Then AJ presents the recipient for this season’s Revolutionary Advanced Design (RAD) award which highlights new and innovative, game-changing technology introduced in the sport of snowmobiling.

The 2024 lineup is complemented by nearly 250 new parts, apparel and accessories that provide even more personalization options. This year, Polaris is making its SnowCheck program even more compelling with the launch of a SnowCheck Ship Guarantee*, which promises all 2024 SnowCheck orders will ship by November 30, 2023.

“Everything we do starts with our riders in mind,” said Jenny Nack, vice president and general manager, Polaris Snow. “The 2024 Polaris snowmobile and Timbersled lineup is one of our most refined and complete in recent years. And our new Ship Guarantee will give SnowCheck customers confidence that their customized snowmobile will not only deliver the best riding experience but will also arrive in time for winter.”

Building on an industry-leading snowmobile portfolio, the 2024 lineup offers new options for deep snow riders, along with feature and performance enhancements for trail riders. Highlights include:

Polaris is introducing an all-new Series 9 325 track, the largest in the industry, that further elevates Polaris RMK to the top of the mountain. A SnowCheck exclusive option, the new 3.25” track propels riders through the deepest powder with a design that spools up instantly and delivers a new level of traction and lift. The Series 9 325 track is joined by other SnowCheck-exclusive features including the factory-mod power of the Patriot 9R and the turbocharged Patriot Boost.

As the newest engine, the four-stroke ProStar S4 is offers enhanced efficiency and durability across INDY, Voyageur, and Titan snowmobiles. From its smooth throttle response, to less maintenance and easier ownership, it continues to deliver spirited performance, with the capability and fun to hit the trails, haul gear, and enjoy the winter.

The 2024 lineup boasts an optional 7-inch display powered by RIDE COMMAND technology. The Polaris-exclusive offering, RIDE COMMAND is the sport’s first and most dedicated GPS mapping and rider connectivity technology without needing cellular connection. RIDE COMMAND continues to set the standard allowing riders to plan routes, organize and track riding groups, and offers industry-leading Bluetooth connectivity on a full color, glove-friendly touchscreen 7S Display.

“We never stop looking for ways to improve the riding experience,” said Nack. “Whether through bold, game-changing innovations like Patriot 9R and the Matryx platform, or our ongoing efforts to tune and enhance quality and performance, the passion and commitment of our team to continually raise the bar is always there.”

To complement the 2024 lineup, Polaris is launching nearly 250 new accessories, parts and apparel. Mountain riders can discover increased comfort and customization options with our new handlebar gauntlets, new colors in our backcountry handguards, and new options in our signature Lock & Ride Flex Storage bags. Trail riders have expanded auxiliary lighting options, as well as added accent lights to enable even more personalization. Those looking for extra storage needs may be interested in the new towable Adventure trailer, featuring independent suspension and a taillight.

SnowCheck – the industry’s most comprehensive customization spring order program – launched for 2024 snowmobile model ordering on March 6 and will run through March 29. This year, exclusivity and customization remain at the forefront with models, engine options, technology features, and specific colors available only through the pre-order program.

Riders that order through the 2024 Polaris SnowCheck program will also receive up to a three-year extended warranty and a shipment guarantee that provides riders with the confidence their sled will ship by November 30, 2023 or customers receive $1,500 off at purchase.

Full details on the 2024 lineup of Polaris snowmobiles, along with the SnowCheck spring order program and associated Ship Guarantee, can be found at PolarisSnowmobiles.com.

2024 TIMBERSLED UNLOCKS MORE RIDING FREEDOM

Timbersled is long regarded as the industry leader that revolutionized the sport of snow biking. The 2024 lineup demonstrates continued innovation, providing riders the ultimate in control, performance, and agility.

For 2024, that evolution of ultimate riding freedom continues with the introduction of the RIOT Gen 2. The RIOT Gen 2 system will join the technical terrain focused ARO on the Gen 2 platform, and both will be available in Premium and Pro trim levels. The new system features a narrowed rail stance, a new lightweight track, and an overall weight reduction, making the new RIOT more agile and more responsive. Available exclusively in the Pro package, RIOT Gen 2 also features responsive QDT belt drive technology. These options along with the youth focused Timbersled Ripper and exclusive color choices easily makes the 2024 Timbersled lineup the most extensive in the industry.

Discover the complete 2024 lineup at Timbersled.com, along with the latest in partnered accessories and details for the SnowCheck spring order program.

About Polaris – As the global leader in powersports, Polaris Inc. (NYSE: PII) pioneers product breakthroughs and enriching experiences and services that have invited people to discover the joy of being outdoors since our founding in 1954. Polaris’ high-quality product line-up includes the Polaris RANGER, RZR and Polaris GENERAL side-by-side off-road vehicles; Sportsman all-terrain off-road vehicles; military and commercial off-road vehicles; snowmobiles; Indian Motorcycle mid-size and heavyweight motorcycles; Slingshot moto-roadsters; Aixam quadricycles; Goupil electric vehicles; and pontoon and deck boats, including industry-leading Bennington pontoons. Polaris enhances the riding experience with a robust portfolio of parts, garments, and accessories. Proudly headquartered in Minnesota, Polaris serves more than 100 countries across the globe.

polaris.com

For the record, Sneak Peek is held in late January or early February at a top secret location each one of the OEMs selects annually. It’s not a West Yellowstone Snow Shoot event as each OEMs runs a private party with only select in-sport media invited. As you can imagine, the list of media participants has been getting somewhat shorter the past few years.

So here goes with what we think Polaris may show us at its 2024 Sneak Peek.

DYNAMIX

We think Polaris will unveil its highly effective, semi-active Dynamix suspension system on at least the Indy MATRYX VR-1. The snowmobile intro of this technology is actually about a year overdue with Ski-Doo, Arctic Cat and Yamaha offering their own semi-active systems.

This technology is not cheap to develop or produce, so expect it to be available only on top-of-the-segment models and only on Snow Checked Polaris models.

TURBO 4-STROKE

We’ve rumored we expect Polaris to take its 4-stroke program (S4) to more models in 20224. However, we think it is not beyond the realm of possibility for the new 1000cc Pro Star S4 to get the Boost treatment.

Think about this: The 1000cc Pro Star engine used in the S4 has been turbocharged to produce 180 HP in select RZR off-road SxS vehicles.

Simply put, that engine can inhale copious quantities of compressed air literally jammed down its throat with nary as much as a cough. Bolting a turbo onto the Pro Star S4 mill can’t be too difficult… can it?

XCR BOOST

Next issue requiring speculation: The insertion of the Boost 850 Patriot into the XCR platform. We think this is a no-brainer with the ditch banging crowd always looking for more lift-off power on the “approaches”.

While the Boost 850 VR-1 fits nicely into the rider profile it’s intended for, there’s more than just “lake racers looking for a Boost-equipped bump runner”.

The XCR Boost should come with a 137 out back like the VR-1 Boost. A 1.5 Camso Shredder would be practical on an XCR Boost.

GAUGE TECH

Here’s a long shot, but, hey, this is what we do at Sneak Peek time. I think we might see a new standard gauge to replace the long-in-the-tooth PID cluster. Ski-Doo not only upped its deluxe display to 10.2 inches but it improved its “base model “info center for 2023.

The PID does not allow easy access to the settings supporting the new Smart Grip thumb and handwarmers. A new display would surely include improved access to the excellent heaters similar to the S-7.

That’s about it for our Polaris predictions and wishes for MY 2024. Maybe you have a few guesses too so let’s hear it!

WINNER: 2019 POLARIS 850 SWITCHBACK ASSAULT

Yes, I know this is the third run of the Switchback Assault and, except for a new engine, is pretty much the same as the first one.

Mark will be on this like a crow on a dead armadillo and here’s my point: The competition has had three tries at exceeding this sled’s prowess and hasn’t been able to do it.

A combination of excellent AXYS handling and a 144-inch uncoupled skidframe that rides like a trail sled makes this version of the Assault unbeatable.

The fact we’re looking at a new powerplant is moot. Sure Ski-Doo’s 850 E-TEC throws temptation into the plan but frankly, I’d still take even the “old” Liberty 800 in this chassis over it.

By stirring-in the new Patriot 850 this year, Polaris took a giant flyswatter and squished flat all the naysayers about which sled is best.

The Assault is a true crossover and doesn’t lean impossibly toward deep snow riding focus but instead, allows those who ride flatland powder and foothills to get there in comfort without being beat-up on the trails.

Is the Assault the best in the powder? Maybe the ‘Doo 850 is a smidge better but it takes a heck of a deep snow rider to tell the diff (not Mark).

It’s all about balance and all-around handling (trail and powder) and that’s where the new 850 Assault gets the blue ribbon.

Mark knows this is true but is just is too stubborn to admit it.

– Kent

It was no surprise Ski-Doo led the poll in most categories but one question we were particularly surprised about was: “Which Crossover sled would you want to ride this season?”

The 850 Polaris Switchback Assault 144 killed it in this segment, scoring a 44-percent positive rating, and rated significantly higher than the other very good sleds it was compared to.

We were a bit surprised at this result because the competition has really been stepping up to the plate with updates, upgrades and improvements to their crossover iron the last two years.

Meanwhile, the Switchback Assault is pretty much the same sled it was three years ago but now has a new engine – the Patriot 850.

The fact Polaris nailed it with the original Switch is pretty undeniable. There were over 1,600 poll responses and the closest the competition got was 34-percent (Ski-Doo Backcountry 850). 10-percent over anyone else is a pretty big margin and sends a strong message Polaris has got this category figured out.

New riders need a sled built for them that’s the right size and offers easy, confidence-inspiring steering and handling. They want a sled with power they can control so they can confidently enjoy trailing riding with family and friends.

Perfect Fit for New Riders

Created using Polaris advanced design engineering, the INDY EVO is lower and narrower than a full-sized sled. Coupled with a lower seat height, this hunkered-down stance lowers the center of gravity to enhance the feeling of stability and confidence.

INDY EVO ergonomics are designed to fit a broad range of riders and positions them for ultimate comfort, control and confidence. The low, narrow bodywork provides outstanding visibility, yet delivers excellent wind protection with AXYS-style integrated airfoils and a wide range of windshield options.

Purpose-built, flat, low bars provide excellent leverage, and the easy throttle flipper accommodates hands of all sizes. The cockpit is roomy, providing ample knee room for the active INDY riding style.

Confident Handling, Easy Steering

The INDY EVO Independent Front Suspension is engineered for a stable yet effortless ride on trails. It features shocks designed and calibrated specifically for the INDY EVO chassis and the adjustable-stance IFS allows the sled to evolve with the rider.

The all-new INDY EVO ski was designed exclusively for this sled, plus delivers confident handling with reduced steering effort.

Just-Right Performance & Fun

The proven Polaris 550cc fan-cooled engine delivers just the right amount of power for new riders. Speed is electronically controlled to a maximum of 50 mph, and stage-tuning kits will be available to adjust the vehicle’s performance and ride as skills grow.

The INDY EVO is available in two models, with manual start or electric start.

Many Polaris accessories are available for the INDY EVO so riders can customize and personalize their sleds to suit their style, and optimize comfort, convenience and cargo solutions.

Polaris Industries Inc. (NYSE: PII) is a global powersports leader that has been fueling the passion of riders, workers and outdoor enthusiasts for more than 60 years. With annual 2016 sales of $4.5 billion, Polaris’ innovative, high-quality product line-up includes the RANGER®, RZR® and Polaris GENERAL side-by-side off-road vehicles; the Sportsman® and Polaris ACE® all-terrain off-road vehicles; Indian Motorcycle® midsize and heavyweight motorcycles; Slingshot® moto-roadsters; and Polaris RMK®, INDY®, Switchback® and RUSH® snowmobiles. Polaris enhances the riding experience with parts, garments and accessories, along with a growing aftermarket portfolio, including Transamerican Auto Parts. Polaris’ presence in adjacent markets globally include military and commercial off-road vehicles, quadricycles, and electric vehicles. Proudly headquartered in Minnesota, Polaris serves more than 100 countries across the globe.

Visit polaris.com for more information.