OPP are reminding snowmobilers to ride safely for an enjoyable winter season but also warning that excessive noise may be problematic for some communities and private property landowners.
See: Snowmobilers warned about using modified snowmobile exhaust on trails
And: Noisy sledders may lose key local trail
The topic of snowmobile exhausts and the enforcement of modified exhausts has always been a hot topic in the community.
In 2019, local landowners had had enough, and erected a sign.
"Please take notice of this sign that 4 landowners have erected on their property that our A/D North trail at 4 Mile Lake goes thru," says a post on the North Bay Snowmobile Club Facebook page.
"If we lose this trail we are screwed to reach farther North. This would have a major impact on all aspects of Snowmobiling! Again please note that Hydro Lines go through private property it’s not a free for all."
Police across Ontario struggle with how to respond to the vast use and current expansion of modified snowmobile exhaust systems. Some snowmobilers commonly replace the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) exhaust component, in exchange for an aftermarket product commonly referred to as a "pipe" or a "can". The original muffler that muffles or lessens the exhaust noise is then physically replaced by the "can."
It is the resulting increase in noise that results in complaints.
"The stock, or OEM muffler on your snowmobile has been engineered by the manufacturer for that specific machine," says Constable Phil Young "It is meant to fit and perform properly as an extension of the specific motor in the snowmobile. Aftermarket manufacturers for 'pipes' or 'cans' claim to provide minor weight savings and minimal horsepower gains. But, with this comes increased noise. Also, some manufacturers require engine modifications because of the difference in exhaust flow. These modifications can negatively affect the overall performance of the snowmobile."
There is a time and place for these aftermarket exhausts. This exception is in a racing area. Aftermarket modifications are permitted if the snowmobile is driven in a racing area sanctioned by the municipality.
Much of Ontario's trail system encompasses private property. The private property landowners generously allow the use of their land for snowmobile use via Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) trails. But, landowners and municipalities are being disturbed by the increase in snowmobile exhaust noise, which is resulting in trail closures.
"There are applicable charges under the Motorized Snow Vehicle Act for modifying, altering, or changing the exhaust or muffler on your snowmobile," says Young. "OPP will continue their snow vehicle patrols throughout the season to ensure the safety of all snowmobile operators, passengers, and community members alike."
