Sorry you dont have snow... I know I went through that area recently on my way to the UP... the place I normally ride out of hasn't had snow in like 3 years... Not one mile even on my own 88 acres is sad... but that doesn't stop me from going somewhere... I wish I lived as close to that lake as you do... I'd find a way to ride at least twice a week!!!
I also know the trails are very rideable north of 2 Harbors and you are correct that Grand Marais has the most in MN if you need a powder fix... I figured you were primarily a trail rider by your previous posts and the fact you were even considering a 128...
ME TOO...so reading about how much you need it to grab for acceleration but not one comment about wanting the traction for icy pushed out corners or stopping SMH... That is maybe where my "attitude"changed a little... as I ride only trails and lots of them... I hope I never meet someone head on on my side of the trail... reading about more More MORE from another trail rider makes me worry...
Every post I posted in this thread was to help you (even this one was to help you understand my last post) I even offered to go look at this sled for you!!!
As for riding a two stoke... all I remember is WOT then brake then back to WOT... it has a lot to do with clutching and the power band of a two stroke...
Maybe I was reading into your posts but it seemed like you need or want to be in the throttle a lot... Me too but coming from auto cross racing smooth and steady is always faster... I get that you want better tires on your car but the ones your are suggesting are for drag racing
I still like you

and the only way we can't be snowmobile friends is if you hurt someone else while riding
Cheers and PS drop at the lot up the hill from TH on the North Shore trail... it's mint just north of there!!!