Snowmobiles

Challenged again to tell a story not involving politics. Growing up in Northwest Colorado in the late 50’s, early 60’s, was around when snowmobiles became popular in the area.

Snowmobiles had a profound impact on the social life of the area. People were getting out and being active; interacting with their neighbors instead of hunkering down and surviving the winter. Lots of clubs formed and lots of trail riding. By necessity, many became snowmobile mechanics. Reliability was an issue, much like a Harley Davidson MC.

One unfortunate individual, now passed, became something of a legend. He really didn’t want the fame. First, he got his heavy cleated double track stuck in a combination of sagebrush and snow, while solo. He taped the throttle partially open then got in front and tugged on the skis. Worked well. The machine gained purchase, drove over him, and went away at partial throttle.
The owner waded along the track until he came upon the machine on its side in a gully, still running. Somehow he managed to right the machine. Deciding he had enough fun for one day, he returned to his truck.

His method of transport was loading the machine in his truck using a homemade plywood ramp. The system worked well when he remembered to secure the ramp to the truck. Again, it was not his day. Getting a good run into the ramp, he started up and the ramp slipped. The snowmobile went under the truck and the rider over the windshield and belly first into the back of the pickup.

Knocked unconscious, he was fortunate others came along and transported him to the local hospital. To my knowledge, he continued to ride. Hopefully, with a little more forethought.