After 5 model years of Polaris’ innovative RUSH model, much is known about this sleds refinement, reliability and capability. Since its introduction the RUSH has matured nicely with subtle alteration, improvement and recalibration. After 2,000 miles, durable, capable and predictable are on the top of my list of experiences with the 2014 Stealth Black RUSH LE.
Much of this year’s SledMagazine.com test is a verification and comparison of the features, characteristics and performance we experienced with last year’s 2013 Switchback LE.
Short track
With all manufacturers selling more long track models, our 2014 RUSH test was highly focused on the question “is there still a place in the market for short track models?” It is with high confidence that I assure riders that nothing compares to the ease of turning and agility that a short track model offers. The more spirited the ride, the clearer that truth becomes. “See the line”, “Feel the line”, “Feel the Rush”.
Our 2014 RUSH LE has the 1.352 Cobra track and offers excellent “stop and go” bite, yet a predictable release of side energy in the turns. I added 96, 1.45” studs for safer braking and control performance. This combination of track and traction has been perfect in all conditions and I wouldn’t change a thing. Long tracks can ride smoother and offer more floatation, but the feel of a shorty is like none other. Longer and a little more effort to turn or shorter and easier to turn, “snowmobilers should always have that choice”.
The Power
The 800 Cleanfire Liberty engine remains responsive, powerful and predictable, it’s easy on the drive belt and typically gives me MPG between 12-13. The MPG and 11 gallon fuel capacity give a comfortable range, but higher MPG and bigger fuel capacity are always better. The 800 Cleanfire consistently gets near 200 miles on a quart of premium Polaris VES oil. At this stage of my season, I’ve made 2 trips that included over 825 miles of travel. I completed each of them adding only 2 quarts of carried oil and ending the trip without the add oil light being on. For the extremely cool feeling that a clean 2 stroke gives me, I can do that!
Storage
Just as anticipated, space on the RUSH is tight. I’ve got every bag that they make for a RUSH.
The available bags definitely hold a more than reasonable amount and most riders would be fine with it. Personally, I want the rigid and integrated storage system of the Switchback Adventure. I’ve yet to see any baggage system that compares in its function or durability. Maybe I carry too much stuff. I’ve got stuff wedged in everywhere.
I consider myself a spirited pace, long distance touring guy that prefers to have both fresh clothes and items to be prepared for the unexpected. I’m sure that people like me are not a major market force, but continue to believe that I should be able to have short track agility with bigger better storage. Why can’t everyone have rigid case storage with removable bags?
The Ride
The premium Walker Evans shock package on the LE model remains a high point for Polaris. They are easily adjustable and noticeably responsive to changes. They have been consistent and fade free in all experienced conditions. The bigger the bumps the more the Walker Evans package shines.
It’s a short track, so I accepted that it would not bridge the bumps as comfortably as the Switchback. The Pro R “uncoupled” rear skid relies on a higher spring rate to control transfer, which results in a firmer overall ride. It’s not harsh, but it is definitely firm and the shorter ProR rear skid highlights this characteristic. If Polaris could lessen this effect and make a shorty that handled a wider range of bumps more like a Switchback, they would definitely sell more RUSH’s to people who prefer to turn easier. There is no doubt that you can make a longer track turn, you’re just going to work a little harder to do it.
Comfort
We’ve had some super cold riding conditions this season, the hand warmers work great at all RPM levels and the HI/ LO format is all that is needed. Control switches are still on the “too” small side. The brake lever remains a little short with a longer non adjustable reach which makes single finger operation more difficult than desirable. The easily accessible dial-adjust headlight continues to be a welcome and worthy feature. Wind protection with the medium windshield is adequate, not superior. Seating position is very comfortable, but I often find myself reaching for the handlebar in tighter turns and wishing to be a little further forward.
The gauge package is still among the best offered and includes 2 trip odometers, digital engine temp, 3 minute speed/RPM playback function as well as optional dealer activated (RPM limiting) security system capability.
The Pro Steer skis have been a beneficial improvement to the RUSH and Switchback models and handling is precise and predictable. Occasional ski lift remains due to the slightly higher center of gravity of the RUSH and Switchback models.
Durability
Once again a perfect score! Zero issues, inconveniences, recalls or service bulletins, which is exactly how everyone’s snowmobile experience should be. I ride, ride, ride with minimal belt wear, slider wear and no shock failure or fade. I make it shine with IPone CleanRPolish, lubricate it with Polaris lubricants, sharpen the carbides with a Biteharder tool and ride again!
I have a little secret
I wasn’t sure how to tell you this, but the beautiful 2014 Stealth Black RUSH does not have electric start. That’s right a $13,000+ (US) snowmobile that you start with a string. When given the privilege of making a selection of available 2014 Polaris editor sleds, I noted that the letters ES were not next to the Stealth Black 800 RUSH LE. I could have requested a “RED” 800 RUSH ES LE, but I really wanted to be seen on the “wicked cool” black one. I’m reasonably fit for my age, visit the gym more than occasionally and like to act younger than I am, I can do it! I also reasoned that no other editor would pick a non ES model and I would have a very unique sled to share with you in 2014.
During a meeting with Polaris engineers, I asked “why in the world would you offer a premium LE sled without electric start?” “I’m embarrassed to tell our readers”. They offered me some market statistics to help me share my little secret. On some models, as many as 40% are ordered without ES. A significant number of 600’s are ordered without ES, not as many 800’s, but there are a number of buyers who want them this way. My pull start experience in my first 2,000 miles….not bad, not bad at all! Starts in 1 pull from a seated position if it’s warm, if it’s not warm 2 pulls standing. In some of the coldest temperatures of the season (-40) it started in 4 or less pulls. At this stage of my season, my shoulder and elbow feel fine and it pulls much easier than other 800’s I’ve started with a string over the years. I’ll let you know how I feel at the end of the season. So….. other than being my little secret and a surprise to anyone who tries to start it, it has really not been a big deal. Just because you can get a non ES doesn’t mean I think anyone should. There….now you know and I feel better. If you see an awesome Black RUSH being started with a string, it’s me, say hello!
I look forward to the 2nd half of this season's experience with the 2014 Polaris 800 Rush LE.
Safe and Happy trails,
Greg
