For the past two winters, I’ve been testing the 4-inch Adventure carbide runners from Qualipieces. Last year, I installed this set of runners on a Polaris Switchback Assault Patriot 850 Boost. This year, I reinstalled them on a Polaris Indy VR1 Patriot Boost. These runners feature an integrated anti-darting system at the front. Their design makes all the difference compared to standard runners.
Composition of Qualipieces Carbide Runners: What Sets Them Apart
Let’s start by explaining what a carbide runner is made of. A runner is typically composed of three elements:
- The wear bar;
- The carbide;
- The stud.
The wear bar provides grip on snowy surfaces, while the carbide offers traction on hard and icy surfaces. The stud, on the other hand, allows the carbide runner to be installed on the ski. That said, Qualipieces adds a fourth element that is not typically found on standard carbide runners.
The Anti-Darting Function of Qualipieces’ Adventure Runners
Indeed, the Adventure runners integrate an anti-darting function. This additional element flattens the trail under the skis, effectively smoothing out the tracks left by other snowmobiles. As a result, the manufacturer promises an 80% reduction in snowmobile darting.
Choose Wisely with Qualipieces’ Runner Selector Tool
It’s important to take the time to choose the type of runner that best suits your snowmobile and riding style. To help you make this decision, Qualipieces offers a “Carbide Selector” on their website. This tool provides a graphical chart based on three criteria to describe the products: cornering control, anti-darting, and easy-to-ride.
After answering a few quick questions, the tool presents you with two recommendations along with their descriptive charts. You can then choose between three lengths: 4 inches, 6 inches, and 8 inches. Note that the chart may vary depending on the length, so don’t hesitate to “shop around.”
To make things even easier, check out the full range of specialized runners as well as the selector tool. With all this, you’ll find the right runner for you even more easily. Qualipieces makes your search simple and interesting based on your riding style and your sled’s behavior.
Adventure 4-inch Carbide Runners: Performance, Grip, and Control
In my case, I chose the 4-inch Adventure (formerly called Cobra) specialized carbide runners for Polaris snowmobiles. In my experience, these runners offer incredible cornering grip while significantly reducing darting. They provide better control of the snowmobile and deliver excellent handling. Additionally, they combine comfort and performance in all kinds of conditions while reducing premature ski wear. In short, they’re perfect for sport or recreational riding.
The Qualipieces Adventure runners are made of 75% carbide. For better corrosion resistance, they’ve undergone a metal plating process. I’ve found them to be quite durable. Indeed, after using them on one machine, I was able to reinstall them on a second.
Installation of Adventure Carbide Runners: Quick and Easy
As for installation, I had no difficulties. Personally, I’d say it’s quite straightforward. All I needed was a drill with a bit and a socket set to screw everything in place.
- First, remove the skis from your snowmobile for easier access.
- Next, drill a hole in the front of the skis to insert the anti-darting tab. This tab is located at the front of the runners.
- Finally, use the existing holes in the skis to insert the two studs for each runner.
- And that’s it! The job is done quickly.
So, if you’re looking for durable and effective carbide runners at a good price, and you don’t want to fuss too much with installation, consider Qualipieces! In my opinion, you’ll find that their specialized carbide runners are perfect for you.
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