I don't think the weather could have been nicer for our last day of riding. I had my doubts as far as trail conditions with weekend riding...it's never been a good equation. Typically the trails start off well but get murdered throughout the day from all the traffic. Pulling into the parking lot and seeing all the trailers confirmed this would still be the typical weekend rule. I would give the trails 65/35 being ungroomed to groomed. There was plenty of snow to have great trails but like us, everyone had the same idea...there's snow, let's ride.
Already having logged in my last ride a week ago with 123 miles of the best riding I've had to date out of my home. This ride for me personally was more to connect with my old friends and get that WPRacing mojo back! Upon arrival, I felt the urge to get my gear on and go. The prez and #7 gave their warm welcome and I gave the prez the honors of putting my long awaited WPR sticker on the sled...he worried I would critique the straightness and he did a great job in placing it on my new ride.
On the trail we picked our route and we're off like a slingshot...I was following the prez and he immediately picked up the pace...I liked the speed but realized I was missing alot of the spectacular views the Whites have to offer during this season. Our 1st stopped confirmed the pace was fast since #7 mentioned how quick we were going and the lack of scenery...I was glad to hear another member wanting to see the scenery. But I do understand that with such a long drive North, there isn't alot of time to take pics...it's about mileage.
We quickly started running into a mix of trail conditions and we made the best of it. We had a great lunch at the buck rub and prior to leaving I swallowed a few ibprophens since I felt that familiar twang in my back. We hit the gas pumps at Young's and I giggled as the prez and #7 battled for the best gas consumption...I used double and believe #5 used close to me as well.
Heading back I really wanted to try out #5's axys skid...I'd never ridden one before. I was very impressed with it and wish they mated it with a performance 4 stroke as an option as well. Hopping back on my cat, I could feel that the power wasn't up to snuff as I was dealing with a squealing deteriorating belt. My clutches are in need of a cleaning and ugrade.
Either way, the trails soon went into full mogul mode and everyone made the best of it to get through. We all put the hammer down and had our 2nd winds kick in for the last stretch back to the drop point. The prez did an excellent job routing us to get a 125 Mile day in. Loading up was amateur hour for me...I've been spoiled by not needing a trailer. After firing up my sled to load I went to pull forward and smelled that familiar belt smell...it was finally smoked. Putting it in reverse to get some more running room only squirted slush mud all over #5's trailer. To make matters worse, I new I had 1 shot to get on the trailer and gave it a go...the belt caught and I came up the trailer hot and took some life off my right ski against #5's sharp edges spindle. It wasn't my most prized moment but the only damaged was my ski and some pride.
Speaking of #5...he gets top honors of the day...he took the time to divert his normal course and pick me up, put up with my bad trailering abilities and return me home. I would not have been able to make this last trip if it weren't for him sacrificing his time. It felt great reconnect with him and feel that WPR spirit...I almost wish the drive was longer, we had some great conversations. I'm glad I went and can't wait until next season! My off season includes some sled mechanics, rebuilding a clubhouse above garage, cutting in a more direct connector trail from my house and enjoying some sun. Till next time, enjoy! #388
Well said #7, it was a good solid end of season rip. I am very pleased that the Pres did his magic to get us to 125 miles on a late March day trip which included a sit down lunch at the old Buck Rub. I voted for trail 7 because I hadn't in so long and my thinking was that there would be less traffic and therefore better conditions, however, it really really surprised me that there was that many miles of trail that were not groomed while they still get consistent snow fall up there. I don't buy that all those whoops were created in a day or two of local riders, we didn't see anyone on those trails and I don't think they are that heavily traveled. Looked to me like that area is done grooming for the season, the reports were deceiving if you ask me. Signed, The Critic.
That out of my system, I had a great day. It was terrific to have windshield time with #388 and the different driving and riding routes made me feel like it was a different kind of day ride. The weather was spectacular and the snow held up great for a bluebird spring day. Just the right amount of stops and chat to give the back the needed reprieves. No breakdowns, bears witness to solid maintenance on their machine by each member. My cargo bag did not fly off with all the bumps (probably has something to do with the fact that it's now virtually empty, that bag is now relegated to carrying items such as cotton balls, empty plastic water bottles, sled registration paper, feathers, Q-tips, extra air and under extreme need a spare hat.... a small light hat, but that's really pushing it).
I will need to spend some time on my electric start circuit to understand what went wrong there. It seems crazy that the battery would die like that after starting the sled fine 2-3 times in the morning. I will check the ignition switch as we know that item is a POS. If I do pull the battery at least it will allow me to open the chaincase to inspect and do a full oil replacement instead of the lame 'suck it out with a tube through the fill hole' way the manual describes. I feel like I got about 5oz out that way so it can't hurt.
Finally, I repaired the trailer top today, got a 1/4" carriage bolt and nut on there so that won't happen again, it's actually more structurally sound so you actually found a weak spot #7. I may even go ahead and do the other side.
Great day boys - I feel great about continuing the off road riding on the two wheeled machine. It's so great to be out there riding. The club is a blessing. Don't get lazy, do your summerization before tucking them away!
First off, it was a pleasure to ride with #388 again. The warm weather, recent snow and a lack of grooming made for a different type of riding to close out the season. There were many bumps that I was feeling yesterday and still feel today. It was great to ride under blue skies and the views were spectacular. Riding route 7 to Pittsburg brought back memories of years past. There are some sharp turns that creep up on you and #5 witnessed me blow one of those corners. Conditions were all over the place in terms of snow melt, bumps, snirt and some grooming. Though we did not log many miles for a foursome of old school WPR riders, the soreness of my body says we had a full day of riding. I think I was the most tired when we stopped to stand around and talk about the riding. At that last stop I just had to sit down and remove myself from the conversation. Somehow, once back on the sleds, I kept getting my second wind and/or surge of energy. When you know the day is coming to a close, and the season for that matter, you just have a little extra in the bodily tank.
thanks to the Prez for driving home. The last leg of the trip was a piece of cake.
I spoke with prez today. I'd love to go but my truck is down. I'm 2hr20min from groveton but 1.5 from most of you so a drive-by pick up doesn't make sense.
I'd love to ride and will continue to throw out the invite for my place since I believe driving 6plus hrs round trip on a Sunday up north goes against most of the rules I've learned throughout my years.
I would imagine the trails will be murdered by Sunday from all of Saturdays last ditch riding. It's definitely a toss up on conditions there as well. They couldn't possibly groom that many trails by Sunday am.
Riding here saves at least 3hrs driving. I live in a snowbelt and it's been snowing all day and we will get another few inches by tomorrow. We still have a solid base and have been grooming. It will be thin to bare by road crossings but that will be just about anywhere south of Canada. Traffic is light around here and I know they will still groom regardless to gain more funds for the club.
Lastly...there will be warm chilli waiting upon our return. I plan on riding here Sunday That's my last pitch!
Sounds like we are heading to Nash stream Sunday ..... Parking lot at 9am....pack lots of snacks in case getting into to the towns is rough or low snow
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member # 2, Club Founder, Director, 2003.Dash For Cash Club Champion, 2001 Pole position Dash for cash, 2000 Dash for Cash Champion
I'm not sure where members' heads are for riding snow machines but I'd like to do one more day ride in NH to close out the 2019 season. I had one more ride in my head so I'm hoping someone will be up for a final ride.
I know #388 has generously extended an invitation to ride his trail system, I'm just wondering on trail conditions that far south - anyone reading my other post of a less than ideal experience from the trail network just north of him will understand my trepidation.
Dates are always a good way to start the conversation. can anyone steal away for a day:
- Any day next week except Monday, 3/25
- Tuesday, April 2
I have plans the next three Saturdays (23 + 30 + 4/6) so I cannot do a weekend overnight, but would be open to a Sunday on 24 or 31.
One more before we store 'em away! I will tow and have an open spot.