2005 Bombardier Plus ME "Track" Test

Producing just 275 horses at 1,900 rpm, at first blush it would appear the big-bore six-cylinder engine isn't quite up to

While the engine only produces 275-hp, it puts out a crushing 825 lb-ft of torque. (Photo: Bombardier)

snuff. But with a stump-pulling 825 lb-ft of torque on demand, it's apparent this engine is just right for turning massive mounds of snow into velvety corded ski runs.

No special license is required to drive the cat, however Cypress Resort equipment manager John Imlah reports a familiarity with heavy machine operation is an asset when first jumping into the warm, comfortable insulated cab.

Speaking of the cabin, the Plus ME features two big bucket seats, heated windshield and side glass, a lighter, ashtray and an AM/FM/CD player with digital display. All in all, it's not unlike the interior of many passenger vehicles on the road today.

Those similarities end, however, as we delve further into the 'standard equipment' list: four front lights (halogen), two

The interior of the Plus ME is not unlike many passenger vehicles on the road today. (Photo: Andrew McCredie, Canadian Auto Press)

rear lights (halogen), 10-section hydraulic system, 110-volt hydrostatic oil tank heater, 110-volt engine block heater, directional halogen spotlight, fire extinguisher and an articulated lift frame with quick hitch. Options include an adventure grinder 8-foot radius half pipe cutter, a snow blower, gel-filled wheels and carbide ice spikes.

Suffice to say, all these features and more are what is required in a vehicle that typically works for 10 hours straight in the dead of night.