Back to Wearing your own airbag.

Back to Evolution of a seasoned rider: Gallery.

Evolution of a seasoned rider: Gallery

A bike enthusiast shares some of his thoughts on motorcycle touring, and the way his experiences have changed him

Photos courtesy of Robert Kolenc

Robert Kolenc on a bike

Kolenc has ridden for some good causes, including a cancer fundraiser.

Caribou

It's important to stop along the way and appreciate the natural surroundings.

Kolenc beside a sign

The famous Ural Patrol bike is one of Kolenc's favourites.

Ice roads

There is nothing like the open road.

Kolenc refueling

Stopping to replenish the fuel before heading back on the tour.

Bike at the NWT sign

The North beckons.

Back to Evolution of a seasoned rider.

Muddy mayhem: Gallery

Mud Mania 2010 inspired two enthusiastic spectators to get involved firsthand in the racing scene

Photos courtesy of Carmen and Eric Christiansen

People racing on ATVs

The track was primed for ATVing action.

Person racing in mud

Mud Mania lived up to its name.

People celebrating with ATV

Happy contestants and spectators celebrate.

Person racing through mud

Racers weren't afraid to get down and dirty.

Person racing through mud

Contestants show their skills on the track.

Back to Muddy Mayhem.

Back to Muddy mayhem: Gallery.

Back to Quadding—he’s dune it right.

Back to Living for Xtinction.

Back to Breaking down the Can-Am.

Back to The bucket list.

Back to Mud Mania.

Back to CMRC Fall Series Round 1.

Back to Affordable workhorse.

Back to View from above.

Back to Setting the country on F.I.R.R.E..

Back to Going the distance.

Back to Mapping a route to success.

Back to New models for off-road enthusiasts.

Back to Maps go digital.

Back to It’s a good thing your mom doesn’t do your laundry anymore.

Back to Mud mayhem.

Back to Charging through.

Back to The best of the west: Gallery.

The best of the west: Gallery

The Canadian Enduro Championship brought some tremendous riders out to the Apex Mountain Resort this summer.

Ryan Graffunder racing

Ryan Graffunder took his Feeding Performance Husqvarna TXC450 to third overall on the opening weekend of the 2010 Canadian Enduro Championships.

Jason Schrage racing

Jason Schrage proved he's the man to beat in Canadian off-road, taking the overall win at all four rounds of the western rounds of the Canadian Enduro Championship.

Jason Schrage in the extreme round

Jason Schrage on his way through the extreme test at the Apex round of the Canadian Enduro Championships.

17-year-old Tyler Murray

17-year-old Tyler Murray was one of the most exciting riders to watch during the western CECs. Tyler rode on the ragged edge through the extreme test on his way to the western amateur 'A' class championship.

Back to The best of the west.

Back to Become dirt wise: Gallery.

Become dirt wise: Gallery

This training program can benefit all types of riders

Photos courtesy of Steve Shannon

Shane Watts coaches 2009 Women's class champion Victoria Hett through a flat corner.

Shane Watts demonstrates the grinding technique while eager students watch.

Watts rails a rut while the class watches on. Being able to learn from Watts' experience as a World Enduro, ISDE and GNCC champion is probably the most valuable part of the school.

Happy students after two intense days of training in the Shane Watts Dirtwise Riding School.

Back to Become dirt wise.

Back to Fast paced fun.

Back to Practice makes perfect.

Back to Boom box generation.

Back to Say no to helmet hair.

Back to A long time coming.

Back to An outdoor mecca.

Back to Plane Crash Trail.

Back to Rugged racing.

Back to Toronto International Snowmobile, ATV & Powersports Show.

Back to Riding for the greater good: Gallery.

Riding for the greater good: Gallery

The 2010 Greater Kamloops ATV Association Club Ride raised funds for the Kamloops Food Bank

Photos courtesy of Rick Vowles

Back to Riding for the greater good.

Back to Respecting the rules in Whiteshell.

Back to See the sights in Saskatchewan.

Back to Safe riding is standard.

Back to Get caught in the Spyder’s web.

Back to Peace out in Northern Alberta.

Back to Kootenay circle tour.

Back to Chilcotin—the hidden country.

Back to Drool over Brule.

Back to A premier event.

Back to First-time adventures.

Back to The big picture.

Back to Cross over.

Back to Find family fun.

Back to Take on the trail.

Back to Choosing to live the dream.

Back to Take the northern route.

Back to Right on track.

Back to Trash bash.

Back to Seek an active life.

Back to Don’t be blinded by the sun.

Back to Keeping the ladies safe.

Back to What has age got to do with it?.

Back to It’s never too late to start.

Back to Chock value.

Back to All-in-one fun!.

Back to Ready for round four.

Back to Embracing the elements.

Back to From the land to the lakes.

Back to Making tracks in Revelstoke.

Back to A busy guy.

Back to Passion for the Pass.

Back to Campbell River spills and thrills.

Back to CMRC Vancouver Island Spring Championship series.

Back to Endurance in all weather.

Back to Rough and tough—strong and durable.

Back to Go green.

Back to A lifelong passion.

Back to Yee–Ha! Cowboys cheer for Aussie Maddison.

Back to A touring team.

Back to An explorer’s dream.

Back to An outdoor haven.

Back to Working together.

Back to The road to access.

Back to A season preview.

Back to Creating trails.

Back to Ride forever.

Back to Ride the range.

Back to An alpine adventure.

Back to Off to a great start.

Back to Experience of a lifetime.

Back to Rumble strip.

Back to A hillbilly haven.

Back to Enthusiasm abounds.

Back to Doran Manufacturing celebrates 55 years.

Back to Power sports on the prairie.

Back to Dual-sport adventure.

Back to Lodgings designed with riders in mind.

Back to Rising to the challenge.

Back to Standing out.

Back to New perspectives.

Back to Right on track.

Back to A business adventure.

Back to True to his roots.

Back to Canadian Off-Road Expo.

XRider Zone key contacts

  • Jack Industries Advertisement

    Hit the road, Jack

    Over 15 years ago, Jack Industries designed and manufactured the Seat Jack. Today, we create 25 different passenger seat models to fit all Arctic Cat, Polaris, Ski-Doo and Yamaha snowmobile sport models, from 1992 and up. They’re easy to install, durable, comfortable and safe.

    Another invention of ours—Retrack Jack—offers a safe and secure option for loading your recreational machines. This system features telescoping ramps that fasten in the box of a pickup truck. The ramps, which are made of galvanized steel, can be adjusted for loading and unloading a snowmobile or a four-wheeled vehicle. They are designed with Teflon runners and anti-skid supergrips. Visit our website for more information about Seat Jacks, Retrack Jacks and all other Jack accessories.

    Jack Industries
    www.industriesjack.com
  • B&F Sales Advertisement

    Your Honda headquarters

    At B&F Sales & Service Ltd., located in Grand Forks, B.C., we specialize in superior customer service. Our large supply of Honda products includes ATVs, motorcycles, lawn and garden wares, generators, snowblowers, walk-behind mowers and water pumps.

    Equipped with a fully stocked parts department, we'll help you find all the accessories and dress-up items you've been searching for. Our qualified technicians are ready and willing to help with any question or concern you may have.

    Let our friendly sales staff and competitive service be the reasons why you choose B&F Sales & Service Ltd. for all your recreation needs.

    B & F Sales & Service Ltd.
    www.bandfsales.com
  • Recreation Supply Advertisement

    Saskatchewan

    Give your seat new life with SaddleSkins

    Snowmobiles have special cover requirements. Extra cold weather can cause ordinary vinyl to split and crack. Travelcade SaddleSkins for sleds are made of a heavy-duty cold weather material that is impervious to cold down to more than minus 40 degrees. All features of the original seat are retained rear compartment, lights, side buffers all duplicated in our replacement covers.

    SaddleSkins are available for motorcycles, ATVs and snowmobiles with original manufacturer s fit and design. Their weather-resistant vinyl endures all sorts of riding conditions, and replaces duct tape and unsightly tears at an economical price.

    WARN XT and RT Winch Series: the best winches in the world are now even better.

    The complete line of WARN Powersports winches lets you ride with confidence knowing that when you need to pull yourself out of the muck or move a heavy load, you'll be up to the task time and time again. Both the XT Extreme Terrain and RT Rugged Terrain winches are designed specifically for powersports vehicles. Standard features includes weather-resistant sealed construction; rugged and reliable three-stage planetary geartrains; patented disc brakes for enhanced control; efficient electrical systems for less battery drain; easy-to-use clutch dials; and legendary WARN quality. You can be assured these winches are the best on the market.

    Both the SaddleSkins and WARN Powersports winches are available at Recreation Supply Co. Ltd. in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.

    Recreation Supply Co. Ltd
    www.recreationsupply.ca
  • Mighty Peace Tourism AdvertisementMighty Peace Tourism Advertisement

    Mighty Peace River, AB

    Come join us on the wide open roads

    The Land of the Mighty Peace stretches across northwestern Alberta, from the British Columbia border along the Northwest Territories border, deep into Wood Buffalo National Park.  The Peace River has created a magnificent theatre of nature, inspiring scenery, rolling hills,  and stunning river banks.

    Riding through this magnificent territory is an experience you will never forget. Find yourself surrounded by breathtaking boreal forests and stop along the way to visit one of the many fine attractions in the area. The Mighty Peace Country  offers something for all; urban exploration and nightlife, a vast and relaxing nature, history, fishing, camping and adventure. The Mighty Peace Tourism Association is now offering a waterproof circle tour map featuring plenty of roadside attractions and icons, as well as discounted accommodations just for our rider friends.

    Mighty Peace Tourism Association
    www.ridenorth.ca
  • Enns Brothers Advertisement

    Manitoba, BC

    The fun starts here, at Enns Brothers Powersports

    When a person in Manitoba wants to have fun and enjoy the pleasures that power sports and vehicles have to offer, they come to Enns Brothers Powersports

    Located in three locations (Winnipeg East, West and Portage La Prairie), Enns Brothers will be Manitoba's first choice for motorized products, accessories and servicing. Our customers and suppliers trust us for honesty, knowledge, fairness and professionalism. Our dynamic team can help you with all your powersport needs in a friendly and efficient manner, and you will feel welcome and supported in every one of our locations.

    Enns Brothers (Winnipeg)
    www.ennspowersports.com
  • District of Tumbler Ridge Advertisement

    Tumbler Ridge, BC

    Discover the wonder and beauty of Tumbler Ridge

    Tumbler Ridge is unique, as it has all the amenities of a larger town, while retaining its small town culture. With its beautiful geographic location and rich history, this is truly the perfect location. Tumbler Ridge has plenty of activities and events occurring regularly to help keep you involved in the community. If you’re looking for other ways to stay active, our local terrain will be waiting for you to bring out your ATV or off-road bike, and witness the exquisite scenery of Tumbler Ridge.

    District of Tumbler Ridge
    www.tumblerridge.ca
  • Stanford Inn Advertisement

    Grande Prairie, AB

    We are your four-season destination!

    Stanford Hotels & Resorts are the ideal accommodations for riders! Take advantage of our $89.00* rider rate which includes a complimentary bike wash. The Grande Prairie location offers ground floor rooms, meaning you are never far from your pride and joy. As well, the inner courtyard parking lot gives you peace of mind during your stay.  Choose Stanford Hotel Grande Prairie if you are looking for that home away from home feel and great service! We are your four-season destination, so check out our winter rates for sledders.
    *Taxes and applicable fees will be added to this rate

    Stanford Inn - Grande Prairie
    www.grandeprairiestanfordhotel.com
  • Grande Prairie Regional College Advertisement

    Get in on the action

    If you consider yourself a powersports enthusiast and are interested in breaking into the industry, the Outdoor Power Equipment Technician Program or Motorcycle Mechanic, Pre-Employment Program is right for you.  Offered at GPRC Fairview College Campus, these programs provide students with the skills that are in demand by North America’s recreational powersports industry.  Students obtain the current knowledge of emerging technologies, combined with relevant, hands-on experience—and that’s exactly what employers are seeking. 

    Furthermore, students in either program are eligible to write the Alberta Apprenticeship exams—their first step towards obtaining their Journeyman status in the trade. For more information about the career opportunities – with job openings available across the country following graduation, call Les Ashton or Brad Chorney at 1-888-999-7882.

    Grande Prairie Regional College
    www.gprc.ab.ca/fairview
  • East Central Tourism Advertisement

    East Central. SK

    The destination for every level of rider

    You will find a surprise around every corner in Saskatchewan’s East Central region. The stunning transformation of the landscape from prairie to boreal forest showcases nature in its most grand form. Vast numbers of birds migrate through the area, making this an incredible destination for bird lovers. Unique communities are part of the mix, including four vibrant cities and a dynamic Ukrainian culture. Add a natural healing spa and a host of exciting events, not to mention a landscape that is truly an off-road enthusiast's dream. It is no wonder that our area won nine Rider’s Choice Awards for our spectacular ATVing terrain.

    East Central Tourism
    www.eastcentral.sask.info
  • Timberland Motel AdvertismentTimberland Motel Advertisment

    Big River, SK

    Convenient, comfortable and affordable

    Ride from your door and enjoy an overabundance of ATV trails.

    The Timberland Motel is located in a woodland setting with more than 20 lakes within 12 miles of our front door, but in Big River you can fish right where the town dock extends into Cowan Lake.

    We are located on the Trans-Canadian Snowmobile Trail, so you can snowmobile right up to the door of your comfortable room. The Timberland Motel features a range of amenities, such as air conditioning, wireless high-speed Internet, an outdoor hot tub and much more.

    The motel itself is also for sale, so rent a room now and see the incredible potential in this modern, clean facility.

    Timberland Motel
    www.timberlandmotel.ca
  • Seasons Edge Advertisment

    The small shop with big service

     Season's Edge Recreation has been serving Nipawin and surrounding area for more than 12 years, and we are dedicated to our customers' needs. Like our customers, we are also snowmobile and ATV enthusiasts.

    Here at Season's Edge we ride what we sell so we are able to understand and respond to your needs. We know how important it is for you to have a great experience every time you ride.

    On our days off, we look forward to jumping on our toys and hitting the trails or venturing out into the back country, so don't be suprised if you meet up with us next time you're out for a ride.

    Season's Edge Recreation
    www.seasonsedgerecreation.com
  • Cranbrook, BC

    There is always something to do in Cranbrook

    The City of Cranbrook is nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains, and offers visitors an array of fun activities. For winter guests, this warm and welcoming community is conveniently close to a full range of sledding locations. With literally hundreds of excellent sledding trails nearby, snowmobilers can experience everything from beginner to extreme mountain riding in the area. Cranbrook is also known as the sunniest city in B.C., so expect to find brilliant blue skies and sunshine to top off the mountain vistas you will enjoy while out on the trail.

    City Of Cranbrook
    www.cranbrook.ca
  • Kootenay Rockies

    Warm up after your sledding adventure

    Prestige Hotels & Resorts are elegant, full-service hotels and resorts, located in the Okanagan and Kootenay Rockies—destinations known for some of the most renowned snowmobiling terrain. The Prestige offers deluxe rooms and amenities, executive and designer suites. All guest rooms feature quality comforts such as voicemail, data ports, high-speed Internet access and pay-per-view movies. Facilities also include a pool, hot tub, athletic club, restaurant and lounge—so there are several relaxing options to choose from upon your arrival. We are proudly 100% smoke-free. Inquire about our getaway and recreation packages, and make us your first choice in accommodation when you plan your next sledding excursion.

    Prestige Hotels & Resorts
    www.prestigehotelsandresorts.com
  • Cranbrook, BC

    A quality motel in the heart of the Kootenay Mountains

    Surrounded by the pristine Kootenay Mountains, the Travellers Motel features newly remodeled suites that will  make your stay a quality one. We are conveniently situated just 10 minutes from the airport, and offer special rates for seniors and corporate guests. Also for your convenience, we have complimentary parking, a laundry facility, direct dial phones, smoking rooms, wireless internet and a continental breakfast. Kick back and enjoy our barbecue area, or one of our two new bubble tubs. Bring your four-legged travelling companion, because our motel is pet-friendly.

    Travellers Motel
    www.travellersmotelbc.ca
  • Cranbrook, BC

    We go to great heights for you!

    At the Nomad Motel, we offer several amenities to make our guests feel comfortable. With a 46-inch heated outdoor pool, large family suites and a children's playground, our facility is ready to welcome you and your family. We also offer corporate, group and senior rates, free high speed internet, and fax and photocopy services to suit your business needs. Take advantage of our guest laundromat, free VCR and movie usage, continental breakfast and cable TV with movie channels. Pet-friendly rooms are available as well. All of our rooms are air conditioned and have refrigerators and other basic necessities to make your stay fun and relaxing.

    Nomad Motel
    www.nomadmotel.ca