7 Things We Learned at the Polaris 2021 Snow Show

We were live at the Polaris 2021 Snow Show this week and spoke to the experts. Here’s a few things we learned about the 2021 Polaris snowmobile lineup that you’re going to want to know.

1. New 650 Patriot Engine: Polaris built the all-new 650 Patriot engine using the same base technology as the 850. The throttle response on this guy is instantaneous, acceleration is smooth and has great fuel efficiency. The engine boasts 10% more power and 14% more torque than your standard 600. The 650 is a SnowCheck only engine for 2021.
2. Why a 650? Polaris is providing many of the benefits that a 4-stroke motor is known for while also highlighting and finetuning the advantages of a 2-stroke. The 650 is up to 60% more fuel efficient and is optimized for 87 octane fuel and up to 10% ethanol. Oil consumption is also reduced by 10% making it more affordable to own and fuel. This engine is a great option for high-mile riders.
   • Snowtech Magazine tested the 650 Patriot engine and had this to say: 
   • “It pulls with thick meaty torque down low and through the midrange, to the point you have to look at the decal on the side panel to see what you are riding. Perhaps most amazing was how much lighter it feels than the 850…It is more agile and responsive in this manner. Up top it sure feels like we’re above 130 HP for peak power… For the riders who wanted more than a 600 but just didn’t need the 800/850 power this could be a true sweet spot. It runs so good we could call it a 700 and doubt many would argue with us after riding one.”
3. Matryx – what exactly is it? We’ll, it’s not just the chassis. Matryx is the new overall design and platform from Polaris which was really crafted with one goal in mind: to give the rider more control. The matrix platform redesigned the entire hood-body-rider area to give the rider more room to maneuver. It’s 5 inches narrower at the rider interface allowing the rider to get further forward on the machine for better handling and better turn leans. The side panels are now away from the knees to give the rider more room to maneuver (no more slamming knees against the panels) and the panels were designed to deflect wind to flow around the rider. The added wind protection is huge for those extra-cold days and test riders said this was immediately noticeable on negative degree days. Another cool feature: Matrxy now comes with SmartWarmer hand grips which allows you to customize three temperature settings (low, medium and high) to the exact temperatures you want for your heated hand grips.
4. The new 7S display - FINALLY: The display is bigger and has way more features to match the tech already available for Polaris side-by-sides. The 7S display with Ride Command features ride sharing (with or without cell coverage), Bluetooth connectivity, mapping with topography and more. Plus, never lose your group again with Group Ride which allows you to synch up to your fellow riders and see their location. The new screen responds to gloved hands and the brightness adjusts to conditions automatically. Oh, and behind the 7S touchscreen digital display, there’s a 7.6 liter heated storage trunk. That’s enough room to fit 5 pairs of goggles!
5. Changes they didn’t really talk about but that you want to know: We read between the lines a bit at the show and here are things they didn’t talk much about but are happening nonetheless:
   • The 800 is gone – replaced by the 850 which was previously a SnowCheck exclusive engine. Some SnowCheckers from the last few years will likely have some beef with this but the other advantage of SnowChecking is factory customization and folks can still differentiate with all the SnowCheck options available.   
   • The AXYS platform still exists in a few models: The Indy XC 129, 137 and Switchback models with the 600 & 850 engines are still in the line-up.
   • There is still a 600 Switchback Pro-S and an 850 Switchback XCR, but the RUSH has been retired. The 600 Switchback Assault 144” is still available in the AXYS and you can now can get it in an 850, too. In bigger news, the new Switchback Assault 146” in the MATRYX is available as an 850 or 650. Our assumption is that the 146” Assault MATRYX will replace the 144” Assault AXYS in the coming year and the 600 will be gone.  
   • SnowCheck color options – Yep, they’re a bit more limited this year compared to the crazy amount of options last year. However, with the Matryx platform being exclusive to SnowCheck, you’re going to want access to these advancements. They’re a game changer for rider control, performance and comfort.  If you’re looking for a really unique look, we’d love to set you up with some local powder coating or vinyl folks we know. Just ask!
6. Your Exclusive SnowCheck Machines for 2021:
   • As we mentioned above, the new Matryx platform is a SnowCheck-only feature. However, Polaris will release a select amount of “launch edition” sleds for dealers with the Matryx platform. Note though, that these won’t have velocity shocks or the 7S touchscreen and won’t have a few of the painted components that SnowCheck sleds have. Below are the machines only available via SnowCheck pre-order:
   • The all-new INDY VR1
     • This is a trail performance machine for the books. Extremely well-balanced and effortless control make it a superior trail machine.  
     • It has the all-new MATRYX platform, 7S display and features 2” adjustable Walker Evans Velocity shock package calibrated for the trail rider (which aren’t as stiff as an XCR).
     • Available in 129” and 137”
     • Can get with the new Patriot 650 or 850 engine
   • NEW Switchback Assault 146"
     • Cross-over folks rejoice! This sled is built to deliver acceleration and power-to-weight ratio with a slightly longer track that doesn’t feel longer – it’s a mere half inch of track on the ground longer.
     • Attention Assault die-hards: the new Matryx platform does give the Assault a bit of a different feel due to the rider-control that Matryx provides but, that just means more maneuverability while on the sled. Your knees no longer bump into the side panels and, with a narrower cockpit, it’s easier to move forward and around on your sled. We’ve been assured that the 144” customer will really like the Matryx platform.
     • Velocity shocks – These are a SnowCheck only feature.
     • 7S display
     • Can get with the new Patriot 650 or 850 engine
   • 850 PRO RMK and RMK KHOAS – with QD2
     • QuickDrive2 (QD2) is the lightest drive system in the industry and produces the lower inertia for max flickability. QD2 boasts a 10% gear reduction for even quicker response and track speed. Plus, combine with the Series 8 track for a 5lb weight reduction. 
     • The new 2021 RMK models were designed with two things in mind: lift and response.
     • All PRO RMK and Khaos models with the QD2 Drive System are SnowCheck Exclusive
7. Finally, the New Timbersled Aro and Riot S
   • The “S” is for “short” in this scenario. The kit is 3 inches shorter making the Timbersled lower and easier to ride than ever and more accessible for more riders. The “S” options are SnowCheck only this year so mark your calendars!

Have questions about the 2021 lineup or want to order a factory-customized sled through SnowCheck? We’d love to help because we love our equipment. Contact us here or attend our SnowCheck event at Power Pac on March 27th from 4-7 PM. There'll be experts to talk with about the 2021 lineup, prizes and freebies! 

Remember, SnowCheck pre-ordering expires April 15, 2020.