Skizee skier assisted pushing machine
—The Skizee is a powered tread that pushes skiers across the snow at speeds of up to 22 mph. Skizee users stand on their own skis in front of the unit, letting it push them forward with a bar that rests against their backside. Handles that extend forward from either side of that bar allow users to balance themselves, and control the throttle.
The aluminum-bodied Skizee fits in the trunk of a car, which is facilitated by the push bar’s ability to fold up against the main device. It’s powered by a 10.5 hp 4-stroke combustion engine, and features an electric start, along with a power cord for charging electronic items in the field. It has an estimated range of 35-40 kilometers (22-25 miles) per one-US gallon (3.8 L) tank of gas, depending on use.
Skizee inventor Jim Maidment and his partner Tim Park see their product being used more for taking users deep into the backcountry, essentially taking the place of a snowmobile. The Skizee is in the final stages of setting up manufacturing, and will be available in the coming months for around $2,500.
Posted 1/21/11
