What is this 1969 "Simko" snowmobile minibike thing?

[VenomRS4]

It's not really a minibike...but it has a 5hp Briggs on it so maybe it's close enought to be ok? Haha. That and I figure this place is my best shot at ID'ing it.

So, they say it's called a Simko. I've never seen anything like it before. But it's way cool. Someone said it could be a home-built...but if it's a home-built, why does it called a Simko? Can anyone shed some light on what the heck it is? Anyway, I also have to give credit this youtube video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Grv2Q1v_ygw ...the Simko is at 1:10.

Thanks

 

[capguncowboy]

It's production. Here's a copy of the brochure. Appears to be an MB42 or MB31 (windshield was an option)

PP15488

That drive system seems extremely dangerous, especially when you consider that it was stated to go 40 mph

 

[Sixpac440]

How does it turn?
The track dosent look like it could over ride the skis .... the more weight on it the worse it would be ....

 

[MikeBear]

It's an ICE scooter, (Simko Power Sled) that was manufactured late 1950's until about 1970~ in Detroit.

It steers by little rear steerable ski-rudders, (they are short and on the backside of each runner) and the drive consists of a spring-loaded drive wheel with large spikes around it. As it spins, the spikes dig into the ice and push the scooter forward.

It's NOT for snow, and it's not a snowmobile. They are used on frozen-over lakes.

http://www.oldminibikes.com/forum/m...le-ski-machine-sled-thread-26.html#post653014

PP15488

https://www.google.com/search?q=sim...0ahUKEwiN0-3rnJnKAhVR92MKHR1SB7cQsAQIIg&dpr=1