hampshire Snowmobile Association

The New Hampshire Snowmobile Association has named Dan Gould as executive director. Dan will be responsible for executive leadership, communications, representation and administration. He will officially start July 1, 2017.  It is with mixed emotions that I step down as ...Read more

Published on Thursday, May 25, 2017 in In The News, News & Updates, President's Message
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Towing and Payload Capacity (Dan Gould)

For years I had a two-place enclosed snowmobile trailer and never gave much thought to towing and payload capacity. As much as I enjoyed the nimbleness of a compact trailer, my two teenage boys informed me that I should spend ...Read more

Published on Sunday, April 2, 2017 in In The News, News & Updates, Safety
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2018 Polaris Snowmobiles

The 2018 Polaris Snowmobiles lineup focuses on new models for deep snow, utility and crossover riders: 800 Polaris Titan, AXYS chassis, crossover-utility snowmobile. 800 SKS 146 deep snow, off-trail, mountain performance sled. 600 Switchback XCR and 800 Switchback XCR racer-based ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, March 7, 2017 in In The News, News & Updates, Snowmobile Product Review
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SAM Annual Meeting April 6

The Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts Board of Directors invite you to celebrate your association at the upcoming SAM Annual Meeting and dinner. Participate, relax and enjoy dinner with your friends, while you participate in the business meeting and the honoring ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, February 21, 2017 in General Announcements, In The News, News & Updates
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2018 Ski-Doo Snowmobiles

The new 2018 Ski-Doo snowmobiles have been announced, the biggest news being a wider availability of models the latest 850 E-TEC engine and REV Gen4 chassis. Ski-Doo also introduced the new SHOT starter system that is 20 pounds lighter than ...Read more

Published on Thursday, February 16, 2017 in In The News, News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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2018 Snowmobile Sneak Peek

Make plans now to attend the manufacturers’ 2018 Snowmobile Sneak Peek near you and see next year’s sleds now… before anyone else. The 2018 Snowmobile Sneak Peek features new 2018 snowmobiles from Polaris, Ski-Doo and Yamaha, most shows are free ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, February 14, 2017 in In The News, News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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New Snowmobile Club: Snow Riders of the Nashaway

SAM is proud to announce a new snowmobile club. The Snow Riders of the Nashaway were approved by the SAM Board of Directors and are now an officially recognized club of the Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts. Welcome aboard! The Snow ...Read more

Published on Sunday, February 12, 2017 in General Announcements, In The News, News & Updates
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Planning A Snowmobile Trip: What You Need To Go Sledding

Planning a snowmobile trip can be complicated, especially the first one of the season. Here’s what you need to go sledding, written by Iwana B. Riding (AKA Randy Toth). “Guess what honey, it’s starting to snow,” I called out excitedly ...Read more

Published on Thursday, February 9, 2017 in In The News, News & Updates, Snowmobile Travel
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SAM I AM: Michael Sarafin

Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts member profile: Michael Sarafin is the new treasurer of the Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts and a member of the Worthington Snowmobile Club. Mike has been riding snowmobiles for 22 years. His current snowmobile is a 2011 ...Read more

Published on Sunday, February 5, 2017 in Guest Columns, In The News, News & Updates
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Arctic Cat Acquired By Textron in $247 Million All-Cash Transaction

Arctic Cat Inc. announced that it has signed a definitive merger agreement under which Textron Inc. will acquire Arctic Cat in a cash transaction valued at approximately $247 million, plus the assumption of existing debt. Under the terms of the ...Read more

Published on Friday, January 27, 2017 in In The News, News & Updates
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Arctic Cat Early Release 2018 ZR 8000 and M 8000

Exciting news from Arctic Cat with the early release 2018 ZR 8000 and M 8000. Specifically the 2018 ZR 8000 Sno Pro ES with 129 or 137 inch Ripsaw track and the 2018 M 8000 Sno Pro available in 153 ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, January 24, 2017 in In The News, News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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Timber Harvesting and Snowmobile Trails in Massachusetts

Timber Harvesting and Snowmobile Trails in Massachusetts By Randy Toth Mention the word logging today and many people immediately assume the worst. They envision “clear-cut” logging – cutting down every tree in sight for miles around. The Department of Conservation ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, January 11, 2017 in Environment, In The News, News & Updates
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2017 Vintage Snowmobile Rides

The Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts and the Mass Vintage Snowmobile Club announce the 2017 vintage snowmobile rides. If you have a snowmobile enthusiast in the family, they’re sure to love reliving the past. So rev the engine, puff a little blue ...Read more

Published on Saturday, January 7, 2017 in In The News, News & Updates, Vintage
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Top 10 Snowmobile Stories of 2016

Here are the Top 10 Snowmobile Stories of 2016, written by fellow members of the Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts, just for you! It’s a mix of products, experiences, opinions, humor and fun. It’s also an invitation for you to send ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, January 3, 2017 in In The News, News & Updates
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Snowmobile Russia (Dan Gould)

Snowmobile Russia? Yes, I snowmobiled in Russia, without a doubt the greatest adventure of my life. The invitation to snowmobile in Russia was on the table for years, problem is, I hate flying. So what changed my mind? Lack of ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, December 27, 2016 in In The News, News & Updates, Snowmobile Travel
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Sledmass Delivers Christmas Toys For Tots

The Sledmass clubs delivered a Merry Christmas for the Toys For Tots program again this year, now an annual fundraiser. There were so many toys that we couldn’t even fit all of them into the hall at the Oak Ridge ...Read more

Published on Thursday, December 22, 2016 in Charity, In The News, News & Updates
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SNOWRAMA: Nine Snowmobile Concepts

SNOWRAMA: Nine snowmobile concepts. Do you love the feel of gliding over soft powder while astride your favorite snowmobile? Have you spent the winter helping out friends and family thanks to your trusty snowmobile? Whether it is outdoor sporting activities ...Read more

Published on Saturday, December 17, 2016 in Guest Columns, In The News, News & Updates
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Support Your Snowmobile Club (Brad Stafford)

The temperatures are starting to drop, the leaves have been falling and the Big Box stores have had Christmas decorations out for at least two months. So, we all know what that means. Yup… Its time to support your snowmobile ...Read more

Published on Monday, December 12, 2016 in Guest Columns, In The News, News & Updates
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Q&A: Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts

From time to time there are questions about SAM. I hope this Q&A clarifies how the Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts operates and why our partnership is key to the success of snowmobiling and the economy. SAM is not a company, it is ...Read more

Published on Monday, November 21, 2016 in In The News, News & Updates, President's Message
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2017 Massachusetts Recreational Trails Program

The 2017 Massachusetts Recreational Trails Program grant round is now open! Please visit the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) website for updated grant guidelines, application materials, and past awarded projects Check out the SAM clubs that were awarded grants this past ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, November 15, 2016 in General Announcements, In The News, News & Updates
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Special Snowmobile Registration Event

In cooperation with SAM, the Massachusetts Environmental Police will be holding a special snowmobile registration event November 13, 2016 at the BGL Swap Meet from 9am-3pm. Where: The Steel Shed Inc., 39 Bernardston Rd (Rt. 5 & 10), Bernardston, MA. ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Trail Tales: A Chip Off The Old Ice Block (Brad Stafford)

My snowmobile experience started, like many of my generation, on an Arctic Cat Kitty Cat. Then I remember that wonderful winter when my dad told me it was time to move up to a full-size sled. At the time he ...Read more

Published on Sunday, October 30, 2016 in News & Updates, Vintage
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2016 Sled Expo Vintage Show

The 2016 Sled Expo Vintage show by The Massachusetts Vintage Snowmobile Club dominated the main isle of the showroom  floor. Show attendees voted for their favorite sleds and decided who took home the bling. Special thanks to Mel Scuderi and John ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, October 25, 2016 in News & Updates, Vintage
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2017 Ski-Doo MXZx 600RS

The 2017 Ski-Doo MXZx 600RS racing snowmobile is designed specifically for North American snocross tracks. The sled features revised clutching, improved progressive coupling system and a refined slip gear that results in better holeshots, acceleration, traction and durability. The 2016 ...Read more

Published on Sunday, October 23, 2016 in In The News, News & Updates
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Snoped Snow Vehicle Concept

The avant-garde Snoped snow vehicle concept by Michigan-based designer Joey Ruiter combines the raw edge of Mad Max with the beauty of machined black granite. The minimalistic saddle reinforces the cafe bike race posture. Exposed mechanical bits, grade-five bolts and ...Read more

Published on Thursday, October 13, 2016 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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David Johnson, Founder of Polaris, Dies at 93

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 ...Read more

Published on Monday, October 10, 2016 in In The News, News & Updates
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IRBIS Introduces New Snowmobile

The new IRBIS Dingo T150 is a 3-piece modular design snowmobile can easily be stored in your garage or even a small closet. There’s no need for a trailer to transport the Dingo T150 as it can easily and quickly ...Read more

Published on Monday, October 10, 2016 in News & Updates, Sled Expo
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Be Bold Ride Old Sled and Tractor Show (Mel Scuderi)

The weather was cool and crisp autumn day, attracting 36 vintage snowmobiles and 18 vintage tractors to the Knox Trail Sno-Riders Be Bold Ride Old Sled & Tractor Show on September 25. We counted 127 vehicles at the show, which has ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, October 4, 2016 in News & Updates, Vintage
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2016 Sled Expo Exhibitor List

The list of exhibitors for the 2016 Sled Expo is below. The Snowmobile Superstore features new sleds, trailers, helmets, boots, bibs, jackets, oil and all types of accessories and services. Buy and sell at the Used Sled Corral. Vote for the ...Read more

Published on Saturday, October 1, 2016 in News & Updates, Sled Expo
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2016 Sled Expo Vintage Show

2016 Sled Expo Vintage Show Trophies and Cash Prizes Display your sled at the biggest vintage show in Massachusetts, and maybe even win some cash! -Vote and Win- Forget about the Presidential Election, vote for the best vintage sled! Voters are automatically ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, September 27, 2016 in News & Updates, Vintage
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2016 Recreational Trails Program

The Baker-Polito Administration announced the awarding of 30 Recreational Trails Program (RTP) Grants for projects in local communities throughout the state totaling $1,052,985. The RTP grants, ranging from $500 to $100,000 depending on the scope of the project, serve as ...Read more

Published on Saturday, September 24, 2016 in Awards, News & Updates
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Polaris Celebrates Return of the XCR

Polaris introduces the return of the all-new 2017 Polaris 600R Race Sled, the legendary XCR name and performance. The new Polaris 600R Race Sled and RUSH XCR represent the Polaris heritage of using racing as a testing and proving ground ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, September 20, 2016 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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Contact Senate President Rosenberg (Larry Tucker)

SAM’s legislative bill S1955 currently resides in the Senate Ways and Means Committee. It needs to be moved out of committee for action ASAP. We need your help. How can you impact our bill? You should write, email, snail mail, ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, September 14, 2016 in Legislative Affairs, News & Updates
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Crazy About Mercury Snowmobiles (John Ruffo)

Four years ago I picked up a gem, it was set back, behind the crowd of others. After looking over the same old Ski-Doos, Cats, Yamahas, etc, I found an odd-ball sled that until now I had only seen online ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, August 31, 2016 in News & Updates, Vintage
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SAM Unified Dues and Online Sales

In response to ongoing requests from snowmobilers in Massachusetts, SAM has implemented significant changes to better serve our members. At the May meeting of the Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts, the Board of Directors voted on a number of key proposals ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, August 24, 2016 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Farmers’ Almanac Predicts Snow for 2017

The 2017 Farmers’ Almanac is warning those in New England to get their snowblowers ready, winter is back! For SAM members that also means get your snowmobiles prepped for a long season of riding. Farmers’ Almanac editor Peter Geiger, Philom ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, August 16, 2016 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Wemotaci: The Hydrogen Snowmobile Concept

The Wemotaci is new generation of snowmobile that would burn hydrogen instead of gasoline. The Wemotaci’s modified 888 cc two-stroke engine would produce over 144hp without polluting the atmosphere with carbon monoxide. The concept vehicle is featured at Imaginactive. The Background ...Read more

Published on Saturday, July 30, 2016 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Al Joy Tire and Arctic Cat: 2016 Dealer Of The Year

Although Al Joy Tire and Arctic Cat are located in Connecticut they have long been a big supporter of the Knox Trail Sno-Riders in Massachusetts. The Club often calls the dealership looking for parts, advice or technical information for their ...Read more

Published on Sunday, July 3, 2016 in Awards, News & Updates
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Worthington Snowmobile Club: 2016 Club Of The Year

It’s important that clubs have a representative at SAM meetings, it’s even better when three members regularly attend the monthly meetings. Participation in the state association is vital to a healthy organization. The Worthington Snowmobile Club participates in the Snowmobile ...Read more

Published on Monday, June 6, 2016 in Awards, News & Updates
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John Rackem: 2016 Trail Worker Of The Year

Here, we have a snowmobile volunteer without an official title. John Rackem’s role is out on the trails, making sure projects are completed, organizing what is needed, where it is needed, and when. As a trail worker, John is always ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, May 17, 2016 in Awards, News & Updates
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The Crowningshields: 2016 Snowmobile Family of the Year

The Crowningshield family is always working on trails of the Indianhead Snowmobile Club and always makes sure the Cookie Bash landowners appreciation event happens, no matter what. Matt Crowningshield is the president and treasurer of the club and his family ...Read more

Published on Monday, May 2, 2016 in Awards, News & Updates
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John Puffer: Groomer of the Year

John Puffer is considered the backbone of the Porcupine Ridge Runners Snowmobile Club. “It’s kind of ironic nominating John for groomer of the year, during a season without snow, but this is a guy who is constantly thinking and dreaming ...Read more

Published on Monday, April 25, 2016 in Awards, News & Updates
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Colin Mackie: 2016 Junior Snowmobiler Of The Year

Everyone should meet this remarkable young man. Colin Mackie is a quiet, younger version of his dad, Keith Mackie. They both love working with their hands and being outdoors. Colin is an avid outdoors person who loves snowmobiling, fishing and ...Read more

Published on Monday, April 18, 2016 in Awards, News & Updates
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Rusty Coombs: 2016 Snowmobiler of the Year

This story dates back a few decades, to a time when a local club had fallen into disrepair and how an enthusiastic volunteer resurrected it. Having a passion for snowmobiling since boyhood, Rusty Coombs interest in snowmobiling was rekindled when ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, April 13, 2016 in Awards, News & Updates
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Remove Snowmobile Clutch with Water (Dan Gould)

Removing a snowmobile clutch with water, also know as the water trick, is becoming a common technique in snowmobile garages. Removing a primary clutch is straightforward if you have the proper tools. Even then, a stubborn clutch sometimes refuses to ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, March 16, 2016 in News & Updates, Sled DIY
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2017 Polaris Rush XCR

Polaris brings back a famous model name with the 2017 Polaris Rush XCR. The new “rider-centric” RUSH AXYS XCR chassis is designed for the big bump crowd. The Rush XCR LE can be had with either the 800  or 600 ...Read more

Published on Sunday, March 13, 2016 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Product Review
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DCR Public Meetings for Forest Management Projects

DCR Announces Public Meetings for Forest Management Projects in H.O. Cook, October Mountain, Sandisfield, Savoy, Wendell, Oakham and Townsend State Forests. The Department of Conservation and Recreation’s (DCR) Bureau of Forestry will be hosting the following public meetings to discuss ...Read more

Published on Thursday, March 10, 2016 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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2017 Yamaha Sidewinder

It finally happened. The Yamaha factory bolted a turbocharger to a 4-stroke engine and are making it available for public consumption. No more add on turbo kits or compromises. The 2017 Yamaha Sidewinder will deliver close to 200 HP, making ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, March 9, 2016 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Product Review
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2017 Arctic Cat 9000 Series Snowmobiles

For 2017 Arctic Cat swings a big bat with the all new 9000 Series snowmobiles powered by an outrageous 998cc turbocharged triple four-stroke engineered and manufactured by Yamaha. While Arctic Cat is officially pegging output at 180 horsepower, independent voices ...Read more

Published on Monday, March 7, 2016 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Product Review, Snowmobile Tech
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SAM Annual Award Nominations (Dan Gould)

It’s clear that the clubs and volunteers were running in overdrive this season. Sure, it can be a thankless job. Many of you volunteer to be with friends or have fun with the family. Some of you do it because ...Read more

Published on Thursday, February 25, 2016 in News & Updates, President's Message
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2017 Ski-Doo GEN 4 REV

The 2017 Ski-Doo Gen 4 REV features an all new chassis and Rotax 850 E-TEC engine for select 2017 MX ZX, TNT, Renegade X, Renegade Adrenaline and Summit X, Summit SP snowmobile models. The all-new, narrow Gen 4 REV chassis ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, February 23, 2016 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Product Review
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Ski-Doo Olympic Wood Sculpture

Ken Packie carved this 1966 Ski-Doo Olympic for the Knox Trail Sno-Riders from a single log. The sculpture is used as a fundraiser, with money going into a slot behind the windshield, like a piggy bank. Knox club president Jeff ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, February 17, 2016 in News & Updates, Vintage
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SAM I AM: Peter Blake

Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts member profile: Peter Blake is a member of the Northfield Snowmobile Club and has been riding snowmobiles for 40 years. His current snowmobile is a 2003 Arctic Cat Pantera 550. Club position: Currently serving as the ...Read more

Published on Friday, February 12, 2016 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Snowmobile Lost and Found

There’s nothing worse than the realization that you have lost something, especially if it’s expensive, has sentimental value or is vital to your well-being. It’s immediately painful, the eyes bulge, followed by a loss of breath, and a twitch as ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, February 9, 2016 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Travel
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SAM Annual Meeting April 7

The Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts Board of Directors invite you to celebrate your association at the upcoming SAM Annual Meeting and dinner on Thursday, April 7, 2016. Participate, relax and enjoy dinner with your friends, while you participate in the ...Read more

Published on Monday, February 8, 2016 in In The News, News & Updates
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SAM I Am: Spike Wheeler

Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts member profile: Spike Wheeler is a member of the Colrain Sno-Drifters and has been riding sleds for 45 years. His current ride is a 2012 Ski-Doo MXZ TNT 600 ACE. Sled mods: Just a bigger windscreen. ...Read more

Published on Friday, January 29, 2016 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Work and Play: Suzuki Groomer (Steve Howland)

Last fall I set up a 4-wheel-drive Suzuki Carry Mini Truck with tracks (also know as the Snowzuki) to use as a groomer for the trails that are taken care of by the Buckland Riders. It’s been a fun project ...Read more

Published on Saturday, January 16, 2016 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Rapid Deployment Snow Vehicle / RDSV

The Rapid Deployment Snow Vehicle / RDSV is a 2 seater high speed vehicle for use in any polar environment. This was strictly a personal project, just for the fun of it said designer Juan Garcia Mansilla. The current paradigm ...Read more

Published on Friday, January 15, 2016 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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2016 SAM Vintage Rides

The Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts (SAM) and the Mass Vintage Snowmobile Club have awarded Vintage Snowmobile Rides to three clubs for 2016. The events have become extremely popular, allowing SAM members to ride their vintage sleds in a parade-like atmosphere, ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, January 12, 2016 in News & Updates, Vintage
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SAM Partners with Land Trust to Protect Trail in Northfield

One of the most important north-south snowmobile trail corridors in Northfield is one step closer to permanent protection thanks to a partnership between landowners Bill and Nancy Ames, the Northfield Snowmobile Club, the Town of Northfield, Mount Grace Land Conservation ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, January 6, 2016 in Environment, News & Updates
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Snowmobile Ski Test: Simmons Gen III Flexi Ski (Jim Tucker)

The Great American Snowmobile Ski Test Part V: The Simmons Gen III Flexi Ski. Will these ski wars ever be done? Hell no! As long as there is American exceptionalism and ingenuity at work here in the USA, this reporter ...Read more

Published on Monday, January 4, 2016 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Product Review
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Top 10 Snowmobile Stories of 2015

Here are the Top 10 Snowmobile Stories of 2015, all written by SAM members for your reading and riding pleasure. It’s a mix of products, experiences, opinions, humor and fun. It’s also an invitation for you to send a story ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, December 29, 2015 in Awards, News & Updates
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Are The Snowmobile Trails Open? (Brad Stafford)

There are many questions that every snowmobile club and their volunteers get… “Where can I get a Trail Pass?” “Where can I park?” “Where can I get a map?” But I think the hardest one to answer is, “When are ...Read more

Published on Sunday, December 27, 2015 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Sledmass Toys for Tots Donations

The clubs of the Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts went big this year, we’re talking Ho Ho Ho Santa-size big. The sledmass clubs love Christmas shopping, especially for the Toys for Tots program. They know first-hand the magic of Christmas giving, ...Read more

Published on Monday, December 21, 2015 in Charity, News & Updates
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Planes Trains and Snowmobiles: Part 2 (Gerry Balchuinas)

As we left last time, we had just gotten out on the trail and were headed around the corner. We were on a nice groomed trail and there was a big bull moose in our way. Yes, I know he ...Read more

Published on Friday, December 18, 2015 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Travel
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Effective Engagement with Members of Congress

Effective Engagement with Members of Congress for snowmobile enthusiasts  By Ed Klim, President, International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association. For the past 15 years I have felt it necessary to make regular trips to Washington DC to promote snowmobile enthusiasts’ access to public ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, December 9, 2015 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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East Coast Snocross 2016 Schedule

A great mix of familiar sites and new venues will host sanctioned snowmobile racing throughout the northeast, as officials at East Coast Snocross (ECS) announce their 2016 event schedule. As it did in 2014, the circuit will begin its new ...Read more

Published on Sunday, December 6, 2015 in In The News, News & Updates
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SAM Members Featured in Worcester Living Magazine

Worcester Living magazine features a story in the just-released winter edition about snowmobiling in Central Massachusetts. The story is catered to readers who have never snowmobiled and might be interested. SAM members and local volunteers, Gerry Balchuinas, Jay Pease, Tony ...Read more

Published on Monday, November 30, 2015 in In The News, News & Updates
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Rock Maple Racing Cross Country Snowmobile Races

Rock Maple Racing returns to snowmobile racing after five-year hiatus, announces 2016 Rock Maple Racing Cross Country Snowmobile Races and schedule. From its origin in the winter of 1991-92 to the day it was sold in May of 2010, Rock Maple ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, November 24, 2015 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Review: ThermaCELL heated insoles

Jim Tucker’s review of ThermaCELL heated insoles. What’s black and gray and warm all over? Why it’s ThermaCELL heated insoles, course! That’s boot warmers to you and me. There’s an old adage that says if you’re not warm then you ...Read more

Published on Friday, November 20, 2015 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Product Review
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WWLP 22 News Video of SAM Registration Event

WWLP 22 News featured a video report from the SAM sponsored Special Snowmobile Registration Event by the Massachusetts Environmental Police. The registration services coincided with the Bernardston-Gill-Leyden snowmobile club’s annual swap meet. The Massachusetts Environmental Police had a mobile command center on ...Read more

Published on Sunday, November 15, 2015 in In The News, News & Updates
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Google Street View Snowmobile

Everyone is familiar with Google Street View. Who hasn’t looked up their own street address and said to themselves, “I know the day those photos were taken, the trash can is in front of the house.” But have you seen ...Read more

Published on Sunday, November 15, 2015 in In The News, News & Updates
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Quebec: The Ultimate Snowmobile Experience

By Dan Gould Did you know that some of the finest snowmobiling in the world is only a few hours away? If you get up at your usual work-a-day time, hop in the truck around 6:30-7am, your skis will be ...Read more

Published on Thursday, November 12, 2015 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Travel
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Polaris Winning Riders Program Supports Snowmobile Associations

Polaris Winning Riders Program Supports State & Provincial Snowmobile Associations and Grassroots Groups with Sales-Based Contributions. For the eleventh consecutive year, state and provincial snowmobile organizations across North America are receiving contributions from the Polaris Winning Riders program, which generates ...Read more

Published on Monday, October 26, 2015 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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SAM I Am: Matt Crowningshield

Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts member profile: Matt Crowningshield is a member of the Indian Head Snowmobile Club and has been riding sleds for 24 years. His current ride is a 2003 Polaris XC-SP 600 Sled mods: I raised the handlebars, ...Read more

Published on Sunday, October 25, 2015 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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My Grandfather: The Golden Age of Snowmobiling (John Ruffo)

In 1969 my grandfather Paul Bogos, or Slim, as he was known, along with his best friend George, tried snowmobiling for the first time. It started with a ride on a new sled that belonged to a local farmer. After ...Read more

Published on Monday, October 19, 2015 in News & Updates, Vintage
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Drone Video of Sled Expo

This drone video shot at the Sled Expo last year gives a good overall view of the Snowmobile Superstore as it hovers over the new snowmobile display, then the used sled corral and finally flies in for a low shot over ...Read more

Published on Monday, October 12, 2015 in News & Updates, Sled Expo
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2016 Massachusetts Recreational Trails Program Grant Applications Open

The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation has just announced that the 2016 Massachusetts Recreational Trails Program grant applications are open. Information Sessions: Three information sessions will be held to inform and update the public on the Recreational Trails Program, ...Read more

Published on Sunday, October 11, 2015 in Education, News & Updates
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Winter Clothing Drive at the Sled Expo (Marcia Miller)

Make a donation at the SAM Winter Clothing Drive at the Sled Expo, October 17 & 18, and get a chance to win an authentic Levi LaVallee autographed SAM map. As fall approaches we start to think about all the ...Read more

Published on Friday, October 9, 2015 in Charity, News & Updates
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Used Sled Corral $10

Two days, one low price! The best place to buy and sell a snowmobile. Put your sled in front of thousands of enthusiastic buyers for only $10 per item! Sell your Snowmobile, ATV or PowerSports machine at the Sled Expo, October ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, October 6, 2015 in News & Updates, Sled Expo
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Your Vintage Snowmobile on Display at the Sled Expo

Display Your Vintage Snowmobile at Sled Expo Come see some of the best vintage snowmobiles in New England at the Sled Expo, October 17 and 18. Better yet, put your vintage sled on display in front of thousands of rabid ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, October 6, 2015 in News & Updates, Vintage
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Sled Expo 2015 Exhibitor List

The list of exhibitors for the 2015 Sled Expo is taking shape. The Snowmobile Superstore will feature new sleds, trailers, helmets, boots, bibs, jackets, oil and all types of accessories and services. The Used Sled Corral is the place to buy or ...Read more

Published on Monday, October 5, 2015 in News & Updates, Sled Expo
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DCR Regulation Listening Sessions

Published on Sunday, October 4, 2015 in Legislative Affairs, News & Updates
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Will This Be The Future of Snowmobiling? (Mark Kenyon)

Closed trails. Will this be the future of snowmobiling? Although there is some humor in the picture, this in fact may happen someday. Why? Because of a lack of volunteers! We are not the only club with this problem, and ...Read more

Published on Sunday, September 27, 2015 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Polaris 2016 Race Sleds

Polaris introduces 2016 Race Sleds Optimism for a winning 2015-2016 race season runs high throughout the Polaris Snowmobile Racing program thanks to an infusion of new young talent in the Pro snocross ranks, the winning momentum of cross-country racers on ...Read more

Published on Monday, September 14, 2015 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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Turbo Wankel Snowmobile (Mel Scuderi)

It was one of those sleds that you knew had to come home with you. When I first checked out the 1971 Arctic Cat Lynx Wankel snowmobile, I knew I wasn’t leaving without it. It even came with three spare ...Read more

Published on Sunday, September 6, 2015 in News & Updates, Vintage
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Snow Cruiser Built to Explore the Antarctic

Built in 1939 for $150,000 ($2.5 million in 2015 dollars) the Snow Cruiser was designed to explore the Antarctic under the command of U.S. Rear-Admiral Richard E. Byrd. Designed by Dr. Thomas C. Poulter, Director of the Armour Institute in ...Read more

Published on Monday, July 6, 2015 in News & Updates, Vintage
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Trailer Hitch Experiences (Dan Gould)

I share the following trailer hitch experiences fully aware that I could very well be pummeled with hate mail and might even find myself sleeping on the couch again. It’s a long-standing joke in my household that trailering, specifically hooking ...Read more

Published on Sunday, June 21, 2015 in News & Updates, President's Message

DCR Partnerships Matching Funds Program

DCR Commissioner Carol I. Sanchez announces DCR Partnerships Matching Funds Program. PRESS RELEASE, May 22, 2015 Dear Partners: I am pleased to announce the launch of the first phase of the FY16 DCR Partnerships Matching Funds Program. The Partnerships Matching ...Read more

Published on Sunday, May 31, 2015 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Guinness World Record: 847 Snowmobiles in Parade

Well, someone had to do it. That would be 847 snowmobiles to be exact. The Science Hill Drifters Snowmobile Club based out of St. Mary’s Ontario officially made their mark in the snow after being recognized by the Guinness World Record ...Read more

Published on Thursday, May 28, 2015 in In The News, News & Updates

Chainsaw Safety Class

May 30-31, 2015 9am-4pm at Bridgewater State University June 27-28, 2015 9am-4pm at Notchview Reservation, Windsor, MA. This class is supported by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), the Massachusetts Recreational Trails Advisory Board (MARTAB) and the Recreational Trails ...Read more

Published on Sunday, May 17, 2015 in Education, News & Updates, Safety
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Boulevard Machine & Gear: Friend of SAM

Boulevard Machine & Gear has generously supported Knox Trail Sno-Riders monetarily, by way of purchasing raffle tickets and making groomer donations. They joined the club at our Annual Raffle in December to celebrate the season and partake in the festivies. ...Read more

Published on Saturday, May 2, 2015 in Awards, News & Updates
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Molly Miller: 2015 Junior Snowmobiler of the Year

This young leader is heavily involved with SAM and the Bernardston Gill Leyden Snowmobile Club. Often spotted volunteering at SAM events, Molly Miller typically spends dozens of hours annually setting up and tearing down everything that goes into the Sled ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, April 14, 2015 in Awards, News & Updates
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Hadley Snowmobile Club: 2015 Club of the Year

This club is on the move! They have done an astonishing amount of work and networking to make snowmobiling grow as a whole in their community and our state. Ending last season with a measly 33 members and only 2-4 ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, April 8, 2015 in Awards, News & Updates
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Jon Tobin: Snowmobiler of the Year

As a volunteer, Jon Tobin takes a leadership role in every aspect of club activities: trail clearing, grooming, equipment maintenance, membership, running meetings, record keeping, newsletters and club events. His professionalism, combined with a love and appreciation for snowmobiling, has ...Read more

Published on Friday, April 3, 2015 in Awards, News & Updates
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Greenfield Recorder Journalist Describes Snowmobile Experience

Greenfield Recorder staff reporter Kathleen McKiernan describes her first experience on a snowmobile. Tim Pydych, co-owner of Ray’s Cycle Center, 332 Wells St. in Greenfield, introduced the newspaper reporter to the snowmobile controls with solid advice and encouragement. Said McKiernan, ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, March 18, 2015 in In The News, News & Updates
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SAM Legislative Team Scores Touchdown: Vintage Snowmobile Bill Passes (Larry Tucker)

The New England Patriot won the Super Bowl. But the Patriots are not the only ones scoring touchdowns, your legislative team also just put one over the goal line. SAM Vintage Snowmobile Bill Passes!: On January 8th, 2015, your Snowmobile ...Read more

Published on Monday, March 16, 2015 in Legislative Affairs, News & Updates
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Matthew A. Beaton, Massachusetts Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs, Snowmobiles

Matthew A. Beaton, the Massachusetts Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EOEA), snowmobiles with key members of the Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts and the Harvard Snowmobile Club. Tony Shaw, a SAM Board of Director and President of the Harvard Snowmobile ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, March 10, 2015 in Legislative Affairs, News & Updates
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SAM Annual Meeting April 2

The Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts Board of Directors invite you to celebrate your association at the upcoming SAM Annual Meeting and dinner on Thursday, April 2, 2015. Participate, relax and enjoy dinner with your friends, while you participate in the ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, March 4, 2015 in Awards, News & Updates
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Tekvest: Peace of Mind While Snowmobiling

Tekvest: Peace of Mind while Snowmobiling. Close calls happen everyday. A simple drive to work challenges both mind and body. Encountering a dog, cat or cow in the middle of the road can be a weekly occurrence. Imbeciles holding a ...Read more

Published on Monday, March 2, 2015 in News & Updates, President's Message
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2016 Yamaha Snowmobiles

Yamaha introduces their 2016 snowmobiles with big news in the Apex and Vector line-up Yamaha’s new lightweight SingleShot is all about weight savings, making for a more comfortable and better handling sled. The SingleShot shorttrack 129 rear suspension is 10 ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, February 25, 2015 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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2016 Ski-Doo Snowmobiles

The 2016 Ski-Doo snowmobile line-up centers on refinements and new technology. The legedary Blizzard name is re-introduced to the MX-Z line, along with a new Renegade Enduro, and the new Expedition Xtreme in the utility/touring crossover segment. Ski-Doo introduces the ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, February 25, 2015 in In The News, News & Updates
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SAM Annual Award Nominations

Snowmobiling is great and we have only the volunteers (and the snow) to thank. Do it by nominating a volunteer for the SAM Annual Awards. Volunteers are the heart and soul of snowmobiling. Without them there wouldn’t be anywhere to ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, February 24, 2015 in Awards, News & Updates
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New York Free Snowmobiling Weekend March 7-8

Governor Andrew Cuomo made a number of announcements today geared toward boosting Upstate winter tourism, including a free snowmobiling weekend to be held in communities across New York on March 7 and 8 for all out-of-state and Canadian snowmobilers. Registration ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, February 24, 2015 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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$5,000 in Scholarships Available to SAM Members

The Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts Charlene Whitaker SAM Scholarship is available to members of SAM. In addition, SAM members can also apply for two other scholarships, the Northeast Chapter ISC Scholarship and the CJ Ramstad Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship awards ...Read more

Published on Friday, February 20, 2015 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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SAM Vintage Ride Vintage Hosted by Knox Trail Sno-Riders

The Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts and the Mass Vintage Snowmobile Club are pleased to announce that the Knox Trail Sno-Riders will be hosting a vintage ride February 21, 2015 EVENT DETAILS Event time is from 9:00am to 4:00pm. Park and ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, February 18, 2015 in News & Updates, Vintage
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Storm Alert: Assistance Request in Eastern Mass

NSTAR is looking for SAM’s assistance in Eastern Massachusetts in anticipation of the upcoming weekend storm (blizzard forecast). NSTAR needs several snowmobiles and operators (two-ups and work sleds preferred) as well as tracked groomer vehicles to access and break trails ...Read more

Published on Friday, February 13, 2015 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Snowmobile Ski Test: The MoHawk by SLP (Jim Tucker)

Oh, my God! What was it I pulled out of the box, labeled Starting Line Products? Was it a black roller coaster? Was the plastic thingy with bumps on it from outer space or the deep sea? Nope. The skis ...Read more

Published on Thursday, February 12, 2015 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts Vintage Rides

The Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts and the Mass Vintage Snowmobile Club have awarded vintage snowmobile rides to several clubs for 2015. February, 7, Burgy Bullets Snowmobile Club Burgy Bullets Clubhouse, 12 Laurel Rd, Haydenville Massachusetts 01039. The 25 mile ride ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, February 4, 2015 in News & Updates, Vintage
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Snowmobile Safety Tips: Hazards on the Trail (Randy Toth)

I’m sure you are all aware of the hazards associated with riding off-trail in snow-covered fields, such as rocks, tree stumps and other obstructions hidden under the snow. You also know enough (I hope) to keep to the right while ...Read more

Published on Friday, January 30, 2015 in News & Updates, Safety
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Snowmobile To The Elk and Back (Gerry Balchuinas)

It was a great day for a ride. My best friend Harry called and wanted my wife and I to go for a ride out of Florida. We met Harry and his wife Jean in Orange and headed for the ...Read more

Published on Monday, January 26, 2015 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Travel
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Snowmobile Safety: Ride Safe So You Can Ride Again Tomorrow

Snowmobiling is in full stride and now is the time for snowmobilers to keep snowmobile safety a top-of-mind awareness issue. Snowmobile safety is nothing new to organized snowmobiling. Snowmobile Administrators, the Manufacturers, snowmobile associations and clubs joined together years ago ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, January 21, 2015 in Education, News & Updates
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SAM I Am: Brad Rand

Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts member profile: Brad Rand is a member of the Snowbirds Snowmobile Club in Spencer. He’s been riding snowmobiles for 30-years, his current sled is a 2003 Arctic Cat T660 Turbo, 4-stroke. Sled mods: No modifications needed ...Read more

Published on Thursday, January 15, 2015 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Massachusetts Vintage Snowmobile Registration Law

The Vintage Snowmobile Registration legislation filed by the Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts was signed by Governor Patrick and is now law. SAM’s bill H.3858 can now be referred to as Chapter 502 of the Acts of 2014. There are a ...Read more

Published on Sunday, January 11, 2015 in News & Updates, Vintage
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Test: RidePower Cell Phone Charger (Jim Tucker)

In the never-ending quest to find devices that make our rides easier, I stumbled upon a cell phone charger that just might help some riders make it through snow country. There seem to be two types of riders out there ...Read more

Published on Thursday, January 8, 2015 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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Snowmobilers Rescue Moose

Three snowmobilers rescue a moose on December 28 after an avalanche on an Alaska mountain buried it alive. The Alaska Dispatch News reports that three Matanuska-Susitna Borough residents spotted the animal’s snout sticking out of the snow and used shovels ...Read more

Published on Saturday, January 3, 2015 in In The News, News & Updates
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Top 10 Snowmobile Stories of 2014

These are the Top 10 Snowmobile Stories of 2014 at sledmass.com. Your clicks pile up, your Facebook “Likes” and Twitter “retweets” share the words. We are unique at sledmass.com, as the majority of our snowmobile stories are created by fellow ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, December 30, 2014 in In The News, News & Updates
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Snowmobile Facts vs. Fiction: Fight Misinformation

There are many false claims made about snowmobiling and it’s important that you understand snowmobile facts vs. fiction, and fight misinformation. There is a myth that snowmobilers have plenty of trails to ride but those making such claims do not ...Read more

Published on Saturday, December 27, 2014 in Education, News & Updates
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Santa Delivers Toys by Snowmobile (Video)

Merry Christmas from everyone at the Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts and the SledMass team. Here’s a holiday video from 1973 featuring our good friend Santa Claus delivering toys to good boys and girls by his Arctic Cat snowmobile in a very ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, December 24, 2014 in News & Updates, Vintage
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Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts Deliver Toys For Tots (Marcia Miller)

I am not sure what words to use to describe how amazed I am at what the Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts accomplished this year for Toys for Tots. The December SAM meeting was where the magic happened. Club upon club ...Read more

Published on Monday, December 22, 2014 in Charity, News & Updates
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Farouche a Wild Snowmobile Design Concept

A wild snowmobile design concept, The Farouche, posted at charlesbombardier.com lights the imagination of snowmobile enthusiast all over the world and makes a statement about the direction that snowmobile recreation could go in the future. Charles Bombardier tells us, “The ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, December 17, 2014 in In The News, News & Updates
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Snowmobiling a Family Activity (Ed Klim)

Consumer Insight Study Shows Snowmobile Enthusiasts Consider Snowmobiling a Family Activity. Thanks to snowmobiling, winter has become a season to enjoy. Ask any of the three million people who take pleasure every year in the beauty of winter on the ...Read more

Published on Monday, December 15, 2014 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Final Push for Snowmobile Legislation in Massachusetts

We are fast approaching the end of the current two-year Massachusetts legislative session that began back in January 2013. Since that time the Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts has been working to get our two bills passed before the December 31 ...Read more

Published on Sunday, December 7, 2014 in Legislative Affairs, News & Updates
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WBZ-TV Meteorologist Predict Harsh Winter (video)

Veteran meteorologist Barry Burbank of WBZ-TV hosted the “Eye On Weather: 2015 Winter Forecast” on CBS Boston in which he predicts above average snowfall and cold temperatures this winter. “The signals are flashing a rather harsh winter.” If you enjoy reading ...Read more

Published on Sunday, November 30, 2014 in Environment, News & Updates
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New Trend for Land and Snowmobile Trails (Larry Tucker)

This is the time of year to get our trails cleaned and ready for the coming snowmobile season. The trail crews for all the clubs are out there working on our most important asset – our trails. My club has ...Read more

Published on Friday, November 28, 2014 in Environment, Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Thanksgiving Snow 2015

“The New-England Boy’s Song about Thanksgiving Day”, also known as “Over the River and Through the Wood”, is a Thanksgiving poem by Lydia Maria Child according to Wikipedia. They go on to say “Although the modern Thanksgiving holiday is not ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, November 26, 2014 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Travel
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Job Opening – Great Benefits Package (Brad Stafford)

When I first accepted the position as president of the Bernardston-Gill-Leyden (BGL) snowmobile club I knew there would be responsibilities. One is doing the best I can to help with all kinds of requests that come from the landowners, state ...Read more

Published on Friday, November 21, 2014 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Massachusetts Recreational Trails Program 2015

The Massachusetts Recreational Trails Program 2015 Grant Round is OPEN! Grant Deadline Date: February 2, 2015 The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) is a federally funded grant program created through the National Recreational Trail Fund Act as a part of the ...Read more

Published on Sunday, November 16, 2014 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Snowmobile Season Full of Optimism! (Ed Klim)

Snowmobile season begins with early snow and crowds full of optimism! Early snowfall throughout the Snowbelt greeted winter enthusiasts at Halloween time this year. The early blast was a welcome taste of things to come in much of North America. ...Read more

Published on Monday, November 10, 2014 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Vote Tuesday November 4

Remember to Vote on Tuesday November 4. Polling hours are 7am until 8pm. Your vote as a snowmobiler in Massachusetts can greatly impact the outcome of the election. Think about this: There are approximately 15,000 to 20,000 snowmobilers in the ...Read more

Published on Sunday, November 2, 2014 in Legislative Affairs, News & Updates
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Snowmobile Tool Kit (Dan Gould)

The stock snowmobile tool kit hidden away in the average snowmobile is little more than an empty promise. “I’m here for you, but when you need to tighten that loose suspension bolt I’m going to make your knuckles bleed.” Actually, ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, October 29, 2014 in News & Updates, President's Message
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SAM I AM: Jon Tobin

Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts member profile: Jon Tobin is a member of the Burgy Bullets Snowmobile Club. He’s been riding snowmobiles for 21-years, his current sled is a 2001 Arctic Cat Z440 Sno-Pro 440F. Sled mods: No major modifications. The ...Read more

Published on Sunday, October 19, 2014 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Sled Expo Exhibitors Announced

Get to the Sled Expo – October 18 and 19 The Big E Grounds in West Springfield The Sled Expo is the Snowmobile Superstore,  featuring snowmobile and dealer displays. Get the best deals of the season on new and used ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, October 15, 2014 in News & Updates, Sled Expo
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The Sled Expo Video

Take a 40-second video tour of the Sled Expo as we get ready to open the doors for this weekend’s Snowmobile Super Store event. Saturday, October 18, 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday, October 19, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, October 14, 2014 in News & Updates, Sled Expo
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Used Sled Corral Only $10

Put your sled in front of thousands of enthusiastic buyers for only $10 per item! Sell your Snowmobile, ATV or PowerSports machine at the Sled Expo, October 18 and 19, 2014 Serious sellers and buyers know that nothing compares to actually ...Read more

Published on Saturday, October 11, 2014 in News & Updates, Sled Expo
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Snowmobile Swap Meet at the Sled Expo

Don’t miss the snowmobile and power-sports Swap Meet at the Sled Expo October 18 and 19. Sell and buy used parts, accessories, trailers, jackets, bibs, and other related motorsports gear. Great deals to be had. Clean out your garage and ...Read more

Published on Thursday, October 9, 2014 in News & Updates, Sled Expo
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Surcharge on Massachusetts Snowmobile Registrations

A new 10% surcharge on recreational vehicle registrations in Massachusetts was added to the state budget, costing snowmobilers, ATV riders and boaters an additional $4. The increase went into effect September 1. The sledmass crew first got a whiff of ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, October 8, 2014 in In The News, News & Updates
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Recreational Trails Program

The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) accepts applications for Recreational Trails Program (RTP) Grants on an annual basis. The next deadline for all RTP grants is February 1st, 2015. Only application materials delivered or post-marked by February 1st ...Read more

Published on Thursday, October 2, 2014 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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2014 Massachusetts Trails Conference

The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) in partnership with the Massachusetts Recreational Trail Advisory Board (MARTAB) presents the 2014 Massachusetts Trails Conference to be held on Saturday, November 8, 2014 at the Double Tree Hotel and Conference Center in ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, September 30, 2014 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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2015 Ski-Doo MXZx 600RS

BRP’s 2015 Ski-Doo MXZx 600RS builds on its strong chassis performance from 2014 by refining the engine and drive systems for better power delivery and even better overall durability. Last season saw big chassis changes for the Ski-Doo stock terrain ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, September 23, 2014 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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Lavallee Retires From Snocross Racing

Levi LaVallee officially announced his retirement from racing snocross September 6, 2014, at the 48th Annual Sno Barons’ Snowmobile Club Hay Days, in North Branch, Minnesota. LaVallee, who started racing at age 12 worked his way through the ranks and ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, September 17, 2014 in In The News, News & Updates
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Arctic Cat ZR 6000 R SX and ZR 6000 R XC

Arctic Cat unveils the updated ZR 6000 R SX (snowcross) and the all new ZR 6000 R XC (cross country) sleds at the annual Haydays Grass Drags & Swap Meet. The ZR 6000R XC cross country racer now uses the ...Read more

Published on Sunday, September 14, 2014 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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2015 Polaris IQ Race Sled

Key Features on the new 2015 Polaris IQ Race Sled New Walker Evans Racing Shock Package IFS shocks and rear track shock are Walker Evans Aluminum IFP 16 Position Compression Adjustable Shocks with Piggyback Reservoirs IFS shocks and rear track ...Read more

Published on Sunday, September 7, 2014 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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Yamaha MPI Turbo Kits Available for SRViper

Yamaha trail and crossover enthusiasts looking for the ultimate in power and reliability can now have their cake and eat it too with the newly released Mountain Performance Incorporated (MPI) Trail Turbo Accessory Kit for Yamaha SRViper models. With the ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, September 3, 2014 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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Farmers’ Almanac Predicts Copious Amounts of Snow

Snowmobile fans have something to celebrate as the heat of August fades away. The Farmers’ Almanac just predicted another snowy winter, proclaiming “More Shivery And Shovelry!” in their 2014 forecast. “Over the eastern third of the country, we are expecting ...Read more

Published on Monday, August 25, 2014 in In The News, News & Updates
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Northern Light Snowmobile Movie Debuts

Set against the backdrop of a town’s annual snowmobile race, Northern Light interweaves captivating stories of recession-era America. The lives of three families change profoundly in the north woods of Michigan, where winters are unforgiving, jobs are hard to come ...Read more

Published on Monday, June 16, 2014 in In The News, News & Updates
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Chainsaw Safety for Trail Volunteers

Chainsaw Safety for Trail Volunteers, Bridgewater State College, Bridgewater, MA, June 21st and 22nd, 2014, 9 am – 5 pm both days. Ten spaces are available for the chainsaw training course funded by the RTP. This two day class is designed for ...Read more

Published on Saturday, June 14, 2014 in Education, News & Updates
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Arctic Cat CEO Claude Jordan Out, Chris Twomey In

Several stories have been circulating about Arctic Cat’s chairman and CEO stepping down. However, Twin Cities Business out of Minnesota has published a report that Arctic Cat’s chairman and CEO Claude Jordan was fired. When the company announced Jordan’s departure ...Read more

Published on Thursday, June 5, 2014 in In The News, News & Updates
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Jeffrey Gamelli, Snowmobiler of the Year

It’s an honor to recognize someone who has been involved in the Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts for a good part of his adult life, someone who has made a difference. Jeffrey Gamelli is a jack-of-all trades guy, as far as ...Read more

Published on Friday, May 16, 2014 in Awards, News & Updates
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DCR Releases Volunteer in Parks Program Guide

The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation releases their new Volunteer in the Parks Program Guide policy “with an opportunity to achieve the goal of standardizing and simplifying the process for proposing, reviewing, and conducting all volunteer activities – whether ...Read more

Published on Friday, May 2, 2014 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Bernardston Gill Leyden: Snowmobile Club of the Year Award

There are many ways to measure a club’s success. A steady increase in membership is certainly one of them. But that doesn’t happen by chance. The Bernardston Gill Leyden Snowmobile Club realized some time ago that in order to succeed they ...Read more

Published on Thursday, May 1, 2014 in Awards, News & Updates
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Jim LaFrance, SAM Groomer Operator of the Year

This year’s winner is a familiar face to everyone who attends the Sled Expo, he’s there just about every year, especially if the club’s groomers are on display. Like so many award recipients, he’s a volunteer supreme. His arms are ...Read more

Published on Sunday, April 27, 2014 in Awards, News & Updates
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Joe Gibbons, SAM Trail Worker of the Year

It’s been said that trail work is done by ghosts or the supernatural, maybe even by elves. No one ever sees them but the evidence is clear. The trails are trimmed, the signs are hung, bridges are in perfect condition, ...Read more

Published on Thursday, April 17, 2014 in Awards, News & Updates
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Paul Trova Honored at SAM Annual Meeting (Dan Gould)

When Paul Trova took the “oath of office” in 2004, I doubt he thought he would stay on as the vice president of the Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts for ten long years, but he did. Paul has always been one ...Read more

Published on Friday, April 11, 2014 in Awards, News & Updates
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Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts 2014 Charity Report (Marcia Miller)

Members of the Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts donated over $15,000 to charities this season, of that $10,000 went to local charities! See the individual club reports at the bottom of the page. I would like to start off by saying ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, April 8, 2014 in Charity, News & Updates
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Polaris Dominates 2014 Jackson Hole World Championship Snowmobile Hillclimb (video)

Polaris hillclimbers won 10 of 12 pro titles and sweep all King of the Hill titles to dominate at the 2014 Jackson Hole World Championship Snowmobile Hillclimb. Keith Curtis Wins Five Pro Classes, Two King of the Hill Crowns & ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, April 1, 2014 in In The News, News & Updates
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Club Charity Reports (Marcia Miller)

This is the last week to get snowmobile charity reports in to SAM. I have only received 8 out of the 34 clubs. We can do better than that! The online form is so easy to submit. This is a ...Read more

Published on Sunday, March 23, 2014 in Charity, News & Updates
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History of the Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts: Part II (Brad Stafford)

The Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts: Created by snowmobilers in the past, for the snowmobilers of the future. In part one, I wrote how back in the late 1960’s a group of snowmobilers had the foresight to see that with the ...Read more

Published on Monday, March 17, 2014 in Education, Guest Columns, News & Updates
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TekVest by Klim Review (Jim Tucker)

What’s the one piece of safety gear you can’t leave home without? Is it the helmet shield or goggles? Is it the snowmobile suit for its warmth and protection? Is it the helmet, the big daddy of all protective gear? It just ...Read more

Published on Friday, March 14, 2014 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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SAE Snowmobile Challenge 2014 Winners Announced (video)

The 15th Annual SAE Snowmobile Challenge was held at Michigan Technological University in Houghton, MI on March 4-8, 2014. This year 17 Universities registered for the event. The members of the International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association – Arctic Cat, BRP, Polaris ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, March 12, 2014 in Education, Environment, News & Updates
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Gearheads Build Snowmobile Racer (Jeff Miller)

American ingenuity, two words that have lost some meaning in the last decade or so. For years Americans came up with ideas for things, you could sit back and marvel at what they thought up in their heads. But with ...Read more

Published on Sunday, March 9, 2014 in Guest Columns, News & Updates, Vintage
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Snowmobile Volunteers Do The Work

Recorder.com reporter Kathleen McKiernan’s detailed story about grooming snowmobile trails centers around the volunteer efforts of the Conway Snowmobile Club and 2013 Trail Worker of the Year recipient Paul Sokoloski and his son Adam. “Typically, the two South Deerfield men ...Read more

Published on Sunday, March 9, 2014 in In The News, News & Updates
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Ski-Doo 2015 Snowmobiles Announced (video)

Ski-Doo started their 2015 launch by announcing the second generation of their Response Angle Suspension (RAS 2) front suspension. The aluminum spindle is slightly taller, under a half-inch, but better matches the rMotion rear suspension in rough conditions. The new ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, March 5, 2014 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Polaris Introduces 2015 Snowmobiles (video) (updated)

Polaris introduces nine new 2015 RUSH and Switchback models built on the AXYS snowmobile platform. (see updates at bottom) ALL-NEW AXYS CHASSIS The foundation for the AXYS platform is an all-new chassis. This all-new chassis is built from the ground up ...Read more

Published on Monday, March 3, 2014 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Ice Hockey in Russia by Snowmobile (Evgeny Borodin)

Ice hockey in Russia is more than ice hockey, this phrase is known to everybody in Russia. Russia feels this sport on the genetic level. Back in the USSR there used to be ice hockey rinks in every neighborhood, the ...Read more

Published on Monday, March 3, 2014 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Father and Son Snowmobile Project (Dan Gould)

Over the past few years I’ve spent umpteen hours with my two boys working on their snowmobiles. Short of an engine overhaul, we’ve taken apart, cleaned or rebuilt just about every mechanism on their wedgie-style Polaris sleds, an ’87 Sport ...Read more

Published on Friday, February 28, 2014 in News & Updates, President's Message
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SAM I AM: Chris Marcinczyk (Terry Holland)

Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts member profile: Chris Marcinczyk is a member of the Berkshire Snow Seekers, Savoy Kanary Kats and the Woodford Snow Busters. He’s been riding snowmobiles for 10-years, his current sled is a 2011 Ski-Doo XRS E-TEC 800 ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, February 26, 2014 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Camp Sno Mo Challenge (Marcia Miller)

The Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts Charity Committee challenges clubs to donate $50 each to Camp Sno Mo, the official Charity of SAM The Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts supports the Easter Seals Camp Sno Mo program. Located in Gilmanton Iron Works, ...Read more

Published on Monday, February 24, 2014 in Charity, News & Updates
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2015 Snowmobile Manufacturers' Sneak Peek

Polaris, Yamaha and Ski-Doo 2015 Snowmobile Manufacturers’ Sneak Peek is scheduled for March and April. Sit on a 2015 sled, dream about next year or take advantage of the spring deals and order a new sled. (Note: Arctic Cat will not be ...Read more

Published on Sunday, February 23, 2014 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Starting Your Snowmobile (Randy Toth)

Starting your snowmobile may seem like a very simple and safe operation. It generally is, but occasionally this simple act can turn embarrassing, costly, or even deadly when “Sleds Go Wild.” It is quite an experience to witness a snowmobile ...Read more

Published on Friday, February 21, 2014 in News & Updates, Safety
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2015 Arctic Cat Snowmobiles Announced

The 2015 Arctic Cat snowmobiles were announced today to the beat of Ted Nugent’s Cat Scratch Fever ringing through fan boys’ ears. Much to everyone’s surprise (and relief), the Suzuki two-stroke 500 and 800 are still available. The Arctic Cat ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, February 19, 2014 in In The News, News & Updates
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The Consequences of Snowmobiling Illegal (Scott Sumner)

The SAM Board of Directors and attending members had the opportunity to learn firsthand at Thursday’s SAM Meeting, on February 6, 2014, of the consequences of riding the SAM snowmobile trails without a MA Registration and/or a SAM Member Trail ...Read more

Published on Friday, February 14, 2014 in Education, News & Updates, Safety
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SAM Vintage Ride Saturday February 15

The SAM Vintage Ride will be held Saturday, February 15, at Ayrhill Farms, 192 Henry Wood Rd, Cheshire, Massachusetts The ride, hosted by the Adams Sno-Drifters, will be approximately 25 miles long. Registration is at 9am, the ride starts at ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, February 12, 2014 in News & Updates, Vintage
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Yamaha Introduces 2015 Snowmobiles (video)

Yamaha beat everyone to the punch by unveiling their 2015 snowmobile lineup weeks ahead of what was expected, introducing four new Viper models. The SR Viper R-TX LE, the SR Viper L-TX LE, the SR Viper R-TX DX and the SR Viper L-TX DX. ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, February 11, 2014 in In The News, News & Updates
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Russia Update: Christmas Snowmobile Procession 2014

Dear snowmobilers of the United States, I am happy to greet you this winter season. We hear a lot about the extreme cold weather gripping some North American states. We hope that nothing – even the polar vortex making Niagara ...Read more

Published on Friday, February 7, 2014 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Travel
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Snowmobile Trail Pass Locator Map

The Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts’ Interactive Trail Pass Locator Map is the easiest way to find a local snowmobile club or business that have trail passes and memberships available. Enter a zip code or town in the search field and drop ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, February 5, 2014 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Lighting a campfire in snow is a critical skill for snowmobilers (Brad Stafford)

The statement “Be prepared” is something we have all heard and is recognized by most as the Boy Scout motto. By definition the motto means to be prepared both in mind and in body. To be ready for all foreseen ...Read more

Published on Monday, February 3, 2014 in News & Updates, Safety
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EPA Considers Lowering Ethanol E-15 Production

An earlier post concerning E-15 ethanol fuel outlined that the EPA had not approved the blended gas for use in Snowmobiles. This followed concerns by the International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association requesting proper scientific testing of E-15 before being introduced into ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, January 28, 2014 in Environment, In The News, News & Updates
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Snowmobiles and Land Partnerships in Massachusetts (Larry Tucker)

The Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts has worked to create an awareness of SAM among public and private land agencies. Over the last couple of years SAM has established relationships with land trusts, has partnered with a land trust to purchase ...Read more

Published on Sunday, January 26, 2014 in Guest Columns, Legislative Affairs, News & Updates
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Snowmobile Ice Safety (video)

The lack of snow has tempted some snowmobilers to consider riding on ice. Yes, it’s been very cold and many of the lakes and ponds are frozen. but remember, ice is unpredictable. In the name of safety, it is recommended ...Read more

Published on Friday, January 24, 2014 in News & Updates, Safety
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Snowmobile Safety: Beating the Odds (Brad Stafford)

We’ve all heard the phrase “Beating the Odds.” Maybe it was as you watched the underdog sports team “Beat the Odds” and win a championship. Or maybe someone you know has battled an illness and they “Beat the Odds” and ...Read more

Published on Thursday, January 16, 2014 in News & Updates, Safety
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SAM I Am: Ed Morrin (Terry Holland)

Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts member profile: Ed Morrin is the Second Vice President of the Mill Valley Snowmobile Club. Ed has been riding for 10 years, his first sled was a 1973 Arctic Cat Panther, his current ride is a ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, January 14, 2014 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Shoot Snowmobile Video with a GoPro Hero (Jim Tucker)

Want a better way to capture photos and video of your snowmobiling adventures? Read on shutterbugs as this article will review a sharp tool to shoot your very own sledding action. Taking pictures with a standard five-megapixel camera became a ...Read more

Published on Friday, January 10, 2014 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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Stan Kopala: The Godfather of Greylock (Robert Dodge)

A true story. At one time or another, most of us have gone riding on beautiful Mt. Greylock. Located in the western part of Massachusetts with its peak reaching 3,491 feet, one can view four states from the top. If ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, January 7, 2014 in Guest Columns, News & Updates, Vintage
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1970s Global Cooling (video)

The debate of climate change, not long ago termed Global Warming, rages on. We’ve heard arguments from both sides and it’s safe to say that the yelling and screaming will go on for some time. If you’re a fan of ...Read more

Published on Monday, January 6, 2014 in Environment, News & Updates
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Conway Snowmobile Club Featured in Recorder

The Recorder posted a detailed story about the Conway Snowmobile Club, in particular the volunteer efforts of Paul Sokoloski and club president, Ron Sweet. “Though he wouldn’t take credit himself, club members credited Sokoloski for building much of the equipment ...Read more

Published on Saturday, January 4, 2014 in In The News, News & Updates
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SAM Meeting Canceled

The SAM meeting scheduled for today, Thursday, January 2, 2014 at 7:00 PM has been canceled due to the incoming snow storm! Due to numerous conflicts with club meetings and already scheduled events in January, the next meeting of the ...Read more

Published on Thursday, January 2, 2014 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Top 10 Snowmobile Stories of 2013

Here are the top 10 snowmobile stories of 2013 at sledmass.com. Some are technical, others are funny and a few may even make you scream “What the heck!” Remember, these great pieces are written for your enjoyment by the rabid ...Read more

Published on Monday, December 30, 2013 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Polaris Celebrating 60th Anniversary

60 Sleds in 60 Days – The Polaris Sled-a-Day Giveaway To kick-off the celebration of 60 years of Terrain Domination, Polaris is giving away 60 Sleds in 60 Days through “The Polaris Sled-a-Day Giveaway.” Polaris will give away 60 model ...Read more

Published on Saturday, December 28, 2013 in In The News, News & Updates
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Conservation Restrictions and Snowmobiles (Larry Tucker)

The topic of Conservation Restrictions (CR) is involving an ever-increasing amount of SAM’s time and attention, since it is within these CR’s, that to a great extent, the future of our recreation lie. In the October and November issues of ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, December 25, 2013 in Legislative Affairs, News & Updates
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Snowmobiling on Christmas Day

I Run to the window and look at the snow my yards wrapped in powder like a white Christmas bow. All is untouched virgin snow is abound that is until tomorrow when my track hits the ground. I snap on ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, December 24, 2013 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Snowmobile Memories (Gerry Balchuinas)

I open up the closet and reach in. Lurking in the back of the closet, there it is. I slowly reach past the jeans that have long since been too small for me – but I leave them on the ...Read more

Published on Saturday, December 21, 2013 in Guest Columns, News & Updates, Vintage
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Snowmobilers Donate Toys For Tots (Marcia Miller)

In the past few weeks I have had the pleasure of delivering coats and warm clothing along with pairs of boots for Big Brother Big Sister. We didn’t collect a lot but the items were beautiful. One particular bib and ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, December 18, 2013 in Charity, News & Updates
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History of the Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts (Brad Stafford)

SAM: Created by snowmobilers in the past, for the snowmobilers of the future. Part 1 A while back I wrote about a conversation with a fellow snowmobiler. He was bragging about how he didn’t get screwed by the state and ...Read more

Published on Sunday, December 15, 2013 in Education, Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Snowmobile Trails Damaged By Illegal Use

An open letter from the Florida Mountaineers Snowmobile Club. Our Club experienced a very disturbing incident on Sunday, December, 1, 2013. At approximately 2:30 PM, our club president’s cell phone started ringing off the hook from various landowners stating that ...Read more

Published on Friday, December 13, 2013 in Guest Columns, In The News, News & Updates
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Christmas Snowmobile Procession in Russia (Evgeniy Borodin)

The Ural Mountains of Russia receive remarkable amounts of snow. The region is the perfect place for the snowmobiler and we use every chance to go on a ride and enjoy the winter, especially during the traditional tour around Christmastime. ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, December 10, 2013 in Guest Columns, News & Updates, Snowmobile Travel
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Duraflex Ice Scratchers (Jim Tucker)

This month we are going to look at a novel product that just might increase your confidence level heading into that next ride. Snowmobiles are off-road conveyances and as such they encounter some pretty nasty trail conditions out there. Rocks, ...Read more

Published on Thursday, December 5, 2013 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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Ware River and Easy Riders Featured in Newspaper

The Worcester Telegram and Gazette featured a story about the upcoming snowmobile season “Mass. snowmobiles go where the cover is deep” by George Barnes. Quoted in the story were SAM members Jay Pease and Herb Hilton. “Mr. Pease of the ...Read more

Published on Sunday, December 1, 2013 in In The News, News & Updates
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Snowmobile Trail Protection Fund Launched (Dan Gould)

The importance of trail preservation and land conservation were outlined last month in this space. As I said then, snowmobile trails are a priority. It’s understandable how land sales have negatively impacted our trail system and are only going to ...Read more

Published on Sunday, December 1, 2013 in News & Updates, President's Message
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John F. Kennedy Thanksgiving Day Proclamation

United States President John F. Kennedy Thanksgiving Day proclamation, 1961. (An excerpt from The American Presidency Project) Now, Therefore, I, John F. Kennedy, President of the United States of America, in consonance with the joint resolution of Congress approved December ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, November 27, 2013 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Safely Trailering your Snowmobile (Randy Toth)

This story by SAM’s own Randy Toth was recently featured on the American Snowmobiler website. Have you ever seen a snowmobile sticking out of the back window of an SUV? It was an experience that I almost had firsthand. How ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, November 26, 2013 in News & Updates, Safety
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Snocross Show by Race Time Radio

Race Time Radio becomes new media partner for East Coast Snocross, Presented by AMSOIL and Woody’s Traction One of Canada’s most well-known media entities is expanding south into the U.S., and northeastern snocross fans will benefit with expanded coverage. Officials at ...Read more

Published on Monday, November 25, 2013 in In The News, News & Updates
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SAM I AM: Brian Blanchard (Terry Holland)

Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts member profile: Brian Blanchard is a member of the Snowbirds Snowmobile Club and has been riding for 42 years. His first snowmobile was a red 1973 Scorpion 290, his currently sled is a 2013 Ski-Doo MX-Z Renegade 1200 with an ...Read more

Published on Friday, November 22, 2013 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts Toys For Tots Drive

The holidays are upon us, allowing quality time with the family. Black Friday is almost here and the shopping madness begins. When you are out shopping for the holidays please consider picking up a toy or two for those families ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, November 19, 2013 in Charity, News & Updates
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Preservation of Snowmobile Trails is Paramount (Dan Gould)

Trails are a priority, it’s what SAM is all about. One of our biggest challenges is land changing hands. Many landowners sell, donate or conserve land, believing that the snowmobile trail will stay in place. That’s not always the case, ...Read more

Published on Sunday, November 17, 2013 in Environment, News & Updates, President's Message
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SAM 2014 Vintage Rides Announced

January 18, Snowbirds Snowmobile Club Meet at the Worcester County 4-H Camp Marshall center, 92 McCormik Rd, Spencer. The 20 mile ride gets underway at 10am, registration is at 9. For details check the club website or email them. January ...Read more

Published on Friday, November 15, 2013 in News & Updates, Vintage
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Polaris Announces Buyback of 3.96 Million Shares From Fuji Heavy Industries

MINNEAPOLIS (November 12, 2013) — Polaris Industries Inc. (NYSE: PII) today announced that it has purchased all of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd.’s (“FHI”) 3.96 million shares of Polaris’ common stock for a purchase price of $497.5 million, thereby reducing its ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, November 12, 2013 in In The News, News & Updates
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On The Trail With SAM: November 2013

The November issue of On The Trail With SAM is in the mail and should arrive in mailboxes in the coming weeks Inside: Beating the Odds: Be prepared for everything. By Brad Stafford Safe Trailering: Ever seen a sled sticking ...Read more

Published on Sunday, November 10, 2013 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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The Great American Ski Test: Part III (Jim Tucker)

Has a new king been crowned or is the Simmons ski still at the top of the heap? Read on loyal followers and you will soon find out what is the hot set-up this year. To recap, we have reviewed ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, November 6, 2013 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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Massachusetts Trails Conference (Larry Tucker)

While this past summer did have its hot spells, overall it was real nice with beautiful weather. I hope everyone was able to enjoy some cookouts, camping, the beach and some parties. While we put our sleds away for the ...Read more

Published on Monday, November 4, 2013 in Legislative Affairs, News & Updates
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Polaris ‘Winning Riders’ Program Supports Snowmobile Associations

Polaris ‘Winning Riders’ Program Supports State & Provincial Snowmobile Associations Polaris Supports Grassroots Groups with Sales-Based Contributions For the ninth consecutive year, state and provincial snowmobile organizations across North America are receiving contributions from the Polaris “Winning Riders” program, which ...Read more

Published on Friday, November 1, 2013 in In The News, News & Updates
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Snowmobile Water Speed Record (video)

Two men from Anchorage Alaska are staking claim to the snowmobile speed record on water. The Anchorage Daily News reported that Rick Coffman piloted the modified Yamaha to 106 MPH on the Knik River, besting an old record of 102.5 ...Read more

Published on Monday, October 28, 2013 in In The News, News & Updates
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Snowmobile Trail Riding (video)

Cool weather is arriving and the clubs are already getting the trails ready for the upcoming snowmobile season. It’s a tremendous amount of work and they could use some help, so please contact your local club and lend a hand. ...Read more

Published on Friday, October 25, 2013 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Travel
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Snowmobile Trip from Maine to Quebec (Tom Rosato)

It’s the Journey, Not the Destination: Eight members of the Easy Riders Snowmobile Club started and finished (well – almost) an 875 mile, five-day snowmobile trip last February. The trip began in Jackman, Maine, went 195 miles west to Millinocket ...Read more

Published on Monday, October 21, 2013 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Travel
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Sled Expo Exhibitors

The Sled Expo is October 19 and 20, this Saturday (9am -8pm) and Sunday (10am- 4pm). Get the best deals of the season on new and used snowmobiles, trailers, jackets, bibs, helmets, oil, accessories and more. Don’t forget the Swap ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, October 16, 2013 in News & Updates, Sled Expo
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Vintage Snowmobile Kick-Off (Andy Holland)

Howdy again. It’s been a while since the last Vintage Side of the Trail appeared. Even though I wasn’t making an appearance in the magazine, I was still out there working the trails, tinkering with my vintage Cats and supporting ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, October 15, 2013 in News & Updates, Vintage
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Sled Expo Winter Clothing Drive (Marcia Miller)

The SAM Charity Committee is once again holding its Winter Wear Recycling Program at the 2013 Sled Expo. We asks our fellow snowmobilers to check out the great deals at the Expo, but before that, we ask that you look ...Read more

Published on Monday, October 14, 2013 in Charity, News & Updates, Sled Expo
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Snowmobile Swap Meet at Sled Expo

Giant snowmobile swap meet. Sell and buy used snowmobile parts, accessories, trailers and related gear. Sell for as little as $20 a day! SELL: Sell your used snowmobile and motorsports parts at the Sled Expo in front of  thousands of ...Read more

Published on Sunday, October 6, 2013 in News & Updates, Sled Expo
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Display Your Vintage Snowmobile at Sled Expo

See some of the best vintage snowmobiles in the area on display at the Sled Expo, October 19 and 20. Better yet, put your vintage sled on display in front of thousands of rabid enthusiast at the biggest snowmobile show ...Read more

Published on Friday, October 4, 2013 in News & Updates, Sled Expo, Vintage
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On The Trails With SAM Preview

On The Trails With SAM, your magazine dedicated to snowmobiling in Massachusetts, has been redesigned and is being shipped now. The October issue should arrive in your mailbox in the coming weeks. Inside: The Vintage Side: The old sleds are ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, October 2, 2013 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Tech Corner Preview (Jim Tucker)

The Tech Corner has some interesting snowmobile articles to share with everyone at sledmass this season. I’ve been experimentation with some interesting products including snowmobile skis, helmet-cams and round meaty tires. There may even be a few surprises. First up, ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, September 25, 2013 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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SAM Meeting Club Attendance (Dan Gould)

The agenda at a SAM meeting is pretty packed, so much so that getting through all of the business in two short hours can be a challenge. There are typically plenty of issues, which are debated thoroughly, followed by votes ...Read more

Published on Sunday, September 22, 2013 in News & Updates, President's Message
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RTP Grants Open – Workshops Announced

The 2014 Massachusetts Recreational Trails Program Grant Round is now OPEN! SAM Clubs are encouraged to apply for grants that create or improve trails, purchase equipment to maintain trails, grooming equipment and other trails related projects. Please visit the Recreational ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, September 18, 2013 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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2014 Ski-Doo MX Zx 600RS

BRP’s 2014 Ski-Doo MX Zx 600RS features major changes: the snowmobile will turn quicker, stay straighter in the bumps, and have stronger starts. These changes come with the move from the REV-XP to the REV-XS platform and refinements to many ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, September 10, 2013 in In The News, News & Updates
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Arctic Cat 2014 ZR 6000 Sno Pro RR and M 6000 Sno Pro

Arctic Cat introduces 2014 ZR 6000 Sno Pro RR and M 6000 Sno Pro 153. The new machines are inspired by Arctic Cat’s cross-country racers from the 2013 season with similar suspension tuning. Lower A-arms mount at a 30-degree angle ...Read more

Published on Sunday, September 8, 2013 in In The News, News & Updates
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2014 Polaris IQ Race Sled

2014 Polaris IQ Race Sled Delivers Improved Holeshots and Enhanced Handling With New Lightweight Crankshaft and 128″ Rear Suspension Polaris snowmobile racers will enjoy the competitive advantages of the innovative new 2014 Polaris IQ Race Sled that features a new ...Read more

Published on Saturday, September 7, 2013 in In The News, News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech

Farmers' Almanac Predicts Cold, Snowy Winter

The heat waves of July are behind us, it’s time to talk snow. Winter forecasts this far in advance can raise eyebrows but that has never stopped the Farmers’ Almanac. Farmers’ Almanac predict a cold, snowy winter for 2014, proclaiming “The ...Read more

Published on Friday, August 30, 2013 in In The News, News & Updates
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Canadian Military Test Stealth Snowmobile for Covert Operations (Dan Gould)

In a scene out of a James Bond movie, The Globe and Mail reports that the Canadian Department of National Defence has been secretly testing a “stealth snowmobile” to use for covert operations in the Arctic. The $620,000 hybrid-electric snowmobile ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, August 20, 2013 in In The News, News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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Brad Stafford Names Get-Sno Newsletter

Tucker Sno-Cat dealer Get-Sno Equipment in Newport Vermont were searching for a name for their new Get-Sno newsletter, something catchy. The Newsletter will cater to snowmobile trail groomer operators, snowmobile clubs, event listings, and insight into the equipment we all ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, July 23, 2013 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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DCR Volunteers in Parks Program Guide Draft

The DCR released a draft of their newly proposed policy as it relates to volunteers and non-profit organizations working at DCR properties. All snowmobile clubs should review the document and comment, both to the DCR and the Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts. ...Read more

Published on Sunday, June 23, 2013 in General Announcements, In The News, News & Updates
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Maine House OKs $5 Snowmobile Fee Hike

The Maine Public Broadcasting Network reports via AP that a bill in the Maine House of Representatives would increase the Maine snowmobile registration fees an extra $5 that would go toward the state’s Snowmobile Trail Fund. The bill, which will ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, June 18, 2013 in In The News, News & Updates
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Worthington Snowmobile Club Recognized for Vintage Snowmobile Ride

The Worthington Snowmobile Club were recognized at the Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts annual meeting for hosting one of the Massachusetts Vintage Snowmobile rides. The Massachusetts Vintage Snowmobile Club (MVSC) is a recognized committee within SAM, they host many exciting events ...Read more

Published on Sunday, June 2, 2013 in Awards, News & Updates
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Savoy Kanary Kats Recognized for Vintage Ride

The Savoy Kanary Kats snowmobile club were recognized at the Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts annual meeting for hosting one of the Massachusetts Vintage Snowmobile rides. The Massachusetts Vintage Snowmobile Club (MVSC) is a recognized committee within SAM, they host many ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, May 28, 2013 in Awards, News & Updates, Vintage
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Snowmobiler of the Year: Dan Gould

Dan not only motivates others to step up to the plate but has led by example and personally made key contributions to snowmobiling on a local, state, national and international level. Over the past decade as the president of Snowmobile ...Read more

Published on Monday, May 20, 2013 in Awards, News & Updates
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Dealer of the Year: Ray's Cycle Center

As a dealer, Ray’s Cycle Center business is always promoting the importance of SAM, Snowmobile legislation, and how the rules are there for everyone. They sells trail passes for several clubs. While the dealer is small and family run, they ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, May 14, 2013 in Awards, News & Updates
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Friend of SAM: Roger and Joanne Clapp

The Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts recognizes a family that has long supported recreation and snowmobiling, despite not being snowmobilers themselves. They have always understood the importance of snowmobiling to the area and the overall trail system. Just over a year ...Read more

Published on Saturday, May 4, 2013 in Awards, News & Updates
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Club of the Year: Snowbirds Snowmobile Club

The Snowbirds Snowmobile Club have an understanding of what makes organized snowmobiling succeed. They have been involved in SAM since the 1970’s. They consistently have many members volunteering at the Sled Expo, and had several at the International Snowmobile Congress ...Read more

Published on Friday, April 26, 2013 in Awards, News & Updates
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Legislator of the Year: Rep. Stephen Kulik

The Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts recognizes the legislative accomplishments of Representative Stephen Kulik, 1st Franklin District. His reputation, combined with his record of public service, is defined in his honesty, integrity, and effectiveness for the people of Western Massachusetts. Representative ...Read more

Published on Saturday, April 20, 2013 in Awards, News & Updates
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Groomer Operator of the Year: David MacLeod

David MacLeod has been a Snowmobile Groomer Operator for over 25 years as well as a trail worker. This volunteer knows what it takes to make trails smooth. As groomer chief for the Snowbirds Snowmobile Club he studies grooming, teaches ...Read more

Published on Friday, April 12, 2013 in Awards, News & Updates
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Trail Worker of the Year: Paul Sokoloski

Snowmobile trail work and making them better is a year round project for Paul Sokoloski of the Conway Snowmobile Club. Smooth trails are in his mind all summer… long before any flakes fly. He is always thinking about the trails ...Read more

Published on Monday, April 8, 2013 in Awards, News & Updates
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Snowmobile Family of the Year: The Taylors

Bill and Joyce Taylor of the Knox Trail Sno-Riders were presented the 2013 Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts Family of the Year Award. Bill and Joyce have been active in SAM for decades. Combined they have held the office of secretary, ...Read more

Published on Friday, April 5, 2013 in Awards, News & Updates
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The Cost of New Snowmobiles (Randy Toth)

What’s up with the high cost of new snowmobiles? Every year as the snowmobiling season draws to a close, the brand new eagerly awaited sleds, with their great technology advances are announced along and their dreaded price increases. Many new ...Read more

Published on Friday, March 29, 2013 in Guest Columns, News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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SAM Annual Meeting April 4 (Pre-Registration Required)

The SAM Board of Directors invite you to celebrate your association at the upcoming SAM Annual Meeting and dinner on Thursday, April 4, 2013. Participate, relax and enjoy dinner with your friends, while you participate in the business meeting and ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, March 19, 2013 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Breaking Bad: Snowmobile Trailer Axle Fails (Dan Gould)

Cold weather dominated our sledding excursion, now it was T-shirt time. We had snowmobiled for a few days and were snaking our way down the mountain road in the cab of Scott Sumner’s pickup after the last ride of the ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, March 13, 2013 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech, Snowmobile Travel
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Hudons Sled Salvage (Jim Tucker) (video)

While driving up to the Old Forge Snodeo in New York a sign on the side of the road in the small town of Barneveld caught my eye. Hmm… Hudons Sled Salvage, huh? I’ve heard of them before. I’ve got ...Read more

Published on Sunday, March 10, 2013 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech, Vintage
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Club Charity Reports Due (Marcia Miller)

It is that time of year when our snowmobile season starts to wind down. We all have had a busy one trying to keep what snow we were given and repairing trails as necessary I know of clubs that have ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, March 6, 2013 in Charity, News & Updates
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Teenage Skier Rescued by Snowmobiler (video)

Nicholas Joy, age 17, from Medford Massachusetts, was last seen Sunday March 3 at 12:40 PM on the Sugarloaf Mountain Timberline Chairlift by his father. He and his father had been skiing together all morning. High winds and poor visibility ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, March 6, 2013 in In The News, News & Updates
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2014 Polaris Snowmobiles (video)

The Indy is back in force. For 2014 Polaris now adorns ten snowmobiles with the Indy name. The engines include the 800, 600 and 550 fan. Top of the line is the Indy SP 800 and Indy SP 600 with ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 in General Announcements, News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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2014 Arctic Cat Snowmobiles (video)

Huge news! For 2014 Arctic Cat introduces two new engines. As previously reported, Cat is now building and installing the 1049cc 4-stroke engine that was previously used in the Yamaha Nytro. That was part of the deal with Yamaha that ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, February 27, 2013 in General Announcements, In The News, News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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2014 Ski-Doo Snowmobiles Announced (video)

Ski-Doo announced new 2014 snowmobiles that feature chassis and suspension upgrades. The big news is a new four-stroke Rotax 900 Advanced Combustion Efficiency (ACE) engine that achieves 23 MPG. The inline 899cc triple is an outgrowth of the existing 600 ...Read more

Published on Sunday, February 24, 2013 in General Announcements, In The News, News & Updates
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2014 Yamaha Snowmobiles Revealed (video)

Yamaha introduced five new snowmobiles for 2014 that will be assembled by Arctic Cats’ factory in Thief River Falls, Minnesota. The chassis will in fact be the well respected Arctic Cat’s ProCross, called the SRV chassis by a Yamaha, and ...Read more

Published on Friday, February 22, 2013 in General Announcements, In The News, News & Updates
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SAM Family Ride Photos (Dan Gould)

Twenty-plus riders attended the first ever Future of SAM teen Family Ride on Sunday, February 17. The morning started with greetings by Sara Trova, followed by a safety program by Massachusetts Environmental Police Lt. Terry Davis and Sgt. David Unaitis. ...Read more

Published on Monday, February 18, 2013 in Education, News & Updates, Safety
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SAM Family Snowmobile Ride (Sunday, February 17)

Sunday, February 17, 2013 11am: Environmental Police presentation: Snowmobile Safety and Survival Noon: Lunch 1pm: Ride Come and join the Future of S.A.M. as we host our first Family Snowmobile Ride. It will be held at Tom Benz’s clubhouse, 680 ...Read more

Published on Friday, February 15, 2013 in General Announcements, News & Updates, Uncategorized
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Happy Valentine's Day

A Winter Romance By Matthew Holloway The air cold, crisp to the lung Breath circles skyward bound Days fall short, shadowed by the night Nature climbing into hibernation Trees standing bare, flowers wilt away A world still beautiful to the ...Read more

Published on Thursday, February 14, 2013 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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SAM Assists With Blizzard Recovery (Dan Gould) UPDATED

The Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts was contacted by NSTAR as part of the Governor’s Command Center to assist in the restoration of electric power caused by the Blizzard of 2013. NSTAR reached out to SAM once it realized that specialized ...Read more

Published on Sunday, February 10, 2013 in In The News, News & Updates
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Teenagers Plan SAM Events (Sara Trova)

Are you between the ages of 12-19? Do you enjoy riding snowmobiles? Are you interested in meeting new friends that enjoy the same hobby as you? Do you want to help shape the future of snowmobiling in Massachusetts? If you ...Read more

Published on Monday, February 4, 2013 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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The Legislative Cliff (Larry Tucker)

Well, the world did not end in 2012 and we did not fall off a fiscal cliff. Though, if you were like me, you probably heard the buzzwords “Mayan calendar,” “fiscal cliff,” and “kick the can,” one too many times. ...Read more

Published on Sunday, February 3, 2013 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Changing Times for Trail Volunteers (Larry Tucker)

Can you believe that the elections are really over? It certainly was a long political campaign season. I hope everyone had a chance to help their candidate and that they did well at the ballot booth. One good thing is ...Read more

Published on Sunday, January 27, 2013 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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2014 Snowmobile Sneak Peak

The 2013 sleds have just hit the snow but the march of progress never stops. The snowmobile manufacturers are already getting ready to introduce the latest and greatest sleds and have announced the 2014 Manufactures Sneak Peak Tour. See the ...Read more

Published on Friday, January 18, 2013 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Truly a Labor Of Love (Brad Stafford)

I can’t remember who actually invited me to my first snowmobile club meeting, what year it was or even why I actually went. But I do know that it was quite a few winters ago, and that it changed the ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, January 15, 2013 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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MassDOT Winter Safety Advisory: Lake Quinsigamond

The state has issued a Winter Safety Advisory for Lake Quinsigamond, where Worcester and Shrewsbury meet. The lake is a popular recreational spot for snowmobilers and other outdoor enthusiast. There will be open water at the construction site. The construction operations ...Read more

Published on Friday, January 11, 2013 in In The News, News & Updates, Safety
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Snowmobiling The Conway Trails (video)

Tyler Apanell, of the Conway Snowmobile Club, loves Yamaha snowmobiles and video. He pulled those two passions together to create one very slick production outlining his preseason prep and early season riding on the Conway trails in Massachusetts. Says Tyler, ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, January 9, 2013 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Snowmobile Safety Week January 13-19

The four snowmobile manufacturers are please to support and encourage participation in the upcoming International Snowmobile Safety Week January 13-19-2013. Snowmobilers have placed safe, responsible snowmobiling at the top of their list for years and have made great strides in ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, January 8, 2013 in International Snowmobile Congress, News & Updates, Safety
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Ice Is Unpredictable: Snowmobile Survival Techniques (video)

Never consider ice safe when snowmobiling or enjoying other outdoor recreations. The up and down temperatures have made ice conditions unpredictable all over New England. There have been several instances of people going through the ice already this winter, including ...Read more

Published on Friday, January 4, 2013 in News & Updates, Safety
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Castle X Donates to Annual Meeting (video)

Here’s a shout-out to Castle Apparel for donating Castle X clothing for us to raffle at this year’s SAM Annual Meeting! Show up at the meeting and ask how you can get in on the raffle action. In the meantime, ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, January 1, 2013 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Happy New Year!

In a chest at the bottom of my closet, Lies a coat of colorful fabric. The smell of exhaust and gasoline, A smell of pure heaven, though wretched and vile, Fills me with a sense of joy and freedom. Each ...Read more

Published on Monday, December 31, 2012 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Dick DiOrio: Leader Of The Pack (Randy Toth)

The October Mountain Men, led by veteran snowmobiler Richard (Dick) DiOrio, watch over October Mountain State Forest (OMSF) which is located in the Berkshire County towns of Washington, Becket, Lee, Lenox and Pittsfield. OMSF, with over 16,000 acres, is the ...Read more

Published on Sunday, December 30, 2012 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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The Great American Ski Test: Part II C&A Razors (Jim Tucker)

Your humble reporter is at it again, bringing you another installment of the great American Ski Test. For this article we tested the C&A RZ Razors Pro Ski, billed on their website as a “high performance snowmobile ski with aggressive ...Read more

Published on Friday, December 28, 2012 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Product Review, Snowmobile Tech
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Merry Christmas

Santa delivered excitement at the Hilltown Snowmobile Club 4th annual Community Christmas Party. Four years ago the club put an idea together to have an event that would bring the community children out to celebrate the holiday season. The party was ...Read more

Published on Sunday, December 23, 2012 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Snowmobilers are amazing! (Marcia Miller)

Looking back over 2012 I am pleasantly surprised at what SAM has accomplished for charities. It was a very busy year, with SAM hosting the 2012 International Snowmobile Congress in Sturbridge. Most of our efforts were focused on promoting the ...Read more

Published on Sunday, December 16, 2012 in Charity, News & Updates
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Trail Pass and Club Locator Map

Looking to join a SAM snowmobile club or get an extra trail pass for a sled? The new SAM interactive map complements the club page with visual searches by geographic location. Use the drop down to pick a town where ...Read more

Published on Friday, December 14, 2012 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Paper cut-out Snowmobile for Kids

The Take a Friend/Go Snowmobiling campaign is pleased to present a new addition to its list of ready to use snowmobiling campaign material. The all new ready to cut-out and assemble paper snowmobile model is here for free distribution and ...Read more

Published on Saturday, December 8, 2012 in News & Updates, Uncategorized
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SAM Vintage Rides Announced

January 19, 9am – 4pm, hosted by the Worthington Snowmobile Club. A 15-20 mile ride will start at Liston’s Grill, 324 Old North Rd., (Route 143), Worthington, MA, 01098. Contact: Dean Messeck at 413-238-4486 February 2, 9am – 3pm, hosted ...Read more

Published on Thursday, December 6, 2012 in General Announcements, News & Updates, Vintage
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Polaris Acquires KLIM Technical Riding Gear

Polaris Industries Inc. announced the acquisition of Teton Outfitters, LLC, a privately owned, Rigby, Idaho-based company which designs, develops and distributes KLIM Technical Riding Gear. Calendar year 2012 sales for KLIM are anticipated to approach $30 million. KLIM is an ...Read more

Published on Thursday, December 6, 2012 in In The News, News & Updates
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Snowmobiling in Wawa, Ontario (video)

SnowTrails TV has done many snowmobile trips that have taken us through Wawa, Ontario. After several quick saddlebag trips we finally got the chance to experience some great local trail riding with Russ Jones from Jones Power Sports. Watch more ...Read more

Published on Monday, December 3, 2012 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Travel
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We Are Not Alone (Brad Stafford)

For anyone that has spent time on a snowmobile, whether it was for a single ride or countless miles, one of the most important things to remember is to be on the lookout for other sleds. Just about everyone I ...Read more

Published on Thursday, November 29, 2012 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Yellowstone-What next? (Larry Tucker)

I have to admit that I enjoy working on our trails almost as much as I do riding on them. I’ve had the opportunity, and I hope you have also, to help our clubs and our trail crews in getting ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, November 27, 2012 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Winter Weather Predictions for 2013

TV stations are starting to make predictions for the upcoming winter, all of which sound promising for snowmobiling in 2013. WBZ reports: Predicting the weather for an entire season is very much different from predicting it over the next 7 ...Read more

Published on Sunday, November 25, 2012 in In The News, News & Updates
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Holiday Toy Drive (Marcia Miller)

Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts Toys For Tots drive. Thanksgiving has come and gone. The holidays allow quality time spent with family around the table, after the meal is done and everyone winds down, Black Friday is here and the madness ...Read more

Published on Thursday, November 22, 2012 in Charity, News & Updates
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Thanksgiving Proclamation (John F. Kennedy)

October 1961: More than three centuries ago, the Pilgrims, after a year of hardship and peril, humbly and reverently set aside a special day upon which to give thanks to God for their preservation and for the good harvest from ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, November 21, 2012 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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How to Build a Snowmobile Groomer Power Unit (Jeff Miller)

As with most, our club dreams of grooming the trails with a brand new Tucker, or possibly a Pisten Bully. Then we wake up and remember that we don’t have a trail system capable of handling such a large piece ...Read more

Published on Monday, November 19, 2012 in Education, News & Updates
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The Day The Snowmobiles Stopped (Randy Toth)

One chilly fall day in the not too distant future, as you prepare for the upcoming snowmobiling season, you will remember that you have not received your state association magazine yet. Muttering something derogatory, you go to the state association’s ...Read more

Published on Friday, November 16, 2012 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Explosion at BRP Plant

The Montreal Gazette reports that an explosion and fire damaged the BRP plant in Valcourt. “Officers patrolling in the Eastern Townships town of Valcourt witnessed a ball of fire at the Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP) plant early Friday (11/9/12). An ...Read more

Published on Sunday, November 11, 2012 in In The News, News & Updates
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Permanent Snowmobile Trail Protection (video)

Permanent Trail Protection – Learn how to set up permanent snowmobile trails via the use of land easements. Topics include how to approach landowners, assessing trail easement values, reassuring landowners and closing the deal. The workshop was presented at the ...Read more

Published on Thursday, November 8, 2012 in Education, News & Updates
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Fundraising Leaves Footprints, Footprints Create Awarenes (Keri Wanner)

A year ago, my good friend Nathan (Nate) Blaylock called me wanting help. He was conducting research on population statistics in Midwestern states and found it was important to the citizens to show compassion and support causes. Nate wanted to ...Read more

Published on Monday, November 5, 2012 in Charity, Guest Columns, News & Updates
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The Take a Friend Snowmobiling (Ed Klim)

The Take a Friend Snowmobiling campaign is all about introducing non-snowmobilers to our winter recreation of choice. Research shows that people want to go snowmobiling but don’t know how to get started. By planning a ride, we take the guess ...Read more

Published on Monday, October 29, 2012 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Polaris Program Supports Snowmobile Associations

Polaris ‘Winning Riders’ Program Supports State and Provincial Snowmobile Associations with Sales-Based Contributions For the eighth consecutive year, state and provincial snowmobile organizations across North America are receiving contributions from the Polaris “Winning Riders” program, which generates support for the ...Read more

Published on Friday, October 26, 2012 in General Announcements, In The News, News & Updates
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New Directions for Legislation (Lawrence Tucker)

Wow, that was a great International Snowmobile Congress that I had the pleasure of attending in Sturbridge. The variety of educational seminars, the setting at the Sturbridge Hotel and the grooming display and information available all made this one of ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, October 24, 2012 in Guest Columns, Legislative Affairs, News & Updates
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Run Your Snowmobile Club Like A Business (video)

Snowmobile clubs are really a business – Learn to run your club as a professional business rather than a social club. Video includes tips for managing meetings, professional accounting, nonprofit status, tax returns, and more. This is a must see ...Read more

Published on Sunday, October 21, 2012 in Education, News & Updates
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Small Streams and Impacts of Sub-Standard Crossings

Alison Dixon of the Housatonic Valley Association (HVA) was the guest speaker at the October SAM meeting. Alison spoke of the importance of Small Streams and the impacts of sub-standard crossings for habitat. Knowing that SAM members spend a great ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, October 17, 2012 in Environment, News & Updates
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Russian Sledders visit Mass (Evgeniy Borodin)

The Russian Snowmobile Association invited the BRP Fan Club to attend the International Snowmobile Congress (ISC) as the best club in Russia (in the opinion of ROSAN Co, the BRP distributor in Russia). The aim was clear: to meet new ...Read more

Published on Monday, October 15, 2012 in Guest Columns, International Snowmobile Congress, News & Updates
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Sled Expo Slideshow (Friday)

Saturday, October 13, 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday, October 14, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, October 10, 2012 in News & Updates, Sled Expo
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Sled Expo Exhibitors Announced

The Big E Grounds in West Springfield. The largest selling snowmobile show in New England, featuring Manufacturer and Dealer displays and aftermarket accessories. Great deals on new and used sleds, trailers, oil, clothes and accessories. Vintage display. Sell your sled ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, October 9, 2012 in News & Updates, Sled Expo
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Sled Expo Winter Clothing Drive

Donate your gently used outdoor winter clothing to Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Franklin County “A United Way Partner” at the SLED EXPO on Saturday 10/13 or Sunday 10/14 and receive a chance to “spin” the wheel for some great prizes. ...Read more

Published on Friday, October 5, 2012 in Charity, News & Updates, Sled Expo
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Used Sled Corral at the Sled Expo: Sell for $10

Put your sled in front of thousands of enthusiastic buyers for only $10 per item! Sell your Snowmobile, Dirt Bike, ATV or Personal Watercraft at the Sled Expo, October 13 and 14, 2012 Serious sellers and buyers know that nothing ...Read more

Published on Sunday, September 30, 2012 in News & Updates, Sled Expo
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Snowmobile Ski Comparison Test (Jim Tucker)

SLP Straight Line Tracking versus Simmons Flexi Ski: Your intrepid reporter is at it again. I could see a gaping hole in the Internet chatter about which type of skis to purchase for your sled. Everyone and his brother are ...Read more

Published on Sunday, September 23, 2012 in Guest Columns, News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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Vintage Cat-astrophe (Mel Scuderi)

Belts… Break’em in or break down. On my first ride last year, I put a brand new belt on my vintage Puma and immediately went screaming across the lake. Eager to detect any performance gain over the old belt, I ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, September 18, 2012 in Guest Columns, News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech, Vintage
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Do It Yourself Trail Signs (James Richard)

Professionalism is displayed when a club uses printed, weatherproof signs on their trails, something that is easily accomplished. Laser printer output by itself is waterproof but the paper is not. Laminating a paper sign or printing to a self-adhesive weatherproof ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, September 4, 2012 in Guest Columns, News & Updates, Safety
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Sled Expo October 13-14

Don’t miss the largest selling snowmobile expo in New England. Sponsored by the Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts. Saturday, October 13, 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday, October 14, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM At the Big E grounds, West Springfield, MA. Just ...Read more

Published on Sunday, August 12, 2012 in Featured, General Announcements, News & Updates, Sled Expo
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Recreational Trails Program Reauthorized for Two More Years

From the Coalition For Recreational Trails: Washington, D.C. -The Recreational Trails Program (RTP), the funding program that has sustained state trail programs for two decades, has been reauthorized as part of the transportation bill approved by the U. S. Congress ...Read more

Published on Monday, July 9, 2012 in Featured, General Announcements, News & Updates
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In The News: ISC 2012

Press coverage of ISC 2012 appeared in the Worcester Telegram and Gazette, featuring interviews with SAM members as well as our guests from Russia (pictured above). An excerpt of the article follows, the whole story can be read at this ...Read more

Published on Monday, June 11, 2012 in In The News, News & Updates
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ISC: Travel Light, Travel Smart (Dan Gould)

As an attendee of ISC 2012 we can assume you will take mountains of notes at meetings and workshops. Personally, I’m not a fan of paper. Piles of dead trees are a curse to take home, not all that easy ...Read more

Published on Friday, June 1, 2012 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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ISC 2012: SAM Members Friday Special

Want to get a taste of ISC 2012 but can’t attend the whole week? Join us on Friday for an action packed day at a special rate for SAM Members only. For the ridiculous low rate of $30 you can ...Read more

Published on Saturday, April 21, 2012 in International Snowmobile Congress, News & Updates
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Snowmobiler of the Year: Deane Messeck

This year’s nominee has served his club in many capacities: trail boss, landowner liaison, club president, and oftentimes the official club dish washer. He is instrumental in organizing club events, flipping burgers or pancakes… whatever needs to be done. As ...Read more

Published on Saturday, April 14, 2012 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Club of the Year: Savoy Kanary Kats

This particular club has an understanding of what makes organized snowmobiling succeed. Their actions speak for themselves. They are extremely active, hosting family events just about every weekend during the season, several of which are fundraisers for charities. They maintain ...Read more

Published on Saturday, April 14, 2012 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Groomer Operator of the Year: Bob Mason

Every club needs inspiration. Sometimes the action of a single member can be the impetuous to make wholesale change. Such is the case with grooming equipment. Making the jump to larger equipment is intimidating, both in cost and trail maintenance. ...Read more

Published on Saturday, April 14, 2012 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Trail Worker of the Year: Jim Richard

Typically the recipient of this award operates in the shadows, their name and whereabouts a mystery to the majority of club members. It’s rare that anyone ever witnesses the actual duties being carried out. What they discover are the results. ...Read more

Published on Saturday, April 14, 2012 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Family of the Year: Molly, Jeff, and Marcia Miller

This family has been described as true ambassadors of snowmobiling. While many riders are seasonal recreationalists and put the season behind them in March, this family stays active all year, it is more of a lifestyle than a hobby. They ...Read more

Published on Saturday, April 14, 2012 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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SAM 2011-2012 Charity Report (Marcia Miller, Charity Chair)

The Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts charity committee and the SAM Delegates decided at our first meeting in the fall to continue our support Camp Sno-Mo in providing a week of camping for a Massachusetts resident. Camp Sno-Mo is an Easter ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, April 10, 2012 in Charity, News & Updates
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The Alphabet Soup of Organized Snowmobiling (Randy Toth)

The organized snowmobile food-chain starts with you, an individual club member. You and your club belong to a state association. Your state association, in turn, belongs to the American Council of Snowmobile Associations (ACSA) and they are part of the ...Read more

Published on Thursday, April 5, 2012 in International Snowmobile Congress, News & Updates
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Register for ISC Before April 1st and Save!

Register for the International Snowmobile Congress before April 1st and save. $25 per registration. Download the registration form here. The five day event, June 5-9, 2012 features over 25 snowmobile workshops, speakers and lots of after hours fun at the ...Read more

Published on Friday, March 30, 2012 in International Snowmobile Congress, News & Updates
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The International Snowmobile Congress: You Need To Attend (Dan Gould) (video)

As a club volunteer and leader you understand the challenges of keeping an organization running. You most likely have a hand in everything, from maintaining the trails to running events. You do it all. It just so happens that the ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, March 21, 2012 in International Snowmobile Congress, News & Updates, President's Message
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SAE Snowmobile Challenge 2012 – A Great Success! (Ed Klim) (video)

Clarkson University of Potsdam, NY, captured first place in the 2012 SAE Clean Snowmobile Challenge, which drew to a close March 10 at Michigan Technological University. Kettering University, of Flint, placed second, with the University of Wisconsin-Platteville earning third place ...Read more

Published on Thursday, March 15, 2012 in In The News, News & Updates
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Join Sledmass on Facebook and Twitter

The season is winding down and your interest may be moving onto exciting warm weather recreations, like mowing the lawn. Maybe you don’t visit sledmass when the temperature is above freezing but that doesn’t mean you can’t keep up to ...Read more

Published on Monday, March 12, 2012 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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SAM Annual Meeting: Register Now!

SAM Annual Meeting – Attend & participate, it’s your association! The SAM Board of Directors invite you to celebrate your association at the upcoming SAM Annual Meeting and Dinner on Thursday, April 12, 2012 at the Bluebonnet Restaurant, King St., ...Read more

Published on Saturday, March 10, 2012 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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ISC 2012 RTP Grant

Attention Massachusetts snowmobilers and others interested in maintaing recreational trails. Here is a rare opportunity for snowmobile leaders & volunteers to attend ISC 2012 through the RTP grant. You must be a Massachusetts Resident You must include a $50.00 check ...Read more

Published on Saturday, March 10, 2012 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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International Snowmobile Congress History (Randy Toth)

How about some ISC trivia? The International Snowmobile Congress  is being hosted by the Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts for 2012 in Sturbridge, Massachusetts but did you know that the first ever ISC was held in 1969 in New York? Has ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, March 6, 2012 in International Snowmobile Congress, News & Updates
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New 2013 Arctic Cat Snowmobiles (video)

The big deal at Arctic Cat for 2013 is the new ProCross F RR (Race Replica) with either the H.O. 800 two-stroke or the four-stroke 1100 Turbo. The suspension calibration is tuned to the cross-country crowd, not unlike the Sno ...Read more

Published on Sunday, March 4, 2012 in In The News, News & Updates
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Arctic Cat Diamond Drive – Fact or Hype? (Jim Tucker)

The wizards from Arctic Cat had a simple idea – create a lighter more efficient drive train for the transmission of power from belt to track. After much R&D, Arctic in 2004 released the now famous Diamond Drive on the ...Read more

Published on Sunday, February 26, 2012 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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Ski-Doo Unveils 2013 REV-XS Snowmobiles (video)

BRP released information about the 2013 line of Ski-Doo snowmobiles that feature a new REV-XS design. The new hood and windshield offer better wind protection and a fresh look. A new dual headlight and LED taillight are also part of ...Read more

Published on Monday, February 20, 2012 in In The News, News & Updates
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Israelis, Floridians, and U.S. Air Force Trek into Yellowstone Park by Snowmobile (Jack Welch)

What an Adventure! On Sunday the January 15th I had the opportunity to join a guided group on the trek from West Yellowstone, Montana to Old Faithful. Our guide was Gaylon Tibwell from Yellowstone Arctic and Yamaha Tours, one of ...Read more

Published on Saturday, February 18, 2012 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Yamaha introduces 2013 FX Nytro XTX 1.75

Press Release: Imagine a sled that you can ride from sea level up to 10,000 feet without having to change clutching or gearing, and it’s equally at home on the wide spectrum of snow conditions you’d encounter. Imagine no longer-you ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, February 15, 2012 in In The News, News & Updates
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Call To Action: RTP in Jeopardy

Every State Snowmobile Association in the country has come to rely on funds from the Recreational Trails Program (RTP). This program is funded by you, the snowmobiler, every time you put gas in your sled. A portion of the federal ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, February 14, 2012 in General Announcements, Legislative Affairs, News & Updates
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We Need Your Support: An Open Letter To Snowmobilers

To all snowmobilers… I overheard a couple of fellow snowmobilers talking about our “lack of snow this season” and the fact that the forecast doesn’t look promising. It was actually an upbeat conversation until they spoke of how proud they ...Read more

Published on Sunday, February 12, 2012 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Polaris Early Release of 2013 800 Pro-RMK 155

Press Release: Polaris Announces Early Release of the Best Selling Sled in the Mountains, Updated to Be Lighter, Stronger & More Flickable. Weighing in at Just 417 Pounds! – the 800 Pro-RMK 155 The very definition of Terrain Domination® in ...Read more

Published on Friday, February 10, 2012 in In The News, News & Updates
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ISMA Concerned About E15 Fuel, Requests Scientific Analysis

The International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association is in support of Congressman Sensenbrenner’s bill to require proper testing of E-15 fuel before introduction into the marketplace. Below is a copy of the letter the Coalition members sent to members of the US ...Read more

Published on Thursday, February 9, 2012 in In The News, Legislative Affairs, News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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Bunke Racing and Polaris Win Soo I-500

MEDINA, MN (Jan. 6, 2012) – The Bunke Racing team of Gabe Bunke, Aaron Christensen and Bobby Menne IV used Polaris Terrain Domination to outrun the field and win the grueling International 500 on the famous Soo I-500 track in ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, February 7, 2012 in In The News, News & Updates
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Yamaha wins 7 for 7 in Mercer!

Pleasant Prairie, WI— Yamaha FX Nytro snowmobiles won a perfect seven out of seven Sport, Semi-Pro and Pro events they entered in a great day of cross-country racing in Mercer, Wis. on Saturday, Feb. 4. Proving the FX Nytro trail ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, February 7, 2012 in In The News, News & Updates
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Polaris Hires Retail Executive, Strengthens Adjacency Focus

New leadership for Parts, Garments and Accessories facilitates strong focus on Small Vehicles, enabling accelerated growth for each business. MINNEAPOLIS (February 6, 2012) — Polaris Industries Inc. (NYSE: PII) today announced the hiring of Steve Eastman, former president of Target.com, ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, February 7, 2012 in In The News, News & Updates
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Ceramic Bearings for Snowmobiles (Jim Tucker) (video)

Ok, I admit it – I like speed. The feel of the wind whistling past my helmet, the relentless pull of the motor, the scenery whipping by, it all gets my adrenaline flowing and describes a multitude of motorsports but ...Read more

Published on Friday, February 3, 2012 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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SAM Annual Awards Deadline is March 1st

Yes, the season has yet to live up to our expectations but that doesn’t mean the volunteers haven’t done everything in their power to get the trail system and equipment ready. Volunteers are the heart and soul of snowmobiling. Without ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, January 31, 2012 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Lunenburg Snow Riders: On the Trail and Community

The Lunenburg Snow Riders were featured in a Telegram Towns story titled “Lunenburg Snow Riders: On the trail and in the community” “The Lunenburg Snow Riders is a family-oriented group with a mission of fostering safe and legitimate snowmobiling in ...Read more

Published on Sunday, January 29, 2012 in In The News, News & Updates
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Clubs: Please Support and Attend ISC 2012 (slideshow)

The International Snowmobile Congress is the largest snowmobile meeting in the world, bringing people like you together with snowmobile manufactures, groomer manufactures, leaders of organizations, writers of snowmobile publications, snowmobile administrators, government representatives and others addicted to sledding. More than ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, January 25, 2012 in General Announcements, International Snowmobile Congress, News & Updates
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Incidents Prompt Ice-Safety Reminders (video)

A mild winter has delivered less than ideal conditions for snowmobiling and unsafe ice conditions, resulting in several incidents throughout the state. Rena M. Sumner, executive director of the Snowmobiling Association of Massachusetts was quoted in a story that ran ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, January 24, 2012 in In The News, News & Updates, Safety
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Because You Never Know (Brad Stafford)

The forecast called for another 4-6 inches just before you went to bed last night and as you look outside on your front lawn enjoying your morning coffee it looks like the weatherman was finally right. Mother Nature had indeed ...Read more

Published on Sunday, January 22, 2012 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Learning to Groom from The Master (Randy Toth)

The following story is true. Only the master’s name was changed to protect the individual. We received our first snowfall shortly after I retired. While sleeping late and thoroughly enjoying the experience, the phone rang at the crack of dawn ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, January 18, 2012 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Yamaha Race Team Copes With Low Snow (video)

You aren’t the only one unhappy by the lack of snow. The Yamaha USCC Cross Country race team is training in Minnesota regardless of conditions, with their eyes on the I-500. Professional X-Country racer Ross Erdam and the rest of ...Read more

Published on Monday, January 16, 2012 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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International Snowmobile Safety Week 2012: January 15-21st and all year!

The four snowmobile manufacturers are please to support and encourage participation in the upcoming International Snowmobile Safety Week January 15-21-2012. Snowmobilers have placed safe, responsible snowmobiling at the top of their list for years and have made great strides in safety ...Read more

Published on Sunday, January 15, 2012 in General Announcements, News & Updates, Safety
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A Community's Passion for a Sport (Melissa Allard) (video)

Many of you have seen me running around with my camera at various SAM events over the past season. For those who don’t know me, I’m a born-and-raised snowmobiler from the Berkshires. Growing up, the Snow Seekers were like my ...Read more

Published on Thursday, January 12, 2012 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Polaris Program Provides Jackets and Bibs for Needy

A month-long Polaris goodwill event provides jackets and bibs for the needy, rewards riders with pure polaris discounts Upgrade your snowmobile jacket and feel good doing it during the Pure Polaris “Donate for a Discount” Sales Event that runs Jan. ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, January 11, 2012 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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SAM Appreciation Night at Springfield Falcons Hockey

SAM members can purchase discounted tickets when the Springfield Falcons take on the Providence Bruins January 15th at the Mass Mutual Center in Springfield. If you order tickets by Thursday, January 12, the tickets are $11 each (they regularly cost $18). ...Read more

Published on Monday, January 9, 2012 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Arctic Cat, Polaris and Yamaha to introduce 2013 Sleds

In a series of 22 locations across the snowbelt, Arctic Cat, Polaris and Yamaha will give snowmobilers a “Sneak Peek” at their new models for 2013. Each manufacturer will display 15-18 sleds. That’s 50+ new snowmobiles for 2013 displayed on ...Read more

Published on Sunday, January 8, 2012 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Saddle Bagging the Gaspe Peninsula (Tom Rosato)

We did it – sixteen hundred and fifty (1650) miles in eight days on a sled. Just as planned – well, almost, anyways. A group from the Easy Riders Snowmobile Club toured the Gaspe Peninsula in Quebec, Canada in a ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, January 4, 2012 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Travel
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Chaudière-Appalaches and Québec Industry Lose a Pioneer

A press release from Quebec brings sad news of a friend to snowmobilers in the Northeast. Laurent Caouette was a familiar face at SAM’s Snowmobile Expo every October and to anyone who rode in Quebec along the Maine border. He was ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, January 4, 2012 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Jake (Gerry Balchuinas)

“I’ll do it,” he said, as he threw on his coat and ran out the door. Ten inches of fresh snow had fallen during the night and Jake was raring to go. He was taking the place of the last ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, January 3, 2012 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Snow Angel (Bill Dighton)

It was like a scene in a Hollywood movie; a trip that probably shouldn’t have happened, a near death experience and a renewed faith in humanity. On a trip last February, Rich Murray and myself had all these things happen ...Read more

Published on Sunday, January 1, 2012 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Snowmobilers United Recognized for Charity Work

In a front page story the Worcester Telegram and Gazette reports about the charity work of the Snowmobilers United Club. An excerpt is below, the full story can be read at telegram.com. One of the few groups eagerly awaiting heavy ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, December 28, 2011 in Charity, In The News, News & Updates
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Safe Sledding: Riding Positions and Conditions (Randy Toth)

For safe snowmobile operation, it is important to know the basic snowmobile riding positions along with when and how to effectively use them. You should also know and recognize the basic snowmobile riding conditions and how best to operate your ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, December 27, 2011 in News & Updates, Safety
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State Buys Forest Land for $8.8M

A 5.4-square-mile forest in Leverett and Shutesbury will be protected from development through a land conservation restriction announced today by state officials who called it the largest of its kind in Massachusetts history. The Brushy Mountain land restriction will protect ...Read more

Published on Saturday, December 24, 2011 in General Announcements, In The News, News & Updates
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SAM Vintage Rides Announced

The Mass Vintage Snowmobile Club (MVSC) has selected three clubs to host the 2012 SAM vintage rides. The events, which have become extremely popular the past few years, allow SAM members to ride their vintage sleds in a parade-like atmosphere. ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, December 21, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates, Vintage
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Safe Sledding: Basic Snowmobile Controls and Instruments (Randy Toth)

For safe snowmobile operation, it is important to know something about the basic snowmobile controls and instruments and what they actually do for you. This understanding will help you safely get the most enjoyment and performance out of your sled ...Read more

Published on Sunday, December 18, 2011 in News & Updates, Safety, Snowmobile Tech
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Snowmobiling in Massachusetts: A Beginners Guide

Are you new to snowmobiling in Massachusetts or considering taking part in the best winter fun on the planet? Here is a beginners guide that outlines what you need in order to snowmobile in Massachusetts. This is just a summary ...Read more

Published on Saturday, December 10, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates, Safety
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Snowmobile Age Restrictions (updated)

How old do I need to be to ride a snowmobile? The last time we reported on the age restrictions was almost a year ago, but things have changed since new regulations went into effect this year. This updated chart ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, December 6, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates, Safety
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International Snowmobile Congress (Randy Toth) (video)

International Snowmobile Congress 2011: SAM to Host ISC 2012 A highly motivated team of representatives from SAM attended ISC 2011 in Calgary, Alberta, Canada this June. Their primary mission, aside from representing SAM in the international community, was to market ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, November 30, 2011 in General Announcements, National, News & Updates
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Trail Conference Notes

A few weeks ago we posted a report about the 2011 Massachusetts Trails Conference that was attended by user groups from all over the state. The presentations and notes have been posted online at the DCR website Scroll down to ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, November 29, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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A Cause for Snowmobilers: Pink Ribbon Riders (Keri Wanner)

“Laugh at life and it will laugh at you!” It’s hard not to get sucked into the everyday grind of negative news! Everything from higher debt ceilings to a friend or family member dealing with medical problems, leaves us only ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, November 22, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Take a Friend Snowmobiling Week – Enter Drawing

The snowmobile community is excited to announce the Take a Friend Snowmobiling Week – which will be held February 11-20, 2012. This elongated week celebrates friends and family snowmobiling. This special week compliments the Take a Friend Snowmobiling campaign – ...Read more

Published on Monday, November 21, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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LaVallee Returns from Injury to Attempt Jump (video)

A snowmobile and a motorcycle will simultaneously fly over water in the latest installment of Red Bull: New Year. No Limits. This year will bring together two incredible athletes who have found their way back to the annual New Year’s ...Read more

Published on Sunday, November 20, 2011 in In The News, News & Updates
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No Cost Insurance Benefits for SAM Members

American Income Life has announced that all active members of SAM now have new benefits at no cost (see details). This includes a $3,000 Accidental Death and Dismemberment Benefit at no cost. In addition, members who respond online or return ...Read more

Published on Friday, November 18, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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SAM Charity Report (Marcia Miller, chairperson)

As we enter the time of year where we reflect on those things we are grateful for and then start to think about those things we would like to give as gifts for the holidays, let us remember those who ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, November 16, 2011 in Charity, General Announcements, Guest Columns, News & Updates
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First Annual Massachusetts Trails Conference

This past Saturday, November 14, the First Annual Massachusetts Trails Conference was held. Over one hundred trail enthusiast attended the day-long event presented by The Massachusetts Recreational Trail Advisory Board (MARTAB) in partnership with the Department of Conservation and Recreation ...Read more

Published on Monday, November 14, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Snowmobile Safety: Ride Safe So You Can Ride Tomorrow

Snowmobiling is in full stride around the world and now is the time for snowmobilers to keep snowmobile safety a top-of-mind awareness issue. Snowmobile safety is nothing new to organized snowmobiling. Snowmobile Administrators, the manufacturers, snowmobile associations and clubs joined ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, November 9, 2011 in News & Updates, Uncategorized
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Fire Chiefs' Association of Massachusetts Requests Assistance

SAM clubs clearing trails are probably finding many downed trees and limbs due to the October Nor’easter and Hurricane Irene. The Fire Chiefs’ Association of Massachusetts are requesting assistance in identifying obstructed fire roads and emergency access points in the ...Read more

Published on Saturday, November 5, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates, Safety
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Ski-Doo 2012 Snowmobile Video

The early snowfall has most of us thinking about riding already. While that reality may not be upon us yet, this video will only make you hungrier. ...Read more

Published on Saturday, October 29, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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HID: The 6,000 Kelvin Question (Jim Tucker)

In the last issue we looked at future technology with regard to ABS brakes on sleds. This month we will follow that same thread and ask what other real world upgrades sled makers could give us? If you have been ...Read more

Published on Thursday, October 27, 2011 in Guest Columns, News & Updates, Safety, Snowmobile Tech
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Polaris ‘Winning Riders’ Supports Snowmobile Associations

For the seventh consecutive year, state and provincial snowmobile organizations across North America are receiving contributions from the Polaris “Winning Riders” program, which generates support for the groups based on sales of new Polaris snowmobiles. From Newfoundland to Washington and ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, October 25, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Snowmobiling Web Sites and Facebook Expand (Ed Klim)

As we look at the last 20 years of communication transformation, most are amazed. Communication amongst snowmobilers has changed forever and it appears the evolution will continue. The manufacturers and many in the industry are now active on the Internet ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, October 19, 2011 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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International Snowmobile Media Council Awards $1,000 Scholarship

In 2008, after losing longtime friend and colleague C.J. Ramstad to a tragic auto accident the year before, the International Snowmobile Media Council (ISMC) wanted to find a way to honor the renowned photojournalist, editor, publisher and political activist. Ramstad ...Read more

Published on Monday, October 17, 2011 in General Announcements, International Snowmobile Congress, News & Updates
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Expo Floor Plan Released

The NE PowerSport Expo is only days away! Saturday and Sunday, October 15 and 16 at the Eastern States Exposition Grounds, West Springfield (Directions). Doors Open Saturday at 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Sunday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Look ...Read more

Published on Thursday, October 13, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Expo Announces Additional Exhibitors

The NE PowerSport Expo is almost here! This Saturday and Sunday, October 15 and 16 at the Eastern States Exposition Grounds, West Springfield (Directions). Doors Open Saturday at 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Sunday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Follow ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, October 12, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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NE PowerSport Expo October 15 – 16

The NE PowerSport Expo, This Saturday and Sunday, October 15 and 16 at the Eastern States Exposition Grounds, West Springfield (Directions). Doors Open Saturday at 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Sunday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Follow the NE PowerSport ...Read more

Published on Monday, October 10, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates, Vintage
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American Snowmobiler Magazine Features SAM Trails

American Snowmobiler magazine has a feature story about SAM and trail riding in Massachusetts. Mike Carr, wrote, “One of the best kept secret sledding destinations is western Massachusetts, where the Berkshire Mountains offer venturesome sledders an abundance of snow and ...Read more

Published on Monday, October 3, 2011 in General Announcements, In The News, News & Updates
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Snocross Removed from Winter X Games

One of the longest-running Winter X Games events — Snowmobile SnoCross racing — will no longer be a part of the Winter X program, as of this coming January’s event in Aspen, Colo., X Games officials announced Thursday. SnoCross debuted ...Read more

Published on Monday, October 3, 2011 in In The News, News & Updates
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New Location for SAM Meetings

Attention SAM Delegates and members. The October 6th SAM monthly meeting will be held at a new location, the Clarion Hotel & Conference Center, 1 Atwood Dr, Northampton, MA, 01060, just off interstate 91 (map). Please make sure your club ...Read more

Published on Saturday, October 1, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Vintage Show at the Expo: Salute To Cat

This year will feature TWO distinct vintage displays! The Massachusetts Vintage Snowmobile Club will host two vintage displays at The NE PowerSports Expo, October 15 and 16. 1) A salute to Arctic Cat’s 50th Anniversary. This section of the show ...Read more

Published on Saturday, September 24, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates, Vintage
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Russian Enthusiast Build Homemade Sleds

Snowmobile enthusiasm in Russia is growing rapidly, with a reported 20% increase in sales in Europe and Russia combined. Snowmobiles are scarce, so the hard-core are building the machines themselves. The website Snowmobile.ru features some amazing homemade machines that show ...Read more

Published on Thursday, September 22, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Ski-Doo Unveiled 2012 MX Zx RS Racer

Ski-Doo unveiled big improvements for its 2012 MX Zx RS racing sled. The rear suspension, introduced last year as “PCX,” was a name only intended to disguise the rMotion name until the consumer version was introduced. For 2012, the rear ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, September 20, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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Polaris Introduces 2012 Polaris 600 IQ Racer

The just announced 2012 Polaris 600 IQ Race Sled features race-ready suspension calibration that carried Polaris racers to podium finishes in the second half of last season. The 2012 Polaris 600 IQ Race Sled also features the title-winning Liberty 600 ...Read more

Published on Sunday, September 18, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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Cat Introduces 2012 Arctic Cat Sno Pro 600

The all-new 2012 Arctic Cat Sno Pro 600 race sled was introduced at Hay Days. The new sled sports the new ProCross Race chassis, 600R race engine with 40mm Mikuni rack style TM carbs w/TP, Front Arctic Race Suspension (ARS) ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, September 14, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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SAM Trail Protection Workshop Nov 9th

Attention SAM clubs: It is vital that you attend the upcoming trail preservation workshops created specifically for you. SAM and the Highland Communities Initiative are teaming up to insure that generations of riders will always enjoy access to snowmobile trails ...Read more

Published on Saturday, September 10, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Ski-Doo's $1 Million Club Support Program

After having given more than $2,000,000 to snowmobile clubs in the past years through this program, BRP will continue its pledge to snowmobile clubs’ volunteers and their trails for the 2011-2012 snowmobile season. Every SAM Club has already been registered ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, September 7, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Real Riders: Be Bold, Ride Old! (Mel Scuderi)

While most snowmobilers want to be riding the latest and greatest, hot, new sleds my buddies and I prefer the challenges of driving the old stuff. Three of us, Wally Black, Bob Gagnon and myself, were riding in the DAR ...Read more

Published on Friday, August 26, 2011 in Guest Columns, News & Updates, Vintage
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Snow Forecast for 2011-2012

Thinking about buying a new sled? AccuWeather.com’s Henry Margusity has posted his prediction for the upcoming winter. It looks as good if not better than last year. “The basis of the forecast is on the prediction that a weak La ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, August 17, 2011 in In The News, News & Updates
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Government Accountability Office’s E15 Report

E15, what is it? E15, sometimes called gasohol, is a fuel mixture of 15% anhydrous ethanol and 85% gasoline. When reviewing this report, please note the US EPA has already recommended that E-15 fuel NOT be used in snowmobiles. Also ...Read more

Published on Friday, July 29, 2011 in General Announcements, In The News, News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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5 Historic Rotax Snowmobile Engines

Phil Mickelson of Snow Goer picks 5 historic Rotax snowmobile engines. Start asking questions, and you realize that each engine in that wall has its own special place in history, and in Phil’s heart. We asked him to share some ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, July 26, 2011 in Guest Columns, News & Updates, Safety, Vintage
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Arctic Cat to Celebrate 50th Anniversary

Arctic Cat will celebrate the brand’s 50th Anniversary as thousands of loyal Arctic Cat enthusiasts converge upon Thief River Falls, MN on July 29th and 30th. The celebration will be open to the public and all events are free. Arctic ...Read more

Published on Thursday, July 14, 2011 in General Announcements, In The News, News & Updates, Vintage
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Efforts To Preserve B-52 Crash Site (video)

A B-52 left Westover Air Force Base in Massachusetts on January 24, 1963 and later crashed on Elephant Mountain in Greenville Maine. The site, which is accessible by snowmobile, is visited by thousands every year. The Bangor Daily New reports ...Read more

Published on Sunday, July 10, 2011 in General Announcements, In The News, News & Updates
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Planes Trains and Snowmobiles: Part 1 (Gerry Balchuinas)

For years I have been taking riding trips all over the North East and have written about many of them for SAM and sledmass. This past trip was no exception. I took another trip up to Maine to do some exploring ...Read more

Published on Sunday, July 10, 2011 in Guest Columns, News & Updates, Snowmobile Travel
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Sleds Roll Off Assembly Line At Polaris (video)

The summer is (finally) starting to get hot here in Minnesota and the manufacturing lines are heating up as well. Polaris Team Riders Chris Burandt, Randy Sherman, Dan Adams, and Keith Curtis were on hand to kick off the build ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, July 5, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Friends of Snowmobiling Supports Recreational Freedom

The Friends of Snowmobiling Political Action Committee (FOSPAC) was initiated by the snowmobile community in response to our desire to continue the family snowmobiling tradition we have created here in the United States. Snowmobiling access is consistently under attack and ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, June 29, 2011 in General Announcements, Legislative Affairs, News & Updates
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Summer Trip for Sled Heads

What’s a snowmobiler to do when the weather is hot and sticky? Take a road trip north! Longtime snowmobile and Formula-1 race fans are familiar with the legend of Gilles Villeneuve and his family. The Montreal Gazette posted a detailed ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, June 22, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates, Vintage
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2012 Massachusetts RTP Round is Now Open!

The 2012 Massachusetts Recreational Trails Program Grant Round is now open! Please visit the Recreational Trails Program website for grant guidelines, application materials, and paperwork guidelines: http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dcr/services-and-assistance/grants-and-technical-assistance/greenways-and-trails-program.html The 2012 Statewide Trail Education Grant Round is also open with the same ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, May 24, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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DCR Map of Land Designations: Please Attend Meetings!

DCR Releases Draft Map In Anticipation Of Its Second Workshop Series On Landscape Designations For State Properties SAM members are encouraged to attend these very important meetings that will outline public land use and recreation, such as snowmobiling. Meeting dates ...Read more

Published on Monday, May 23, 2011 in General Announcements, Legislative Affairs, News & Updates
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SAM To Host International Snowmobile Congress

The Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts will host the 2012 International Snowmobile Congress (ISC) in Sturbridge, MA. This is a once in a lifetime event for Massachusetts and we are very excited to play host to the world of snowmobiling. We ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, May 18, 2011 in General Announcements, International Snowmobile Congress, News & Updates
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DCR to Hold Pittsfield State Forest Forum

The Department of Conservation and Recreation will hold a forum on the master plan for the Pittsfield State Forest area which include snowmobile trail areas such as Wahconah Falls! This plan will spell out what activities are allowed and which ...Read more

Published on Thursday, April 21, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Urgent Action Needed to Fund Recreational Trails Program!

SAM members need to contact their U.S. Congressman and ask that they support the Recreational Trail Program (RTP). Losing RTP would be disastrous to the clubs that use the program to purchase grooming equipment and fund other projects that improve ...Read more

Published on Monday, April 11, 2011 in General Announcements, Legislative Affairs, News & Updates
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Snowmobiler of the Year: Herb Hilton

Herb Hilton has served his club as a board of director and as president for many years. He has attended just about every SAM meeting that anyone can recall, as well as volunteering at the Expo. Herb has volunteered on ...Read more

Published on Saturday, April 2, 2011 in Charity, Guest Columns, News & Updates
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President’s Award Presented To Stan Kopala

This year SAM recognized a member who has carried the torch longer than most have snowmobiled. He has been negotiating snowmobile access with private landowners and the DCR for an eternity. Well maybe not eternity, but I’m sure it seems ...Read more

Published on Saturday, April 2, 2011 in Awards, General Announcements, News & Updates
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Family of the Year: The the Sarafin Family

This Sarafin family not only plays an active role in the club but participate in trail trims, bridge building and of course ride. In addition, they are all officers. They work at all functions, they are the ones who keep ...Read more

Published on Saturday, April 2, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Dealer of the Year: Matt Graves, A-1 Parts

Some clubs are fortunate to have a local dealer who understands and supports grassroots snowmobiling. Matt Graves of A-1 Parts is noted for just that. Matt and his wife Camille are members of two clubs, attend and actively participate at ...Read more

Published on Saturday, April 2, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Trail Worker of the Year: Ross Helberg

Ross Helberg is the behind the scenes guy who is always out there trimming and grooming the trails. He regularly communicates with the DCR to ensure they are working within the guidelines to maintain the trail system. He is the ...Read more

Published on Saturday, April 2, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Junior Snowmobiler of the Year: Ryan Grant

The Coldbrook Snowmobile Club has a young member who sets the bar, not only for junior members, but members in general. He is the first to come, the last to leave, and always the first to volunteer to help. He ...Read more

Published on Saturday, April 2, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Groomer Operator of the Year: Paul Mastrianni

As you know, every club or organization has members who could be called unsung heroes. This club is no different. Paul is up early every Saturday and Sunday, heading out to a meeting, to clear trails, or to groom. He ...Read more

Published on Saturday, April 2, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Club of the Year: Knox Trail Sno-Riders

The Knox Trail Sno-Riders have a keen understanding of what it takes for organized snowmobiling to succeed. Their actions speak volumes about their commitment. They are involved in local charity events, maintain a partnership with local DCR land managers, actively ...Read more

Published on Saturday, April 2, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Friend of SAM: Roy and Jim Hoellerich

Throughout the years Roy and Jim Hoellerich have allowed the Adams Sno-Drifters and SAM members to access their land for a corridor trail. They allow the club to host activities, and support the concept of sleds using their property that ...Read more

Published on Saturday, April 2, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Recognition for Heroism at SAM Annual Meeting

Coldbrook Snowmobile Club members Robin Grant Briner, Massachusetts Environmental Police Officer William Woytek, and Dean Zuppio were recognized for saving the life of fellow SAM member David “Butch” C. Poudrier this past January. Their fast and professional actions saved Mr. ...Read more

Published on Saturday, April 2, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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SAM Charity Report (Marcia Miller)

Wow, March already… the holiday seasons are way behind us now. The Advent season is the time when we think most about “giving.” The Toys for Tots program was a success again this year with SAM giving over 150 toys ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, March 23, 2011 in Charity, General Announcements, News & Updates
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Environmental Police Alert Operators of New Rules

Massachusetts Environmental Police Alert Off-Highway Vehicle Operators of New Rules. New age restrictions, safety education and registration requirements go into effect. With the onset of spring, the Massachusetts Environmental Police (MEP) are reminding snow machine, all-terrain vehicle and dirt bike ...Read more

Published on Thursday, March 17, 2011 in General Announcements, In The News, News & Updates, Safety
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Clean Snowmobile Challenge Features Zero Emissions

Michigan Tech News reports that Clarkson University won the overall competition in the 12th Annual Clean Snowmobile Challenge held March 7-12 at Michigan Technological University’s Keweenaw Research Center (KRC). Clarkson took top prize in the internal combustion category and third ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, March 16, 2011 in General Announcements, In The News, News & Updates
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Coldbrook Members Recognized for Saving Life

The Worcester Telegram & Gazette ran a story about several Coldbrook Snowmobile Club members who saved a fellow snowmobiler’s life earlier this winter. Photo (L-R) Robin Grant Briner, left, and Officer William Woytek, right, share a moment with David and ...Read more

Published on Monday, March 14, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates, Safety, Vintage
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Arctic Cat Debuts All New Chassis

Celebrating their 50th anniversary, Arctic Cat pulled the cover off an all new snowmobile chassis. The new rider-forward ProCross chassis features a triangulated upper spar assembly and a tapered two-piece tunnel that reduces weight while adding strength. A new chain ...Read more

Published on Friday, March 11, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Reflections: The Ronnie Ouimet Story (Robert Dodge)

In 1956, a young cement truck driver was opening a motorcycle shop on Alger Street in Adams, working 40 plus hours on the job, sometimes over 50 plus hours nights and weekends. This young man wanted to take a shot ...Read more

Published on Sunday, March 6, 2011 in Guest Columns, News & Updates, Vintage
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Polaris Launches 2012 Models

Polaris introduces nine new models, all based on the Pro-Ride chassis. The new line-up offers several versions of the Switchback, RMK and Rush are available for snowcheck. Early season orders have choices in windshield height, warranty and much more. Details ...Read more

Published on Friday, March 4, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Easy Riders Give Kids Rides

The Easy Riders Snowmobile Club was featured in the MetroWest Daily News for giving rides to kids, most who have never snowmobiled before. “As part of the Ashland Coalition for Teens, members of the Easy Riders Snowmobile Club of Marlborough ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, March 1, 2011 in In The News, News & Updates
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Yamaha Unveils 2012 Models

For 2012, Yamaha has added electric power steering (EPS) to the Vector line. Look for EPS on six Yamaha sleds: Apex SE, Apex X-TX, RS Vector, RS Vector L-TX, RS Venture GT and RS Venture TF. Like most automobiles, EPS ...Read more

Published on Monday, February 28, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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The Future of Snowmobiles? (Jim Tucker)

Years ago I wrote about a new rear suspension technology I believed was coming our way. The time was ripe, as we had been bumping around the trails on the same basic rear suspensions for years. Many sled companies and ...Read more

Published on Sunday, February 27, 2011 in Guest Columns, News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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DCR Posts Public Comments

DCR has posted all of the written public comments the agency received regarding the Landscape Designation criteria and management guidelines, as part of this fall’s public process. SAM has been encouraging it’s members to keep informed and take part in the ...Read more

Published on Thursday, February 24, 2011 in General Announcements, Legislative Affairs, News & Updates
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Ski-Doo Introduces 2012 Sleds

BRP introduced the new 2012 Ski-Doo line at ski-doo.com today. What’s new? rMotion rear suspension: All-new rear suspension. Reduced transfer enhances sled handling even further. Its motion ratio, additional travel and separate spring and shock motion ratios mean the rMotion ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, February 22, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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$5,000 in Scholarships Available to SAM Members

The Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts announces the 2011 Charlene Whitaker SAM Scholarship. SAM members can also apply for two other scholarships, the Northeast Chapter ISC Scholarship and the CJ Ramstad Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship awards are: Charlene Whitaker Scholarship – ...Read more

Published on Monday, February 21, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Reflections: The Charlene Whitaker Story (Robert Dodge)

“O.K., onto my favorite subject”… that’s what most of us say when we’re talking about snowmobiling. Those were the first words Charlene Whitaker said when we started this interview for our story. Knowing this lady, and knowing what she’s done ...Read more

Published on Friday, February 18, 2011 in Guest Columns, News & Updates, Vintage
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Save The Trails! Don't Ride In Warm Weather

Weather Alert! Groomer operators ask riders to please stay off the trails on warm days, like those expected this Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Staying off the trails will give groomer operators a chance to address trail conditions with the return ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, February 15, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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The Godfather of Snowmobiling, Edgar Hetteen Dies (video)

The man remembered by many as the Godfather of Snowmobiling has passed away at the age of 90. Edgar Hetteen, who co-founded Polaris Industries in 1954 in Roseau, and founded Arctic Cat in Thief River Falls, died Saturday in Grand ...Read more

Published on Monday, February 14, 2011 in General Announcements, In The News, News & Updates, Vintage
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SAM Annual Award Deadline March 1st

Volunteers are the heart and soul of snowmobiling. Without them there wouldn’t be anywhere to ride. No trails, no clubs, no events, no leadership, no future. Snowmobiling would simply cease to exist. Every year SAM recognizes volunteers who go above ...Read more

Published on Sunday, February 13, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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SAM Annual Meeting: Reserve Tickets Now

The SAM Board of Directors invite you to celebrate your association at the upcoming SAM Annual Meeting and Dinner on Thursday, March 31, 2011. Relax and enjoy dinner with your friends, while you participate in the business meeting and the ...Read more

Published on Thursday, February 10, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Ski-Doo Announces New Suspension For 2012 (video)

Ski-Doo announced a new rear suspension for 2012 sleds, dubbed rMotion. BRP claims the skid offers the most travel in the industry, more capability, comfort and adjustability. A totally rising-rate skidframe that fits neatly inside the tunnel. A trick new ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, February 8, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Polaris Releases Three 2012 Models

Polaris announced the release of three 2012 models today. 800 Switchback Pro-R, RUSH PRO-RIDE progressive-rate rear suspension, 136″ track, all-new IFS, Walker Evans needle shocks, hollow jackshaft, drilled brake rotor and lightweight silencer. 600 Switchback Adventure, RUSH PRO-RIDE progressive-rate rear ...Read more

Published on Monday, February 7, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Reflections: The Hampshire County Legends of Snowmobiling (Robert Dodge)

The Hampshire County Legends of Snowmobiling: Charlie Kott of the Burgy Bullets, Ralph Hathaway of the Chesterfield Four Seasons Club  and Horace “Whitey” Whitaker of the Worthington Snowmobile Club. Sometime around the first of the year in 2010, Robert “Bob” ...Read more

Published on Monday, February 7, 2011 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Leicester Snowmobile Club Featured in Local Press

The Leicester Snowmobile Club was recently featured in The Daily Leicester.com. It’s a slice of life story about snowmobiling. Even better, the story is geared towards the non-snowmobiling public. “The best days are when the sun is out, and we ...Read more

Published on Saturday, February 5, 2011 in In The News, News & Updates
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Burgy Bullets Assist Fire Department

WWLP Ch 22 News reports the Burgy Bullets Snowmobile Club being credited by the Northampton Fire Department for getting a snowmobile and rescue sled that can be used to respond to emergencies. Tim McQuestion, Deputy Chief of the Northampton Fire ...Read more

Published on Friday, February 4, 2011 in In The News, News & Updates
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Oil: What You Need To Know (Jim Tucker)

I have a confession to make- I don’t know much about oil! Oh sure, I’ve done a lot of research on this slippery liquid called bubblin’ crude, but soon realized the more I knew the less I understood about all ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, February 1, 2011 in Guest Columns, News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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Let it snow! Profits up at Polaris, Arctic Cat

The Start Tribune of Minneapolis-St Paul reports that sales are up for Arctic Cat and Polaris after several years of decline. Polaris reported a 31 percent increase in revenue. Thief River Falls-based Arctic Cat said sales for the third quarter ...Read more

Published on Sunday, January 30, 2011 in In The News, News & Updates
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Life of a Groomer Operator (Gerry Balchuinas)

We all look for them and smile when we find them. No, I’m not talking about the winning lottery numbers. But if you have those and would like to share them, give me a call. What I am talking about ...Read more

Published on Thursday, January 27, 2011 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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2011 Clean Snowmobile Challenge the Biggest and Greenest Yet

A record number of electric snowmobiles have registered for the 2011 SAE Clean Snowmobile Challenge, set for March 7-12 at Michigan Technological University’s Keweenaw Research Center. This year, they will be greener than ever according to Michigan Tech, were more ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, January 26, 2011 in In The News, News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech, Uncategorized
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Organizations! (Larry Tucker)

(The photo above depicts the founding fathers of SAM viewing a new piece of equipment that was purchased to send newsletters to members in 1972.) I hope that by now you have all seen billions of the “white flakes” in ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, January 26, 2011 in Guest Columns, Legislative Affairs, News & Updates
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Vintage Ride Gets Great Reviews (video)

The Worcester Telegram & Gazette featured a story and video about SAM’s Mass Vintage Club ride, which was hosted by the Coldbrook Snowmobile Club. They report: “The Coldbrook Snowmobile Club hosted a ride for vintage snowmobiles yesterday at the Lake ...Read more

Published on Sunday, January 23, 2011 in In The News, News & Updates, Vintage
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Exploring BGL Club Trails (Terry Holland)

On this fine day, a small group of us headed out from the Worcester area to go riding. We had never been on the trails from Northfield Center heading west so we figured it would be a good day to ...Read more

Published on Thursday, January 20, 2011 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Where Can I Find Snow?

Sure, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is the go-to site for the latest weather forecasts, but did you know they have even more data for snowmobilers? Their snow depth map is an invaluable tool when planning a ride, ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, January 19, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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DCR’s Forest Plan: Get Involved (Dan Gould)

It is time to comment on the future of our public lands. Don’t wait! Late this past fall the Department of Conservation and Recreation held several public meetings across the state. The Forest Futures Visioning Process workshops were designed to ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, January 18, 2011 in News & Updates, President's Message
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January 16 to 22 International Snowmobile Safety Week

January 16 to 22, 2011 marks International Snowmobile Safety Week, the annual reminder to everyone involved in the sport to have but ride safe. Snowmobiling is a fun and exciting family activity enjoyed by over 4 million people across the United ...Read more

Published on Sunday, January 16, 2011 in News & Updates, Safety
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Snowmobile Safety and Enforcement Program Kick-Off

The Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts announces their trail safety and enforcement grants. Recognizing that the first major snowfall will allow snowmobile enthusiasts an opportunity to ride, the Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts (SAM) announces the implementation of a $5,000 Trails Safety ...Read more

Published on Friday, January 14, 2011 in General Announcements, In The News, News & Updates, Safety
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Ice Is Unpredictable (video)

Never consider ice safe. The up and down temperatures have made ice conditions unpredictable all over New England. There have been several instances of people going through the ice this winter, including riders on snowmobiles. MassWildlife has posted ice strength ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, January 11, 2011 in News & Updates, Safety
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Reality Star Makes Rescue on Sled (video)

Jesse Csincsak, who won the fourth season of “The Bachelorette” TV series is being credited with saving the life of a man who got lost while snowboarding near vail Colorado. Csincsak, who was snowmobiling with friends came upon the wandering ...Read more

Published on Monday, January 10, 2011 in In The News, News & Updates
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Daydreaming About Snowmobiling (Terry Holland)

Last January my husband Andy and I, along with a small group of friends, took a drive out to Hawley, Massachusetts to ride in the state park and club trails in that area. As usual, it was fun to go ...Read more

Published on Sunday, January 9, 2011 in Guest Columns, News & Updates
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Safe Sledding: Starting Your Snowmobile (Randy Toth)

Starting your snowmobile may seem like a very simple and safe operation. It generally is, but occasionally this simple act can turn embarrassing, costly, or even deadly when “Sleds Go Wild.” It is quite an experience to witness a snowmobile ...Read more

Published on Friday, January 7, 2011 in Guest Columns, News & Updates, Safety
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Keep Those Tires Rolling! (Jim Tucker)

For those of us not lucky enough to be retired and permanently settled in snow country or others that can load their sled in the back of a pickup truck, the rest of us will have to deal with a ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, January 5, 2011 in News & Updates, Safety, Snowmobile Tech
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Students Snowmobile to School in NY

Going to high school in Dolgeville, New York may be a dream come true for many students. Located between Utica and Schenectady, the Dolgeville Central School Board of Education recently gave the green light to students who want to ride ...Read more

Published on Monday, January 3, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Adams Sno-Drifters Rescue Hikers on Greylock (Dan Gould)

Last Monday’s blizzard dropped about two-feet of snow in the Berkshires and winds in excess of 50mph were reported across the state. Warm and comfortable in bed, Brian Janik, president of the Adams Sno-Drifters Snowmobile Club, got a wake-up call ...Read more

Published on Sunday, January 2, 2011 in General Announcements, News & Updates, Safety
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Zero Alcohol Tolerance When Riding (Rena Sumner)

A little thing happened to me on the way to grandma’s house this year. I was stopped for speeding in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Don’t let the fact that VA and MA are both Commonwealth states fool you. I don’t ...Read more

Published on Tuesday, December 21, 2010 in Executive Perspective, News & Updates, Safety
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DCR Parks & Forests: Selection Criteria and Management Guidelines

The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation has posted a draft document, Landscape Designations for DCR Parks & Forests: Selection Criteria and Management Guidelines.  SAM members should take the time to review the document and understand how it will effect ...Read more

Published on Sunday, December 12, 2010 in General Announcements, News & Updates
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Snowmobile Trail Chemistry Study in VT

The Vermont Association of Snow Travelers, Inc. (VAST) announces the final findings of the “Snowmobile Trail Chemistry Study,” completed during the winter of 2009/2010. Snowmelt and runoff chemistry monitoring indicated no detectable levels of volatile organic compounds or total hydrocarbons ...Read more

Published on Sunday, November 21, 2010 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
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Safety 101 (by Rena Sumner)

Safety…everywhere we go we hear about safety! We talk the talk…we walk the walk…but do we walk the talk? I made this same comment in 2006 when the SAM Trails and Safety Grant Program originated. At that time Delegates voted ...Read more

Published on Wednesday, January 13, 2010 in Executive Perspective, News & Updates
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