I keep hearing stories about the good old days of vintage sleds when you could buy a 4 cylinder King-Kat (or something just as rare and unique) for $500, touch up the hood and take it for a ride.

With the spiraling prices of some sleds it would seem those days are over. There are still good deals out there. But as the supply of unique sleds dwindles, those deals come fewer and farther between. A lot of people aren’t happy about the prices going up. Of course those who own nice vintage sleds are ecstatic over the hike in value. The sleds become not only a source of pride and joy, but also a small financial asset.

Although I feel a little discouraged that the prices are going up so high, I have to remind myself that it was inevitable that market forces would come into play with vintage sleds as it does any time people smell money. I fully expect the value of some vintage sleds to continue to climb. Luckily, it’s not just the exotic that commands a higher price. A carefully restored run-of-the-mill production sled will fetch some decent money. All the sled need do is tickle the fancy of some aging baby-boomer that is looking to recapture his or her misspent youth. Like me.

Those of us that miss the good ‘ol days have a choice to make. Take part in the growth of the hobby or not. Owners of some sleds can help prevent the commercialization of the hobby by refusing to participate. It will be very interesting to see what happens in the next few years as the various organizations shake out.

There’s still quite a few interesting sleds out there. I’ve only begun to find the sleds that interest me. Everyone has different tastes. And maybe, just maybe, I’ll still find that 1974 Yamaha SnoPro sled sitting in the barn of a deceased farmer and buy it from his widow for $150.

And maybe I’ll win the lottery.

And maybe Liv Tyler really does want to marry me.

Comments on this? Email the Author. Discussion is welcome.