Any one With Iron Dog Experience?

[03RMK800]

I have been asked to consider running the 2012 Iron Dog -- probably run the sportsman class. I am looking for any thoughts on equipment, conditioning, support, what to pack, parts, etc. so I can make an informed decision. I am hoping to go to Anchorage and/or Nome to take a look at the 2011 race.

I am leaning toward a Polaris 600, and have no idea of what track length or what to do to be ready. I understand that studs are required-- haven't done that since I ran snow drags 1981 to 1990.

Age and conditioning are also a concern--I am starting to notice I am not quite as good as I once was in a few areas.

Any one have any experience or contacts?
Thanks!!!

 

[MORSNO]

The Iron Dog isn't a race you just walk into and say "I want to ride". It takes a lot of preparation for a sled and rider to make it. You need to get into contact with those who have ran the race or have been involved with it to get factual information.

http://www.irondograce.org/

Good Luck

 

[03RMK800]

Thanks, Morsno-- that's exactly what I am trying to do. I have been all over the website, and will be placing some calls. I am hoping someone on the forum can provide some been there, done that info to help me decide about entering.

 

[Spiced Wafer]

my dealer in north idaho has done it a couple of years now...he is a ac dealer and he runs the crossfire sleds...he runs those because in a lot of places their isn't a lot of snow, and the big 2.5 inch tracks are too much, you would deal with a lot of over heating issues...

anyway his name is darrick...edge performance in hayden idaho 208-762-9025...


he seems like a good guy and he seems to not mind answering questions about his past experience's...hope that this might help...

good luck if you do it..

 

[907to406]

Get a sponser and a partner. Each of you should get 2 sleds of your choice. One as a practice sled and one for your race sled. Put as many miles on your practice sled as you can and figure out that sleds problems and weaknesses then do all repairs ahead of time to race sled. I know a couple guys that have raced the Iron Dog and its extremely intensive. They ride 200-300 miles a week and are in the gym just about every day. Be able to fix things on the trail and have everything you'll need to fix it in the middle of no where. Extra chains, handle bars, cylinders, coolant...basically whatever fails in your practice sled. Also figure out the station points and leave parts at each one, such as cylinders, pistons, clutches, chaincases, a-arms, skis and as well as tools to make repairs. The race is not like other cross country races where you can just show up and ride. take the time and dedicate a season before hand to training then ride dirtbikes in the summers. being physically fit and prepaired are what will make or break you.

 

[550iq]

03RMK800,
The Iron Dog event is the quintisential snowmobile ride. One must prepare you and your sled (a symbiotic relationship) to ride through whatever Alaska throws at you: +50 to -50 degree days, bright sun to ice fog, nice powder to miles of grass and rocks, glare ice, bushes, wind, endless horizons, and the most wonderful folks you'll ever find. Just imagine traveling at 65mph for 150 miles down the Yukon River, -40 degrees, and with the setting sun right in your face the whole way.

Talk with Derrick Johnson as noted previously. He came north in 2007 and he was hooked. He'll always be back.

A team is coming up from Colorado this year to run the Rec Class to Nome. They came up last year and studied the race. Look for Team 50 on the web site. Click on Racers, then Trail Class, then Team 50. You may know them. Also on the site, by clicking on Racers, Pro or Trail, then on a team, you can see the sled being used. (Derrick is Team #9, Pro Class). Also on the web site are the rules. If you can make it, on February 12, in Wasilla Ak, the Iron Dog Tech inspection will be held. A great way to see all the sleds, all the riders, and all the gear. Look me up.

See you soon,
Dennis Falldorf
Iron Dog Competition Coordinator and
Pro Team #6 member

 

[m8magicandmystery]

i have won that race 4 years in a roll...deposit 500 bucks into my paypal and i will give you a few tips...

 

[03RMK800]

Sorry, M8, I didn't catch your name....

And, Thanks to all (even M8) for the responses! Even if you haven't made one yet!