This is done to enable the smooth steering of the sled. The connections between the pod and the bridges is referred to as the sled's suspension. Attached to the bottoms of the bridges are the cufin. The shape of the bridges determines the angle and spacing of the two cufin. The openings in the pod where the bridges stick through are usually covered with tape during a race for better aerodynamics.
Some sleds have a piece that covers the front bridge.
This piece provides a more comfortable seat and protects the front suspension. On this sled, the cover piece is removable. It enables one to access a bolt which adjusts the firmness of the front suspension. Four bolts hold on the front bridge cover. The bridge bolts fasten the cufin to the ends of the bridges.