2009 Polaris® ATVs Preview
As with its snowmobile lineup, Polaris® is returning in force with its range of considerably improved ATVs and has a surprise in store for us. It's well known that the manufacturer never stops improving its products, year after year. Since the introduction of the very first ATV with a fully independent suspension in 1996, Polaris® engineers have brought numerous innovations to their models: the first engine braking system in 1999, the first ATV with a large-bore engine in 2002, the first ATV featuring electronic fuel injection in 2004 and the first ATV with two inline seats and a seat-cum-cargo box in 2007.
Despite these innovations and a slew of improvements, Polaris®'s flagship model was in need of a complete overhaul. It was only natural for the manufacturer to stay the course and launch an all-new chassis for its lineup of sport utility ATVs. For 2009, Polaris® is introducing two new Sportsman®s, to the delight of outdoorsy types everywhere.
We got to try out the new 2009 Sportsman® XP 550 EFI last August, a completely revised machine designed to take the new niche by storm, that of the mid-size, 550-cc ATVs. I can assure you that it blew us away on several fronts. The number of original features is mind-boggling: all-new longitudinal engine, new CVT transmission under the seat, new chassis with dual A-arm suspension on all four wheels, new 14-inch, cast-aluminum wheels, new front and rear Lock Ride cargo systems with a 165-kilo capacity and optional electric power steering.
Designed specifically for ATVs, the two new engines produce 40 and 70 hp respectively, which allows for considerably improved acceleration on the XP 550 and literally breathtaking ones on the XP 850. Mounted longitudinally, they allow for a slimmer machine and reduced friction for increased output to the wheels. Thanks to this new configuration, the Sportsman® XPs are more ergonomic and offer lots more driver leg room. It's worth mentioning that all 2009 Sportsman® models feature true four-wheel-drive on demand with active descent control and an adaptive engine braking system.
Photo Credit : Polaris®
The Polaris®/KTM partnership is going well. In fact, this year sport ATV aficionados can choose between three models powered by the Austrian firm's products. Other than the Outlaw 525 IRS with fully independent suspension and the 525 S with conventional swing arm suspension, the American manufacturer is now putting out a machine designed specifically for competition in the 450-cc sport ATV class.
The new 450 MXR benefits from the outstanding Austrian engine known for its above-par performance. The chassis has been trimmed down and has everything it needs for competition: Fox Podium X racing shock with auxiliary reservoir and compression and rebound adjustability, track-calibrated exhaust system, Magura self-adjusting hydraulic clutch, dual-piston front brake callipers, Maxxis RAZR MX tires and new aluminum bumpers and heel guards. The Outlaw 450 MXR will no doubt carve a name for itself on both the track and the podium in 2009.
Photo Credit : Polaris®
For 2009, Polaris® has concentrated its efforts on its range of side-by-side vehicles. The ergonomics of its current model have been tweaked on several fronts. This is the case of the Ranger® XP® LE, now more spacious and equipped with more comfortable seats as well as a height-adjustable steering wheel. Like the new 2009 Sportsman® XP, the Ranger® XP® inherits a new, fully independent, dual A-arm suspension system and electric power steering. It can also be dressed up in new colours and graphics for 2009.
Following the success of its RZR® side-by-side sport model, Polaris® has decided to offer extreme driving enthusiasts a widened, sportier version boasting specific equipment. Other than its wider, 152-cm track, the new RZR® S includes 12-inch aluminum wheels, fender wideners, seats with improved support, FOX shocks with auxiliary reservoir and a locking rear differential borrowed from the Sportsman® 800 Touring.
Completely revamped machines, a lineup of well endowed two-seaters, sport ATVs that have the competition quaking and value that's hard to beat: that's the way Polaris® intends to go for 2009.
