Track Extension 136" or 144"

[efulton]

I have always ridden the standard 121" track. I dont have any experience with long track sleds. I have heard the pro's and con's for both sides. I just wanted to see what everyone on here thought.

I ride a 2002 800 Edge XC, and I am planning on extending my track from the 121" to either the 136" or the 144". I run in the flat lands of michigan in small tight windy trails that get very bumpy by Saturday afternoon. What have people found about long tracks? is 144" too long? Is 136" a better option where I ride because its easier to get around the corners? Will the extra 8" make a difference when it comes to traction? Any other comments or experiences?.....

Thanks for your help and guidance!!

Ethan

 

[chadkrump]

Traction all depends on how big of lugs u plan on I guess... we changed a 121" sled last summer to a 144" and ran it this winter and it was great, more traction, rode smoother, performed better. As for handling it didnt handle that much worse for turning and such being longer.

IMO if you went to a 136" track with 1.5 paddles you would love it, gives u the best of both worlds...

good luck

CK

 

[wernhersey]

I just streched my 600 from 121" to 136"x1.75". Its a completly different sled. Tons of traction, no more getting stuck, simply looks nasty. If you go to a 144" make sure to get tip up rails. If you have straight rails the sled has alot of push in the corners. The 144" will also ride better because it bridges bumps. Longer is better. To clear my tunnel coolers I had to cut a notch out of every single paddle. Something to think about and research. Anyway good luck and give me a shout if you have any questions. Tracks USA is the only place to get good rail extensions!!!!!!!

 

[treemagnet03]

Extending the track was a great move for me with my 700. I went with a 141 (did this a while ago when that was still a more common option). I would say to make sure that wherever you get the extensions from has the ability to use hyfax and are tipped up if you go to 144. I went with billet extensions from MMI and a big wheel kit. With regard to above, there was at one time a 144 track from Camoplast that had the cooler notches already cut into it (Arctic Cat ran these on the early 2000s Mountain Cats)...I got mine from Kimpex (notches cut already). Otherwise, gear down a one tooth and realize what it is like to finally have some traction!!

Also, if you aren't going out west to deeper sugar, the 136 may be the best option. If you play around a little bit with the suspension and put a bit more pressure on the skis you don't have to worry very much about extra corner push...fun sleds for sure.

Best of luck-T