SLED REVIEW

experience with the “old” 600 Cleanfire, the new 650 is even better. Where the 600 was always happy, the 650 Patriot is ecstatic. Smooth, powerful, with a quick revving nature for acceleration that will give any big bore fits from corner to corner.

Technology, the Star of the Show

We could ramble on for several paragraphs and tell you about the compliance, control, and the comfort of the VR1 suspension. We could also give you a deep dive on how this suspension was proven on the racetrack – both snocross and cross-country, and then refined for the trail with premium Walker Evans Velocity shocks. While the XCR is built for hard-charging, big bump fanatics, the VR1 is the far superior choice for both hard-core and long-distance trail riders who value control and comfort for all-day riding.

Running board technology has been improved by leaps and bounds since the days of flat aluminum flaps that would become clogged with snow and ice. The latest Polaris “boards” clean out nicely and offer plenty of grip.

On the backside of this 7S display, new NightBlade headlights bring LED, projector beam technology to the snow. Riding after the sun goes down is all too common for Midwest trail riders. With the six projector beam optics found in the NightBlade headlamp, you can beat back the darkness with white hot beam that reaches far down the trail. You can even bolster the system with accessory LED lights for even better lighting.

Ultimate Comes with a Price

While storage for more “modern” sleds has been delegated to accessory options, the Polaris Matryx platform does offer under seat storage.

But the real star of the VR1 package is the technology of Ride Command all found nestled inside the oversized 7S display. Offering full-color, touch-screen connectivity, this is an automotive level gauge with the most robust GPS mapping system on snow. With Ride Command you can plan, track, share your ride, keep track of others in your group, view trail maps, and more, all without cell service. While there are now other newcomers to the GPS mapping scene, Polaris has been refining this technology for nearly 10-years, and when it comes to technology…time and refinement matter.

Within this high-tech gauge system, you’ll find the Polaris SmartWarmer system, a fully customizable hand and thumb warmer that allows you to set target temperatures. Using a thermostat within the bar ends, the system then heats to the target. With a max setting of 158-degrees, we can attest SmartWarmer has kept our digits warm and comfortable even when riding in minus 25-degree Fahrenheit conditions.

It’s no secret, snowmobile pricing has been a hot topic of discussion the past several seasons. No manufacturer is immune to rising costs and these pains are reflected in everyone’s MSRP. As a top-of-the-line model, the VR1 commands a top-of-the-line price tag. However, if you choose 650 Patriot power and opt for a pull-start versus electric, you can secure the VR1 for under $16K and still enjoy all of the ride quality, comfort and technology that makes this sled the ultimate Indy.

When Matryx arrived, so too did a new left hand throttle block that allows you to control some of the most used functions of the 7S display and Ride Command map.

YOU’LL NEVER WIN AGAINST A GROOMER

SAFERIDERSSAFETYAWARENESS.ORG

With the early onset of heavy snowfalls across the Midwest, there are an increasing number of accident reports on snowmobiles having run-ins with groomers out on the trail. Let me tell ya folks, this isn’t rocket science – the groomer is going to win every time if you hit it, so let’s not panic, utilize some patience and pay attention to your surroundings to eliminate these run-ins. Here’s a few safety tips:

ALWAYS YIELD – YOU’RE SMALLER

Snowmobiles are much smaller and much more maneuverable than groomers, so always yield to trail grooming equipment. Always slow down when approaching or overtaking grooming equipment. Understand that groomers move very slowly—typically only 5 to 8 miles per hour—so they are almost stationary compared to a snowmobile traveling at 30-60mph.

How To Approach A Groomer On Trail

When approaching an oncoming groomer on the trail, slow down and move your snowmobile to the far right side of the trail. Realize that the grooming drag or tiller behind the grooming tractor is very wide, may extend wider than the tracks of the tractor, and may take up most or all of the trail’s width. If the trail is narrow or winding, you may need to stop at the far outside edge of the trail, or even off it, to allow the groomer to pass.

How To Approach A Groomer From Behind

When overtaking a groomer from the rear, slow down and assess the situation ahead. If there is good sight distance and the trail ahead is clear of oncoming traffic, pass the groomer while operating with caution. Beware that the groomer may create snow dust and make visibility poor as you pass it. If the trail is narrow or winding, you may need to stay behind the groomer until the operator pulls over and signals for you to pass. Be patient since it may take quite a bit of time before there is a good location with sufficient room for you to safely pass.

How To Stop A Groomer For Assistance

If you need to stop a groomer to ask the operator for information or assistance, understand this should be done only in an area where there is good sight distance and is safe for it to stop. The groomer operator may instruct you to follow the groomer to a safer location where he can safely stop to provide the assistance you need.