Interesting read,
I'd be pretty safe in saying there is no sled out there save maybe PowerHouse Customs that has ever built a skid with an approach angle any where near 14 degrees. And even though AC, Yami, TS, Poo all claim 18 degrees up front, I've measure the XM, Timbersled, and AC and are all in the 20-21 range (relative to ground). Yes the 08 Yami's were at 25+ making them even worse trenchers.
You don't want to go flatter IMO anyway. Simply put, if you decrease the approach angle to something below about 18 degrees, you move the first contact with the snow so far back, you will automatically increase weight on ski's and thus ski pressure, and not in a small way.
My XM rules when it comes to steering performance, and Yami should take a page out of their book to understand weight transfer and light steering.
All front ends look similar, but if you study them closely, you realize the "compromises" made by each manufacturer differ dramatically. The poo handles really well because it has raked spindles, a longish wheelbase, and is light enough to pull it off. If you put the viper engine in there is would would feel sluggish and heavy because of it.. It's been done.
Bottom line is a 4S needs rather different front end geometry to make it turn easier and handle better. Pretty sure the ProClimb chassis wasn't designed with a 4S in mind when originally conceived. It works surprisingly well, but could be much better.
OTM
