Polaris Titan XC 2019: Mid-Season Impressions

Many hours behind the handlebars of the Polaris Titan XC give me the chance to share my impressions with you. First, what makes a big impression is the ability of the snowmobile to handle a wide range of very different conditions.

The manufacturer chose the term “extreme crossover” to classify the Titan. This designation is ideal, as the Polaris Titan XC can either work hard, offer interesting performance on federated trails or ride off the beaten track with impressive capabilities. It does not make it much different from what has already been done. It is its high level of performance and handling in each of the segments that make the Polaris Titan stand out. For now, I am convinced other manufacturers are working hard to compete it. 

You can immediately notice the versatility of the frame as well as its aggressive and robust look. 

To animate the Polaris Titan XC, the manufacturer uses an engine that no longer needs presentation. The 2-stroke 800cc Cleanfire H.O. engine, which has been redesigned with a better cooling system. To amplify its utility vocation, the manufacturer equipped it with a transmission offering two ratios (Hi/Lo), a neutral position and a reverse gear to exploit the machine’s full potential fully. 

The Polaris Titan XC to with the 800cc Cleanfire H.O. 2-stroke engine.   

Thanks to this proven mechanic combined with the new transmission, it is not surprising that the towing capacity is 1200 lbs! I was able to test the Titan by towing a scraper at the back to prepare the trails and a sled to carry wood. It was easy for me to do these tasks. The second point that impressed me was the engine temperature, which had always remained very low thanks to the optimized cooling system, even when the temperature was above the freezing point. 

A significant advantage of the Polaris Titan XC is indeed its huge 155” x 20” wide track and 1.8” studs. It offers a lot of grip, and it is very easy to “float” the Titan on deep snow.

The track also has an articulated section in the last section to provide more comfort (in the unlocked position) and to move back without fear of getting stock in the snow. And when you want maximum traction, all you need to do is put it in the locked position.

Despite its huge dimensions, the track gives the pilot perception of having a “standard” 16” wide track compared to its overall handling. However, the track creates a lot of noise and vibration at low and mid-range speeds. You can feel it between your feet. The omnipresent vibrations and noise affect overall comfort and driving experience.

The Polaris Titan XC is equipped with the excellent FOX QS3 suspensions that can be quickly adjust using a 3-position ratchet. It is easy to find your ideal adjustment and to adjust to the snow conditions. The positions are:

• Position #1 is preferable for maximum comfort and flexibility.
• Position 2 is a perfect balance of comfort and performance.
• Position 3 makes the suspensions very rigid in order to achieve a sportier riding experience.

To support all these great components together, the manufacturer opted for the use of its excellent AXYS chassis. It has been revised to extend it to match the wide track. It offers what it already offered, which means that it provides an outstanding overall balance, high stiffness, and a perfect driving position! 

As I write my article, about 1000 kilometers are on the meter and I would summarize my impressions as follows:

Strengths:

• Versatility
• Easy handling/intuitive operation
• Floatability and the pulling of the track
• Efficiency in off-trail situations
• Impressive maneuverability for a snowmobile with a 20” track

Desired improvements:

• Noise and vibration at the track
• Reduced fuel/oil consumption*

* Note that the running-in period is over and better results should be obtained. That is why I do not immediately communicate the consumption in liters/100 km.

Not being in my first experience with the Polaris Titan, I am still impressed by its versatility and ability in a multitude of situations. I look forward to pursuing the test and giving you my comments. So, I suggest you follow us regularly on the magazine!

Motoneiges.ca would like to thank Polaris and RPM Rive-Sud in Lévis for making this long-term test possible.