Here we are at the end of another fantastic season of experiences and memories. I would like to thank Polaris Industries for their continued and expanded support of the SledMagazine.com / Motoneiges.ca long term trial program. Our format of complete and comprehensive reporting on long term trial snowmobiles is unique in the snowmobile media. Each of our test sleds is subjected to the same types of season long conditions and mileages that our readers may experience.
SledMagazine.com / Motoneiges.ca readers have consistently expressed that this type of credible long term evaluation is of the most interest to them when making their next snowmobile purchase decision.
Trial Conditions
I rode this sled like any passionate snowmobiler would ride a performance long distance snowmobile. I rode it in every snow condition and temperature from December to April. I rode it on long wide trails and tight twisty trails. I rode it on the smoothest of trials, in big bumps, hard icy trails and trail breaking deep snow conditions. I rode the Polaris Switchback in Vermont, Maine and throughout Quebec. I rode this sled with precision and I rode it like I stole it. Our unique long term trial format is “REAL” real world.
Durability
With regular lubrication/adjustment and routine mid season dealer service, I encounter zero problems. No recalls or service bulletins, nothing loose, bent, broken or failed and no excessive wear. I travelled over 5,000kms throughout the Northeast in all conditions and ended the season on the original slides and the original drive belt. From chassis, to suspension and drive train down to paint finish and decals, durable definitely describes this Polaris. Durable and trouble free…………check……………….check!
Fuel consumption
If you review our season long consumption reports you will see that the 800 PRO-R LE averaged very near 12 MPG. As you would expect, highs of 14 MPG were achieved during colder temperatures on harder trails with the lowest MPG coming from higher performance riding in warmer, heavy snow conditions. With the available fuel capacity, total fuel range was never a problem. It should be noted that I never attempted to make a high MPG run and that the 2013 Switchback included the more aggressive 1.75” track lug. While this Snow Check optional 1.75” track offers exceptional acceleration, braking and off trail traction, it certainly resulted in less MPG than the available 1.25” RipSaw or 1.352” Cobra tracks would offer.
Handling
The PRO-STEER ski design and PRO-RIDE™ front suspension offered positive and predictable control in all conditions. The Walker Evans® shock packages found on the PRO-R and PRO-R LE models remained exceptional throughout the entire season. No problems, fade or rebuilds and totally adjustable with ease and noticeable result.
When properly adjusted the PRO-RIDE™ rear suspension has incredible capabilities and was a pleasure to experience. The significant traction offered by the Switchback’s optional 1.75” track did result in more challenging turning characteristics. I would strongly recommend a less aggressive track selection for predominant on trail use.
Storage
Over 60% of my riding days ended at a place other than where I began the day. The storage offered by the aluminum rear rack and the Lock & Ride® storage accessories was incredible. Everything I needed and many items that I hope I never need were always with me.
My riding partners were always amazed at the variety of items I carried on each and every trip. Nothing strapped, bungeed or buckled on, the well planned integrated storage options for the Polaris Switchback are a total winners.
Pride to ride
I like to look good when I’m on the trail and the look, colors and graphics of the Switchback LE Retro were a standout at every stop across the Northeast.
A Polaris highlight is definitely the number of Snow Check options that are available. Snowmobilers like choices and Polaris delivers.
2 stroke vs 4 stroke
This was an important part of my season long 800 Polaris experience as I have ridden 4 strokes for the past 6 years. After 3,000+ miles, I will gladly and without any hesitation ride another clean generation 2 stroke powered snowmobile next season. After initial break-in, oil consumption averaged over 180 miles per quart with smell and smoke remaining minimal. With the unique lubrication requirements of new generation 2 stroke technologies, I chose to use the specifically formulated Polaris VES Gold Plus oil to ensure longevity and cleanest possible performance. Considering the unique feel, response and weight balance benefits, clean modern 2 stroke power can easily be an exciting choice for current 4 stroke riders.
Long track vs short track
Part of this year long term trial was to give a short track guy a long track experience. Without a doubt the longer track offers greater outside trail floatation, a smoother ride and bridges bumps significantly better. During 2013 rides with my short track buddies, my comfort and control in the bumps was visibly noticeable. In response to that observation, several of them are purchasing longer track models for next season.
Observations and Notes
- The only thing better than great storage, is more of it. The empty area between the bottom of the gas tank and the tunnel is capable of having a storage accessory. I have stuff I could put there, Polaris should make and promote one.
- Hand and thumb warmer heat was excellent.
- While I personally found the handlebar control buttons to be adequate, they definitely could be larger which has been the overwhelming feedback from a majority of riders for several year
- The PERC® reverse system, worked correctly every time.
- The seat material was durable, the foam remained firm and the riding position was comfortable throughout the entire season.
- In low snow conditions the front mounted radiator cooling system kept the 800 Cleanfire® engine cool. I never experienced an overheating condition or warning light, even when other brands of sleds in my riding group did.
- The adjustable (from the riding position) headlight feature is very easy and effective.
- The gauge package is rarely talked about, among the best in the industry and worthy of mention. It is very multi function with two trip meters, hour meter, coolant temperature, RPM playback feature and a built in (RPM limiting) security module that can be easily activated by your dealer (charges may apply). I suggest that you try to include the security system activation as part of your new sled purchase negotiation.
- For groomed trail riders who select the longer track of the Switchback for ride comfort reasons, I think that the 1.25” RipSaw track (std on base Switchback model) should be available on the Snow Check, Switchback Pro-R packages.
- During routine cleaning with my new favorite cleaning product (see “Bang, stamp of approval” article) I noted very little belt dust and grime in the engine compartment. The Polaris body panels are well engineered to seal against outside debris and belt wear was minimal for a high powered 800. 3,000+ miles on one belt, still in proper adjustment with limited belt dust. Very nice, considering that belt life has been an issue with other 800s.
Recommendation
A significant part of the snowmobiling experience is the excitement, exhilaration and anticipation of something new or unknown. A large part of this season’s long term trial was stepping outside the box and experiencing something different. I have riding partners who have been very satisfied with the performance of the same brand, engine and model year after year.
They purchase another new one due to the habit and logic of it. What they lost and what they saw in my 2013 experience was the excitement and exhilaration that trying something different brings. I invite and challenge you to step outside the box of habit and logic with your next new sled. Consider something different that peaks your interest or curiosity. Put a twinkle in your eye, a zip in your step and make your heart pump faster, try something different!
Final words
The 2013 Polaris 800 Switchback PRO-R LE was a “home run” , “checkered flag” pleasure to experience.
From problem free durability to always impressive performance and suspension capability, this Polaris was exceptional.
You know that you had a positive and satisfying experience, when you are sad to see a sled go. That is how I feel about the SledMagazine.com Switchback 800 Pro-R LE RETRO. It was that good!
I invite you to review the total record of my 800 Switchback Pro-R trial. Initial impressions, first rides and mid season report articles will give you additional information on my 2013 experience.
I end each season as I begin it, with the excitement and anticipation of the experiences, friendships and memories of the snowmobile season to come.
Yours in Snowmobiling, Greg du Vermont
