TOP 3 mountain snowmobiles Polaris (Polaris)

Polaris 600 IQ Widetrak is a high-quality snowmobile from an American manufacturer. This model is considered one of the best for many reasons and parameters discussed in this article. The model under consideration is characterized by smooth operation and modern design, as well as proven technical solutions. The equipment was manufactured in the American division of Polaris, which is engaged in finalizing the design and body of snowmobiles of the same brand. The machine entered production in 2010, and is considered one of the most successful Polaris products. This snowmobile features an advanced chassis and a sports powertrain with excellent traction characteristics. Compared to classic utilitarian snowmobiles, a machine called Polaris 600 IQ Widetrak is very technologically advanced, dynamic and powerful. This can be confirmed by the fact that the maximum speed of the 600 IQ can reach 100 km/h.

The American snowmobile received a redesigned design, as it was required to install a new engine. The result is a moderately massive and maneuverable snowmobile with an acceptable weight and technological innovations. In terms of cross-country ability, the 600 IQ Widetrak also showed its best side. The model is ideally suited for difficult climatic conditions. It is very comfortable on long trips. The snowmobile has a comfortable passenger seat, a spacious trunk and an ergonomic dashboard.

In addition, let's pay attention to the new suspension, which is based on double A-arms with a high power-to-weight ratio. Thanks to this, you can freely transport up to two passengers (including the driver), plus another 500 kg of cargo. At the same time, you can move over any terrain. The driver's seat has been improved compared to its predecessors. For example, it is possible to adjust the backrest, and you can also turn on the heated handles of the passenger seat - this function will further increase driving comfort.

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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.

Where to order and buy

You can buy a new snowmobile without mileage only from an authorized dealer. In this case, you will have to make a reservation. Since the model does not belong to budget trucks, it is not worth taking less than 500 - 550 thousand rubles. The cost of a sample with a four-stroke engine and an injector produced in 2012 varies between 600 - 730 thousand rubles.

Specifications

1. Dimensions, mm: Length – 3480, Width – 1220, Height – 1340
2. Ski base – 1080 mm
3. Track dimensions, mm: Length – 3962, Width – 508, Ridge height – 31
4. Dry weight – 304 kg
5. Passenger capacity – 2 people.
6. Trailer weight – 500 kg
7. Transmission – CVT, with reverse, belt drive
8. Front Suspension – IQ
9. Front suspension travel – 254 mm
10. Rear suspension – Utility, with 280 mm travel
11. Anti-roll bars (front, rear) – no
12. Rear shock absorbers, pcs. – 2
13. Brakes – hydraulic disc Phantom
14. Frame material – aluminum
15. Body material – plastic
16. Footrests for driver and passenger – yes
17. Anti-slip coating - yes
18. Snow protection – yes
19. Bumpers front and rear - yes
20. Composite skis - yes
21. Halogen headlight - yes.

2015 Polaris 600 Indy Snowmobile Review

Of the two Indy 600 models, the SP version is worth paying extra.

The new Polaris Indy series of snowmobiles combines the nostalgia of the legendary brand with an attractive price. For the 2015 model year, Polaris is offering two models of its Indy 600 sled, sharing thousands of green American reasons to shell out (or not shell out) for the slightly better equipped SP model.

What will the buyer get if he decides to pay extra for the 600 Indy SP 2015? And is it worth it?

The 600 Indy SP is undoubtedly better equipped and checks more boxes on our sled wish list. But you need to decide for yourself, are they worth the money? For the most part, as you'd expect, these two sleds are very, very similar. The main differences are only significant if you consider yourself a dashing and aggressive driver.

A Polaris Cleanfire 2-stroke, twin-cylinder 600cc engine powers both this 600 Indy SP and the base sled.

Under the hood is the same 599cc Cleanfire two-stroke, twin-cylinder engine, designed and built by Polaris. Producing about 120 horsepower through the Polaris/TEAM drivetrain, engine performance should be the same on both Indy 600 models. The drive pulley is the familiar and venerable Polaris P-85, which has a very long history with Fuji and Polaris engines. The lightweight TEAM driven pulley is race proven and incredibly reliable.

Both 600 Indy models run very stable and smooth thanks to Polaris' proprietary Cleanfire fuel injection system. So, regardless of the choice between the base or SP version, you can count on a confident ride in the snow with smooth starts and decisive acceleration. The Polaris 600 engine is equal in power to the Ski-Doo 600 E-TEC models, so you won't lose any power if you decide not to pay extra for the Indy SP.

The 600 Indy brought an iconic name back to the snowmobile industry. Rest assured, the 2015 Indy represents a huge improvement over older versions with independent front suspension (IFS).

If you like to have fun on packed snow and take turns on tight, twisty roads, you'll want to consider the SP. Thanks to the upgrades, this version of the sled provides excellent road feedback compared to the base 600 Indy model. The front suspension is equipped with coilovers on Fox shock absorbers with an internal floating piston (IFP - Internal Floating Piston). The base version features proprietary RydeFX MPV shock absorbers with patented technology for a smooth transition from low-speed riding to firm, high-speed handling. The RydeFX MPV shocks are good and are often used on budget models like Indy's predecessor, the Polaris Shift. The Fox IFP shocks are also universal, but do a better job with less sag in difficult terrain. Different shock absorbers are one of the slight differences between the base Indy version and the SP. Fox shocks are also found on the rear suspension of the 600 Indy SP.

There's another defining factor that revolves around the Indy's rear suspension: the track. While both Indy versions come with a 15-inch wide by 121-inch long rubber track, there are not-so-minor differences. The base 600 Indy is equipped with a Shockwave track with 23-millimeter low lugs. The 600 Indy SP is slightly more grippy in the snow thanks to the Hacksaw track with higher 25mm lugs.

The 600 Indy's aluminum chassis is largely similar to the light mountain sled platform, but features Indy's own 353-millimeter rear suspension.

The Hacksaw track is a good choice for the Indy SP, but we think a Ripsaw track with 31mm lugs would be a better fit. The Shockwave track is very good on packed trails and is a decent option overall, but if you want to experience the sled's full capabilities in powder corners, be prepared for more wobble and slide.

The SP model comes with a one-piece handlebar and Polaris Pro-Steer skis.

Dashing drivers should take a closer look at the SP over the base model for other reasons. The SP comes with a new one-piece handlebar that has curved handles. In addition, the heating element is located in the steering wheel along its entire length. Another advantage of the 600 Indy SP is the Polaris Pro-Steer skis, which make turns easier and require less steering effort. The base Indy version comes with standard plastic skis.

The riding position on both 600 Indy models is secure yet comfortable thanks to the wide Indy Pro-Ride seat. The rear section is wider and the tapered front section allows the body to move freely and easily in tight turns.

If we were given a choice between these two versions of the 600 Indy, we would still choose the SP. With all the extras, we think the 600 Indy SP is a better buy and definitely worth the extra cost over the base model. The Fox IFP shock set is a big plus. The Hacksaw caterpillar is better than the Shockwave. Pro-Ride skis and a one-piece handlebar are almost mandatory things. Of course, on a straight, packed section of snow, the two sleds will be nearly indistinguishable in terms of performance and on-snow behavior.

For Indy models, Polaris has a series of accessories and attachments, including this small aluminum rack.

The 600 Indy SP delivers more fun on the snow while racking up an extra $1,000 in the price tag. However, if you're looking for an inexpensive, tough model in the 600cc class, the base 600 Indy is a great fit. Of course, if you're on a tight budget and money is the primary consideration rather than sled performance, consider the air-cooled 550 Indy. With the exception of the drive system, the 550 Indy is equipped largely the same as the base 600 Indy. But we'd go with the 600 Indy SP, which is a very well-equipped sport sled.

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.

Descriptions and features of the unit

The main feature of the Polaris Widetrak IQ 600 is the presence of a 4-stroke two-cylinder 600 Cleanfire engine. Its work is based on a new fuel injection technology called Cleanfire Injection (CFI). The power plant is also liquid cooled, which was developed based on Liberty 600 technology, the main feature of which is the compact arrangement of the cylinder block.

The new engine has the same compression ratio and piston stroke that characterized the previous carburetor model. However, the system received some improvements that made it possible to use it in conjunction with fuel injection.

The CFI system supplies fuel through injectors, two for each cylinder. One of them is used at high speeds, and the other at low speeds. This allows you to increase engine output. As a result of this, the track “pulls” equally well both at high speed and during acceleration. The same principle of gas distribution is used in automobile engines.

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.

Manual for use

Each snowmobile comes with an instruction manual. The manual contains useful information for owners:

• snowmobile device;
• location of main signs;
• description of controls, mechanisms and components;
• recommendations for operation, safe driving methods;
• maintenance manual.

Among other things, in the manual you can find a list of typical faults, as well as methods for eliminating them. The manufacturer makes clear distinctions between maintenance that the driver can perform himself and maintenance that must be performed by the dealer. To perform the second type of maintenance, the owner should contact a specialized service center.

Controls

All main controls are located on the steering handles. An ergonomic digital display is used to monitor indicators.

The numbers in the figure indicate the following elements:

1. brake lever;
2. button for turning on the heated handles;
3. turning on the gas trigger heating;
4. reverse switch;
5. control switch;
6. switching the headlight light mode;
7. engine stop button;
8. gas lever.

The main elements of the multifunction display (see Fig. 4):

1. analog speedometer (sometimes missing);
2. digital display;
3. engine status indicator (lights up in case of a malfunction);
4. overheat sensor;
5. parking brake indicator;
6. reverse activation indicator;
7. high beam indicator lamp.

Recommendations for engine break-in

When purchasing a new snowmobile, it is important to strictly follow the manufacturer's recommendations. Only in this case can the life of the engine and other important parts of the all-terrain vehicle be extended. The break-in period is the time during which the first full tank of fuel is exhausted.

During the first full refueling, add engine oil directly to the gasoline. This will allow the engine parts to run in correctly. It is highly not recommended to use mixtures of different brands of motor oils. This can lead to filter clogging, sediment, and thickening of the mixture at low temperatures.

Daniila Rukin

Snowmobile specialist "Buran". I go fishing in my free time.

Ask a Question

If you take semi-synthetic oil, this will speed up the break-in of the piston rings. The manufacturer recommends using Polaris Premium 2-circle semi-synthetic oil during the first refueling.

Mixing proportions:

The fuel mixture should be prepared in a separate container. It is strictly not recommended to add motor oil directly to the gas tank.

What to take with you on a trip

The manufacturer recommends that you always take the instruction manual with you when traveling. Also, in order to provide additional protection, the following kit should be kept on board the all-terrain vehicle at all times:

• spare set of spark plugs and variator belt;
• towing cable;
• first aid kit;
• road map;
• fuel defrost;
• motor oil supply;
• winter rescue kit.

You should also take a full set of tools and emergency communications equipment on every trip.