When we tested the Timbersled Mountain Horse snow bike kit last winter, the first thing I noticed was the stiffness from turning side to side, especially on the trail. To me, the front ski felt heavy, and it took some time to learn how to shift my weight in order to turn the bike. (Don’t get me wrong, though, I was still amazed at the way this snow bike handled.)
But apparently, I’m not the only one who’s noticed this problem, because Raptor Performance Shocks in Warroad, Minnesota, just came out with a product to help alleviate it. It’s called the X2 Dual Ski Snow Bike Front Suspension System.
Like the name implies, the suspension is split in the front so that it can incorporate two seven-inch-wide snowmobile skis. The added surface area of the two skis is designed to increase flotation for off-trail riding and increase the comfort and control of the bike when it’s on the trails. According to Raptor Performance, it’s like having power steering on the front of your snow bike.
In the press release, Mark Hoffman, who is a snow bike enthusiast and the owner of Crazy Mountain Motorsports in Clyde Park, Montana, had this to say: “When I rode the X2, I went from second and third to top gear and clicking the shifter looking for more. The backcountry powder riding is also greatly improved over the single ski. There is way less drag in all conditions, so it not only makes the handling way better, it also increases performance.”
And it’s built to last with billet aluminum components. Says Raptor Performance Shocks, “Whether you’re trail riding or jumping Volkswagens, the X2 is the only snow bike front suspension system on the market today that will give you the confidence needed to keep the hammer down!”
For more information, see the website.
