Staff Writer
“The sled industry continues to be a pretty healthy business,” stated Bob Plourde, owner of Plourde and Plourde in Caribou, “we have an excellent trail system here and sledders not only from here of course but those from downstate or out of state really appreciate our trail system.”
Bob Plourde of Plourde and Plourde in Caribou has been selling snowmobiles for nearly 40 years. Serious sledders order their favorite machines in April for the follwing winter’s riding. Many are still boxed at Plourde’s but it won’t be long until their set up and ready to ride. Plourde, who has been in the snowmobile business since 1971, has seen first-hand the changes in both the machines and clothing used in the popular outdoor sport.
“In 1971, a prime sled had a 10 or 12 horsepower engine, today engines can exceed 160 hp. Even back five years ago most sleds had a two-stroke configuration motor, now there are more four-cycle in the newer models. Sleds today, again compared even to five years ago, and certainly compared to 30-plus years ago, due to the constant innovations within the industry have better gas mileage, better emissions control and are much quieter. These qualities, plus the increase in horsepower, better suspensions,” continued Plourde, “all make for a much more comfortable ride.”
Increasing along with the power has been the price. “In the years, I’ve seen a lot of changes, and as in any business, prices have increased. In 1971, $800 to $1,000 bought a very nice machine. Today, a 2-up sled with a four-cycle motor will cost $12,000 to $13,000. But, the features that these sleds have to offer now are all added benefits to the sledder,” said Plourde.
Plourde also spoke of the less noticeable changes. “The tracks have improved through the evolution of new materials, over the years the industry has seen the tracks change back and forth from heavy to light, depending on the materials and now back to a two-ply track that because the material used is much more durable.”
Other improvements occurring over the years have been directed toward comfort including the invocation of the electric start with most sleds now also having reverse (accomplished by merely pushing an electric button that causes the sled to automatically go into the reverse gear). To help take the bite out of the Aroostook winter, hand and thumb warmers are standard on most models and some offer heated seats.
Plourde also noted that the workmanship and durability of these machines has noticeable improved.
In regard to the current economic situation, Plourde stated that it really hasn’t been a noticeable concern in the sledding business.
“I think that the higher gas prices along with everything else, especially over the past couple of years was more of an issue with local sledders but it didn’t affect those non-residents who travel here to purchase a sled or actually sled in this area on a regular basis. Even if they have plenty of snow where they reside, they still come to our area, again the sled trail systems being a big factor.
“There are many non-residents who buy homes or seasonal places here, so they have easy access to the trails,” said Plourde. “These people plan their vacations up here so they can sled. They plan to come here during their kids’ school vacations or during the holidays. Money doesn’t seem to be an issue. Last year with all the increase in fuel costs didn’t create a problem, we actually noticed a bigger difference the year before because of the lack of snow.”
Another plus for non-resident snowmobilers is that they can register their sleds here. Plourde and Plourde is a state licensed registration site for non-resident sled owners only.
Of course, as with any sport, the proper clothing and gear is very important. Plourde stated that staying warm has become much easier over the years with the improvement of outerwear material.
“Years ago, the sled helmet were big and bulky, now they are much lighter, you used to have to wear goggles, but now helmets come equipped with visors. Some are electric, keeping the face shield clear much the same as a defroster does for vehicle windshields. Another benefit of technology regarding snowmobile articles is that these items pass safety standards.
In the past snowmobile clothing was very bulky (usually a one-piece garment) and more times than not, unattractive.
“It was a matter of seeing how many layers you could put on,” said Plourde. “Now there are gloves, vests and socks that run off of electricity to keep you warm. Clothing now is geared to keep you warm even if its 20 degrees below zero. Clothing is now designed with style and comfort in mind and the new materials allow for greater durability.”
Bob Plourde has observed that traditionally some snowmobile owners tend to trade-in and upgrade their sleds every two years, some every four. “The amount of mileage a sled has usually determines if they trade or not,” he said.
Plourde also stated that as a rule, owners who have their sleds serviced in the fall prior to sledding season and again in the spring before they are stored avoid costly unexpected repairs. Plourde and Plourde offers full service to all Ski-doo and Arctic Cat snowmobiles.
Those considering purchasing new sleds usually order in April for the coming season. (Orders for 2010 sleds at Plourde and Plourde were placed in April of this year.)
“There are usually spring specials available that may include discounts and extended warrantees on the sleds,” he said. But if you missed the April sale, the longtime Caribou dealer suggests you stop by or call to check out what’s in stock for new and used snowmobile. In Aroostook County, there’s no bad time to buy a sled.
