This project worked with a local trails club to design and build a multi-purpose trail groomer for single track trails. The goal of this project is to create a groomer that uses interchangeable implements to groom varying winter conditions throughout the season. The implements are swapped using a saddle and pin system as seen in the photos above. The pins have the red handles which slide through the saddle on the implement. The groomer will be used on the Churning Rapids Trails in Hancock, MI for winter fat bike cycling.

The multi-implement groomer system is a compact snow trail groomer for upper peninsula trails. The team started the project in Fall 2016 and designed and fabricated the first version of the groomer within a 3-month time frame.

CAD model of groomer attachment

Finished product of the groomer

CAD model of the snow bike trail groomer

Prototype of snow bike groomer

Final product of the snow bike groomer

The groomer has been used the past three winters on the Churning Rapids Trails in Hancock, Michigan. Since the fabrication of the groomer, the number of days of ride-able trails has increased dramatically through a faster snow removal process. 

This project was active from Fall 2016 – Spring 2018.