Snowmobile "Polaris": technical characteristics and reviews

The Polaris snowmobile, one of the best tracked all-terrain vehicles of our time, was created in 1954 by brothers Edgar and Allan Hitton. The first device was generally successful, although the creators expected more. Nevertheless, the Hittons’ neighbor bought the “motosleigh” for a decent amount, and this became the impetus for the construction of the next copy. The brothers invested the money ($465) raised from the sale into a new, improved car.

History of creation

If the brothers equipped their first snowmobile with a lawn mower engine, which was low-power and unreliable, then for their next car they purchased a two-cylinder motorcycle engine that developed a thrust of 12 horsepower. This power, according to Edgar's calculations, should have been enough to transport two riders at a speed of 30 miles per hour. The engine was installed on a frame made of thin-walled pipes, which we made ourselves using a primitive welding machine for home work.

It was impossible to create a real classic tracked truck in a garage, so the brothers decided to use drive wheels from a garden tractor, relatively small in diameter, but wide enough so that they would not fall into the snow. The calculation turned out to be correct, and after the tire pressure was reduced and the wheels settled, movement on the virgin snow became optimal - the design started working.

The new snowmobile, named “Polaris,” was already more maneuverable, and it literally “hit it right off the bat”: the torquey motorcycle engine easily accelerated the light car. The Hitton brothers decided to start designing and producing snowmobiles.

However, the inventors did not have enough money to develop the project, and the brothers bought waste metal pipes of various profiles in bulk from a mechanical plant that operated nearby. When enough material had been collected, work began in the garage under the house. To begin with, the Hitton brothers made three snowmobiles, which they immediately sold to local residents, and with the proceeds they purchased materials for the next batch, which already included five snow bikes. The garage became crowded, so we had to rent additional space on the outskirts of the city. This is how a workshop for the production of snowmobiles appeared - “The Hitton Brothers and the Northern Star”

a few years later it declared itself as a manufacturer of reliable equipment for driving in snowy areas. Since the early 60s of the last century, the Polaris brand (which means “North Star”) has united under its auspices the production of sports motor vehicles, including snowmobiles of various modifications.

The lineup

Modern Polaris snowmobiles, reviews of which are usually positive, are powerful compact machines that make up the whole family of Polaris Rush models, with high-speed characteristics, easy to control and reliable. The production of snow bikes uses the highest technologies of recent times, technical innovations that allow them to withstand fierce competition in the market. The company is developing successfully, the model range is regularly replenished with exclusive developments. Each new machine is the result of the hard work of the company’s large team.

The Polaris snowmobile has 16 sports modifications, 17 mountain models and 18 touring models. In addition, the company has five utilitarian types for adults and three for children. Each model includes a number of exclusive features, although most components and assemblies are completely or partially unified. This simplifies the assembly line process: when it is necessary to increase the production of a particular model, there is no need to rebuild production. A certain set of parts is common to a certain number of models, and the production line almost never stops.

Sports cars

• Polaris IQ 550/600 Shift is a brand of sports snowmobile with a torquey engine that allows you to reach speeds of 100 km/h with stable control.
• The Indy 600 SP is a car with a powerful 600 cc Liberty Cleafire engine. High engine performance is combined with low fuel consumption, thanks to the latter's controlled injection system.
• 600 RR - Race Replica snowmobile, model 2008, provides a fairly comfortable off-road ride. The machine is light, maneuverable, and behaves steadily at any speed.
• The 600 Rush is an innovative sports snowmobile released in 2010. The design includes almost all the latest proprietary developments; the car is distinguished by its aggressive design and high engine response.
• Rush 600 Pro-R is a popular 2011 model with a 125 hp engine. s., needs no introduction. Sports lines are organically combined with a relatively low weight of 212 kilograms.
• The Switchback 600 Adventure is a Polaris 600 SA snowmobile from the 2012 lineup, featuring an extended contour that allows for a 136-inch track. The engine is a two-stroke engine that has proven itself in racing.
• Dragon 600/800 SP is a sports snowmobile, produced in 2009, created on the IQ platform. Available in two versions, with a forced engine and with calmer dynamics.
• 600/800 IQ - 2009 model, features a powerful engine that propels the car right off the bat. Ideal for extreme riding enthusiasts.

Engine characteristics

"Pro" class

• The Indy 800 SP is a performance snowmobile with a lightweight, durable Pro-Ride chassis for easy handling at high speeds. It is characterized by engine efficiency.
• The Rush 800 Pro-R, one of the first Polaris snowmobiles, corners smoothly at speeds above 80 km/h while maintaining a comfortable feel.
• Switchback 800 Pro-R is a model equipped with a 136-inch track and high-performance Walker Evans shock absorbers, which are found on all Pro machines. The 800 features a wide, comfortable seat.
• 600 Dragon FST - the snowmobile has a truly draconian character, super dynamic, although obedient to control. Indispensable in racing and any other sporting competitions.

Specifications

Polaris Widetrak LX snowmobiles are equipped with a frame chassis assembled from steel pipes. The equipment has 2-cylinder gasoline engines with a 2-stroke gas distribution system. The most popular models have carburetor engines, which are gradually being replaced by units with electronic injection systems that ensure fuel economy. Some of the equipment is equipped with a 2-seater seat designed to carry a driver and a passenger.

The suspension is equipped with a system for adjusting stiffness depending on the weight of the load, and no special equipment is required for adjustment.

The caterpillar belt differs in width and length, ensuring motion stability and acceleration regardless of the condition of the snow cover and the weight of the load. The body is made of plastic and composite panels with increased strength. The snowmobile is turned by a motorcycle-type steering wheel; the front suspension of an independent design provides improved handling and stability when driving.

Description of technical characteristics of the Polaris 850 model:

• length - 3414 mm;
• width - 1105 mm;
• height - 1247 mm;
• weight - 204 kg;
• working volume - 840 cm³;
• travel of the front and rear suspensions is 229 and 406 mm.

Engine power

• The IQ 700 is a sports snowmobile with an aggressive appearance, thanks to a 142 hp engine. With. provides the owner with a high level of adrenaline throughout the trip.
• IQ Shift is a wonderful tool for breathtaking travel across the snowy plain; the extreme nature of the snowmobile will not let you get bored.
• Turbo IQ Dragon is a car from the 2009 model range. Ideal for active recreation, sports competitions and simply breathtaking trips. The snowmobile, driven by a 140 horsepower engine, will always be ahead.
• Turbo IQ is a fast car for the snowy expanses. The sporting characteristics are impeccable, the car moves smoothly and confidently in the given mode.

Engine

The Polaris 600 IQ Widetrak snowmobile received a Libergy gasoline engine, which belongs to the 600 Cleanfire family. Features of the power plant are liquid cooling and a Cleanfire Injection system. These components provide decent acceleration and excellent throttle response. The power unit operates quite smoothly, without noticeable jerks, vibrations or noise at high speeds. The motor also has a large reserve of traction, which is very important for overcoming climbs. With a working volume of 0.6 liters, the engine develops 125 horsepower. The compact two-cylinder design is simple and maintainable. Maintenance problems do not arise even during repairs far from the garage. The manufacturer recommends using fuel with an octane rating of at least 92. Among other characteristics of the internal combustion engine, we note the proprietary SC VES exhaust system, CDI digital ignition system, Cleanfire fuel injection system and manual starter. In order to reduce the cost of the design and improve maintainability, the developers abandoned the turbocharger.

Mountain models

• Shift 550 136 is a universal machine for various events in mountain conditions.
• The 600 LX is a comfortable and reliable mountain all-terrain vehicle. Equipped with a 125 horsepower engine.
• 600 Pro-RMK - the snowmobile is distinguished by a spring-hydraulic rear suspension with Walker Evans class shock absorbers and other know-how.
• Shift 600 136 is a car designed for long trips, equipped with a powerful engine and a spacious fuel tank.
• The Dragon 800 Switchback is a luxury snowmobile that is easy to control.

Video

As a result of these minor modifications, the Polaris 600 IQ Widetrak has become an excellent tractor with high levels of comfort and handling. It must be admitted that with such a machine you can not be afraid when driving on sharp slopes and descents. There will be no problems during the most difficult journeys, as confirmed by successful factory tests and positive user reviews. This snowmobile is actively interested in foresters, fishermen, hunters and all those people for whom the main priorities when buying a snowmobile are handling and reliability. One cannot ignore the spacious fuel tank, which guarantees a large range on long journeys.

Main features of the Polaris 600 IQ Widetrak snowmobile:

1. Adjustable steering column to suit driver's body type
2. Sturdy, tool-free Lock&Ride seat backrest for installation
3. Heated steering wheel function
4. Reverse function with two operating modes, as well as electric starter
5. Glove compartment heating function, with which you can dry something (for example, glasses)
6. GPS receiver, branded gloves and other accessories.

Basic equipment elements:

1. Steering wheel with fixed positions
2. Electric starter
3. Indicators of oil level and temperature
4. Speedometer
5. Fuel consumption indicator
6. Tachometer
7. Heated steering wheel
8. 12V source for charging accessories
9. Compact luggage compartment
10. Rear view mirrors
11. Windshield
12. Rear towbar.

The Polaris 600 IQ Widetrak snowmobile, without any exaggeration, is a powerful “workhorse” and, at the same time, a stylish and modern device for hunters and fishermen, as well as lovers of an active lifestyle.

Pros:

1. Economical
2. Stylish design
3. Powerful and torquey engine
4. High load capacity
5. Ergonomic dashboard, comfortable and grippy handles
6. Windshield.

Minuses:

1. Small trunk
2. Large dimensions
3. Noise, vibrations due to the engine
4. Mediocre handling at low speeds.

Best models

• Polaris 800 RMK 155 is a classic mountain all-terrain vehicle with a 154 horsepower engine, which is an unprecedented example of design maximalism.
• The Switchback 800 Assault 144 is a snowmobile designed for driving in deep snow both on the plain and in the mountains. The mode switching system allows you to select the optimal location of the driving mechanisms.
• Trail RMK is one of the most popular models. The average characteristics nevertheless made the car popular and in demand on the snowmobile market.
• Turbo LX is a 2010 snowmobile. The mountain model is distinguished by its endurance and sufficient level of comfort.

Appearance

Tourist snowmobiles

• The Indy 550 Adventure is the perfect vehicle for long-distance travel. It has a good level of comfort and a smooth ride.
• The Indy 600 Voyager is a good motocross car, easy to drive, and can overcome the most difficult terrain on rough terrain without any special equipment.
• IQ 600 LXT is a touring snowmobile produced in 2011. The engine is two-stroke, 600 cc/cm, with a power of 125 hp. With.
• The IQ 600 Touring is a touring vehicle for long trips. The car is quite comfortable, even while driving it encourages you to relax.
• Rush 600 LX is a modern touring snowmobile. The vehicle is equipped with a high-capacity gas tank, which allows you to cover significant distances without refueling.
• 600 Switchback - a touring snowmobile with a sporty bent; Thanks to the Pro-Ride suspension, the car has the agility that distinguishes sports models.
• The 800 Switchback is a rationally designed snowmobile with sport-touring characteristics.
• The Switchback 800 Adventure is a touring snowmobile equipped with a sports suspension that provides good traction on any snow surface.

Reviews

• Ruslan, Leningrad region. I learned to use this machine thanks to my dad, who taught me how to use this snowmobile. It was difficult at first, but then I got used to it. First we had Buran, which after three years became unviable. We replaced it with a Polaris 600 IQ Widetrak. The difference between an American and a Russian car is colossal. The imported snowmobile has enough power to spare, even if you drive through the taiga. You can even ride with three passengers, plus some additional cargo. Among the advantages, I note high traction, a durable front end, efficiency at high speeds, a strong chassis, power and torque reserves, and a stylish appearance. The disadvantages include mediocre maneuverability in the forest, large weight and dimensions (especially in width and length). Because of this, it is very difficult to drive through the taiga. At low speed, the handling is generally somewhat blurry.
• Yaroslav, Nizhny Novgorod. The device turned out to be decent. The car is a 2011 model and was purchased from the first owner in 2015. The snowmobile is generally reliable and starts even at very low temperatures. It has a large reserve of traction, and we were able to verify this when transporting two passengers and cargo with a total weight of 400 kg. The chassis and engine do not cause any particular problems; at least in just over three years there have been no problems. The machine consumes an average of 25 liters depending on the load. In general, I praise Polaris for its reliability, nimble character, powerful engine, etc. Some time ago I had to change the mudguard, belt and spark plugs.
• Nikita, Carpathians. The car was produced in 2014, an excellent device in all respects. Well, or almost everyone. The device accelerates and rides faster and more comfortably than the BRP Ski-Doo Skandic WT 600 e-tec snowmobile, which belongs to my friend. The maximum speed of Polaris is 135 km/h - an excellent indicator. At the same time, I cannot call this model sports, although it is endowed with excellent traction qualities. Supports 92 gasoline. Among the significant disadvantages, I note the high fuel consumption at high speed. It turns out on average 55-57 liters, no more. As soon as I bought the snowmobile, I had to adjust the variator. During the run-in, strange knocking noises were heard in the gearbox, but then they disappeared on their own. So, after four years of use, the car showed its best side, with the exception of some shortcomings.
• Rinat, Uzhgorod. The Polaris 600 IQ Widetrak snowmobile is the second such machine in our family. A second one was needed because the children were growing up and one snowmobile was no longer enough. The device was purchased in 2012 at a big discount. In the first four months, the mileage was 1,500 km, and without any problems. The next season (second year) of operation, the snowmobile began to cause its first problems - the front lower arms had to be replaced (they were bent). The next (third) season, a crackling sound appeared in the gearbox, which intensified when accelerating. I have concluded that this is due to chain stretching. For the fourth season (4th year of use), I updated the tracks and the alternator belt tensioner. In general, there are enough problems. I decided to keep the car for now, but apparently I’ll sell it soon before it completely falls apart.

Luxury car

• FST Touring - the model can be classified as a “luxury” model due to its characteristics: a four-stroke turbine engine with 140 horsepower and IQ class suspension.
• The Trail Touring is a simple, reliable machine equipped with a medium-power, air-cooled two-stroke engine.
• Touring Trail DLX is a comfortable touring snowmobile, quite reliable and relatively inexpensive.
• The 2011 IQ Turbo LXT is a long-distance vehicle with plush seats and a powerful, quiet engine.

Utilitarian models

• The 340 Transport is one of Polaris' lightest and fastest models, perfect for walking, hunting and fishing. Playfully overcomes obstacles, large snowdrifts, snow hummocks.
• 550 Transport - Polaris 550 snowmobile with good cross-country ability and medium engine power. The weight of the car does not exceed 243 kilograms.
• The IQ 600 Widetrak is a powerful tractor with a wide track. The Polaris Widetrack 600 snowmobile is capable of walking in deep snow with two riders. The machine can also easily pull a ski trailer weighing up to 500 kilograms. The speed characteristics of the snowmobile meet the standards of the IQ group.
• Widetrak IQ - the Polaris Widetrak IQ snowmobile is often compared to a tractor, since the machine is equipped with a 4-stroke circulator-cooled Liberty 600 engine with a power of 125 hp. With. The characteristics of the motor meet the best technical standards.
• The most popular member of the range, the Widetrak LX is an extremely powerful machine with extended tracks, capable of towing loads in excess of 600 kilograms. The speed characteristics of the LX can be the envy of a car, and the maneuverability of the snowmobile is amazing. The car gently turns into turns without losing speed. This is one of the reasons that encourages buyers to purchase a Polaris Widetrak LX snowmobile. Reviews from the owners of this “miracle of technology” are mostly positive. Buyers note the reliability of the design and a fairly long service life. The model is successfully used on high-altitude ski slopes as a convenient vehicle, economical and efficient. The LX model also has no equal in sports competitions. This is what the popular Polaris Widetrak LX snowmobile looks like today. Reviews from owners based on the results of many years of operation also look quite optimistic. A snowmobile of this particular model has long been the dream of many fans of winter sports. The car can serve as a tractor, truck or reliable transport for traveling long distances. The Polaris Widetrak LX snowmobile is available in several options: colors, comfort level and speed parameters. The model is also valued due to its significant engine life.
• "Polaris 500" is a snowmobile, the predecessor of today's conquerors of snowy plains. The car was produced in the 90s of the last century and served as the basis for new developments, which were then turned into full-fledged models.

Children's snowmobiles

• The 120 Assault is definitely a car designed for the youngest drivers. Friendly settings predominate, eliminating jerks and sharp braking, and at the same time, the car is equipped with a fairly powerful four-stroke engine, independent front suspension and a number of other subtleties for “adults”.
• 120 Dragon is an ideal car for the younger generation, assembled using the latest technology. Speed ​​limits, soft brakes, gradual acceleration of the snowmobile - all this is aimed at child psychology.
• 120 Indy is new for preschoolers. A small, almost toy snowmobile with a friendly “character”. Meets all the requirements for machines of this class.