Since 1954, Polaris has been proud to define, redefine, and raise the bar for the motorsports industry. This is reflected in the innovation it brings to the products it designs and the experiences it creates for everyone who works, plays, and “thinks outside.” This year, Polaris is celebrating its 70th anniversary and has decided to mark the occasion by launching three limited edition snowmobiles. These special “70th anniversary” editions are inspired by the past with all the modernism of today.
“We set out to create truly special anniversary editions, drawing on our 70 years of innovation and snowmobiling history. Iconic snowmobiles from the 90s stood out as the top choices. The influence of the 90s era is strong in popular culture, and this nostalgia also resonates within the snowmobile community. We can’t wait to see these iconic snowmobiles on the snow this winter,” said Jenny Nack, Vice President and General Manager of Polaris Snow.
It should be noted that Polaris has installed the Patriot 9R engine on its three special editions. Each model also features a custom Polaris “70th Anniversary” badge.
First Reveal: A Preview of the “70th Anniversary” Special Editions
On August 1st, we got a glimpse at the three special editions Polaris has in store for us. This launch appeared to be an effort to generate some “buzz” both for its 70 years in business and for the snowmobile market in general. The first special edition unveiled featured a rather sharp retro design. Its design mimics a popular XLT model from the 1990s but in a modern version.
90s-Inspired Features and Design
Polaris introduces its first “70th Anniversary” model: the 2025 Patriot 9R Switchback 146. Its design is inspired by the 1995 Indy XLT Special. This model more or less introduced modern long-travel suspension to the snowmobile market. To represent it, Polaris chose to apply blue and purple decals. These contrast with the black body panels on which they rest, much like the original. The result is so successful that this snowmobile inspired by the past feels familiar at first glance. To modernize the look, the purple from the original XLT graphics is also used on the ski tips and suspension rails.
The 1995 Indy XLT is considered a revolutionary snowmobile in the Polaris lineup. In fact, it was one of the best-selling snowmobiles of the 90s. With its high-performance engine and distinctive design, the XLT dominated the trails.
It’s worth mentioning that functionally, this snowmobile remains unchanged from the 9R Switchback Assault model available during the last SnowCheck. However, a few accessories have been added to distinguish it somewhat from the standard 2025 version. It comes equipped with handguards embedded with LED lights and Sentry bumpers at the front and rear. You can order all these accessories for most Polaris models.
Polaris Celebrates 70 Years at Hay Days with Two More Limited Editions
What better way to complete the final reveal of the “70th Anniversary” special editions than at the ultimate preseason event? Polaris ended the suspense by unveiling two more limited edition snowmobiles: the Patriot 9R RMK Khaos 155 and the Patriot 9R INDY XCR 136.
Of course, our team was present for this announcement and, let me tell you, the excitement was palpable. The numerous enthusiasts attending the event reflected the fans’ interest in this milestone in Polaris’ history. With the help of renowned riders Levi LaVallee and Chris Burandt sharing memories of the 1990s, Polaris officials unveiled these very special snowmobiles.
A Special Edition Paying Tribute to the Rocky Mountain King
The “70th Anniversary” edition of the RMK Khaos pays homage to Polaris’ first mountain snowmobile. I’m talking, of course, about the 1998 700 RMK (Rocky Mountain King). This historic model was Polaris’ first mountain-specific snowmobile. It featured a 136-inch suspension designed for the mountains and the lightweight Liberty 700 twin-cylinder engine. The 1998 700 RMK set the bar high for mountain performance.
Honouring the Legendary “Red Rocket”
The “70th Anniversary” edition of the Indy XCR 136 pays tribute to its 1997 predecessor, the Indy XCR 440. Affectionately nicknamed the “Red Rocket,” this was the factory racing snowmobile equipped with the brand-new Polaris Liberty 440 engine. It was Polaris’ first two-stroke engine. Thus, the “Red Rocket” dominated the race tracks all winter and cemented its place in history.
The “70th Anniversary” edition of the Indy XCR 136 includes the same Sentry bumpers as the RMK Khaos for added protection. The colour of these bumpers also matches the new design for added style. Its LED-encrusted handguards offer an elegant look while providing extra lighting for better visibility.
Polaris 70th Anniversary Limited Editions: Seize the Opportunity
In conclusion, these three limited edition models are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Order your “70th Anniversary” edition now to stand out on the snow with exclusive style inspired by the 90s. There’s no doubt that these snowmobiles will become highly sought-after by collectors. We will surely see their value increase over time.
For more information on these limited edition snowmobiles, visit the Polaris website by clicking here.
