I use touring boots with Vibram soles, it works out fine with them loosely buckled and in walk mode. I haven't found a way to keep them from getting torn to shit from the running boards.
Printable View
I use touring boots with Vibram soles, it works out fine with them loosely buckled and in walk mode. I haven't found a way to keep them from getting torn to shit from the running boards.
Hmm. I only have alpine boots right now and i'm in the process of shopping for AT boots. I suppose it would be wise then, since i will be sledding, to choose boots with replaceable sole blocks?
Replaceable sole blocks probably won't help as the area that gets abused the most is under the instep.
While I found that the walking soles for my Adrenalins helped a little with traction on the running boards, I have spent more time riding with the alpine soles mounted. IMO the hardest part in riding in ski boots has to do with the interface of a stiff/hard sole and the running board of the sled. Soft boots flex and give and allow you too "feel" what's going on under your feet, ski boots don't.
I have used garmont megarides and the BD Factors sled skiing and the Garmonts held up much better. My Factors are pretty chewed up after one season... I use dynafits so its not much of a problem having the bottoms chewed up. I am a little worried however about the instep of the boot as I have some pretty deep gashes in the plastic. I think I will get max two seasons out of these boots. I chalk it up to the regular expenses that go along with sled skiing. IMO you def want AT boots while sledding although I have plenty of friends that get around fine with just a alpine boot.
Depends on the sled, but on our new cats, you're screwed either way, they tear the PISS out of boots, hard or soft. A good set of AT boots help for traction, but my buddies that ski are definitely limited as far as riding goes.Quote:
Originally Posted by RonMexico
Last year I switched to Keen Summit county's for regular sledding days, got to say the softer boots help with traction, I was really happy with them for sledding only. I need to get used to riding with snowboard boots again this year.
AT boots aren't that bad for sledding. Just as long as you have decent traction on your running boards you are set. Don't buckle the top two buckles, throw it into touring mode and they are just as good as soft boots. If you have someone else on the sled that's where wearing ski boots becomes a pain in the ass. I always end up kicking the guy in the thighs or knees.
Does anyone wear regular snow boots for sledding and pack their ski boots on the sled, then switch when it's time to ski?
No, they'll give you a ticket for this practice on Vail Pass. Big no-no in the sled-skiing community.Quote:
Originally Posted by TroySmith80
A ticket? I don't get it.
I usually wear my jeans, sneakers, t shirt, and a windbreaker on the way up and then switch over to my ski suit and ski boots once I reach the top. Works like a charm.Quote:
Originally Posted by TroySmith80
I think thats what we around these parts call sarcasm.Quote:
Originally Posted by TroySmith80
Yeah, fuckin' fashion police layin' down the lawz.Quote:
Originally Posted by TroySmith80
LOL, bastards, i didn't think it was a stupid question! ;-) Oh well. So i guess i'll take those responses as a "no".
Ha, rode for 5 seasons with AT boots because the first few times I went out on my old yammy tripple I slid all over the place and got frusterated. a few seasons ago I had the alpine boots in the truck and figured I'd give them a go because it seemed I was starting to lose interest in more intense lines on skis, most my buddies were using alpine so I figured it couldn't be toooo hard. I found that the din toes fit well into the grooved teeth of the rev running board (especially when climbing). it took some getting used too but now I don't even notice it (except for the occasional slip off to superman hang on try not to pin it while doubling factor). the best part is that my skiing got a whole new boost and I've become more aggressive and comfortable going fast on bigger lines with airs again. I'm more stoked to get my turn, and not just sit back and film and run laps. there is a thread on here where Tom walks through putting vibrams on alpine boots, maybe search " DIY vibram soles "
Also, I agree that the boots get torn to shreds after a few seasons, the toes on my old sollys where so worn down that they almost came to an edge.
All jokes aside......Quote:
Originally Posted by TroySmith80
Vail Pass is a sensitive area right now. You can't just act like a drunk redneck, throw your ski boots over your shoulder and blast up the mountain on your snowmobile.
There is a construction firm that has been working up there a few years now.
They are mid-project right now, pouring the foundations for an aerial tram that is being built through the area.
Anyway, the construction guys all ride sleds up to the job site. Last year, one of those guys (he used to post here, RIP Jamie aka sledneckripper) decided to take a run on his skis during his lunch break. Skiing down, he accidently hit a power pole and died...there's a big lawsuit against the electric company, and a counter-suit against the construction firm......huge mess. So they banned anyone who isn't already suited up with their gear to head up the mountain, the Forest Service will think you work for the Construction Firm.
Use the search function, there's like a 20 page thread on it.
^^^ Vibes again to all involved, that is a really sad story, and make sure you have your construction suit on.
I actually saw a guy trying this last season at turnagain, we laughed our asses off. I don't think him and his crew even made it up the frontside.Quote:
Originally Posted by TroySmith80
there were probably 10 times more people trying to sled ski last season then 5 years ago and its pretty funny watching them learn all the stupid little shit that only comes from trial and error.
Those construction dudes are tough as nails too. I was up there the day of the accident. Horrible day. Dude thought he would be ok just wearing his hard hat and Carhartts for that one run.:nonono2: Low vis day and sources told me he didn't even see it coming. SMACK.
Now the forest service is all over everyone's ass, especially that Fitzpatrick guy, for wearing the appropriate gear. Be safe out there dude.
I don't understand why you would laugh at someone doing that. I've sledded for 15 years and I can ride. I'm no dummy when it comes to sleds, and it seems like it would be a good idea to ride in regular boots that you would wear if you weren't going to ski.
I don't know why it would impede you getting somewhere. Granted, it would be a pain in the ass to switch up on the hill, and put on cold ski boots.
I haven't tried sledding in ski boots yet, so maybe it's not as bad as i suspect it may be, but it certainly has to be worse than regular boots. Ultimately it's probably not worth the hassle, but it's not like it's a crazy idea.
most folks I see that start snowmoskiing are(like me) skiers that buy sleds without having a clue about the sled side of things.
Its not that bad riding in alpine boots and I'm sure its better than putting on cold boots on the top of a run. what are you gonna do, switch out on every lap? that sounds like some Mr. Rogers shit right there.
A lot of guys have been buying size 18 Sorels and slipping them over their ski boots. They get to their spot, slip'em off and click in.Quote:
Originally Posted by TroySmith80
That's genious!Quote:
Originally Posted by Blurred
Ok, ok. 2 pairs of boots is a bad idea, but not a TERRIBLE idea :rolleyes2
I'm changing the subject!
How much better do the new chassis handle compared to my old 2003 Polaris Edge chassis? I wanna try one of the newer sleds but i'll probably just end up not liking mine after i do!
Whenever I don't feel like wearing my ski boots on the uphill I usually just throw 'em under the hood during the trip back up to the drop zone so they stay warm. Kind of like those boot warmers, but even better.
I put my ski boots in a small North Face waterproof Duffel...
http://www.kimballjones.com/shop/med...lYellow300.jpg
then attach that to my Cheetah Rack (which can also hold 2 pairs on skis)
http://cheetahfactoryracing.com/snow...ketsystem2.jpg
and sled up (usually 20-30+km's) to ski access in HMK Highmark boots.
http://www.upnorthsports.com/Sites/u...roBoaFocus.gif
It works great, I use teeny plug boots which are fairly uncomfortable, I'm not a fan of sliding around on race risers on my running boards, especially when its a 56km haul in (ie: Bralorne) HMK Snowmobiling boots offer WAAAAAY better support, warmth, and control than sorels. They're more durable, waterproof and comfier too, and not that badly priced. (~120$ and up)
Quote:
Originally Posted by GoNads
I take it the bag is not touching the tunnel? That would suck to melt the spendy TNF bag. I used the ghost boots last season on sleds and I was impressed. I hear the old school "Cat Tracks" ski boot sole covers work pretty dam well for traction too. Just got a new dragon and I'm about to fab up a gun rack into a ski rack. I just can't rationalize spending so much $$ for the cheetah rack. I'll let you all know how it goes.
Been sledding in my Spirit 4 AT boots w/ the boot in Tour mode and buckles open - zero issues the last 3 seasons. Running boards on the 08 RMK have chewed the boots a bit but I'm rocking Dynafits so no biggie there, boards on the older 98 700 were too wimpy to do any damage....
Almost done the rack fabrication for the sled - almost popped the $$ for a cheetah but the wife went ballistic. 20-30 bucks at home depot instead. Building a version like Pow4Brains but fits the T-Slot system on the new sled - should be a quick on/offsetup and pretty burly - I hope...
http://www.tetongravity.com/forums/s...ght=snowmobile
Pics in the next day or two
Here is how I us my boots..
When I get up at 5 am I tie on my k2 BOA snowboard boots nice and tight....
Then I head down and get some bfast and coffee... On over to the shop and load and fuel all my sleds, check conditions in the area, and drive to the trail head. The people I ride with show up at the trailhead about 8am.
On to riding, hucking sleds, and snowboard/ski until about dark. Head down to put away sleds, fuel, oil, do paperwork, and fix anything broken..
Then head over to the bar for a beer and burger and back up to my house where I walk in and take off my k2 boa snowboard boots 12 - 14 hrs later and slip on some cush sandles... Put boots by the fire so that they dry This plan works great for me 5-6 days a week in the winter.. ;);)
From what I have seen ski boots suck to ride in. If you are learning it makes it even harder. I tell skiers that go out with me to take a watershead bag (big zip lock baggie) and change out boots once we get to the skiing. But I do like the idea about the size 18 sorels!!!
Also if you like the seat on your sled any boot that you look into should be a boa or burton pull type system - the eye hooks on the upper part of most boots will in a season tear your seat to hell...
Aside from all the useful advice already presented, for me, the problem is simple - the runs are fairly short, and getting back to the goods, at least here in CO at the places I go, takes 20 minutes, max. You'd certainly not want to change out _between runs_, that'd add WAY too much time per run, and the 10-20 minute "commute" just is not that bad.Quote:
Originally Posted by TroySmith80
I have snowboard boots for non-skiing days, and they're bunches better, no two ways about it. However, getting used to the ski boots was not that big of a deal for me - I stand in the middle of the boot on the rail, toe pointed at the track, slid all the way up to the front of the rail. It sorta winds up there anyway, it is a fairly stable place for your foot, shrug, it works.
Softer boots are certainly better, but the ski boots are not THAT bad.
Plus, keeping the boots warm while wearing the soft boots would be a challenge.
Iain
Sorry to keep asking all these questions where I clearly have no idea what I'm talking about but you have all been a huge help so far...and yes, I have another one...
Thoughts about putting a sled in the bed of a short bed pickup (6 ft bed)...??
I have a Nissan Frontier with stiffened up rear suspension. (added a leaf, changed to better shocks...could also add airbags).
For gas mileage, ease of driving etc I'd rather have my sled in the bed while on roadtrips (I've got a really ghetto 14ft tilt trailer I can use otherwise)
Is this a terrible idea? I'd obviously leave my tailgate down (still leaves 2.5ft+ sticking off the end). I planned on building a sub-floor for my sled to sit on. Not sure if I should build it to wheel well height or not...and also not sure if I should extend the subfloor all the way to the end of the tailgate.
The subfloor would at minimum give me a place to put my ramp and maybe even give me a place to put my skis/poles/random gear.
Before I go much further on figuring out the best design for this what are all your thoughts on putting the sled in a bed...any pointers?
Not a bad idea at all. PM ^^^ he has some really nice ramps forsale for loading in to your truck.
Jebuz!Quote:
Originally Posted by TroySmith80
Sorry to hear about the fatality.
I'll do the search to find out more.
Troy, I run a rig sorta like Gonads.
Put the ski boots in a bag which I strap the ski rack, use my snowboard boots (which has a speed lace system) for the approach. Once I'm in the "zone" the ski boots stay on until we are done skiing or back at the snow park. I don't always do this, but some times I feel like dumping the ski stuff off the sled to go boondocking, high-marking or hucking, at that point the ski boots come off and the snowboard boots go back on.
Just a suggestion. This is trending toward tech talk territory.
I started a thread about two weeks ago in TT after doing a search and coming up with this thread and a couple of other fragmented threads here and there.
http://tinyurl.com/yaawcrg
It's just a start, and I'm sure that contribution by Gonads, blurred not to mention others who have contributed to this thread will make it better.
Snr's passing was unfortunate for sure...
I was just looking at that thread a month ago or so.:biggrin: bump for stoke!
Jeffreyjim,
My bro built a similar contraption to what you're talking about, works great. The only thing about his, the ramp is pretty steep, but it works great.
He's FCR112 on SW, I'm sure he'd be happy to share info. He's got a ranger.
I sell sled decks, http://www.angelfire.com/ultra2/mikesdecks/new0910.html
and will NEVER use a trailer to get my sleds around, so I'm a big fan of having it in the bed, better snow traction, much easier parking (you can park with the freeheelers instead of the shitshow that sledders create!)
It depends on where you ride, but it can make the crappy little parking lots MUCH more friendly.
from JV: "Also if you like the seat on your sled any boot that you look into should be a boa or burton pull type system - the eye hooks on the upper part of most boots will in a season tear your seat to hell..."
that's some truth right there. I hate burton, but they work better with the sled than any of the others I've used. (don't like the boa, so haven't tried them) ski boots TRASH a seat like nothing else if you're riding for real.
I own a Ford Ranger and have never had any trouble in hauling my sleds in the back. It's a snug fit, but I would prefer to haul a sled in the bed of my truck over trailering it any day. Gives you more traction, doesn't really effect gas mileage, and it's just as easy as loading and unloading a sled onto a trailer.Quote:
Originally Posted by JeffreyJim
I pm'ed you the info about the ramp. Let me know if you have any questions.
If you are going to be hauling your sled in the bed of your truck be sure to buy at least a 1,000 lb. tie down strap. Don't go any lower. Your wheel wells will get banged up, but it's really not that big of a deal. If you are picky about nicks and scratches on your truck bed and tailgate, then get a trailer. Your going to beat up your bed liner a bit, but again it's all cosmetic. I would suggest reinforcing your tailgate a bit too if you can. Over time mine has bent a little, but is still functional. If your sled has reverse it's even easier to take it off the truck. If not, not a huge deal. Only takes one dude to load and unload.
I've fit widetrack work sleds in the back as well as mountain sleds. They all fit in a pickup. I've found that it works best when you bend the skis up and have them resting on the front of your truck bed. Gives you several more inches of space and brings the weight of the sled more towards the center of the truck.
Hey, I sold your decks last winter (or tried too, the market is/was dead here). I used one of your expandable decks all winter on my personal truck. Was using it as demo/promo. Tried to raise some interest up at the snowparks and definitely got some, but nobody ponied up to actually buy one. Is Benjamin carrying them still this year?Quote:
Originally Posted by backcountryislife
Great product though, i sure enjoyed having it. The expandable sides and no beavertail is the only way to go!
I see on the pictures in the link you just posted that you've been making further developments and changes.
FYI guys, he's right. It's fantastic not to have to tow a trailer, and being able to park in a small space, or turn around on the highway. If you want to carry 2 sleds w/o a trailer, check out his decks. And if you're around Central Oregon, I'm sure i can get one for ya!;)
I'm interested too, and probably lots of lurkers, why don't you go ahead and post it up. Maybe better to put it in the thread in tech talk though. [ame="http://www.tetongravity.com/forums/showthread.php?t=174128"]HERE[/ame].Quote:
Originally Posted by ^^^
troysmith, I'm not mikey, I'm just a guy selling his decks in CO.
Same market here, everybody likes thew, everybody wants them, nobody wants to PAY for them!!
He's made some big changes in the last few years, they're SIIIICk now!
I just brought a few back to CO from CdA for JP a few weeks ago, wish I would have brought a few more back!
Anybody in CO that wants to buy a full lotus deck, let me know, I have one for sale (expandable sides, plastic deck, 11' ramp)
I am looking to get a sled deck and I am going to give you a call. I need one for a 8' bed on a chevy 2004 four door.. I was looking at getting a 4place enclosed but my little bro now has 2 girls under 2 years old so I may be by myself or looking for partners more this year. Kaleb can you pm me your phone number as I dont have it any more. Thanks!!!
I still don't understand the brand loyalty towards a sled manufacturer some people have, even though their sled is constantly grenading. Sleds aren't supposed to blow up all the time. It's also funny to me that people know a certain brand blows up way more than others, yet they've still decided that's what they want.
shrug. I don't get it, either.
I'd be interested to know total 800cc mountain sleds sold from ~2000-present from all manufacturers and try to get an idea of _percentage_ of failures; some of those who drank the SkiDoo koolaid claim that the propensity of 800cc Skidoos blowing up is perception more than actual unreliability, citing "more sold" than the other three (two, really).
I personally suspect those numbers would expose the ugly truth, but whatever.
I'm happy with my normally-reliable Skidoos, for now. When it is time, though.....dunno. Maybe buy a blown up RevXP and jam a rebuilt 700 into it? Dunno, but there are PLENTY of 700cc Skidoo motors out there (and Cat/Polaris) with 5000+++ miles on them. I suppose that my tune will change when I really find a power-shortcoming, but I've not found it yet - as I get my rear suspension dialed in, I'm having fewer and fewer issues getting two people around.
Just put a 156" track on the 700. Will have lower gears next Monday. My sled might lose some top speed, but I don't care.
I don't get it, either.
Iain (mmmmmmmM1000.....)
I'm interested to know more as well. Carried an M7 153" on the back of a Dodge Dakota all last season, sat in there for pretty much 4 months straight. No extra reinforcement anywhere, but don't seem to have caused any damage/sagging anywhere.Quote:
Originally Posted by JeffreyJim
Also, kook question, is it totally ok to just drop the sled off the back when unloading? I suspect the sled faces much more force on the trail than dropping it so all good?
^
What I've done for years is get in the truck lift both skis push sled mostly off the truck set parking brake on sled and drive away . Sled off truck . Sometimes the skis/carbides will catch and you just end up pulling the sled . Lift both skis another couple inches just to the point of teetering. Drive away .
Today I went up and did a road ride to my slope to hike and heard rattling I didnt check it . Got back to the parking lot and and my pull start had fallen off . The bolts vibrated off . I did the strap on the clutch to get it started . It was easy , never did it before.
I'm pretty sure it's fine. The suspension should be designed to take more abuse than that. But...for $100 you can get a folding aluminum ramp which makes loading and unloading easier, then you aren't relying on snowbanks (we don't always have those here).Quote:
Originally Posted by robnow