Timbersled is the brand name of a complete snow bike conversion system that turns a regular dirt bike into a snow bike. If you want to find out more about this fantastic invention, this post is for you. We at PowerSportsGuide have compiled all you need to know into this Timbersled review!
Timbersled Review
A Timbersled is a unique conversion kit designed to turn a dirt bike into a snowmobile-like “snow motorcycle,” commonly known as a snow bike. The package contains a ski and a narrow track mounted on a specially designed skid. The latter replaces the back wheel while the ski replaces the bike’s front wheel. This conversion can be done in about three hours, even in your garage. Yes, it’s as simple as it sounds!
The main advantage of this conversion is that it is entirely reversible. Therefore, you can use the bike in the snow through the winter and transform it back to a dirt bike after snow season ends.
If you invest in a snow bike, you will have two vehicles in one! This setup offers less maintenance, lower running costs, and easier storage.
Storing a large snowmobile through the off-season is always a headache. But if you choose a dirt bike over a sled, all you need to store is the ski and the rear assembly.
On the other hand, snow bikes are pretty expensive, have limited capacities, and offer a vastly different riding experience than regular snowmobiles.
Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty and take a closer look at the history of Timbersled!
History of Timbersled
Who Invented Timbersled?
The Timbersled was invented by Allen Mangum and his wife, Natasha. The couple founded their company to develop and manufacture aftermarket suspension systems for high-performance snowmobiles. These advanced front and rear suspensions helped deal with the ski lift on the powerful sled. Along with suspension systems, Allen started modifying and building mountain sleds, and later his attention turned towards snow bikes.
When was the Timbersled Invented?
According to the manufacturer, the Timbersled was officially invented in 2009. While the idea came up in 2008, Allen built the first Timbersled prototype in 2009. One year later, in 2010, production was started in Ponderay, Idaho.
Does Polaris own Timbersled?
Yes, after a couple of years of production, Polaris acquired Timbersled. The industry-giant powersport manufacturer discovered the potential of this unique product and grabbed the opportunity to buy this amazing brand. It seems it was right, as many riders say that snow bike is the future of snowmobiling!
What year did Polaris Buy Timbersled?
Polaris acquired Idaho-based Timbersled Products, Inc. in April 2015. After the acquisition, the founder Allen Mangum didn’t leave the industry. Instead, he joined Boondocker as a fifty-percent business partner in 2017.
How Much did Polaris Buy Timbersled for?
There’s no clue to how much Polaris bought Timbersled for, as the financial details of the sale were not disclosed. But considering that Polaris estimated that the market potential of snow bikes is more than a whopping $1 billion, the price was certainly no small amount!
FAQs About Timbersled Kits
What does Timbersled RIOT mean?
Simply put, Timbersled RIOT is the brand name of the Timbersled kits with 120” tracks. These short snow bike tracks are playful, maneuverable, and offer easy handling.
According to the company, this setup offers the closest riding experience to a dirt bike!
What does Timbersled ARO mean?
The Timbersled Aro family is considered to be the “long track Timbersleds.” The available track sizes in this lineup are 129” and 137”. They are designed to optimize the performance, which results in lively rides and a generally better deep-snow experience.
What was the First Year of the Timbersled Aro?
The Timbersled ARO line debuted in 2017, followed by the RIOT in 2019.
Are Timbersled Systems Universal?
Yes, the good news is that Timbersleds are entirely universal. However, keep in mind that you will need a special “install kit” for the installation, which is already bike-specific!
How Long does it Take to Install a Timbersled?
As a rule of thumb, installing a Timbersled system takes about three hours. However, it depends on many factors like your skills, tools, and the type of bike you have.
What is TSS Timbersled?
Tibersled TSS, which is more commonly known as Timbersled Suspension Strut shock, is an aftermarket performance rear suspension. It’s specially designed for snow bikes to work together with the rear suspension system in the skid. The TSS air-filled aftermarket shock provides 70 percent more suspension travel than a regular unit, which results in advanced performance and handling.
Where are Timbersleds Manufactured?
Timbersled snow bike kits are designed and manufactured in Sandpoint, Idaho.
How Much is a Timbersled?
Timbersled prices range from $2,000 up to $7,500, but this price only applies to the system without the dirt bike! You can find out more about snow bike prices in this post.
Snow Bike vs. Timbersled – What is the Difference?
Timbersled is the brand name of a snow bike kit family manufactured by Polaris. However, it seems this trademark has become a victim of genericide. Therefore, the term “timbersled” is often used generically to refer to any type of snow bike.
The same thing happened with the brand name Jet Ski, the registered trademark of Kawasaki PWCs (personal watercraft).
Since Kawasaki was the first commercially successful manufacturer, the term “jet ski” became very well-known and is being used by the public and the mainstream media for any brand of PWCs.
Conclusion – What is Timbersled?
Timbersled is the most well-known snow bike kit manufacturer right now. The company was founded in 2002, but the first Timbersleds only hit the market in 2010.
Five years later, the company was acquired by Polaris, who still manufactures these fantastic products.
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