Nearly a third of sales were to new riders, Jones
said, and he would sell more snowmobiles if he
could get more from manufacturers.
The U.S. represents the world’s biggest market for
snowmobiles and Canada isn’t far behind, with
an economic impact of more than $35 billion,
according to the Michigan-based International
Snowmobile Manufacturers Association.
And this year, the market is red hot just like
the market for boats, bicycles and ATVs —
anything that keeps people occupied, outdoors
and safe during a pandemic that has pushed
families indoors.
Snowmobile sales are expected to increase
15% to 20% this winter, the most since the
winter of 1995-96, said Ed Klim from the
manufacturers group.
Fed up and stir crazy, first-time buyers Tom Bobb
and his wife plunked down more than $30,000
to get away this winter — on a pair of high-
powered snowmobiles.
“The sled is a bit of an escape from the craziness
of the world,” the Maine resident, referring to the
pandemic that has claimed more than 400,000
lives across the United States.
Rob Hackett, another Maine resident, decided
it was time to get on a snowmobile for the first
time in a few decades. The 52-year-old and
his wife view the sleds as a way to enjoy a safe
activity with family and friends without worrying
about COVID-19.
But they had to act quickly. “When we finally
decided to buy sleds again, if you took any time
to think it over, they were gone. It’s absolutely
the craziest thing I’ve ever seen,” Hackett said.