Over the years, I have made significant efforts to report on a variety of models and motors. I have experienced both personal satisfaction highs and some lows. 2025 was extremely high, possibly the highest satisfaction experienced in any previous trial. That says a lot!
The Goal
The main focus of this year’s long-term trial of the Polaris 9R Switchback Assault 146 was always the first full production Factory Mod motor. I have previously trialed and reported on my overall positive experiences with the geometry, calibration and performance of Polaris’ IGX 146 rear suspension format.
At the end of this article, I invite you to click on the “other articles by Greg” tab to explore my other 9R and Switchback Assault 146 experiences and observations. If you get adventurous, you can explore any of the articles that I have previously written. All columnists have the same button. A vault of snowmobile topics, evolution and history await.
A Gentle Giant on the Trail
The 9R is gentle, yet at the very same time a total torque monster “at the ready” in any RPM range and in any and all snow conditions. In hard packed, soft and loose, fresh deep or typically power robbing “pomme de terre pilée” “mashed potato” conditions, this thing has the capability to power through it all with authority. The Patriot 9R just pulls and pulls to whatever level your heart desires.
What Do You Think?
Whether you think you need the power of an 850 cc powered snowmobile or you actually really need 850-cc-level performance, you most definitely WANT or NEED the kind of power that Polaris’ 9R Patriot offers. Personally, I don’t need that level of extra power, but wow, what a thrill it is to have it!
Back to Back
Over the course of multiple full days, I had opportunities to go back and forth between Polaris 850 and 9R Patriot powered Switchback Assaults. The undeniable difference over the same trails and conditions was just as Polaris promised: quicker response and more pull.
This wasn’t just my observation, as it was shared by a Patriot 850 riding buddy “rocket boy” Joel. At first swap he was not sure, but after returning to his sled, then swapping back and forth multiple times for total confirmation, he was also completely convinced of quicker response and more pull. “Rocket boy,” will definitely be ordering a 2026 Polaris Patriot 9R.
Initial Exhaust Note Observation
In my initial observations, I noted that the exhaust note of the 9R seemed quite mild and very similar to the sound of a Polaris Patriot 850. After multiple back and forth experiences, I retract that original sensation. The 9R definitely has a deeper note that sounds more like the grunt force that you are about to experience.
Class Domination
Polaris’ Patriot 650 cc has clearly dominated snowmobiling’s 600 class, and the 899 cc Patriot 9R can now lay the same claim in the 800 class.
As the season came closer to a close, I could easily say that it has been an exceptional pleasure to experience the potent performance side of this particular Polaris.
WER Velocity Shocks
The performance of the Walker Evans Racing Velocity shock package remained exceptional, whether they were adjusted to be comfort compliant or cranked up for maximum abuse.
Premium 7S Gauge Package
The 7S gauge provides exceptional advantages whether you are capable of using its many features to the fullest or just want the best in easily accessible information.
The fully adjustable smart hand and thumb warmer capabilities of the 7S are without comparison and industry leading.
The group ride feature is an absolute revolution in ride safety for all, and the GPS function is in full easy view with detail and accuracy that continues to get better year after year.
A Negative Never Came
At some point in this end-of-season wrap up, I would have hoped to stop drooling over this Polaris. But that is just not going to happen; it was that good. I don’t even dislike the mirrors.
Polaris’ 650 cc class weight and handling with quicker response and unlimited performance capability. Who wouldn’t want that in their next new snowmobile?
Contrary to Some Reviews
I would characterize my (close to 6,000 km) season long fuel and oil consumption with the 9R as being much better than I would have anticipated and never an issue. At a reasonable trail pace, I was never thinking of or looking for fuel before anyone riding an 850 cc or 650 cc powered sled.
Oil consumption was also very respectable, averaging 125 mi/qt (225 km/l).
I Stand by This
I have described the smooth controllable capability of the 9R as being a gentle giant. After a full season, I stand by that characterization. But man, oh man, can that thing perform when you let it sing!
Polaris 9R Patriot power can pull the kids around the back yard, pull the loaded sleigh to the chalet or be ridden at slow paces, all with the smoothest delivery of power.
Polaris 9R Patriot power can also give you the trail thrill of your snowmobiling life. It can leave without you if you give it the chance, so hold on and prepare for the biggest helmet smiles that you have ever experienced.
Definitely Not!
The Polaris Patriot 9R is most definitely NOT the raw and violent, shake, and rattle of any 900 cc twin of snowmobiling’s past. Maximum power and flickability in a trail snowmobile were not always a thing. It is now!
Patriot 850 Boost vs. Patriot 9R Power for the Trail
Here is my opinion on that question. At elevations anywhere near sea level, I would not select the mechanical complexities, less than linear acceleration, additional weight or added expense of a turbo-charged model. In my opinion, the power profile of the Factory Mod Patriot 9R is linear, potent and perfect.
Failed Objective
In my long-term trial introduction article, I expressed an interest in discovering 9 adjectives beginning with the letter “R” that might descried the 9R (get it?).
Well; I failed, mainly because words like Ridiculous, Radical and Risky did not apply.
A few “R” words that do apply to the Polaris Patriot 9R are; Rare, Robust, Relentless and Reactive.
It’s the Same Each Year and it All Goes by in a Flash
The anticipation of the season that is soon to begin.
The exhilaration of the first rides.
The season is midway, and you still have so many more adventures on your list.
And then another thrill of a lifetime winter draws much too quickly towards a close.
Many Thanks
To Polaris Snowmobiles, Laquerre’s Powersports and the entire Support Team of SledMagazine.com, my sincere thanks for your continued efforts and support. Your ongoing recognition of my passion, experience and exposure is recognized and respected.
I remain keenly aware and appreciative of the opportunity to ride and report on many of the industry’s finest snowmobiles. The journey continues to be extraordinary.
On a Personal Note
My snowmobile season was everything that any snowmobiler could hope for and more.
Snowmobiling fulfillment in every way. Anticipation, exhilaration, tradition, adrenaline, adventure, reflection, friendship and natural beauty beyond description. I hope that yours was as well.
Thank you for your record-setting number of article reads this past year.
