Sled Talk

Rob Read & Steve Glass

Welcome to Sled Talk — where it’s all about snowmobiling, stories, and the ride. We’ve been riding together since the mid-70s, and let’s just say… we’ve seen it all. From pulling the cord to pulling our hair out, the sport has come a long way — and so have the stories. Snowmobiling isn’t just something we do… it’s been a lifelong passion. And after decades on the trails, we’ve got no shortage of laughs, lessons, breakdowns, and unforgettable moments to share. Whether you’re a hardcore rider, someone who’s been away from the sport for years, or brand new and just curious about life on the trails — you’re in the right place. Our goal?👉 Bring new riders into the sport 👉 Reconnect past riders with what they’ve been missing 👉 And celebrate everything that makes snowmobiling great So fire up your sled… and let’s get into it.

  1. 5 DAYS AGO

    Behind The Groomer: Are We Doing It Right?

    In this episode of Sled Talk, the guys cover everything from world records and military snowmobiles to trail grooming, stolen sleds, and engine rebuilds. They kick things off by revisiting our “Record Breakers and Movie Makers” episode, where Wasaga Beach made a run at the Guinness World Record books. Did they pull it off? The guys break down how it all turned out. From there, the conversation shifts to a surprising story about snowmobiles being used by Russia during attacks in Ukraine, and how Ukraine successfully fought back. That leads Steve into sharing some history on the snowmobiles once used by the Canadian military, adding a cool throwback military sled perspective. The discussion then heads across the globe to India, where snowmobile use in the Himalayan mountains has been restricted because of environmental damage. It sparks a bigger conversation about responsible riding and trail preservation. 🚨 HOT TOPIC ALERT 🚨 The guys dive deep into trail grooming, exploring ideas on how clubs and organizations might improve trail quality while reducing costs. This one’s sure to spark debate, so we definitely want your feedback. Another big question: Does Manitoba really need the 3rd highest number of snowmobile trails in Canada? With nowhere near the 3rd highest population, the guys discuss whether trail consolidation could make sense, improve grooming efficiency, and better stretch club resources. Of course, it wouldn’t be Sled Talk without a “What Was He Thinking?” segment. This time, it’s all about a thief who stole a snowmobile without thinking through the escape route. That spins into more listener feedback from previous episodes where we discussed trail enforcement and policing. We also get an update as Wolf Guy finally wraps things up with a plea deal, closing the book on a story listeners have been following. To finish the episode, Steve shares his best practices for rebuilding a snowmobile motor, including why using re-manufactured crankshafts from Performance Supply can mean faster turnaround, reliability, and a rebuild done right. If you’re into snowmobile news, trail debates, sled history, engine rebuilds, and real-world rider issues, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. 👍 Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe, and drop your thoughts on the grooming and trail consolidation debate. Sled Talk on YouTube https://youtu.be/SRavntDhH_k  Send us Fan Mail https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057548599398

    28 min
  2. 18 MAR

    Rant & Roll

    In this episode of Sled Talk, the guys take the conversation global as they discover that Latvia is a true snowmobiling powerhouse. Who knew? We absolutely love seeing Sled Talk reaching riders in every corner of the world. We also give Sun & Snow a well-deserved shoutout after Rob has a little fun teasing them. Back home, the Amphibex ice crushers are back on the Red River, breaking up ice to help prevent dangerous ice jams and spring flooding. It sparks some memories of past snowstorms, including one unforgettable storm where we helped shuttle people by sled and ride in places we normally never could. Then the rants begin. Steve goes off on the new sleds being released by manufacturers, calling out how boring and repetitive the designs have become. He also doesn’t hold back on the growing list of expensive electronic features that add cost without adding real value or performance. Not to be outdone, Rob jumps into the new Polaris lineup, sharing his thoughts on the heavy mountain sled focus, the new Polaris Patriot, and whether that name will really connect with riders in Canada. The guys also dive into vintage sled trail pass pricing, discussing how several regions are finding success by lowering costs for vintage sleds. More affordable passes could mean more classic iron back on the snow, which is something every sled fan can appreciate. To wrap things up, Steve’s Tech Tip focuses on snowmobile accessories, breaking down which ones actually add function and value — and which ones might just be wasting your money. If you’re into snowmobile news, manufacturer debates, vintage sleds, trail systems, and real rider opinions, this is another fun one you won’t want to miss. Sled Talk on YouTube  https://youtu.be/14JqFqGcB0s  Send us Fan Mail https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057548599398

    29 min
  3. 18 FEB

    Record Breakers and Movie Makers

    We dive right into the increased enforcement we are seeing right across the country. The tickets are flying and fines are no fun.  Arctic Cat has made a purchase. Widescape in now a part of the family. They look cool, but will they draw a following? It is nice to see them investing in the industry.  Journey For Sight has done their 40th ride. The start in Flin Flon and end up in down in the South West corner of the province near the Turtle Mountains. The ride is over 600KM. The money raised goes to local eye services in the north west of the province.  There’s a snowmobile movie being shot in Beasuejour MB. If you have any racing experience, you should track them down, they are looking for riders and sleds.  Wasaga Beach is doing a snowmobile parade in an effort to break the current Guinness Book record of 1047 sleds. You need a running sled with a valid trail pass to enter.   Send us your warm up shack pictures, pictures, it would be nice to share pictures of your favorite place to warm up while out on the trail. Even the fugly shacks would be cool to see. Memories are created in many places.  Lanigan SK has had a troubling incident. Four coyotes were run down by snowmobilers. Two were killed the other two left to die. If you have any info call the TIPP line and let these guys pay for their actions.   Steve has a great tech tip. He also asks what was the best sled motor ever built. Chime in on this one.  Thanks for joining us! Sled Talk on YouTube  https://youtu.be/9I-071uTwyA  Send us Fan Mail https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057548599398

    29 min
  4. 21 JAN

    Mistakes Were Made

    We try to be accurate when sharing news or telling a story, but sometimes we slip up. We’re fine with being corrected and will adjust as necessary. Free February from Season 1 Episode 2 is an example of an oops. Trail passes are always required in Manitoba. Everyone has a Sled Cave that they are proud to work in. Cool caves usually attract a few more buddies to help work on your project or at least make sure the beer doesn’t get stale. We’d love to see pictures of yours. BRP (Skidoo)makes a large donation to Ride Out Intimidation. It’s their way to shine a light on being bullied. They call it Yellow Day. It’s a good cause. Safety has been a theme this season. We continue to talk about safety because people keep getting hurt, and worse, dying. Try to think before you go out. The Yahoo’s are prominent in What Was He Thinking. The OPP caught some dumb asses shooting up the area around Muskoka. These guys were so stupid they actually posted video’s. Steve has a great Tech Tip on JIS screw drivers. We dive into exhaust systems and focus on can’s. Many people make changes to their exhaust systems, but are they doing enough to ensure their engine won’t flame out. Are rice cakes a better performance enhancer than a cheap exhaust can? Steve asks what’s more important performance, volume, or sore ears? Sled Talk Podcast: https://sledtalk.buzzsprout.com Sled Talk on YouTube https://youtu.be/04ai0LmDB1U Send us Fan Mail https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057548599398

    23 min
  5. 7 JAN

    Monster Rides & Full Bellies

    Sled people are usually some type of motorhead. Very seldom do you know a guy that only has a sled with no other toys. We’re both guilty of having all kinds of toys. We kick off the show talking about the roadster Rob recently bought and drove halfway across Canada desperately trying to beat the snow. We jump over to Taiga’s announcement of international distribution of their Nomad electric sled. Is electric the way of the future? We break down the value of having an electric sled. Have you ever ridden across a floating sled bridge? They have one on Muskoka Ontario. It sounds like a great idea, is it feasible in more areas? In Estevan Saskatchewan they are organizing their second monster ride. Their first was over 2000 Km’s, this year they plan on going much further. Do you have a favorite restaurant to stop in while out on a ride? Nobody wants a crappy hamburger when they’re out for a full day of riding. Tell us about the best spots to go and why they make your mouth water. Steve continues his threat to organize a vintage derby, or just a vintage ride. Give us your thoughts for this type of ride. We would also like to hear about any vintage rides that are going on. Steve has a great tech tip on steering systems, specifically carbide wear bars, sizes, and how they can have a positive effect on the control you have on your sled. They can even play a part in how you set up your rear suspension. Sled Talk on YouTube: https://youtu.be/wdtL4R1MfMM Send us Fan Mail https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057548599398

    28 min

About

Welcome to Sled Talk — where it’s all about snowmobiling, stories, and the ride. We’ve been riding together since the mid-70s, and let’s just say… we’ve seen it all. From pulling the cord to pulling our hair out, the sport has come a long way — and so have the stories. Snowmobiling isn’t just something we do… it’s been a lifelong passion. And after decades on the trails, we’ve got no shortage of laughs, lessons, breakdowns, and unforgettable moments to share. Whether you’re a hardcore rider, someone who’s been away from the sport for years, or brand new and just curious about life on the trails — you’re in the right place. Our goal?👉 Bring new riders into the sport 👉 Reconnect past riders with what they’ve been missing 👉 And celebrate everything that makes snowmobiling great So fire up your sled… and let’s get into it.