Kris Kaltenbacher aka Smasher – TruckBoss Pro Rider
Kris Kaltenbacher aka Smasher is more than a rider — he’s a full-on force of nature. With a career that spans decades in the snowmobile and powersports world, Smasher has become a household name in backcountry sledding, dirt riding, and film. If there’s snow to slash or a trail to rip, chances are Kris has already been there — and made it look easy.
As one of the longest-standing members of the TruckBoss Pro Rider team, Kris has helped shape what this sport — and our gear — looks like in the wild. From jaw-dropping segments in Boondockers Films to deep powder missions with Polaris, he’s known across the globe for his relentless style, good-vibes-only attitude, and undeniable influence in the community.
But Smasher isn’t done pushing limits. He’s now charging into the world of Iron Dog racing — one of the most punishing snowmobile competitions on earth. Racing across frozen rivers, wide-open tundra, and through brutal Alaskan storms, Kris is proving once again that he’s built for the extremes. It’s the kind of ride where only the most skilled and toughest riders survive — and you can bet he’s doing it with a grin under that helmet.
Kris Kaltenbacher aka Smasher has done more than represent TruckBoss — he’s helped build it. His loyalty, feedback, and fearless use of our gear in the harshest environments have made a lasting impact, and we’re proud to ride with him.
Why Kris Rides with TruckBoss:
“I’ve hauled sleds through whiteouts, slush, and sub-zero Alaska. TruckBoss handles it all — no questions asked.”– Kris “Smasher” Kaltenbacher
Career Highlights:
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TruckBoss Pro Rider for over a decade
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Featured in Boondockers Films & global backcountry projects
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Polaris Snowmobiles Ambassador
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World-class dirt and mountain rider
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Up-and-coming Iron Dog racer
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One of the most recognized names in the snowmobiling world
Gear Setup:
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TruckBoss Deck + winch system
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Polaris RMK built for deep backcountry and racing
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Avalanche safety kit, race nav gear, and endurance setup
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Dual-season gear for sled and moto
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Extra energy bar for whoever gets stuck next to him
Follow Kris:
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Instagram: http://@smasher14
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Featured in: Boondockers Films, Sledhead 24/7, Iron Dog Highlights, Polaris Ambassador Series
Back to the TruckBoss Pro Riders page
Kris Kaltenbacher aka Smasher
Claim to fame: Boondocker Films Back Country Rider
Real job: Inspector, Truckee Meadows Water Authority
Wish job: NBA basketball player or a full-time college coach
Current ride: 2021 Polaris 850 Vohk built, SLP twin pipes and head, Ice Age rails and Hellfire wheels, Zbroz shocks, A-arms, front bumper, Vohk’s cut tunnel, 2 cool air vents, TKI brake lever, Sled Solutions bags, Skinz/Vohks rear bumper, topped off with the Arctic FX wrap
Wish ride: Anything built by Vohk and his team
Current truck: 2015 Chevy Duramax, lifted 6″ with 22″ rims
Wish truck: What I have now is pretty much my dream truck, but looking at going all-stock soon
Hometown: Sparks, NV, USA
I was born in: Colorado Springs, CO, USA
Where I wish I lived: I think I would have to say in Utah around the Park City area. Utah has so much to offer. Everything I love to do is really close to get to, so you don’t have to travel far. It has a pro NBA team along with a major airport, so flights are great in and out of there.
My no. 1 bucket list: Vacation in a bungalow in the ocean in Bora Bora
Time travel would take me: back to my 20s
I started riding when I was: 9 years old
My first ride was a: Husky CR450 I think… I was too short to ride so a guy teaching me would get me going and catch me when I came back!
My secret place to ride (GPS coordinates): LOL! If you know me and follow me you will eventually figure it out. My location will not be given.
Best finish or trophy I have won: Making the cover of Sled Head magazine and the cover of Boondockers twice was a pretty solid accomplishment
Favorite ride tunes: I don’t listen to music when I ride but I like all music
Favorite food: Steak, french fries, seafood and chips
Favorite drink: Jack and Coke
If I had a million dollars I would: invest it so my boys could have a better life than my wife and I did – after buying an Audi R8 of course