Stock suspension has come a long way in the 25 years since we build that first XLT project sled. On that sled, we replaced the stock steel-bodied shocks with a set of Fox shocks. And 25 years later, we’re still replacing stock with Fox components. On Project Ron Burgundy, we went with the Fox Factory Zero QS Series ski shocks, and Factory Zero QS Series track shocks. The Zeros are coil-over shocks, which gives you the best ride performance in small bumps. It’s tough to beat the supple ride of a coil spring shock, and it’s really tough to beat the adjustability of Fox’s QS system. Fox essentially took the guess work out of shock adjustment where you have over 20 compression clicker positions and 20 rebound clicker positions and replaced each with three––a soft, mid and firm. The QS3 compression switches are big and easy to access, so you can switch as the conditions change or as you leave the trail and hit the deep snow. The QS-R rebound switch is located on the shaft end of the shock, and lets you quickly adjust between three rebound damping positions.
Fox Polaris Zero QS Series Ski Shocks: $1,495. Track shocks: $1,195. www.ridefox.com
Skinz Protective Gear made a lot of noise with its radical Helium system for Arctic Cats when it was released two years ago. But it also has a Polaris Helium Access hood that is much more stock in appearance, but so much more functional and lighter in weight. The Helium Access hood is a direct-fit replacement hood that doesn’t require any chassis modifications. It’t lighter because it deletes the factory headlight (but retains the gauge). It’s worth it because it adds so much storage. That’s the Access side of the hood––a huge storage space in the hood that opens up with a couple rubber straps. Plus, you get a bug storage bag that’s integrated into the windshield––a perfect place to keep a pair of gloves and a set of goggles warm and ready to go. You can get it in black, white, orange red, sky blue and lime twist.
Skinz Polaris Axys Helium Access Hood: $475.95. www.skinzprotectivegear.com
Skinz and Chris Burandt are constantly refining products together, and we had the chance to test one such product as it went through the refining process. The Skinz Burandt Shorty ProTube running boards started out last season as AirFrame-style running boards. They featured the tube material with plastic rivet-on cleats on the crossbars and metal traction screws in the outer edge tube. The shorter length was good at reducing drag in deep snow as the rear of the tunnel begins to dig down in the snow searching for traction. We really appreciated the shorter length and lightweight design. However, Burandt and Skinz took that product to the next stage for 2019. The tube-design is gone and replaced with the new Burandt Tri-Lite Lightweight running boards. The Tri-Lites feature a triangle-shaped outer edge rail with traction screws and notched crossbars. The new design has improved foot traction. Skinz Burandt Tri-Lite Lightweight Running Boards: $525.00. www.burandtsbackcountryadventure.com
No product in this industry has been more accurately named than IceAge’s Bomber rails. We upgrade the rails to Bombers on every project sled if we can. Why? Have you ever bent a rail 20 miles deep in the backcountry? Trust us, it sucks. It usually involves a saw and the nearest 4-inch diameter log you can find. When building a sled, your first objective should be to make sure you can get into the backcountry and back out without failures, then focus on lightweight and performance.
IceAge Axys Pro RMK Bomber Rail Kit: from $395.00. www.iceageperformance.com