AJ does a deep-dive into the extensive Polaris 2-stroke snowmobile engine lineup including the Patriot 650, 850, BOOST and 9R highlighting each engine’s unique attributes and strengths over previous generations of Polaris engines.

Then Luke explores the expanded versatility of the Ski-Doo Backcountry snowmobile line-up and how there’s pretty much a Backcountry model for just about any level of rider whether your focus is riding mostly on-trail or off.

On paper its specs look appealing and in pictures it looks even better, but the performance this combo delivers makes it one of the most impressive sleds of the season.

The Patriot 9R’s crank is substantially lighter than the Patriot 850’s, generating less vibration and of equal importance is the lighter crank’s ability to instantaneously “spool” RPM. Let me tell you this – I cannot remember a twin cylinder 2-stroke of any displacement with throttle response as sharp as the 9R.

This combination of quick revving throttle response and a wide spread of ski-lifting torque creates positively heroic launches. Our XCR is a 136 and this track length is perfect for a sled capable of delivering trench digging track speed in the blink of an eye. So far in the sno-mo biz there hasn’t been an engine this strong without a turbo strapped to it.

The new MATRYX-based Indy XCR chassis is perfectly suited for the 9R powerplant. This sled handles incredibly well and although Ski-Doo has stepped up with all new front IFS geometry closely mirroring the Polaris IFS, the XCR with its ditch banging credentials firmly intact can hone the roughest trails and approaches with finesse.

While the XCR’s legacy is rough terrain prowess, the addition of the Patriot 9R engine takes the platform to new heights of performance and capability. This sled can carve the tightest, twistiest trails effortlessly. Its turning posture is delightfully flat relying on its legendary Polaris IFS to maintain forward bite. Throttle-off, on corner entry while you drag the brake mid-turn to complete corner exit using near telepathic 9R throttle response.

Clearly, the 2025 Patriot 9R Indy XCR 136 raises the bar in the high-performance trail category providing more of everything this segment is about. If you’re an 850-class aficionado looking for what’s next, this sled will exceed your expectations by a wide margin.