I'm probably one of those guys who suggested a more "wait and see" approach. Definitely try out different sleds whenever you can. Definitely don't spend big money on something you haven't tried out, especially if it's a stretch. I've got a bit of riding in on a Catalyst, and I was impressed - but I don't think any sled is worth blowing the finances over. Only you know how much it makes sense to spend. There's also an argument for riding (and tearing up) old junk in these crummy winters instead of new stuff. Whatever you decide on, new or used, being patient for the right deal will pay dividends. Lots of holdovers makes for some good deals out there for new sleds, but that also drives down the used market. And as usual, buying out of season usually helps.
Anyway, on the snow snobs question, I've gotta say I'm not a snow snob, but I am a "no carnage" snob! I've been hearing of guys tearing up their sleds well past the timeframe where you normally have enough snow to bury the land mines, and then I tagged one myself last weekend. I can see how you could get to where you don't want to ride unless it's fresh in good snow years, but this winter, and the last couple really, you're just happy if there's solid snow to unload on and the rocks and stumps are buried. Lately it seems I'm able to ride about as late as I ever have, but the beginning of the season has definitely slid to the right. I'll keep riding on whatever I can get, but I just hope the cycle of low snow winters will break sooner, not later!
