2016 Copper Harbor Iron Man Vintage Ride - A Short Report

skiroule

Well-known member
Had to head back early this year so I couldn’t take advantage of the full Run-For-Fun schedule of activities but still got in on the Iron Man ride and that alone was worth the trip. I can’t imagine a ride that is more fun. One thing I like about this ride is that it is really family oriented and the kids are into it. One of the young guys (about 13) showed me photos of a 488 Charger he is restoring for next year and I think it has a real good shot at picking up a trophy if he gets it done. The other thing is that there are some nice sleds this ride (many previous show winners) but people ride them. Seems like that's what it's about to me.

The TX earned a third Iron Man sticker and ran well even though the temp was at the upper end of what might be comfortable for a free-air engine. That Snoluver1 sure knows how to build an engine.
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The only modification I did was to install a high-tech carb support system. It’s improved over previous years in that I added a piece of foam to allow rotation around the steering post. One of these summers I’ll actually build a bracket.
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The ride itself was classic Iron Man, roughly 50 miles with about a 60/40 mix of trail/off trail. There would have been more off trail but apparently the lack of ice at a planned river crossing required a change in routes. Think there were more sleds than ever (somewhere between 60 and 70) and the casualty count was a little higher. Believe I counted around 7 that went down: at least a couple of burned pistons, one balky clutch, and a few cranky engines that just refused to run and defied on-the-trail diagnosis. Even so, a pretty good percentage finished under their own power.

Even had a brush with fame in that I got to meet and hang out a little Big Vin who made the ride on his Sno Jet. Good to see him back on the ride. I seriously doubt if there is a nicer guy on the planet.
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Finally, I have to say I was impressed with the late model riders that we encountered on the trail. Can’t think of anyone that was inconsiderate or reckless when passing the group whether we were moving or stopped. Many gave us the thumbs-up (at least I think it was a thumb). A few even stopped to take photos.

Anyway, here are just a few shots of the riders and machines on this year’s run.

Yes, this is his sled
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Brain surgery has nothing on this operation - the patient recovered and finished the ride
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Centurion triple - a work of art
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Eagle Harbor Rest Stop
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Admin

Administrator
Staff member
That's awesome! I was down all week with a phantom illness, but REALLY wanted to check things out. I guess I will have to wait until next year.

-John

PS. Looking good Vin!
 
D

Deleted member 10829

Guest
Thanks for sharing skiroule, looks like a great event! Cool to see young kids involved too! I'm pretty sure they were all giving you a thumbs up. :)
 

snoluver1

Active member
Looks like a great time Kelly!! I agree with mspease. Awesome to see some youngsters out there. Glad to hear the motor is running strong yet. Really like the "bracket". You know what they say, if ya can't duct it...........:cool:
 

kirk600

Active member
Looks like a great time, hopefully i get a chance next year to join in the fun. I agree, it is nice seeing all the kids involved.
 

bigvin

New member
Kelly-

Thanks for the props bro,
So glad I got to meet ya after all these years of just "typing"
:)

You are truly genuine and I am looking forward to many years of Happy Trails
With ya my friend!

P.S.
I was looking for ya John! :)
Hope you are feeling better.

Truly an awesome time!

:)

THINK * SNOW

The Power Of John Dee!
 

larboc

New member
Dang looks fun, maybe next year. I've never been able to get a thursday off easy to do this. Wish it was on a weekend day.
 
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