Polaris 800 RMK, Assault 2010 and 2011 – similarities and differences

06/12/2017 admin

The Polaris 800 snowmobile is a mountain vehicle and is available in several modified versions, which differ from each other in their performance characteristics, and, of course, in appearance. Currently, the most popular modifications on the Russian market are the Polaris 800 RMK Assault 155 and Polaris 800 PRO-RMK 155.

Let's take a closer look at these versions:

The Polaris 800 RMK Assault 155 snowmobile is a universal mountain machine that can not only just be ridden, but also perform various tasks, for example, towing any loads on a sled. As for the scope of application, there are no restrictions; the snowmobile can be operated both in mountain conditions and on prepared tracks and ice. The power plant of this model has a displacement of 795 cubic meters, which has an excellent effect on the speed of movement and the acceleration of the car. It is worth noting that the Polaris 800 RMK Assault 155 is the fastest among other models.

In order for the snowmobile to feel great in mountainous areas, the manufacturer equips the machine with a long Competition type track, which has high lugs. Thanks to this, it was possible to achieve high maneuverability and stability on slippery and loose surfaces. The Pro-Ride frame and suspension have been significantly lighter and feature carbon inserts. The QuickDrive drive system was also lightened and modern side steps made of aluminum were installed. The rear suspension has coil springs, which are necessary when traveling in deep snow.

Technical characteristics of Polaris 800 DRAGON RMK

The engine used by Liberty was traditionally liquid cooled; with 2 cylinders, the indicated engine displacement was 795 cc. This allows for 154 horsepower, making the snowmobile's capabilities limitless. With a dry weight of 214 kg, the snowmobile is quite maneuverable and handles well; it also uses a disc brake and a modern variator.

The length of the snowmobile declared by the manufacturer was 327.7 cm with a width of 118 cm. Now you can ride this vehicle for a long time; the Polaris 800 DRAGON RMK has a fuel tank with a capacity of 43.5 liters. Comfort is created using an adjustable IQ RMK front suspension and a standard RMK rear suspension. Professional high-quality Walker Evans shock absorbers are used to ensure maximum suspension comfort.

Specifications

Dimensional data:

• The structural length of the snowmobile is 3327 millimeters.
• The width of the body is 1181 millimeters.
• The total height of the snowmobile is 1247 millimeters.
• The smallest ski base is 990 millimeters.
• The largest ski base is 1040 millimeters.

Suspension:

• Front suspension type: adjustable AXYS® RMK®.
• Rear suspension type: RMK® Coil-Over.
• Number of front shock absorbers – 2.
• Front shock absorbers: Walker Evans® Comp. Adj. Piggyback.
• Rear shock type: Walker Evans® Comp. Adj. Piggyback.
• Center shock absorbers are Walker Evans® Impact-Extruded Monotube.
• Ski type – Gripper.
• The front suspension travel is 229 millimeters.
• Rear suspension travel is 406 millimeters.

Propulsion:

• The type of propulsion is caterpillar with front drive sprockets.
• Number of caterpillars – 1.
• Tension mechanism type: screw.
• Type of caterpillar track – rubber-fabric, reinforced.
• The total length of the track is 3937 millimeters.
• The width of the caterpillar track is 380 millimeters.
• The height of the lugs is 50.8 millimeters.

Transmission:

• The installed transmission model is QuickDrive™.
• CVT type – P-85 / TEAM® LWT.
• The type of transmission installed is CVT.
• CVT gears – low (L), high (H), reverse, neutral.

Brakes:

• Brake type – disc, AXYS® RMK® LWT.
• Brake drive type – hydraulic.

Operating parameters:

• Start type of the power unit – manual/electric starter.
• Type of power supply system – Cleanfire® Injection.
• Ignition system type – Clean-Fire 3D.
• Type of lubrication system – oil.
• The structural weight of the snowmobile is 185 kilograms.
• The capacity of the main fuel tank is 43.5 liters.
• Number of places – 1.
• Exhaust system type – Single, 3 Stage VES w/ Smart Actuator.

Basic equipment:

• Electric starter – available.
• Reverse gear – available.
• Heated steering wheel grips and throttle trigger are available.
• Windshield – available.
• Passenger backrest available.
• Rear towbar – available.
• Speedometer – available.
• Odometer – available.
• Front reinforced bumper – available.
• Rear reinforced bumper – available.

Lighting technology:

• Headlight type: halogen, 55/60.
• Taillight type: LED.

Polaris 800 DRAGON RMK review

The Polaris RMK 800 snowmobile is the ideal choice for the Russian user, comfortable, soft, high quality. For quite decent money, the buyer will receive a lightweight seat, a 12-inch diameter windshield with a transparent base, and a digital display with many functions is now installed as a dashboard. The basic equipment will already please every buyer, but as options you can order a 12V socket, mirrors, a rear trunk and a towing device. In the basic version you can find such elements as an electric starter, handle and lever heaters.

The new product has already received a lot of positive reviews, in particular, they note that the weight has been reduced by 11.3 kg. This is possible thanks to the use of lighter materials and alloys in the base. A Series 5 track is installed, designed specifically for mountain travel. Together with it, an excellent rear suspension helps to conveniently distribute the weight of the snowmobile and improve off-road performance. Tests were carried out before using the Gripper RMK skis, so the device has proven itself ideal on climbs and on difficult terrain. Branded shock absorbers from Walker Evans are adjustable, very high quality and are distinguished by the presence of an aluminum body and have heat-treated valves. Synthetic oil is poured into the shock absorber. This is an ideal solution for suspension operation in the coldest weather, the manufacturer has provided everything.

Price

It is worth noting that the Polaris 800 snowmobile is not a cheap pleasure. The cost of a new car usually starts from one million rubles and up to 1.2 million Russian rubles. The price of the machine changes depending on the year of production of the equipment, its configuration and version (basic or modified).

You can also purchase a used car, however, the cost for this option is also considerable - from 850 thousand rubles to 1.1 million Russian rubles. Here the price also depends on the year of production, version (basic or modified), general technical condition, and the number of kilometers traveled.

When purchasing a new snowmobile, the buyer is given a one-year warranty. And if during this period any malfunctions occur in the equipment, the official dealer provides free repair and service of the snowmobile. For the Polaris 800 model, the manufacturer has added a second warranty year, which comes into effect only if the client carefully operates the machine. This is precisely evidenced by the appearance of the equipment and the general technical condition; if everything is normal, then the official dealer will also undertake warranty repairs and service as in the first year of the warranty.

Snowmobile Polaris 800 RMK Assault 155

Another modification is the RMK Assault 155, a station wagon for little money. The snowmobile is ideal for “rides”, and is also capable of performing everyday tasks, such as towing cargo. The universal characteristics of the model allow you to ride on mountain trails and prepared tracks with ice. The engine capacity of 795 cc remains the same, but lightweight performance and other features make the snowmobile the fastest among other Polaris 800 modifications.

The “machine” showed itself ideally in mountainous areas; the tracks on Polaris snowmobiles were created in the Competition style - they have a good length and the presence of lugs. The latter provide a good and confident ride on slippery surfaces. Among other innovations, it is worth highlighting the lightweight QuickDrive drive system, the presence of carbon inserts in the suspension, as well as aluminum side steps. If you operate the Polaris 800 in heavy snow, the coil spring rear suspension helps ensure a comfortable ride.

Engine

The Polaris 800 snowmobile is equipped with a Liberty brand power unit. This engine has two cylinders, the total displacement of which is 795 cubic meters. The diameter of each cylinder is 85 millimeters. The piston stroke is 70 millimeters. The rated output power is 113.27 kilowatts or 154 horsepower, which is quite a high figure. It also uses a liquid cooling system with bypass, which allows you to operate the machine not only at fairly low ambient temperatures. The average fuel consumption for every hundred kilometers for this unit is about 16-17 liters. Started using an electric starter.

Polaris 800 for extreme riding

The Polaris brand took care of a lot, so it released a special configuration with the ability to ride an extreme snowmobile. In particular, it can withstand jumps from considerable heights. This was achieved thanks to the improved front suspension, which now does not have a stabilizer. If you want to seriously test your snowmobile in extreme riding, adjust the ski base for maximum performance. Of course, the shock absorbers are adjustable. The model described above also received lugs and high rigidity for better grip. All the described characteristics make the snowmobile one of the most rigid and stable, so the price is quite justified.

Polaris Switchback Assault 2014 Review

Chic crossover.

The Polaris Switchback has always been a trendsetter in the snowmobile industry. Years ago, when I first tried the Switchback, Polaris was betting on their new series of mountain models, the RMK. The previous line of mountain sleds, the SKS, evolved into the Switchback. What followed was years of Polaris defining and reimagining the Switchback as a crossover snowmobile. Like every other snowmobile manufacturer, Polaris tried to keep up with market demand or create it by inventing something new. Switchback's life has been full of ups and downs.

The Assault 800 comes in two colors: black and gray with red accents, and red with white and black accents. Black and gray Assault is only available in the spring.

However, it was the first crossover to create this niche.

While demand for the Switchback waxed and waned, Polaris settled on the Pro Ride chassis, the chassis that makes the Pro Rode RMK Pro so popular. This helped the Switchback become what I like to call a "crossover sport sled." Yes, it doesn’t sound like much, but we journalists love to come up with phrases that state the obvious.

This model year, Polaris added a sweet and bold 600 motor to the Switchback Assault, which is good news. The driver ends up with a long track snowmobile that requires less fuel and less money on maintenance. This is an exact replica of the 80 0Switchback Assault except for the engine size.

In the world of 800cc machines, don't forget about the Switchback Assault 600. This Assault only comes with a 1.35-inch Cobra track. An excellent choice for the beginner boondocker.

Along with the release of RMK Pro, a “Spring Only” version of the Switchback Assault with the RMK Series 4.0 mountain track appeared. The bond between the driver and the snowmobile was similar to the bond between an owner and his faithful dog.

Okay, enough chatter.

So what is the 2014 Polaris Switchback Assault all about?

Riding the 800 Switchback Assault in the country is a pleasure. Its 1.35-inch Cobra track (optional Series 4.0 RMK mountain track) allows the sled to combine mountain and powder riding

The Switchback Assault crossover is available in two variants. The first is equipped with a Series 4.0 RMK (15 x 144) track with two-inch lugs. This is the same track found on the standard RMK 600 144. The model is only available for purchase in the spring.

The second option uses a 15 x 144 Camoplast Cobra track with 1.35-inch lugs.

With the second option, the buyer can choose between the 600 and 800 Cleanfire engines. The 600 Switchback Assault cannot be ordered with the Series 4.0 RMK track.

Both engines are playful. The injection Cleanfire is a time-tested and reliable engine. The Cleanfire 600 performs well on the Switchback Assault and provides plenty of power.

The test driver rushes through the snowdrifts and flies on Switchback Assault. The suspension will soften the landing.

For those of you planning on taking the 600 Switchback Assault into the mountains, it's worth remembering that as the altitude rises 1,000 feet, the Cleanfire engine loses 3-4% of its power due to thin air. This doesn't just happen with Cleanfire.

With that said, at higher altitudes the 600 Switchback Assault will perform like a 500 or 440.

The 800 Switchback Assault is a very fast sled on the flats. In the mountains it will behave like a nimble 600 or 700 due to the same thin air.

The Hybrid RMK/Rush running boards don't have the large snow dump holes of the RMK PowerTrack running boards, but they are quite stiff and reliable.

The 600's power at sea level is approximately 135 hp; 800th - 155 hp. Both engines feature a liquid-cooled semi-direct injection (SDI) system that automatically calibrates timing and fuel delivery according to changes in temperature and altitude.

Assault is equipped with a chain drive system; The Quick Drive Low Inertia belt drive system is not included with the Switchback Assault. But no matter: the chain system is reliable and strong.

The driven pulley of the variator is the familiar Polaris P-85. Working in tandem with it is a driven pulley from Team Industries (LWT). They do their job very well. But if you plan to spend a lot of time in the mountains, make sure you have the correct springs and weights installed for best engine performance, as torque and power drop off as you gain altitude. This is especially important with the 600 engine.

The rear suspension of the Switchback Assault is the independent Switchback 144. It gives the snowmobile the agility of a 136, but at the same time provides good flotation in deep snow. When comparing the two Switchback models in terms of tracks, the Cobra 1.35 track performs well on packed snow and corners perfectly. It is no longer so good in deep snow and in the mountains. Conversely, the Series 4.0 RMK is great in the mountains, but its high ridges limit the Assault's speed and cornering agility. The choice is yours.

The rear suspension has 14 inches of vertical travel, and the Assault takes advantage of every inch. A Walker Evans combination shock absorber with adjustable compression is installed at the front, and a non-combination Walker Evans shock absorber at the rear.

Switchback Assault front suspension is Pro-Ride with fixed ski stand (42.5 inches). The skis are Pro-Steer, completely different from the Gripper on the Polaris RMK. Combination Walker Evans shock absorbers with adjustable compression handle the bumps. Suspension travel is 10 inches.

The Assault front suspension is equipped with high-quality Walker Evans shock absorbers.

The cockpit of the snowmobile is similar to that of the RMK Pro, with the exception of the handlebars, which are mounted lower and are not equipped with a mountain line.

The driving position is similar to the RMK cockpit. The Pro Taper handlebars are set slightly lower with curved grips; The mountain line in the center of the handlebar is also missing. But this is not a problem, since the Pro Ride chassis is designed specifically for the Switchback Assault.

The Switchback Assault pegs are similar to the Rush Switchback pegs - they are wide and weighty. The Hybrid, as Polaris calls them, is big enough for even the widest of feet. The snow dump holes aren't as big as on the RMK, but it's not an RMK after all. The footpegs are equally suitable for both sitting and standing riding.

The Hybrid's running boards look great on a crossover. However, when riding the 800 Switchback Assault with the Series 4.0 RMK track in deep snow on hills, the wide footpegs can prevent the chassis from properly contacting the surface of the slope; they protrude to the sides of the tunnel. Is this bad? No. As I already wrote, taking the Switchback Assault with the RMK track into RMK territory is a harsh test that tests the sled design to the limits of its capabilities.

The Switchback Assault Seat is a lightweight Freestyle seat. It differs from the Pro Lite on the RMK in that it is slightly longer and wider.

The 600 Switchback Assault can give any beginner the confidence and feeling of being a professional crossover driver.

Both Switchback Assault models are comfortable sport snowmobiles that are capable of riding in loose snow. The extended rear suspension provides good handling on narrow and winding roads. When seated, the Switchback Assault is very easy to control thanks to the height of the handlebars. The sled does a good job of boondocking, but if the snow is too deep, the sled can get bogged down, especially with a Cobra track instead of a Series 4.0 RMK.

The new 600 cc model is a good "live". But if you want to drive around high mountains, we advise you to choose the 800 model due to the drop in power at high altitudes.

Switchbacks are excellent crossover snowmobiles, with which the driver receives a machine that copes equally well with different tasks and occupies two market niches at once.