split rail skis versus turner versus pilots

[srxtim26076]

I have a 2008 nitro that I currently run pilot skis. I have heard a lot of good things about the Split rail skis. When I was at my dealer he highly recommended the turner skis. What is the best option, and would I see an advantage over the pilots?

 

[raginyamaha]

If cost is no problem split rails are the way to go (1000 bucks). The tuners have proven to be a great upgrade at a great price but I don't think they'll be a great upgrade over the pilots.

 

[Sevey]

I put Split Rails on my Nytro before Tuners existed. After having Kimpex Arrows on a Vector and riding my buddies Nytro with Tuners, I still think the Split Rails are better than Tuners.

The Tuners track great, but still can push a bit in the corner depending on snow conditions. The Split Rails pretty much cover the entire spectrum of snow conditions (packed powder, slush, sugary snow etc) and make the Nytro handle much flatter. They also decrease the effort to turn the handlebars.

I found with the Arrows (although on a heavier machine), the skis could get quite rooted and to initiate turns took effort, especially if you are heavy on the amount of carbide. You wouldnt notice it so much early in the day but by 4pm it was apparent.

However, there is a quite a price gap from Tuner to Spilt Rail, you will have to make that call.

MS

 

[YamBam]

I have run split rails for 2 years on an XTX after running stock skis for the first season. A huge improvement. I have also ridden a XTX with tuners. It pushed in the corners on hard pack. The best I can describe the splits is like driving a go-cart. The sled goes where you point the skis - period. The other big improvement is that the ski stance is increased/widened with the splits which helps it stay flat and reduce inside ski lift. The outside carbides on the splits are not directly under the center of the spindle. They are about 2 inches outside the center of the spindle. The carbide on the tuner or stock ski is directly under the spindle. I have not measured it, but I would guess the total ski stance is increased by approx. 3-4 inches. Makes a big difference. Worth the extra $$.

 

[Yamatario]

I have run the split rails since they came out. I have not run the tuners, but love the Split Rails. Don't forget when everyone is mentioning the $1000 it is also including the four carbides and taxes and fgt. When you look at the other skis add those prices on when comparing.

Besides once you have put them you can sell your original spindles as you won't want to change back.

 

[srxpert]

I also run split rails on both my nytros. The phrase handles like its on rails is not an understatement. Best money I have spent on my sleds. Shane

 

[newfie09xtx]

How do the split rails stay up in powder? I would think they would drop once you let off the throttle.

 

[yamakazie]

I love my split rails. Best money i've ever spent on a sled. The total surface area is the same as any trail ski so they float as good as the nytro can. On trail they are flat cornering, predictable, and there's zero darting. They solve any nytro front end problem there ever was. Yamaha needs to to make a deal to put them on every sled!!

 

[Cherry08]

Anyone running the split rails have issues with their spindles cracking, twisting or breaking?

Getting really close to pulling the trigger on these split rails just trying to get all the real world opinions from those running them.

 

[shadow44]

How do the split rails stay up in powder? I would think they would drop once you let off the throttle.

They actually tested the skis in Revelstoke BC before bringing them to market and they worked quit well.

 

[srxpert]

I was hit last year by another sled. Long story short is I had $3500 in damage to my sled. I took a direct hit on the right spindle and it didnt break. It left a couple of pretty big dents in it but I still ride with it with no issues

 

[Sevey]

How do the split rails stay up in powder? I would think they would drop once you let off the throttle.

I have not noticed a difference in deeper snow, when they are compared to stock skis. For the type of riding I do in Ontario they are more than capable of dealing with our version of deep snow here.
MS

 

[RobWarrior]

Arrows, 6" woodys outside and Snowtracker 6" OEM for Arrow/Doo inside, Rail, easy steering, no push no dart. The blue Arrows look awesome too!

 

[YamBam]

3800 miles on the splits. No issues. The chrome nut/bolt that connects the ski to the spindle has rusted a bit. No big deal.

 

[Sevey]

As for durability, never had an issue. If you compare the the Split Rail casting to stock OEM, it is way beefier in all departments. Thicker, heavier etc.

Every spring I double check all the bolts and make sure they are torqued to spec, and everything holds nice and tight - I may get a just a little bit on one bolt after a season, and thats it. I do it for piece of mind to keep the front tight and avoid ovalling of spindle holes.
MS