AJ Lester is in the TRAIL TECH shop installing some sweet aftermarket accessories to his Polaris Assault project sled.
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AJ Lester is in the TRAIL TECH shop installing some sweet aftermarket accessories to his Polaris Assault project sled.
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There are so many conflicting opinions about which is best, 4-stroke or 2-stroke sleds, our minds just get boggled with the arguments.
Certainly, if you listen to Yamaha, who has been building an all-4-stroke line-up for a number of years now, you can be easily swayed toward that technology.
The other thing is, Yamahas have a tremendous track record of reliability and high resale, actually unmatched by anyone else. Don’t believe us? Check out prices of used RX-1s and Apexes. Unbelievable!
Okay, then talk to Ski-Doo about 2-strokes. This company has arguably advanced the development of good 2-strokes further than anyone else in the snowmobile biz and it’s impossible to argue with the gas mileage, cleanliness and performance of the company’s direct-injected E-TEC mills. These motors are light and deliver incredible value – all within EPA boundaries.
We’ve decided what it comes down to is the intended use consumers have for their particular snowmobile.
Deep snow riders are less happy with a 4-stroke sled because of its nose heavy weight. Long distance trail riders however, really love the smoothness, high torque output and quietness of 4-strokes. Performance focused riders love the agility and weightlessness of 2-strokes but have to admit a 4-stroke engine will likely outlive their 2-stroke – especially if it’s subjected to plenty of wide-open use.
One thing we’ve noticed is 4-stroke owners tend to keep their sleds a bit longer than 2-stroke owners. Maybe it’s because 2-stroke owners are convinced, based on past experience, after a couple of seasons it’s better to turn over the 2-stroke sled and get a new one before major engine repairs are required.
This has certainly been the case in the past, but with the new breed of 2-strokes out there now, we’re not sure this worry has much validity.
Polaris Industries Inc. (NYSE: PII) announced today it is continuing a 29 year profit-sharing payment tradition.
Over $13.6 million of the company’s 2010 profits will be shared among approximately 2,250 hourly and non-salaried Polaris employees in a cash payment.
On average, each of these employees will receive nearly 19 percent of their annual pay base. Polaris also will distribute profit-sharing payments to each of its fulltime salaried employees.
Additionally, all Polaris employees will participate in the distribution of $8.1 million worth of Polaris stock that is contributed to their retirement plan.
“We delivered strong performance and posted record results in 2010, and it feels good to reward the hard work and dedication of our employees,” said Scott Wine, Chief Executive Officer. “It is fundamental to our culture that all employees share in the success they worked so diligently to create.”
About Polaris – With annual 2010 sales of $1.99 billion, Polaris designs, engineers, manufactures and markets off-road vehicles (ORVs), including all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), the Polaris RANGER Side x Sides, snowmobiles and Victory motorcycles for recreational and utility use and has recently introduced a new on-road electric powered neighborhood vehicle.
Polaris is a recognized leader in the snowmobile industry; and one of the largest manufacturers of ORVs in the world. Victory motorcycles established in 1998 and representing the first all-new American-made motorcycle from a major company in nearly 60 years, are rapidly making impressive in-roads into the cruiser and touring motorcycle marketplace. Polaris also enhances the riding experience with a complete line of Pure Polaris apparel, accessories and parts, available at Polaris dealerships.
Polaris Industries Inc. trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “PII,” and the Company is included in the S&P MidCap 400 stock price index.
Information about the complete line of Polaris products, apparel and vehicle accessories are available from authorized Polaris dealers or anytime from the Polaris homepage at www.polarisindustries.com.
Uses Cocona Xcelerator Fabric Technology for Premium Waterproof/Breathable Performance
For snowmobilers to keep dry and keep riding, Pure Polaris introduces the new PURE-DRY Polaris Gear. PURE-DRY Polaris Gear uses Cocona Xcelerator fabric technology for premium waterproof performance and rapid evaporation of moisture generated by body heat.
The PURE-DRY Polaris Vapor Jacket, Vapor Bibs, and Primo and Tahoe Gloves keep snow’s moisture out (waterproof) and “xcelerate” the transfer of moisture away from the skin (breathable) to keep a rider warmer, drier and more comfortable.
The most effective way for a rider to stay dry and comfortable is by layering. An effective layering system begins with the PURE-DRY Polaris Base Layer Shirt and Pants, which increases the waterproof/breathable performance.
The next layer is fleece for warmth as desired, then the exterior layer – PURE-DRY Polaris Vapor Jacket, Vapor Bibs and Primo Gloves or Tahoe Gloves.
“Our staff is comprised of riders who, like all Polaris riders, demand outstanding waterproof-breathable performance you can count on to keep you dry and comfortable,” said Scott Swenson, Vice President/General Manager PG&A and Snowmobile Division. “We’ve tested PURE-DRY Gear in all types of riding conditions, and it delivers. Riders will appreciate its performance and its value.”
How Cocona Xcelerator Fabric Technology Works
Wet skin is cold skin. For a rider to stay warm and dry, moisture must be transferred from the skin and evaporated.
The PURE-DRY Polaris Vapor Jacket and Vapor Bibs use a nylon shell laminated with a film that contains the activated carbon of Cocona Xcelerator fabric technology.
That contains activated carbon providing 800% more surface area. This promotes rapid moisture transfer and ‘xcelerated’ evaporation.
Cocona Xcelerator technology transfers moisture for rapid evaporation faster than any other fabric, and its breathability is competitive with that of any other fabric on the market.
PURE-DRY Polaris Gear Has the Premium Features Snowmobilers Want:
– Cocona Xcelerator fabric technology quickly evaporates moisture
– YKK Waterproof zippers
– Vapor Jacket has underarm vents with mesh fabric: Warm air can exhaust and snow is blocked from getting inside the jacket
– Vertical back vents on the Vapor Jacket let moist air exhaust and are not blocked by a backpack
– Adjustable cuffs have snaps instead of hook-and-eye fasteners to minimize ice and snow build-up
– Cocona fabric technology’s activated particles in PURE-DRY Polaris Base Layer Shirt and Base Layer Pant absorb odors
– A whole system that works together to deliver extreme value
Visit www.polarisind.com for more information.
The 2012 Polaris Snow Check Select early order program offers riders more sleds and more choices – but they’re only available for a limited time.
A snowmobiler ordering a new 2012 Polaris through Snow Check Select can select features such as the sled’s windshield height, accessories, and on selected models, the engine, sled color, convenience features, track and seat.
Available exclusively through Snow Check Select is the 800 RUSH Pro-R LE, a limited-edition model with ultra-performance Walker Evans shocks, a deep-lug Cobra track, Rox adjustable handlebar riser, exclusive graphics package (with two exclusive color options), trellis-style storage rack and a personalized nameplate.
“We designed Snow Check Select so Polaris riders can order their new sleds with the exact equipment and style they want,” said Scott Swenson, VP of the Polaris Snowmobile and PG&A Division. “They’ll take delivery of new sleds with their choice of performance, comfort, convenience and graphics.”
MORE SELECTIONS
Among the choices available to riders exclusively through Snow Check Select include:
Color Choices: Buyers get a choice of color & graphics for selected models. The models and their color options are:
– 800 RUSH Pro-R in Black, Orange or a Retro style
– 600 RUSH Pro-R in White, Orange or a Retro style
– 800 Switchback Pro-R in White, Orange or a Retro style
– 600 Switchback Pro-R in Red, Orange or a Retro style
– 800 Pro-RMK 155/163 in Orange or a Retro style
Additional Side Panels: Additional side panels with Snow Check Select-exclusive colors and graphics are available at discounted prices.
These side panels can be interchanged quickly and easily with the stock panels. The models and the available side panel colors are:
– 800 RUSH Pro-R LE: Orange, White
– 800 RUSH Pro-R: Red, White
– 800 Switchback Assault: Red Wrap, Gray Wrap
– 800 Switchback Pro-R: Black, Red
– 600 Switchback Pro-R: Black, White
– 800 RMK Assault: Red Wrap, Gray Wrap
– 800 Pro-RMK 155/163: Black, White
Seat Choices on RMK Models: When purchasing a Snow Check Select-exclusive orange or retro model Pro-RMK or an RMK Assault model, a rider gets to choose one of these seats:
– An RMK seat, which is narrow and designed for riders who primarily stand while riding
– A Switchback seat, which is wider, more cushioned and designed for comfortable, seated, trail riding
Windshield Select: Buyers of these models – RUSH models, Switchback models, Snow Check Select-exclusive Orange or Retro Pro-RMK, and RMK Assault – get to select their sled’s windshield height from these options:
– Low Black with black hand guards
– Mid Smoke
– RMK Mid Matte Black
– Tall Smoke
Limited-Edition Sled Cover: Special, limited-edition Snow Check Select sled covers available.
Snow Check Select Bonus: Each new sled buyer will receive a free Snow Check Select Bonus in the form of a certificate good toward Pure Polaris merchandise and/or a special warranty offer. Details are available from Polaris dealers and on the Polaris website.
MORE SLEDS
Below are highlights of Snow Check Select order choices for several models.
Crossover
Snow Check Select choices for Crossover models on the PRO-RIDE Chassis include: engine, convenience, color, windshield, and key accessories such as storage/cargo.
– Choices for the 800 Switchback Assault 144 include: color, windshield, key accessories such as storage/cargo, and track lug height (1.325″ or 2.0″).
– Additional side panels featuring alternate paint and graphics combinations are available only through Snow Check Select for selected models (see above).
Trail Performance
– Choices for the all-new 800 RUSH Pro-R LE, which is available exclusively through Snow Check Select, include: color, convenience, windshield and key accessories such as storage/cargo.
– Choices for riders who order a RUSH Pro-R or RUSH model include: engine, convenience, color, windshield and key accessories such as storage/cargo.
– Additional side panels featuring alternate paint and graphics combinations are available only through Snow Check Select for selected models (see above).
Deep Snow
– Choices for riders who order an RMK model include: track, color, seat, windshield height, and key accessories such as storage/cargo.
– Choices for the 800 RMK Assault 155 include: color, convenience, windshield, key accessories such as storage/cargo, and track (Competition or Powder).
– Additional side panels featuring alternate paint and graphics combinations are available only through Snow Check Select for the 800 RMK Assault 155 and the 800 RMK Pro-R 155/163.
ORDER PERIOD: MARCH 2-APRIL 19, 2011
The Snow Check Select order period runs from March 2, 2011, through April 19, 2011. Orders must be placed through authorized Polaris snowmobile dealers.
Snowmobilers can use the sled customizer at www.polarisindustries.com to build custom sleds and save them to a personal online “garage”. The rider can print out the sled description for the dealer to follow when placing the order.
Complete details are available from Polaris snowmobile dealers and at www.polarisindustries.com.
Winners Outsprint and Outlast the Competition to Win $50,000
Tyler Huntington and Chris Olds used determination, tremendous riding skills and Polaris Terrain Domination to win their second-straight Iron Dog race across Alaska on February 26 on a pair of 2011 Polaris 600 RUSH snowmobiles.
Huntington and Olds completed the grueling, weather-battered 2,000-mile race 18 minutes ahead of the runners-up. Four of the top seven Pro Class teams to finish were on Polaris snowmobiles, including the fourth-place team of David Branhold and Matthew Spernak, and fifth-place team of Ryan Sottosanti and Andrew Zwink. Aaron Marks and Arnold Marks finished seventh.
Huntington and Olds were in the lead early on the final day of racing, which featured the top teams sprinting toward Fairbanks on the twisting Yukon River. But near the Manley checkpoint, about 300 miles from the finish, Huntington and Olds had to stop to replace a broken belt.
The team of Todd Palin and Eric Quam passed them for the lead and built up a 17-minute advantage at Nenana, the final major checkpoint before the finish.
But Palin’s sled developed ski trouble that his team had to stop to repair, and Huntington and Olds sped past to retake the lead and cruise into Fairbanks with their second-straight Iron Dog win.
Olds said the 600 RUSH sleds delivered outstanding performance throughout the race, which featured some of the deepest snow and worst weather in history.
“These were excellent machines for us,” he said of the sleds with the PRO-RIDE progressive rate rear suspension. “We didn’t have to turn a wrench on them. They were so durable.”
Competitors in the 2011 Iron Dog encountered harsh winter weather at the race’s half-way point in Nome. Race teams were held in Nome for an extra day as the storm raged, and then proceeded to the coastal town of Unalakleet under a yellow flag to ensure teams made it safely beyond the reach of the raging ocean storm.
First run in 1984 (and won by the Polaris team of John Faeo and Rod Frank), the Iron Dog race has been run 27 times (it was cancelled in 2003). Polaris teams have won it 13 times, the most of any brand. Those wins include the past three races, as Polaris racers Huntington and Olds won the past two years, and Todd Minnick and Nick Olstad won in 2009. Only two teams in Iron Dog history have won three straight times, and Huntington and Olds will have their opportunity to achieve a three-peat in 2012.
The Iron Dog Ambassador program was introduced during the 2011 race, as a team of four Ambassadors on Polaris sleds rode the race course as a Trail Class team and spread goodwill and thanks to volunteers along the way.
Three of the Ambassadors rode on new 2012 Polaris 600 Switchback Adventure snowmobiles, the first-ever “Adventure Snowmobile.” Delivering Versatility Without Compromise, the 600 Switchback Adventure delivers outstanding performance on- and off-trail, and features the new Adventure Cargo System.
The 2012 Iron Dog Ambassadors were:
– Mike Bedard, Polaris Snowmobile Engineering Manager, Trail Performance and Race.
– Alaska National Guard Lt. Col. Joseph Lawendowski
– Skip Boomershine, a member of the Iron Dog Board of Directors and the Ambassadors’ team leader.
– and Mark Ivy, the team’s assistant leader.
Ivy rode a 2011 Switchback Dragon, while the other three Ambassadors rode the Switchback Adventures.
While Trail Teams traditionally end their race at the half-way point in Nome, the Ambassadors left Nome intending to run the second half of the race to spread goodwill.
A fierce winter storm near the coast forced them back to Nome, which they reached after a harrowing overnight battle through sea ice and ocean overflow.
Winners Assist in Suicide Prevention Effort
The two-time Iron Dog race champions, Huntington and Olds, won $50,000 as the wining team, and also won public appreciation for their roles in the State of Alaska’s suicide prevention program.
Alaska has one of the nation’s highest suicide rates, per capita, and the Polaris racers worked with the state on a campaign to encourage residents, especially teens, to seek help if stresses mount in their lives.
Huntington and Olds filmed television commercials and public service announcements, and were also featured on the suicide prevention campaign’s sports cards, posters, stickers and newspaper ads.
The BOSS Racing team arrived in Valcourt, Quebec on the heels of ISOC’s Round 5 at the Pontiac Silverdome in Michigan.
Brett Turcotte came to defend his Championship title earned on these hallowed grounds the previous season. Fellow semi-pro teammates Cory Watkinson & Derek Ellis stepped up their game, also entering Pro competition for this prestigious Grand Prix De Valcourt.
Steeped in history and anchored by Bombardier’s influence, the Grand Prix Ski-Doo De Valcourt is considered the most important snowmobile event in North America.
Traditionally an F1 ice oval event; Snocross was added here in 1999. Blair Morgan won Snocross features here from ’99-’04 and is still the record holder here for most features won. Today there are several Snocross add-ons.
This year started under the lights on Friday night in front of an enormous crowd of North American snowmobile fans. The BOSS team entered the fray with all 3 BOSS athletes qualified for the main; Turcotte making the front row. After a neck and neck battle, Turcotte rallied to take the 3rd podium slot to cheering crowds.
Again, Saturday saw 3 BOSS riders in the main. A disastrous wreck even by snocross standards, took all 3 riders out of the lead pack in the first turn. Finishing order for the crew was: Ellis 7th, Watkinson 12th, & Turcotte a surprising 14th.
Sunday’s Pro Open brought only Ellis and Turcotte to the table, with Watkinson missing it by one slot. The boys suffered Saturday’s similar fate here on Sunday, when another rider lost control and crashed directly in front of Turcotte.
Turcotte could not avoid the physics of it all and he was done for the remainder of the race due to the crash. Ellis finished near the rear of the pack, and was nonetheless to be commended for his performance against the world’s top pros!
AJ takes a closer look at the 2011 Ski Doo MXZ TNT featuring the ROTAX 800R E-TEC engine evaluating its power, suspension and ridability to give you as much information as you can handle to make an informed decision if you’re looking for an 800-class 2-stroke snowmobile on the used market.
Usually by this time of year, the focus of most snowmobilers has moved from what’s for sale in the showrooms to what will be offered next fall.
This year, snowmobile buyers have a unique situation because there aren’t many non-current year sleds left over at dealerships.
This shortage of available new sleds by the middle of this season has intensified the desire of enthusiasts to find out more about the 2012 models about to be revealed.
Both Polaris, Ski-Doo and Yamaha have gotten an early-season jump on things by revealing all or some of their 2012 models and technologies they’ll be showing us next season.
There’s new stuff coming from both Cat, too, but it won’t be shown off until early March.
Here’s the good news, Supertrax has actually ridden all the new models and has some pretty decisive opinions on what’s available next year.
We can tell you this: We’re impressed with not only the number of changes next season but the depth to which the OEMs have gone to improve, re-invent and expand their model line-ups.
2012 is going to be a very exciting year and with the demand for sleds growing and the non-availability of one and 2-year-old sleds out there, we think the sell-outs of 2012 models will be very fast.
We’re not sucking up to the OEMs here, but honestly, if you’re thinking about buying a new sled next year, you need to get on the stick and take advantage of any of the manufacturers’ early-buy programs.
We can guarantee there will be a lot of disappointed shoppers next year who waited… and missed the opportunity to early-order a sled.
Those will be the one’s you’ll see riding duct-taped sleds with primer on them.
Find out our impressions of all the 2012 sleds in the March Zinio edition of Supertrax.
Available at ZINIO.com March 10, 2011.
Motorhead Mark uncovers the technology behind the ACE and offers his predictions for the next evolution of this engine.
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