Jackman Me 1/23-1/26/2000 pictures
Mr. Pres.,
This is a ride report for 6 Apr 00. Wasn't much of a ride but I got in 10.7 miles. I really just wanted to get rid of the .3 miles that # 3 gave me in a earlier ride report. Listen up everyone, the season is over! It was a terrible ride. Very icy. I don't recommend this trip until next year.
Thanks, have a good dirt bike, jet ski, boating, atv, motorcycle and hiking season.
See ya all out there next year.
Han Solo a.k.a. #6
Subj: last ride report?
Date: 03/20/2000 10:33:15 AM Eastern Standard Time
From: jbangrazi@aac-robot.com
...as I walked out the door I heard the voice of "the one I love" bantering on about not tearing up the grass, etc. etc... I was only going around the yard once. it had been more than a month since I heard the growl of the big twin and since the wheeled horse was down to the frame for repair and maintenance it would be at least another month before it would see daylight again. besides there was at least a good, say, maybe 3/4 of an inch protecting the tender young lawn. and I almost made it around and back to the garage when... I just meant to crack the throttle a little, just to feel a little pull - don't ask me how it went all the way to the bars (and stayed there.) I never looked back.
later that day I had forgotten what I had done earlier and we were outside playing with the minor one when he pointed a tiny finger at that spot in the yard and said "whassthat??" I was defenseless as "the one I love" approached what incriminally looked like a 15 inch wide (exactly the width of a snowmobile track) by 50 foot long strip of freshly turned soil. I simply looked up and said "looks like that tool will work fine for turning the soil this year and that will save me a lot of hard work..." there would be no nookie for an indeterminate amount of time. oh well, riding a 50 foot "wheelie" as the last "ride" of the season just may have been worth it - that was cool.
members: #5. mileage: 0.20 miles.
Subj: Aroostook County Report 3/1-3/4
Date: 03/06/2000 7:37:53 PM Eastern Standard Time
From: DCLCGC
This looks like it will be my last report from the County for the season. So here it comes.
We arrived at Cross Lake greeted with temps in the mid to upper thirties. It appears this area had been affected by the warm up. Still plenty of ridable terrain to the North and West. Some trails did have ponds on them that were not present on our prior trips. We decided to take a short ride before ending up at the Lake View for supper.
Grooming had been minimal due to the warmer night time temps. We decided to call it an early night after our long ride up and not knowing where some of these ponds might pop up at night.
Thursday we awakened to snowfall. We took off to the North. Trails were soft, but overall had decent cover. As we headed East you would encounter the occasional bare spot in wind blown sections and corners. The snow fall all day with a few inches of accumulation. While having lunch at Daniels in Van Buren we talked with some other sledders. They had come up from the South and East. Conditions were poor to fair. We decide to retrace our route back with some variation. Temps for the day were in the low thirties and remained that way for night. That sucked because it means limited or no grooming.
For Friday a trip to the Allagash was planned. Again we were greeted by falling snow. We did encounter some groomed trails along the way. About 15 miles or so from our destination our snow turned to a light rain. We stopped for lunch at Dickey's. We were quickly invaded by a group of a dozen or so SRX's and SXR's. The pres. would have been in his glory. Fortunately for us a couple of XCR800's and 700's rounded out this group. We talked wit ha couple of other Polaris faithful who said the Lincoln trail was in good shape. On our way rain seems to mix back in forth with snow. This trail was in excellent shape. As we continued back to camp my feet seemed to slip around. It appeared to be a yellow color liquid. My first thought oh Sh--------t a stud must have puncture my heat exchangers. Further examination it wasn't antifreeze at all. It was oil. Maybe a blown shock? It appeared to clean with 2400 or so miles on it. Well, the Fort Kent Polaris dealer was about 15- 20 miles away. The ride quality was still good and no oil was seen leaking from the shock. Upon arriving at Audibert Polaris we were greeted by some very helpful people. His first thought was some oil had flowed out the vent/overflow hose. He has seen picks come thru the tunnel and puncture gas and oil tanks. To put my mind at ease and not end our trip early he brought the XCR800 in for a look. After removing the airbox no punctures or loose fitting were noted. While waiting we were entertained by Tucker. Tucker is a big Chocolate Lab who performed many tricks. Told to high five he would jump up and slap his paws onto our open palms. Cliff's wife told us about a time Tucker made his way on to a UPS truck that had come to the shop. They had no idea he had left aboard the truck with the driver. Some time down the road the driver heard some rumbling thru the boxes only to discover Tucker. Upon returning him back to the shop they joked about how he was dressed for the job his coat being a chocolate brown like the UPS driver. Once again we were back on the trail heading back to camp. The rain had change back to a heavy wet snow making for very poor visibility.
Saturday we decided to repeat some of our previous day's route with some variation.
It would be a low key day with many stops. The start of the CAN-AM CROWN Sled Dog Races were starting today. We watched the start of one race in ST.Francis. We took off to the Lincoln trail. We came upon some more sled dogs. They would travel parts of the snowmobile trails breaking off onto trails just for them. At one point the trail had not been traveled. About 4-5 inches of new untracked snow was on the trail. Again we were met the dogs. The Mushers were glad to see us. They thanked us for breaking trail for them. Soon after this my oil problem reappeared. How could this be I didn't over fill the tank? We had ridden 70 miles or so. Well, I remembered something. Boy do I fell like a BIG DUMB ASS. I had 2 quarts of oil in my trunk that I forgot about. You guessed it. the cap had come off braking the foil seal. Oil mystery solved. In my defense I I have ridden 230+miles on the trail without having to add any. My Cat would fall about 80+miles short of this even with recalibrating the oil pump. Bottom line though I really should have known.
Total miles 501.
195
Subj: Ride Report - Total 600 miles
Date: 03/05/2000 10:06:06 AM Eastern Standard Time
From: JLW600@webtv.net
To: wymanlake@aol.com
Day 1, 50 miles
On Saturday February 26, my friend Bo and I went to Millinocket Maine. We arrived around 11:00 AM. We checked into our room and decided to take a small ride around the town. Bo hadn't riden all year and wanted to check his sled out. Everything looked ok. Even though the weather report didn't sound good we still made plans to adventure out on a week long trip.
Day 2, 250 miles
5:30 AM Sunday we ate breakfast and headed out on the trails. Our first stop for fuel was at Bowlin Pond on ITS 85. This place was in the middle of no where. We had a nice conversation with the owner and he told us he had an 8 mile long driveway. After fueling up we continued on ITS85A. We stopped at Ashland for lunch. On our way to Eagle lake we came to an intersection where we picked up the Allagash trail. The trails at this time where groomed and in outstanding condition but, the temperature was close to 50 Degrees. We knew that our ride could be shortened. We stopped at the town of Allagash and fueled up. We ran into some hunters who work for the state. They had 25 coyotes' hanging from a pole. The coyotes are killing to many deer so these hunters are constantly traping to keep the population down. From there we continued to Fort Kent on ITS92. We checked into motel right on the Canada border. This place was really nice.
Day 3, 196 miles
We woke up and it was raining. The weather forcast was calling for warm weather and rain for the rest of the week. So we decided to cut the trip short and we headed back to our truck. As we headed out it was raining and very foggy. We took ITS85South all the way to Eagle Lake and continued to Ashland. We ate and refueled. We both ere soaked from head to toe. We knew the weather wasn't going to get better so we just continued. We eventually got to the Oxbow and saw signs for lodging. We decided to stop and call it a day. When we got there he (Joe) was not open for lodging because his wife was due to have a baby anyday, but we were able to fuel up. We knew that there was a place on ITS85 but didn't know if they were open. Joe called ahead on the CB radio and found out that they would take us. We headed back out knowing that it was only 14 miles away. When we got there we were both exhausted. The rain had taken it toll on us. My muscles were in shock!!! I had pain everywhere. This place was great. It's called the Wadleigh Mountain Camps (John and Mari Birmingham) Oxbow, Maine I would go back there again and again. This place was very accomadating. They had a room with a wood stove with plenty of space to hang our soaked clothes. Mari even made us a full steak meal at 9:00 at night. We got up in the morning to a great breakfast. The rain had changed to snow during the night and there was 2 inches of fresh snow. It was a pleasant site after all the rain.
Day 4, 104 miles
We headed for Millinocket on Trail #71. Surprisingly the trail was in great condition. We hooked onto ITS85South and fueled up at Shin Pond. Continued and reached Bowlin Pond. At this point the trails started to get bad. We came across 3 guys that were stuck in open water. They were up to their hips in freezing cold water trying to get their sleds out. We offered to help but they said "no thanks". At this point we were forced to turn around and find another way back to our truck. We found our way around but ran into a lot of water. At one point it was 50 feet of open water. We knew we had to cross so we just went for it. Very fast.....Both made it...Finally got back to our truck in Millinocket. We loaded up and headed home. It was a good trip but could of been much better. The weather was just not on our side. #27
Jim
Subj: Rumney trip
Date: 03/03/2000 7:03:40 PM Eastern Standard Time
From: Thegar1
To: Wymanlake
pres
Feb 26 - I left for yet another solo ride. I hit the trail at about 7:30 A.M. Everything had a glaze of ice, including the trail. Thing softened up after a couple hours. It started drizzling by 11:30. After 70 miles I had enough. I was back in The Berg by 2:00. Well worth the trip. Would have been better with company!
#6
Subj: Ride report
Date: 03/02/2000 11:36:08 AM Eastern Standard Time
From: delaney@net1plus.com
Dear Pres,
At the WPR Bonfire my sled had rode 85 miles or one full tank of gas. I did lend my sled to my friend Frank and to #3 so the miles were not all my own. I would like credit for at least 40 miles of which at least 20 were track spin. The conditions that night were excellent as was theWPR crew. It was a great time.
#4
IT WAS A GALA EVENT
as advertised. the kind of night you hope for but don't really expect. with the date chosen many months earlier, who knew what splendid grandeur we were in for. there hadn't been new snowfall in our little corner of Mass in maybe a month. the club was thirsty for local riding at our stomping ground. members had saved a night out so there would be no excuses. the stage was set - the snow gods gave a resounding response.
16+ inches of fresh new powder to dorn our precious lake and humble trail system. it was once said: if it falls, they will come... and they came in droves. here is the list of members who showed ready to ride (and I apologize if I miss anyone, some I didn't even know) and should get credit for the 27 miles by my machine. of course #2 our beloved pres and most gracious host (does this guy know how to throw a snowmobile bonfire or what?!), #3, #4 (with new steed), yours truly #5 (new clutch and all), #6 (sorry he couldn't stay), #10 (still shaking off the loss), #18 (bogging or no), #22 (yes folks, #22 that's right), #23, #26 (where are your picks already), #27 (true dedication here folks), #29 (turn 4 marker man), #66 (true to form), and the season debut of renewed member #195. there was even a special guest appearance from none other than honorable member Bill XLT (should his namesake be revised). there were at least two others that I did not know and I don't believe they had scoots. where was Tony?
to begin festivities there would be rampant speed runs up and down the straights. conditions were not good for this as there was not sufficient time for all of that snow to set up properly. next a jaunt through "the park" whilst others showed and unloaded. met up with two that had come all the way from Lake Dennison by (mostly) trail. good for you boys! the rookie #18 followed fresh tracks to find the pack in a field which would later become a race facility (well done #18) all were impressed with this initiative. #5 and Bill XLT headed back to home base to help with late arrivals. the group followed. more speed runs. #26 breaks a plug cap. #5 risks life and limb to obtain a spare (thanks #6, the ski doo now needs both plug caps replaced). #26 is firing on two again. all amass, we head back across the ice toward the single track. near the front, I look back once on the shore and see a beautiful sight, a string of a dozen or more sleds, headlights blazing across our dear pond with the mountain lights as a perfect backdrop. it is truly what the founding members of this club had envisioned all those seasons ago (3). the air was warm with absolutely no wind. a perfect night for riding. when we reached the top field - conditions were right, and the following was inevitable...
the inaugural running of the Wyman Pond Racing upper field event. non-qualifying sleds were positioned at the start/finish point and in turn 4. duration: 10 laps. holeshot style start down the steep drop and into turn 1. racing: #2, #5, #10, #18, #23, #26, #27 and Bill XLT. #22 dropped the green. #2 took the holeshot and never looked back. it was a blizzard in turn 1, zero visibility in turn 2, and so on. it must have sounded like Indy in July. it was awesome. finishing order: #2, #27, #26, #23, #10 and pulling up the rear yours truly #5. DNF: Bill XLT (off track excursion), #18 (lacerated finger - unrelated incident for the record). what a spectacular show under the ski area lights in a rolling meadow once used by cows eating grass. great job to all the racers and event staff. this will surely be an annual event.
the decision was made for a summit run. #6 had previously scouted the standard route and discovered a new gate at the road. #5 and #26 went ahead to see what it would take to pass. with work being done near the base, I got disoriented near the swamp and led my partner astray briefly. back on track we corrected the blockage situation and headed back to camp. summit run members: #2, #5, #18, #23, #26, #27, #66 and (with much assurance it would be well worth it) Bill XLT. we gained altitude without incident and made our way to the windmill farm. after a brief stop (of course #5 had to give the standard TLC update here), we ascended the summit and stopped at the "cliff lookout". we descended at speed on the perfectly covered mountain road and dipped back into the wood. unfortunately, #66 stayed true to form and the tree hugging mountain people got a little bit of revenge when he slid into the gate post at slow speed. more minor damage to the cat. #5 and #26 replaced the gate (how did we get stuck putting it back up too?)
back at the fire there were no members left. a quick trip into the near pit with only an ice climb access turned most around for the trailers. but #2, #5 and #27 went in for a quick dip. after several laps and a few good launches here and there it was time to call it a night. the last members trailered up and the night was quiet. [we apologize wholeheartedly to the neighbors for the late night motors and thank you much for enduring us this one night a year.] #27, #66 and Bill XLT had long drives home and we wished them well and in typical WPR fashion good speed. as I drove home at 2am, it occured to me to write this ride report and submit it also to "On The Trails With S.A.M." there are no pictures of us 'somewhere in Massachusetts', and there is no notice of our next outing. but the members of Wyman Pond Racing just wanted to give all of our snow travelling companions an idea of what we're up to in our neck of the woods. happy and safe snowmobiling everyone!
submitted by #5.
Wyman Pond Racing bon Fire report will be posted here Approx 67mile with 13 members present, i think # 2
Subj: Ride report from Feb 5th
Date: 02/18/2000 11:14:51 PM Eastern Standard Time
From: JLW600@webtv.net
To: wymanlake@aol.com
Saturday the 5th I went on a 50 mile ride in Worthington and Cummington(Western MA) with 1 friend and 4 strangers. I was impressed the with trails. I saw a groomer twice. That was twice more than what I saw in Jackman ME.!! We rode to a small bar called LouAnnes. Had a good lunch and I was ready to do some more miles but the 4 strangers wanted to drink all day. Maybe I should introduce them to TONY!!! Meanwhile my sled was getting too much oil and I took that time to adjust the oil
pump and my sled is running great. We finally got back on the trails.
Unfortunately, some of the riders driving abilities were slightly impaired. A few of them rode off the trail and luckily no one was hurt. Two guys separated from us and got lost. We finally found them after an hour of searching. Thank god, it was getting dark. I couldn't believe these guys risked their lives and others. I'll never ride with them again. I was happy to go riding but happier to get home alive.
Sorry for the delayed report. Will be faster next time. #27
Jim
Subj: Sick days, etc.
Date: 02/15/2000 11:20:44 PM Eastern Standard Time
From: PM 66 RACING
#2,
and all WPR members,
Today I was sick. Really, REALLY, sick. There was only one cure
......ROAD TRIP !
Myself (66) and guest, headed off to the Franconia Notch at 6:30 am. and arrived at the Kangamangus Highway at 8:12, to off load the sleds, and hit the trails.
We made our way thru the notch, and up to the Twin Mountains. Most of the mountain tops were shrouded in clouds. We made our way to Bretton Woods, and made a side trip to the Top of Mt. Tom. What a ride......We were the first sleds to break trail on over a foot of fresh granular powder ! Towards the top, we were in the clouds, with snow everywhere. the whole world was entombed in white! After some photos, we headed back to the main trail, and made our way to Faybians for lunch. After lunch, the next cruise was thru the Cog access road, and to the top of Mt. Jefferson. More of the same on top of this Mt. as well.....light snow, and a world washed in white. From there, we followed the trail to Mt. Mitten, Mt. Currier, and Mt. Deception.
By this time, we were low on fuel, and had to head back to the loading area for our return trip. The added bonus to this trip, was that for the first time EVER, all the trails were in AWESOME condition. Even the trip up to the Twin Mountains, the trails were in decent condition , but were groomed PERFECTLY FLAT by the time we made our return trip! Hats off to all the groomers, and a BIG thankyou to Mother nature for a job well done!
Your fearless field reporter,
"66"
Total trip mileage: 143........which puts my AC over the 1000 miles mark !!
P.S. A return trip will be happening REAL soon, to investigate the Crawford notch area and beyond.
Subj: Ride report
Date: 02/13/2000 5:48:02 PM Eastern Standard Time
From: Thegar1
To: Wymanlake
Dear Mr. President,
The following is a ride report for Thurs, 10 Feb 00. Headed North for a solo mission. Started off in Franconia Notch. The Flume parking area was empty! Rode North along Corridor 11. Best conditions I've seen in the Notch. Made it to the high point on Jefferson Notch Road. Weather was perfect. Trails were perfect. The sled to groomer ratio was ten to one. Thirty sleds, three groomers. Total miles for the day, 89.
# 6
Subj: Ride report
Date: 02/13/2000 5:51:45 PM Eastern Standard Time
From: Thegar1
To: Wymanlake
The following is a ride report for Coolidge Park.
I feel as though I deserve the miles so here it is.
Snowed four times, went to Coolidge Park four times, 10 miles, 15 miles, 7 miles and 11 miles. Only hooked up with one other sled out of all these times. Other sled rides with Jamie P., Marty and the other gang on Wyman's. Conditions were ideal. I highly recommend it.
# 6.
Subj: Ride report
Date: 02/13/2000 6:04:21 PM Eastern Standard Time
From: Thegar1
To: Wymanlake
Drove up to New Hampshire today, Sun, 13 Feb 00. Took the sled to within less than 1 mile to the top of Mt. Moosilauke (4,802). Total miles, 10. Total miles hiked, 2. Only two other sleds on the trail. Lots of hikers on the mountain. Lost our brakes half way down the mountain. Eventually got them back. Flipped over a little. Trail was very bumpy but very powdery. Highly recommend this trip if you're into hiking. Please obey the posted signs near the top, the environment is very fragile above treeline. Two thumbs up! # 6 wants to add the two miles hiked to his accumulated miles for the year, you make the call.
# 6 and friend
PS - A man that does not sympathize with animals is not yet a man.
PPS - Rumney looked great!
Subj: Final piece of ride report
Date: 02/10/2000 10:38:23 PM Eastern Standard Time
From: DCLCGC
Fri.2/04/00 We saddled up early in 20 below zero temperatures and headed to the International Festival headquarters in Madawaska. The trail was groomed to perfection and the sun was shining brightly. We checked in at the 1st check point and proceeded to customs crossing over the St. John river on the car and foot bridge and into Edmunston New Brunswick. We had chosen to take what was marked as the blue loop, 195 miles. The trail climbed up into the country side thru twisting woods trail occasionally opening up to trails that seemed like 495. The scenery was New Hampshire like and not a cloud in the sky. We stopped and the designated check points that consisted of Club de Nord, The Moose Valley lodge, and the Restaurant Sportiff where we had lunch. The money exchange and fuel prices proved to be somewhat challenging. #24 now eager to return to the States secondary to her Canada phobia got a little trigger happy with the throttle at a road crossing and had a minor collision into the rear of the XCR 800. No real damage. Making our way to the border, we actually had to cross a double lane devided highway. We were also stopped by police stationed on the trail checking our passports. Crossing over the ice of the St. John river entering back into the U.S. into Van Buren. We decided upon a route home entering the Long lake area that obviously practiced the noon groom.
Sat.2/05/00 We headed toward the Canadian border. This time we chose to enter thru Fort Kent into Clair N.B. We were again stopped by trail police. Once we displayed our festival passports we were allowed to pass as they opened the snow fence across the trail. We were determined to cover all the terrain afford by the $10.00 festival passport. We embarked upon the yellow trail which headed up thru the mountains stopping at the Club ASNO (Association des Sentiers du Nord-Quest inc.) We had lunch and soaked up some of the local culture. With gas stops being infrequent, there was an Irving gasoline truck outside the club to provide fuel. We continued on entering Edmunston from a different angle and paralleling the Trans Canadian highway following now the purple trail on our map. We then connected to the pink trail following the St. John river, a very enjoyable trail, and back into the U.S. again thru Van Buren. This time we chose to return heading up towards Grand Isle to the Long lake region, both having done the noon groom. This proved to a fantastic ending to a great week of sledding. I almost forgot.........There was one corner in this loop that eluded #24 and found the XC600 deluxe plowing into some very deep snow. No injuries to rider or machine.
READY TO GO AGAIN
Subj: ride report
Date: 02/10/2000 3:24:11 PM Eastern Standard Time
From: delaney@net1plus.com
Yo, Yo, yo, Vinillia,
Planned to meet #6 at the rich farm at 10am to ride up into Wilton, NH. just try to get a NH registration. Almost impossible, unless you want to travel. In otherwords, we didn't get one. The weather was warm so we dicided to stay in the woods. Most of which was groomed. We encountered the usual warm weather problems. Poor motor performance. Lots of stones. Almost not enough snow. 10.2 miles #3.
Subj: Saturday, Feb 5, 2000
Date: 02/10/2000 2:02:30 PM Eastern Standard Time
From: DMDike@ibtco.com
Attention all WP Racers,
A new record has been set... Travel distance to get to a riding location, 2500 miles set by, yours truly, the seldom seen number 7. I went from Orlando Fl to Westminster, Ma. to get my ride in.
While given second hand information that the pres had requested my presence at WP for a ride, I dropped everything to make it. Upon arrival, a saddened pres broke the news that my sled had no head light. This is never a problem for the pres (AKA. McGyver). He found a bulb on Greg's dead soldier (beat up Ski-Doo) up on the hill. The first of many obstacles in the night's events.
Next, we all went out on the Lake: Myself, Johnny Rotten, Greg, Pres and #66. The conditions were ideal for tearing a s s on the sleds.
The ski doo sh-it the bed almost immediately. (Dr.) Pres's diagnosis: newjet in the carb will do the trick. Right again. Everyone was riding to each individual's delight when Johnny Rotton's 'Cat sh-it the bed, apparent clutch failure (Try Viagra). Johnny, the sport that he is, stayed for the entire evening and remained upbeat despite the Cat's difficulties.
Next, the always generous pres asked if I wanted to use the "Yamadoodle", a misnomer by my estimation. My description would be "Yamaholyshit". I was impressed by all aspects of this machine as I scorched through Hagar Park and the deep snow fields overlooking the mountain.
Number 66, gets his own paragraph. I would suspect his tricycle was totaled within a month of its purchase. I noticed that he rides hard, ending up sideways, upside down. There's no fear in 66. He's was "the man" on that cold night. When he hit some uncharted ground in the sand pits, he exclaimed " I pulled a Bangrazi" when he got stuck. I don't know why. Johnny's pretty much the opposite of 66. In any case, 66 sure enjoys himself.
Greg's machine was running smooth. He was the one brought me up to the lake and deserves all my gratitude. I have the flu now, but who cares. When do we go again.
Subj: RE: Saturday, Feb 5, 2000
Date: 02/10/2000 2:33:28 PM Eastern Standard Time
awesome ride report #7! (the only thing missing was total mileage) I learned much of the goings-on for the ride from this report since I was basically grounded at home base most of the night. by "pulling a Bangrazi" he is probably referring to an episode on the Jackman trip (see report). it was good to see you at the lake and I hope you will be able to attend the bonfire on the 19th. I have a new clutch on order and hope to get out this weekend for preliminary testing at the location of the original breakdown.
#5
# 5 if i left something out let me know. # 2
Subj: Ride report 2/9/00
Date: 02/10/2000 10:39:51 AM Eastern Standard Time
From: delaney@net1plus.com
Rode 3 miles in the slush out in the killing fields. Praying for the snow to fly.
#4
Subj: Ride report 2/8/00
Date: 02/10/2000 10:38:23 AM Eastern Standard Time
From: delaney@net1plus.com
Rode the second fields with #2 & #3. Conditions were excellent. We rode 36.5 miles. Pres locked his keys in his truck. We had to wake his poor wife out of bed to unlock his house door so we could get his other set. Twinkies rot the brain. Great night out in the fields. Rubbing is racing. We saw Corey Manson out in the fields. The old Wild Cat was not running well so he did not stay long.
#4
Subj: Aroostook County/New Brunswick trip 1280 miles
Date: 02/08/2000 8:34:48 PM Eastern Standard Time
From: DCLCGC
To: DDike12397
Sat. 1/29/00 We arrived at Cross lake to the 100 year old log cabin. It was very home like with a large entry room, full kitchen, two bedrooms, and two large living room areas. It was somewhat secluded, with a beautiful lake view, and easy access to the main trail and gas. We were welcomed with some homemade Maine goodiesincluding special dog treats for Gunny. We unloaded our gear and went for a brief ride having supper at the near-by Dionne's Family restaurant.
Sun.1/30/00 We awoke to a very sunny mild temperature day. We decided to head south to Portage, continuing on to Ashland, and the taking the eastward trail over to Mars Hill. This afforded excellent scenary and spectacular views of Big Rock (The local downhill ski area.) We ate lunch at the Blue Moose. This was proclaimed to be #195's favorite lunch stop. We the proceeded back thru Presque Isle, thru Aroostook State Forrest (Noting the site of the first hot air balloon launch), up to Washburn and back home.
Mon.1/31/00 It was snowing, but at a moderate steady pace. At my reguest we headed to Caribou to the Polaris dealer. The #24 sled was having problems with the steering and wanted the alignment checked out. The well versed technician recog- nized the problem immediately. It was one that was so commom to them, that they patterned and manufactured special metal pieces for the Polaris plastic skis. He placed them on and adjusted the ski pressure and we were on our way. It seemed now that the #24 red sled had the best of both worlds.....superb Xtra 12 rear suspension and great front end handling. This also benefited #195......with #24being able to do more miles at a faster pace. We headed for the border trail getting to Limestone when #195 began having technical difficulties, noticing upon exam a large chunk missing from the belt. We decided to return to the Polaris dealer to have things checked out. It proved to be a only a defective belt. We decided to eat at Cindy's with some homemade soups and breads. We then returned home and decided to stay put now that the snow was coming down at a good clip. Tues.2/01/00 We awoke to approx. a foot of new snow. We decided to head for the border trail once again. We went north to Van Buren, up thru Grand Isle, thru Madawaska, and into Frenchville for lunch a Rosette's. We registered for the International Festival and obtained our necessary passport from the owner, and we were on our way....or so we thought. We were gasing up when it was noticed a wheel had come off the #195 sled. It was decided to head back to Madawaska to the Polaris dealer for a quick repair. It turned out that the owner was the chairman of the International ride and #24 obtained some helpful hints to navigate the trails.
More to come! #24
Wed.2/02/00 Another clear day on tap, We decided to head north to Fort Kent and then Westward out to the Allagash. The local club trail to Fort Kent was well groomed with a rolling nature, fast and fun to ride. The trail out to the Allagash was like frosting on cake and very scenic. We ate lunch at the one and only place out there called Dickey's. The food was out of this world delicious. We proceeded further out into the wild paralleling the St. John River. We decided to about face at Black Bear (With U.S. customs closing at 2PM and uncertainty surrounding the fuel availability situation). #195 came to a slow down as he saw something fly across the trail. We happened upon a deer yard. We stopped to observe these abundant creatures and take a few photos and continued our journey back to Cross Lake.
Thurs.2/03/00 Yet another beautiful day. We headed southeast to Fort Fairfield. This trail was groomed to perfection. We traveled down to Mars Hill approaching Big Rock(Where they also have snowmobile hillclimbs every Saturday) from a different angle. Being within riding distance to Blue Moose, #195 insisted on that as the lunch destitation. We had so much fun on the trail down we decided to retrace our tracks back home. However, much to our suprise we could not find our tracks or anyone's tracks for that matter.......The groomer had passed thru once again!!!!!!!! Had we died and went to heaven or was this simply a standard Noon groom.
Report to finish later dude. #24
This space will be for # 9 ride report on 2/5/00 totaling 51 miles
Subj: mileage
Date: 02/08/2000 3:50:50 PM Eastern Standard Time
Please update my mileage. I rode on Sun 52 mile. Is that ZR 580 manual
made out of gold 4,700? #27
Subj: Ride Report2/8/00
Date: 02/08/2000 12:52:31 PM Eastern Standard Time
Created new 1 mile track in the second field. With warm afternoons and cold nights it has become extremely fast 100mph plus on one straight. Still no sign of the Pres. He might want to make a visit before I become studded. Still won't matter much but will make him feel a little better. Total miles were 26.8.
#4
Subj: ride report
Date: 02/07/2000 3:39:19 PM Eastern Standard Time
2/7
Traveled to Cooks field to ride with the Drag Queen, KK and a Non Member. Tight trail to the field. It collected the nonmember/ beginner gently into a tree. (No Visible Damage. I had to take a second look thinking it may have been 66 in disguise.) The field is long. Plenty of speed over small bumps. The backside offered a nice little hill climb with varied obstacles. I could have stayed here longer. Off into the woods. Again tight trains with branches reaching to grab you. The Drag Queen was as brave as "Ski" to lend his Yamadoodle to a beginner to navigate through this. I guess he can always buy another... Back to the fields and home for dinner. All in all, 8.5 stars. Dinner was great. Sorely missed was Vanilla Dike and his entourage. I would like to report 27 miles
#3
Subj: Ride report.
Date: 02/07/2000 10:27:31 AM Eastern Standard Time
From: delaney@net1plus.com
2/6/00 Rode the Killing Fields again last night. Total of 27.8 miles.The field is setting up very firm making it very very fast. I get the feeling the Pres is a little nervous about coming over to line them up.Just a note the Drag Queen #13 had some members over to his house for a night of riding but was very selective as to who he invited. I warn all WPR members that he is a cancer to the club. Once this type of behavior starts to spread the club will suffer greatly. Pres I urge you to call for his resignation.
#4
2/5/00
Rode the Killing Fields extensively last night. Conditions were very fast. I welcome the Pres to come out one night this week. Excellent night for riding. Rode 42 miles under the stars. What went down on the lake?
#4
Dear Pres,
We #4 & #15 left for Jackman @12:30pm Sunday 1/30/99. We had a great trip up it took us 4 hours and 45min. We unloaded the sleds checked into loon echo and rode 81miles that night. They were grooming that night around Jackman. We caught the last 4min of the superbowl at the Northlander. The next morning we went to Jackman Power Sports and there and behold was an XC 700 staring me right in the eye. With the snow conditions as they were I knew the next couple of days would require some additional Power. Dave bent me over the Counter briefly gave me the high hard one but I traded in the Artic cat for the Polaris. One would have thought I was asking Dave if he wanted a root canal. Back to the Cabin and to breakfast then 1hour later back to get the XCSP700. I regret to say this is the end of the long standing rivalry with el presidente unless he steps it up a notch.. I saved him the spare key to the ZR580 as WPR tradition requires. ( I was always quicker out of the hole but I did realize he was the faster man.) What is important here and I hope he realizes that keeping up with the times is most important for any good rivalry to continue. We rode into Canada that day. Bar55 was closed. We turned around and came home. Conditions around Jackman were horrible. Plenty of snow but no groomer in sight.
That night we closed the Northlander. Met a couple of Ski Doo guys from PA there. Turns out they were staying at Cedar ridge. More too come. # 4
We closed the Northlander on Monday night and discussed with our new friends that we would meet them at Bar55 at 3 o'clock pm. We knew that the trails were in very rough shape and Canada was the place to be. We traveled throughout Canada breaking trails of fresh powder ( over a foot on some trails). We ripped through 4-5 foot drifts in some of the fields. Deer were everywhere. I even almost ripped a Quail out of the powder as I drove by. We got to Bar 55 at about 8 o'clock and our PA friends waited for several hours there and welcomed us when we arrived. Road stories will stay on the road. We then left bar 55 with these guys and Kenny raced the 700 and 800 Ski Don't all the way to Jackman. Team Polaris came in first. These sleds go. We logged over 200 miles that day. The next day we scuffed around Jackman and out towards Pittson Farm. Total miles was 481. A great trip all in all. The XC expedition was a success. Disappointed with the Grooming situation around Jackman even with all the new snow. We learned quickly that Canada was the place to be.
Just a note to the Pres that I will miss the rivalry more than you know. I look forward to the day you can compete again. The Artic Cat can be bought cheap in Jackman just ask Mr. Personality (Dave behind the counter).
#4 & #15 481 miles
Great report, however i am disappointed in this team Polaris thing, You should of wrote "Team WYMAN Pond Racing came in first"
Again is there a loyalty issue here ????
# 2 (a disappointed pres)
Subj: Ride Report, The KILLING Fields................
Date: 02/01/2000 9:33:53 PM Eastern Standard Time
From: PM 66 RACING
Everyone;
Well, after doing a quik-fix on my hood, and realigning the ski's, I was ready to ride the sled again. We met at a double-triple secret location to unload and tear up the killing fields. Being a new member, this was my first encounter with the acreage. I was wondering why they called it the KILLING FIELDS, and I was to find out before the night was through. after many laps in the field, we proceeded to Pearl hill. While en-route, #3's sled loaded-up at low rpm a few times. With me following him, I graciously lifted his sled's rear so he could rev the sled to clear the plugs. He dropped the sled once, while the track was spinning at a good clip, and proceeded to fill my sled's underhood with snow. Sputter, sputter, sputter.......now it was MY turn.....the condition cleared up when the motor dried......so much to being impervious to snow! Oh well, now I know!!
Pearl hill was a fun little park, and the available grip on the closed roads really showed the cat's ski lift problem!! This condition is REALLY starting to unnerve me. I almost was tossed off the sled a number of times...... After being told of this "incredible" hill to climb, we arrived to what looked a so-so hill. (I was hoping for something a LOT bigger) #3 broke trail down hill, with #2, myself, and #23 following. #5 bowed out of the competition due to lack of studs, (and with his intermittent throttle problem, I don't blame him!) #3 blasted the hill with ease, as well as #2. I blasted the hill with ease as well, and showboated a sled-stand at the top as well. #23 was last, and his attempt was stalled midway up the hill. #5 redeemed himself by climbing the hill by FOOT!! He volunteered to give #23 the fine points of hill climbing. #23, and #5 both made it to the top of the hill.
We headed back to the killing fields, losing #23 in the process!! I should have waited for him at the turn in the trail, but didn't, consequently causing him to miss the turn. # 3 and # 2 went on search and rescue, and brought him back alive!!
Meanwhile, back at the fields, #5 and myself were looking for BIG AIR by jumping snow piles. I misjudged my line, and was launched VERTICAL, and sideways. I did a brief involuntary "superman" (CLOSER TO RAGDOLL) and was spit onto the frozen field. My antics were rewarded with a ONCE AGAIN, BROKEN HOOD, this time with a missing CHUNK of fiberglass!! (way ta go, SPAZ!!!) I think I now know the meaning of KILLING FIELDS. Shortly after, at 11:30, we called it a night.
MILEAGE : 30
OH!, and by the way, I DID NOT HIT ANY TREES ! ! !
"66"
To whom it may amuse,
~~~~~~~~ By loyal field reporter, and, crash test dummy.~~~~~~~~~
#27 and myself (66) arrived at the cabin in Jackman, Maine, at 11:00pm.
I promptly unloaded my sled for a quick ride, only to discover a frozen fuel petcock. After bypassing the petcock, my sled sputtered to life, allowing me to speed off hastily for 50 feet, before dieing out completely. Always the optimist, I drove my truck to the frozen 'cat, only to beach my truck TWICE in deep pack snow by my error of a "shortcut". Once I got the truck to the sled, I used the exhaust as a sled preheater to un-freeze the frozen sled. Finally the 'cat was thawed, and I was off for the first trip around the cabin. During the brief trip, while returning, I managed to hit 2 small trees at the edge of the trail....no damage done. Arriving back at the cabin, I cleverly tried to "show boat" a jump over a snowbank, only learning after the fact (while sprawled on the ground with an overturned sled) that it was a ROCK cleverly disguised as a snowbank...no damage done.
Monday morning started off on a bad note with the #10 Polaris refusing to run. After a late breakfast, and lengthily delays, we were on our way around Moosehead Lake. Everyone was in fine shape, and freight-training along at a very stiff clip. On a fast and tight right hand sweeper, and being partially blinded by #5's roost, I managed a moderate-speed off up and over the tall corner banking, and, into a small group of young trees.....no damage done. We came upon a fairly sizeable"hill" with an awesome stiff angle, and proceeded to "High Mark" #2 took the first 2 runs, doing well, then #3 made a valiant attempt, then I set the high mark. #5, mustering up his best "Claire Morgan" stance, proceeded to set the low mark.....TWICE! The rest of the day went well, with occasional minor mishaps. When we finally got back to the cabin, we received news of the BIG off #10's friend had with #10's sled. #5 and #27 went to the rescue with the trailer. The day ended with viewing the carnage of what once was a nice Polaris sled.
On Tuesday, we started the day with preparations for our departure for Quebec. Once everyone's sled was ready, we were off to Canada. Once the group cleared the POORLY groomed trails from around town, we sped towards the border. Once we were allowed to enter Canada, by a scrutinizing Frenchman, we hooked onto the main trail.....and what a trail it was! I don't think the Autobahn is this nice...talk about a fast, flat, and wide trail, it was SPECTACULAR! #10 showed all what an F-3 can do!! We stopped at the first clubhouse for our day passes, and also for "brunch". We set up a trail plan and headed off on our QUICK journey through Quebec. Midway trough the trip, it began to snow. It was at this point that my sled picked up bad trail manners, and refused to be forced thru a woods trail corner at speed, resulting in the sled (and myself) to depart the trail and.....you guessed it..HIT A TREE. this time, damage WAS done...I cracked the hood, but, no other damage. We eventually found our way to the boarder, and back towards Jackman in a strong snowstorm! It was at this point that some of the sleds started fouling plugs, and slowed the return to Jackman, barely in time for dinner.
On Wednesday, we all prepared our things for the return home, and set out to goof-off on the trail, looking to perform feats of awe, and other fun stuff. We were tearing up the fresh powder covered trails (7+") when #27 was hanging the rear around a corner, only to discover an unmarked bridge, which upset his sled and sent it into more trees than I hit the WHOLE DAMN TRIP, only to emerge (after 5 of us gently prying it out) UNSCATHED!!!.......NOT ONE DAMN SCRATCH!! You can't describe this.......ya have to see the pictures, TOTALLY UNREAL!! We also found a small hill to play on, with #5 attempting to do his best "Claire Morgan" imitation, only to beach it in 4 feet of powder. Some other "DUDE" tried, with the same results, beached next to #5's sunk sled. Once the first 2 sleds were off the hill. I took my shot, and roosted up, across, and down. I continued this 3 more times, for fun, and of course, to SHOWBOAT, but eventually beaching myself in a powder filled hollow. After this, we headed back to officially end the trip, and start the dismal trip back to reality.
This is how I experienced my first trip with WYMAN POND RACING, and am already anticipating the next club outing!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 66 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Subj: Ride Report Aroostook County
Date: 01/20/2000 6:30:13 PM Eastern Standard Time
From: DCLCGC
We arrived in Stockholm Maine at our cabin on Madawaska Lake at about 4:00pm. We settled Gunny in the cabin and unpacked our gear. Temps were going to drop to 25 below zero this evening. We decided we would take a short ride up to Long Lake. This would be the first miles for the XCR800 and XC 600 Deluxe. Trail up to the lake was in excellent condition with plenty of snow cover. We ate supper at the Sportmen's Lodge on Long Lake. A very Canadien place. All meals served with ploys(buckwheat pancake). We returned home with a total of 60 miles.
Saturday morning awoke to sunny day, but temps never reached much above zero. No real route was planned for the day. The trail reports called for good riding north and west of Caribou. We headed towards Caribou to check conditions. We decided to take trail 100 to Van Buren to start a loop. Upon entering this trail it was found not be groomed. About 18 inches of snow on the trail, but was all fluff. With one squeeze of the throttle bringing you to frozen ground. We chose a different route to Van Buren. This trail had plenty of groomed snow. We arrived in Van buren and decide to have lunch at Daniel's. We rode the 81 to Madawaska to the 83 back to Stockholm totaling 140 miles. Due to cold temps we decide to have supper in.
Sunday morning we awoke to falling snow. Snow depths range from 12 inches in northern Aroostook County to 18 inches in southern Aroostook County. Rode towards Frenchville over to Fort Kent down to Eagle Lake. Had lunch at Hunters Inn. From Eagle Lake we rode ITS 85 to Portage. 85 was a little bumpy. Gassed in Portage and tok the 90 to the 83 back to Stockholm totaling 160 miles.
Monday was a cold windy day. Lots of drifts were encountered in the open spaces. This left you feeling like the groomer. Powder riding was a lot of fun, but probably be tough to navigate the trail at night. Rode south west to Washburn endin up in Ashland for lunch at the Four Seasons. excellent lobster stew. We decided to ride to Portage, but the trail proved to be unpassable due open water on a river crossing. After taking another trail we arrived back at the cabin taking a short break. We headed to the Lake View for supper. Total miles were 190 for the day.
Tuesday proved to be another cold day. Rode to Madawaska thru Grand Isle to Van Buren. From here we headed to Caribou taking some small loops in and about Caribou totaling 170 miles.
Both machines ran excellent. The 800 was more than I had hoped for. A great complete package. Even #24 found it a thrill to ride given it' s great power and handling. 24 enjoyed the new 600 stating it had the best suspension of all her sled to date.
Ended up with 720 miles total. Not bad considering this looked liked the winter that was never going to arrive.
#195
Date: 1/13/00
Time: 8pm - 10pm
Location: Killing Fields
Conditions: 8 degrees F, Windy, approx 7 inches of powder Attendees: #'s 2,3,4,5,13,23,29 and KK (soon to WPR member) Total miles: 31 (although # 4 is claiming 48 miles even though he was with us the whole time. #2 must have given him a bad Twinkie) Refreshments: Yee's Village and Bud (provided by Culinary Director) Summary: A great night for my first official WPR ride. The Killing Fields were a little rough, but clearly everyone was psyched to get that first "local" ride of the year in. Nobody's sled broke and no injuries were reported (although KK did fall off his sled at high speed) # 4 must have got into a bad Twinkie or was breathing too much exhaust from #13's sled because he was convinced he rode 48 miles. This is a person we want making our culinary and security decisions??!!! Enjoy the week-end . - #13
Subj: Last ride for 1999 December 31, 1999
Date: 12/31/1999 10:12:59 PM Eastern Standard Time
From: PM 66 RACING
Today we went on our last ride of the "millennium". Departure time from my house, Tewksbury, was at 5:30 am. We arrived at Pittsburg at 9:36. I unloaded and suited up at the "falls" parking lot. Member[s] in attendance was......well........ME! [66] and my trusty son "66 jr" [age-7]. We headed for the trails. Connector trails were snow covered ice, aprox. 12" of snow. moving thru the trails to the main trail/logging road, conditions definitely were far FAR better. Roughly 18+" of crusty powder over a frozen ice/snow base, and silky smooth. The posted max speeds were occasionally ignored, due to the lack of self control of me.......and my son. Drag strip quality straight-aways on #130,#131,and #20, easily handled speeds of 75+mph, along with a silky smooth ride, and MEGA steering control. [some of this could be from the finest suspension on the trail.....ARCTIC-CAT!]
At any rate, the trip was well worth the travel, and if my schedule permits, I'll do it again before the club trip to Jackman. My son came home with a perma-smile from ear to ear. He definitely loved the high speed trail sections, and the full throttle runs on both 1&2 Connecticut Lakes.
Unfortunately, I only got 80 trail miles on the trip, as the many rough connector trails had to be navigated at much slower speeds due to the little guy on the sled. Next trip will definitely be a solo ride!
Your fearless field reporter,
"66"......and......"66jr"
P.S. I got the first ride, I got the first ride, NA NA NAW NA NA NAAA!!!!!
By the way.....we returned to Tewksbury at 7:30pm!!
we took pictures..I'll send them in when I kill the roll, and get them back.
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2000 season
