This December we had the chance to test Curve Industries new High Side Steering (HSS) system in conjunction with Curve’s XS skis. We originally reported on this system in our January 2010 issue, but hadn’t had a chance to test the system until now.
To reiterate how the HSS works, it changes the sled’s center of mass to the inside of the arc path being carved during a corner. The HSS uses specially engineered linkages which transfer torque from the steering shaft to a movable upper suspension mount. When the handlebars are turned, the inside shock moves up inside the chassis, picking the ski up. Conversely, the outside shock mount extends away from the chassis, pushing the ski down. Because HSS rolls and leans the snowmobile into a turn, the ski’s keel angle moves further away from perpendicular, encouraging a positive approach and transition from apex initiation to straight away. The inverse movement of the skis causes the machine to tip in the direction of the turn, delivering more cornering performance.
For our test we used a couple Arctic Cat CFR 800s. Unfortunately, during our testing we had some low snow conditions to deal with along with some engine bugaboos so we didn’t get in a full 200+ mile test session like we wanted. However, our abbreviated day still allowed us to evaluate the system.
Hopping back and forth between the CFR with the HSS and the sled without it, it was obvious the HSS system handled the corners flatter and more predictably than the standard CFR. As CFRs are mainly built as straightline speed sleds this was a great platform to test the steering system on. Our first impressions are positive, and so far it does what they say it does.
Installation of the system can be done in a few hours with an intermediate level of technical knowledge, but certainly most sledders could install it. The kicker will be the cost and that is not released, yet. More info:
www.curveindustries.com