JAPAN SLED MISSION 2016
We unloaded sleds and were able to get out for a quick rip before it got too dark and wet. The snow was falling rapidly with huge goose-feather type snowflakes and was stacking pretty fast. I was looking forward to an awesome next day of sledding in Japan! That evening we all sat around the family-style dinner exchanging sled stories. Everyone stays and eats together at these style hotels. After a nice dinner I went for a soak in the “onsen” than retired to my room for the night.
The next morning was ride day! We all had breakfast together than proceeded to get ready to ride. It had snowed all night and we woke up to refreshed roads and trails. I brushed off my sled as the big group of riders got ready. It seems like they all like to ride together no matter the size of the group. Filled with Ski-Doos, Polarises and lots of Snowbikes. Even a huge ATV with Madd Traxxes! All of the sleds had heaps of accessories to boot. My sled I think had every possible aftermarket Ski-Doo factory accessory on it.
As we all rode up to the starting zone, I was pretty curious about how the terrain would be and how the riders would be. It was gradual road ride at first until we got to the first open spot. As I dipped in to the first zone my sled sank through the snow to where only my bars where sticking out! So deep! Light enough to move around in and not get stuck, this was going to be a great day. With the storm still in effect the visibility wasn’t the best, but plenty of trees to make it good enough to get around. The terrain was rolling tight hills with tons of trees, but not open enough to go rip through with ease. We mainly stayed on snow covered roads with opening to tear up and move on.
We arrived at a lunch destination where we all again ate together. The group broke out stoves, bbqs, and elaborate lunches. I was wondering why they all had such big packs but no avi gear! I think I was the only one with a beacon, shovel and probe. I asked why and they said “no avalanches here where we ride.” I looked around and saw plenty of terrain traps and possible avi terrain, so I guess some avalanche education is due in Japan! From noodles to BBQ sausages the food was flowing off the stoves. Everyone sharing and having a blast.
Now was my time to go try out a snowbike for the first time. Wow – what a cool thing these things have progressed to! Just like riding a dirt bike, but on snow. The side hill capability is insane. The only thing I was trying to get used to was the shifting gears in snow. I can now see why these are getting so popular!
Of course I had to jump on the old ATV unit just to do it, too. This thing could plow over anything.
