by G. Kunkel

Created on: May 04, 2009

Ski bike reviews: K2 SMX Snowcycle

Background:
K2 Sports is a well-recognized manufacturer of skis and snowboards. After the Ludwig Sno-bike Corp. merged with K2 Sports, they started producing ski bikes in 2001 under the K2 Gravity Tools brand. The K2 snowcycles can be ridden with or without foot skis. K2 Gravity Tools produced 3 different models of ski bikes until 2008 when they ceased production.

Pros:
The K2 SMX snowcycle is the freestyle ski bike of the K2 lineup. It has foot pegs on the front of the bike and on the back of the bike. This arrangement allows you to ride it standing up or sitting down. It can be ridden in snowboard boots or with any winter specific boot. No need to buy foot skis.

It's easy to learn to ride but is a little more difficult than a traditional sit ski. Without the foot skis you only have two points of contact with the snow and don't have the foot skis providing additional balance points. Learning to ride it is still like riding a bicycle and the learning curve is relatively short. Its low center of gravity provides a stable ride at any speed and is easy to control. It's a fun way to get out on the hill with minimal instruction. Those with blown knees will find it a welcome alternative to traditional downhill snowsports. Many disabled skier programs use this sit ski model in their program.

Cons:
The SMX is a bit heavier than traditional sit skis. This is only an issue when getting on and off the chair lift. Those with poor upper body strength may want to consider alternate ski bikes. The bike design also prevents the bar from being down on a chair lift. You may not want to ride on a chair containing young children.

The SMX is a fun stable ride on packed powder. The rear suspension however, can be a bit bouncy at times on moderately uneven terrain. I found that this bike could be a bit squirrelly at the end of turns. It could have been related to the upkeep of the particular bike I was riding. I suggest you demo any bike before purchasing one.

Suggested improvements: Beefed up rear suspension

Model: K2 SMX Snowcycle
Country of origin: Washington, USA
Ski Bike style: foot peg, can be ridden with foot skis
Age range: Age 14 and up
Rider weight capacity: unknown
Sizes available: one size
Colors available: silver
Terrain use: all-mountain, freestyle

Detailed bike specifications

Ski bike weight: 27.5 lbs (12.5 kg)

Suspension type: rear suspension only
Front suspension: none
Rear suspension: Dynamount adjustable coil shock absorber
Frame construction: Aluminum
Seat style: moto style
Swingarm: not applicable
Bike-ski options: 80 cm parabolic
Foot ski options: 77 cm parabolic
Options: none
Accessories: foot skis, not included
Features: front and rear pegs, adjustable seat height
Difficulty to learn: Easy to learn, similar to riding a bicycle
Recommended gear: standard ski equipment
Warranty: 1 year
Cost: 1200.00

Manufacturer contact:
K2 Gravity Tools
19215 Vashon Hwy SW
Vashon, WA 98070

Website: www.k2gravitytools.com (former address)
YouTube videos: none available

Reviewer:
Height: 5'8" (1.74m)
Ability: Advanced skier
Expert snowboarder
Snowboard Instructor - AASI Certification 1
Resort certified to teach traditional sit-ski bikes and "peg" ski bikes
Conditions tested under: packed powder
Terrain tested on: beginner slopes
Foot skis used: didn't use
Boot type used: snowboard

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