Since our release of Polaris’ newest three models, much anticipation has been out there if there is any more news coming out of the Minnesota manufacturer. That was just an appetizer for the upcoming main course. With all the updates and enhancements, there are now 9 new models from Polaris for 2012.
For 2011, the 800 Cleanfire engine was a huge success and gave the ultimate segment a whopping 12% boost; the PRO-RIDE chassis was a hit; the Switchback Assault was another home run; and, the Pro RMK hit the high mark. In fact, four of the top five models for 2011 are Polaris sleds. It should be the year for Polaris to take it easy but instead they have chosen to release three all-new models and greatly expand the current snowmobile selection.
Crossover (7 models)
The big news this year is the expansion of the Switchback for the ultimate experience for on and off-trail performance. We loved the Switchback, but some wanted a slightly shorter track. The Switchback with the PRO-RIDE 136 fills the bill. The Crossover segment for Polaris has expanded to seven total models and five models with the PRO-RIDE chassis with a 136-inch track and a choice of the either the 600 Cleanfire or 800 Cleanfire engines. The new Switchback chassis is a 7-inch expansion of the RUSH PRO-RIDE to deliver the same quality ride and handling of a RUSH with a 136” track. An all-new model for 2012 is the Switchback Adventure for solo touring. It comes standard with mirrors, wind deflectors, an extra wide windshield, electric start and electronic reverse. It also features the Polaris Lock & Ride Adventure Cargo System with a rear cargo rack and saddlebags that can be installed or removed in seconds. The 800 Switchback Assault returns with the 144” track, while all other Switchback models have the PRO-RIDE 136.
The Polaris Crossover segment includes the 550 Shift 136, 600 Switchback Adventure, 600 Switchback Pro-R, 800 Switchback, 800 Switchback Pro-R, and 800 Switchback Assault.
Trail Performance (7 models)
Be it a lake rocket or a sled to squeeze the juice on an open trail, the Ultimate segment is one of the fastest growing categories in snowmobiling. The RUSH Pro-R models feature a lightweight rotor and jackshaft to reduce rotating mass by 2.5 pounds. The Pro-R and Turbo IQ include the Walker Evans Needle Shocks with 16 compression damping positions. The other RUSH models have Fox HPG shocks, while the 550 and 600 IQ Shift sleds are equipped with RydeFX MPV. The new Race IFS suspension includes new spindles, new control arms, new control arm bushings and a new steering post. This moves the spindles outward without increasing the ski stance. The limited edition RUSH 800 Pro-R LE includes the Rox Adjustable Riser, electric start, Walker-Evans shocks, a deep lug 1.352” Cobra track, 12V & RCA power outlets, an exclusive graphics package, trellis-style storage rack and a personalized name plate is only available in the spring as a Snow Check model.
Included in the Trail Performance models are the 550 IQ, 600 IQ, Turbo IQ, 600 RUSH, 600 RUSH Pro-R, 800 RUSH, and 800 RUSH PRO-R.
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Deep Snow (7 models)
The RMK line has expanded to offer more performance with less weight—exactly what mountain riders want. This includes three new 600 RMK models for a lightweight alternative. They feature the 600 Cleanfire engine and PRO-RIDE RMK chassis for a 50 pound weight savings from the 2011 IQ RMK. The 800 Pro RMK is available in 155 or 163 track lengths with 2.4” lugs and the 800 RMK returns for 2012 with a 155-inch track. The 800 RMK Assault 155 offers the most for backcountry and freestyle riders with upgraded Walker Evans shocks all around and a 155 x 2.125 competition track.
RMK models include the 600 RMK 144, 600 RMK 155, 600 Pro RMK 155, 800 RMK 155, 800 Pro RMK 155, 800 Pro RMK 163 and the 800 RMK Assault 155.
Trail Luxury (4 models)
When you think of luxury, you think of geezer machines with gaudy mirrors, overly tall windshields and underpowered engines. That’s not the case with the sharp-looking 2012 LX and LXT models from Polaris. Now riders get the choice of either the 4-stroke turbo, 600 Cleanfire or the trusty 550 fan-cooled engine. They all include mirrors, reverse, electric start, adjustable backrests and a tall windshield that looks as good as it functions. The 600 LXT and Turbo LXT also have adjustable passenger footrests and electric passenger handwarmers with two heat settings. The Turbo LX, Turbo LXT and 600 LXT all have the IQ 136” Comfort Rear Suspension.
There are four Trail Luxury models for 2012: The 550 IQ LXT, 600 IQ LXT, Turbo IQ LX and Turbo IQ LXT
Utility (3 models)
When does a utility machine not look like a utility machine? When it is a Polaris. The WideTrak models combine stylish looks with utility features for a comfortable ride and decent performance.
The WideTrak is available in three varieties: The 600 IQ, the 4-stroke powered, FS IQ and the International model.
Youth (1 model)
The 120 Pro-R is a great way to introduce young riders to the sport of snowmobiling. Its 120cc engine and loads of safety features make it the perfect starter sled to safely enjoy the sport.
Snow Check Select
There’s more reason than ever to order your new Polaris in the Spring. Along with the Snow Check only RUSH Pro-R LE, with other models you can have the choice of engines, sled colors, windshields, track, seat and other convenience features. Order before April 19, 2011 to take advantage of all the special features available only for Snow Check Select. More information is available at www.polarisindustries.com.
So there you have it. Nine new models, an all-new Switchback, new PRO-RIDE 136, new Race IFS front suspension, and a 600cc mountain sled that loves the deep stuff. This obviously was not a year of rest for Polaris and we cannot wait to give them a test drive.