In 2021, Polaris risks shaping the Quebec trails! The company surprised many with the introduction of the Matryx. Without being the only one wondering how could you improve what is already incredibly good, the manufacturer brings to its Axys platform, which is more than half a decade old, the refinement of the cockpit, accessories, and the driving position is significantly modified.
The Matryx is intended and defined as a machine that provides maximum control with minimum effort. In other words, the redesign focuses exclusively on ergonomics without directly modifying the excellent Axys chassis and its suspension and ski sets. And you know what? In my opinion, it’s perfect this way, because the undisputed Polaris offers the best handling in the industry. With so much attention paid to making the Matryx irresistible, the stealthy-looking machine is likely not to go unnoticed.
The second great novelty is undoubtedly boosting its 600 cc engine by increasing it to the 650 cc Patriot. As a proud defender of the 600 classes, connoisseurs know that a small, well-operated engine can be formidable for male pride. The 650 Patriot was designed to make a major change in terms of HP estimated at 137 to 140 HP. Combined with the renowned P-85 and Team pulleys, the expected results cannot disappoint, especially since the 650’s calibration allows the use of 87% octane regular gasoline as well as 10% ethanol. We are also told of a noticeable decrease in gas/oil consumption, which could be especially useful, given the distances that can be covered in Quebec.
Note that the frame of the 650 inherits the engine mounts of the 850, which should reduce the vibrations felt on the handlebars and running boards. The Matryx Stealth braking system seems to be a relic of the one found in the race-style XCR model, much more powerful and consistent than the XC version of the older versions.
To get back to the essence of Matryx, the narrowness of the sled will seduce you! The journalists invited to both the Sneak Peek and the Snow Shoot were delighted by these changes. We are talking here about 5 inches narrower in the front fairing and 3 inches at the knee grip. There is no need to add more to claim that these changes redefine the machine’s center mass, allowing more flexibility for the pilot. I enjoyed seeing the air intakes that were designed to reduce the effect of wind and noise. The seat feels comfortable and has a good grip for aggressive driving, freeing up movement flexibility. The mechanical elements are located incredibly low, also contributing to the agility of the snowmobile.
Finally, a new design of the controls and brake lever is now an integral part of the Matryx. Without stipulating that these elements were obsolete, they were nevertheless desired by many. The 2021 look combined with new handlebars look great and respond to a logical use with the dashboard, such as the new SmartWarmers hand warmers. All in all, it’s a nice improvement both visually and practically. The new and unique configuration of powerful headlights called NightBlade with LEDs should not disappoint. Under the seat and dashboard is a storage area totalling nearly 16 liters of space.
At Polaris, they do not skimp on the quality of the shock absorbers. This edition’s frame features Walker Evans reservoir shocks at both the front and the rear.
Polaris Industries and RPM Rive-Sud were kind enough to prepare a Matryx XC 650 Launch Edition for me. I have to admit that I am one of the spoiled ones who have the chance to discover these new products and I appreciate it very much. If I had to choose a trail snowmobile for 2021, my enthusiasm would have stopped directly at either the Matryx 650 Launch Edition or the VR1 650 equipped with the 7S display and its top-of-the-line Velocity shocks.
I’ve always had a weakness for small frames that stand out in performance. My choices are based on the fact that I love a light and agile snowmobile with some “snap.” Besides, I am also convinced of the 650’s ability to withstand good cruising speeds with minimum vibration. With Polaris, we don’t even talk about maintenance and clutch fidelity anymore, so much so that they are there to last. For those like me, who have lost count of the tens of thousands of kilometers traveled each year, they will note that it is much less expensive to use this type of sled than a larger engine. That’s why the Matryx 650 has its purpose, without sacrificing performance.
A visit to a dealership will also convince you that the digital era has had an effect on the development of this machine, which seems to have come straight out of The Matrix Reloaded; the Neo-trotters just have to stick to this new standardization, which will certainly make new POLARIS fans!
