They're not making any production in '09. They're "custom" built one at a time, that explains the price tag...
Even though the '08 production was all sold out in october of '07 apparently...
Snow-Hawks are still too much hassle for what money they're making with, even at 15 grand last year. Way better (moneywise) for ADB to sell explorer kits. I can hardly see a motor burning on an Explorer kit...
Besides, Explorer kits are VERY cheap & simple to build (couple cut out alu plates done by a water jet cutter locally, bushings/spacers, fasteners, a track, some sprockets & the snow-hawk ski) as opposed to a complete awesome turn-key snow machine with an engine & all other shiat & problems to give warranty on.
I think it would be a whole different approach if they wouldn't have to give a warranty on them, just like a brand new out of the box motocross. Maybe someone should propose them.
Won't be me. I'd just suggest we gather all our knowledge together and build a better one. We already have a very good bas to start on... Together on this forum, we're aware of all the problems and we could redesign that thing covering all flaws. The only concern I have are the body parts, the rest is no problem to retro-engeneer & build. Being an ex-bicycle frame builder, I'd start with a tubular frame... but that won't assure we won't be more expensive than 20K... !
Wathever, The Snow-Hawk is the most awesome machine i've ridden, I'm just freakin happy I got my hands on the last 144 of the '08 production.
Thierry
