Here are the highlights
AXYS expansion continues
The XCR returns
Mega length, deep lug RMK
True factory customization continues
AXYS comes to 144” models
It was really not a huge stretch to anticipate that the proven advantages of the AXYS technology would find its’ way to another segment of Polaris’ line up. AXYS recreated the trail experience, then it pushed the mountain sleds to higher levels. For 2017 the Switchback Assaults and all 144” 600cc + models are AXYS snowmobiles. If you were to draw a line straight down from the rear edge of the seat, everything forward is now exactly like an AXYS ProS Rush or Switchback.
A reconfigured for 2017, IGX (Ideal Geometry Xover) 144” uncoupled, tipped rail rear skid relocates the front arm to the same geometric position as is found on the AXYS ProS sleds. The IGX design results in 43% (yes 43%) more front arm suspension travel, which is of extreme importance in an uncoupled rear suspension system.What the IGX design means to riders is noticeably superior performance and comfort in chatter and stutter bump conditions. It also offers better lift to get up on top of the snow easier in off trail conditions.
Editor Definition: Stutter bumps noun and verb. Typically compacted or frozen bumps less than 1’ in depth that are frequently sudden and irregularly spaced. When stutter bumps are encountered at typical (and above) trail speeds, they contact the leading edge of the track with a force significant enough to exceed the travel limit of the front track suspension as well as shock dampening capabilities. Result: Conditions that can abruptly rattle your teeth and or tingle your neck and lower spine areas.
Sledmagazine.com editors were fortunate to have the unique opportunity to ride both 2016(non AXYS) 800 Assaults and 2017 AXYS 800HO Assaults back to back over the same terrain and trail conditions. The improvements in comfort, ride quality, suspension performance and engine response were significantly positive. It was a noticeably more agile, more responsive, more capable animal.
Snowmobilers have generally come to identify AXYS with greatly enhanced forward bite and lift balance, it’s easy to forget that AXYS is also much more. AXYS is a LED headlight that makes conventional lights seem like your looking through a glass of ices tea. AXYS is a much more comfortable and interactive rider position. AXYS is improved airflow and easy to operate left hand controls. AXYS is aggressive looks, more storage and glove friendly side panel removal. And an 800HO AXYS is quieter with 30% easier throttle pull and ACCELERATION that needs to be felt to be believed.
The Switchback Assault model has accounted for 50% of Polaris’ 800 Crossover sled sales and this redo may easily push that number higher. Fortunately for many 2017 buyers, the AXYS expansion finds its’ way to all 600 and 800 models and all include the RMK style PowderTrac running boards.
This means that in addition to the wide stance 600 and 800HO Switchback Assaults with premium Walker Evans shock package and 1.35 Cobra track, you can also select a more budget conscious 600 Switchback Assault 144 SP version.
Want more AXYS 144 choices? You can also select from the narrower stance 600 Voyageur 144 with standard rear rack and tow hitch or the 600 RMK 144, each with the 2.0” Series 4 track.
For 2017 all 144” AXYS models feature the ultra deep storage of weather tight under seat storage. All 2017 models without the premium PIDD gauge include the new Message Center gauge with 25% more viewing area and increased vehicle information capabilities.
It’s baaaaak and braaaap! The XCR returns
It’s true, the famed XCR model is back and it’s more potent than any of the original XCR engineering teams could have ever imagined.
This sled IS NOT a race replica! The 2017 XCR 600 and 800HO Rush LE’s are race ready snowmobiles.The NEW XCR was inspired and specifically developed with the performance and durability challenges of long distance Iron Dog type competitions in mind. This is a sled that stands apart and looks as tough as it was built to be. Yes, it’s an already proven durable Rush ProS, but it is also much much more. For 2017 the XCRs will be produced in unlimited Snow Check quantities as well as limited availability in season. It’s race ready and electric start is not an option.
Here is a partial list of what is PRT (Polaris Race Technology) upgraded and reinforced on the NEW XCR.
- Chromoly rear pivot and front torque arm components
- Heavy duty shock mounts
- Solid hardened jackshaft
- Reinforced suspension rails
- Solid suspension and rear axle wheels
- IQR handle bars with ProX riser
- ProX torsion bar
- Specialized PRT Brake system, HP race rotor, type 81 pads and air scoop venting
- Walker Evans Hi/Lo compression adjustable piggyback needle valve shocks
- 2” increased volume front track shock
- Specific XCR calibration and valving
- Exclusive XCR graphics
If this sled does not make you heart go kaboom, kaboom, kaboom, nothing will.
Some very special RMKs for 2017
It’s still true. The Polaris 800HO Pro RMK 155 remains the industries #1 selling mountain sled. For 2017 Polaris offers mountain men and women some very special RMKs.
Do you want to go bigger? Bigger than any other RMK? For 2017 Polaris introduces the 800HO PRO RMK 174 LE with 3.0 Series 7 track.This industry best power to weight ratio 442# beauty is all PRO with the exception of having the chaincase drive system.2017 also offers some very special Pro RMK 155 and 163 LE models.
The Limited Edition “Snow Check Only” 155 with 2.6” Series 6 track and QuickDrive, 163 with 3.0 Series 7 track with Chaincase and 174 models will be offered in an incredible Titanium appearance package with your choice of Lime squeeze or Orange burst accents.
A new 2017 Polaris just for you!
So far no snowmobile manufacturer has done it better. And Polaris continues to enhance and refine its true factory customization program for 2017. Polaris says that 50% of their Snow Check customizations are done through their web system.
From Feb 29 – April 12 you can Snow Check Select order an Assault, Rush, Switchback or Pro RMK model with incredible factory customization options.
Available Snow Check Select choices include:
- Chassis
- Engine
- Track length
- Lug depth
- Shocks
- Gauge
- Windshield
- Handlebars
- Storage
- Accessories
- Colored tunnel, rails and suspension components
- More color and graphics combination than ever before
Visit www.Polaris.com and have Polaris make a new 2017 just for you.
Here is one more exciting development from Polaris for 2017. Get ready to see significant Klim quality and style influence across their line of apparel. It took a little longer than we hoped, but it’s here and it’s impressive.
