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Contact Ed Klim

We enter the 2009-2010 season with a positive outlook supported by robust activity and vigorous support for organized snowmobiling.  Snowmobile registrations in North America were up in 2009 compared to 2008.  In the 2008-2009 season there were 765,275 registered snowmobiles in Canada compared to 708,490 in 2007-2008 -  an 8% increase in registered snowmobiles (a trend that started in 2003).  In the United States, snowmobile registrations this year were 1,652,642 compared to the previous year’s 1,635,361.  This is a 1% increase in the number of registered snowmobiles in the US, which is heartwarming in today’s economy.  North American families are snowmobiling more now than ever.  They are realizing the fun of snowmobiling and the opportunity to share wonderful experiences with family members and friends.

2010 is another milestone year for the manufacturers and the snowmobile community.  The snowmobile manufacturers are required to meet phase 2 of the EPA emission standard with the new 2010 models.  These rigid emission requirements, established by the EPA in 2002, are being met by the manufacturers through advanced technology, new engine specifications with dramatic improvement to the quality of the product.

For the month of July 2009, the global cooling continued.  Climatologists across the northern sectors of North America reported a 70F BELOW AVERAGE temperature.  In some regions, this summer has been the coldest in more than 100 years.  Based on initial reports, the global cooling will continue and we can expect good snowfall with great snowmobiling temperatures this winter.  The statistics, regardless of what some extremists may report, bode well for the continuation of mankind and the return to normal weather patterns, which includes considerable snowfall and average winter temperatures.

Last year showed a continued increase in sale of parts garments and accessories as many individuals fixed up their snowmobiles and purchased new garments and accessories to help them enjoy the winter.  Based on last year’s level of activity we expect 2009-2010 to be a quality year for the snowmobile industry.

Last year, snowmobilers averaged over 1300 miles of riding, which was a 20% increase from the previous year.  The increase in riding, along with the increase in snowmobile registrations resulted in a strong tourism impact report for snowmobiling.  Restaurants, Motels, and related businesses all benefitted from an excellent 2008-2009 snowmobiling season.  Over $28 billion dollars in economic activity occurred in North America – related to snowmobiling in the 2008-2009 season.

This year you can expect to see more young faces on the trail.  Survey results show that the average snowmobiler is now one year younger than last year – so younger folks are joining the snowmobiling family and bringing a renewed level of enthusiasm and confidence to the market. 

We are looking forward to a great snowmobile season this year. I recommend you take the time to inspect the new snowmobiles and discover the amazing technology that is now available for all of us to enjoy.

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