Polaris Introduces New Snowmobile Line-Up That Allows Riders to Climb Higher, Take Tighter Turns and Ride Farther
MINNEAPOLIS--Polaris Industries , recognized for inventing the sport of snowmobiling more than 50 years ago, today announced the addition of four all new snowmobile models, improved IQ® Independent Front Suspension (IFS), a new RAW Hybrid chassis and new 136 inch coupled performance and comfort rear suspension at its annual meeting in Atlanta.
In every segment, snowmobile riders are demanding instant acceleration, all-day comfort, superior handling, the latest technology and rugged reliability. Again this year, Polaris has listened to the voice of the customer and delivered on riders’ wants with its new 2008 model line-up that builds on the company’s industry-leading ride and handling expertise. The new models include: the new IQ® Shift, the 800 Dragon RMK 163 inch and 155 inch deep snow models and the 600RR.
“Snowmobiles are Polaris’ heritage and with a company full of snowmobile enthusiasts, we know how to make a good day on the snow a great day,” said Tom Tiller, CEO, Polaris Industries. “We’re committed to being a leader in the snowmobile industry and are confident that the new products we announced today are the smoothest, most innovative rides available.”
Polaris’ customer-focused, innovative products are available to customers now via the preseason Snow Check order program and will arrive in dealer showrooms in the fall of 2007.
Polaris Innovation
The strong ride and handling heritage Polaris has built its name on is taken to the next level in 2008 with three exciting advancements: improvements to the industry leading Polaris IQ® Independent Front Suspension (IFS); the introduction of the new RAW Hybrid chassis; and the new fully-coupled 136 inch IQ performance rear suspension.
Throughout the 2008 line-up, the IQ IFS is improved with new ski spindles that lighten steering effort by 15 percent and lessen unsprung weight by approximately one pound. The RAW Hybrid chassis is incorporated into all 2008 performance models, with the exception of the IQ Turbo, and can be found in all of the 2008 crossover models. The RAW Hybrid chassis has eliminated the radiator and instead utilizes cooling extrusions that run the full length of the tunnel for improved cooling and enhanced tunnel rigidity, while virtually eliminating up to 40 pounds of snow and ice build-up.
New Models for 2008
The 2008 Polaris line-up reflects Polaris’ commitment to delivering winning performance and exceptional value with an all new race replica for the hardcore elite riders, two all new deep snow models and an all new IQ Shift model that offers unbelievable performance at an unbelievable price.
Deep Snow
Deep snow riders need specialized, lightweight, high-performance sleds. Engineered by serious mountain riders, Polaris’ 2008 deep snow models feature the ideally balanced RAW RMK chassis and a superior power-to-weight advantage, taking deep snow performance to the next level. Several refinements for 2008 reduce overall weight, including the improved IQ IFS, the new lightweight RAW Freestyle seat that makes it easy for riders to sit, stand and sidehill and a narrower fuel tank that contributes to improved ergonomics.
Polaris introduced two all new deep snow models, the new 800 Dragon RMK155 and the 800 Dragon RMK 163. These sleds combine the Polaris RAW RMK chassis, even lighter for 2008, and the all new 154-Hp 800 mono-block twin engine, which enables riders to climb higher and go deeper than ever before.
A new series 5.1 track has also been added to Polaris’ 2008 offerings. The Series 5.1 track has an optimized lug pattern, delivering 19 percent more forward lug contact with the snow versus the Series 5.0 track and is featured on all of the 155 and 163 models. The new 163 inch length track strikes the ideal balance between flotation and nimble handling.
Race Replica
For nearly a half-century, Polaris’ race team has come out on top and now Polaris extends this racing success to customers with the all new 2008 600RR. For the first time ever, a true race-platform sled is being made available to extreme recreational riders. Essential for dominating extreme terrain, the 2008 600RR is built to land the biggest jumps and handle the wickedest terrain.
The 600RR includes an actual Polaris factory race sled chassis with a fire-breathing 600 HO engine. The machine is light, well-balanced and industry leading with IQ® Race front and rear suspension. The genuine factory race sled chassis features the IQ Race steering system with hook-end handlebars, and the IQ Race seat makes it easy for a rider to stand and move in the “cockpit” during aggressive riding. All that’s missing from this sled is a race number.
Crossover
Optimized on-trail performance and off-trail versatility is brought to life more clearly than ever with the new breed of SwitchBack models. A new IQ 136 fully coupled rear suspension allows the new SwitchBack models to deliver optimum acceleration, braking and bump absorption. The new lightweight RAW Hybrid Chassis eliminates the radiator and increases strength and balance for demanding riders.
The 2008 Crossover models come with a choice of powerful engines including the 600 and 700 HO Cleanfire™ twin and the Turbo (four-stroke) with improved extreme-cold starting capabilities, enhanced power delivery and quicker acceleration. All SwitchBack models feature the new Freestyle seat and a standard 1.25 RipSaw track.
The 700 Dragon SwitchBack and 600 Dragon SwitchBack feature exclusive Dragon equipment and graphics packages. Among their special Dragon features are: new, premium Ryde FX Air 2.0 springless shocks in the IQ IFS; flat handlebar mounted atop a 5.25 inch riser for optimal leverage and control; adjustable handlebar hooks; mountain grab bar; chrome windshield; and Indy Red hood with exclusive Dragon graphics.
Performance
Race inspired attitude is what Polaris delivers with its 2008 performance sleds, offering riders the lean, agile, quick, sleek and aggressive machines they demand. Polaris’ 2008 performance sleds continue Polaris’ trail and bump absorption dominance with improved handling, ergonomics and acceleration. All of Polaris’ 2008 performance models, with the exception of the IQ Turbo, boast the RAW Hybrid chassis and improved IQ IFS. All IQ 121 models feature larger 7.25 inch diameter rear idler wheels for increased top speed and with the exception of the IQ Turbo, all have the new Freestyle seat, which is narrow and firm in front and soft and wide in the rear making transitions between sitting and standing easier.
All new for 2008 is the IQ® Shift. The IQ Shift is a stealthy, no-graphics model that offers riders the optimal combination of best in class performance and industry leading suspension technology with IQ IFS and IQ rear suspension. The IQ Shift is an incredible value with an MSRP of just $6,999 (U.S.) / $8,999 (CAN) allowing riders the flexibility to personalize it with custom features.
Another enhancement for 2008, the IQ Turbo’s FST (Four-Stroke Turbo) engine has been improved for easier extreme cold starting, superior power delivery and quicker acceleration, all winning features for serious performance riders.
Touring
Polaris’ 2008 luxury touring models offer comfort, premium features, convenience and performance on demand, just as riders have requested. All new for 2008, Polaris offers fully-coupled 136 inch comfort suspension that delivers excellent solo rider comfort and significantly improved comfort for 2-up riding. The chassis delivers a consistently smooth, comfortable ride for a wider range of loads with minimal adjustments required. The improved IQ IFS handles easier than ever, ensuring that luxury touring riders have a great day on the snow. In addition, new handlebar-mounted mirrors, incorporated on most 2008 models, provide superior visibility without vibration.
Utility
The tough and dependable Widetrak LX features several functional improvements for 2008 that make it tougher, harder working and smoother riding. Widetrak LX performance is enhanced by the new hydraulic brake, new high-flotation Gripper™ skis, new tipped-up rear tunnel close-off for improved snomobility, particularly for reverse driving, and a new, more comfortable seat with greater underseat storage and an adjustable backrest.
For 2008, Polaris introduces the all new 340 Transport for riders seeking a dependable, tough, rugged sled with enhanced comfort, improved performance and outstanding versatility. The 340 Transport features a proven reliable, fan-cooled, 36-hp Polaris 340 twin engine with twin carburetors and is built on the EDGE chassis.
Trail Sport/Kids
Young riders and new riders need a safe, reliable yet fun introduction to the sport and Polaris delivers with three model options in its 2008 line-up.
The Polaris 120 is designed to introduce young riders to snowmobiling and for 2008, this machine’s features include a 120cc engine, a keyed ignition and a safety tether. The 120 model is available in black with white/silver flames and pink with white/ silver flames. At its appealing price-point, the 340 delivers outstanding value and the Polaris SuperSport gives young riders the feeling they’re on a performance model with a sporty, proven, fan-cooled engine and industry-leading ergonomics.
PURE Polaris
Polaris snowmobile engineers spend countless hours riding every winter. They demand comfortable, high-performance apparel that keeps them warm and dry. New for the 2008 model year, Polaris is the only snowmobile brand to exclusively feature eVent® Direct Venting Technology. eVent fabric offers a new standard in waterproof-breathable performance that keeps riders dry “inside and outside.” Faster than, Gore-Tex, eVent immediately begins moving sweat directly to the outside of the fabric, ensuring rider comfort and provides superior protection against wind and exterior moisture. For 2008, Polaris is offering a Mountain eVT jacket and Mountain eVT bib.
About Polaris
With annual 2006 sales of $1.7 Billion, Polaris designs, engineers, manufactures and markets snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), Victory motorcycles and the Polaris RANGER for recreational and utility use.
Polaris is a recognized leader in the snowmobile industry; and one of the largest manufacturers of ATVs in the world. Victory motorcycles, established in 1998 and representing the first all new American-made motorcycle from a major company in nearly 60 years, are rapidly making impressive in-roads into the motorcycle cruiser marketplace. Polaris also enhances the riding experience with a complete line of Pure Polaris apparel, accessories and parts, available at Polaris dealerships.
Polaris Industries Inc. trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “PII,” and the Company is included in the S&P Small-Cap 600 stock price index.
Information about the complete line of Polaris products, apparel and vehicle accessories is available from authorized Polaris dealers or anytime from the Polaris homepage at www.polarisindustries.com.
