Polaris Celebrates Return of the XCR
Published on Tuesday, September 20, 2016 in News & Updates, Snowmobile Tech
Tags: competition, manufacturers, sleds, tech

Polaris introduces the return of the all-new 2017 Polaris 600R Race Sled, the legendary XCR name and performance. The new Polaris 600R Race Sled and RUSH XCR represent the Polaris heritage of using racing as a testing and proving ground for advanced technology that elevates the performance of production models ridden by enthusiasts across the snowbelt.

Polaris 600R Race Sled

The new Polaris 600R Race Sled is the latest evolution of a proven racing platform that has won on snocross tracks, ice ovals, and cross-country courses. This new sled was developed through the integration of the latest technology along with race-proven features of the previous platform.

For 2017, the AXYS-inspired design creates a 10” narrower sled body for better rider mobility and tighter cornering capabilities. In addition to the new bodywork, the sled has a new intake system and plenum, windshield, and headlight. New instrumentation includes the 600R Digital MessageCenter Gauge, and the footrest area has been redesigned to reduce drag in corners and improve under hood ventilation.

The improved steering system features a steering post that is 13.5 degrees flatter than on the previous race sled for improved rider mobility, cornering, and sled maneuverability. Steering effort is reduced through an improved steering ratio.

The new exhaust system is designed to conform to the sled’s new, narrower bodywork, and it is engineered to deliver enhanced performance. Additionally, the sled’s performance is improved by a new clutch weight design for improved holeshots an a new drive belt that improves performance and provides greater durability.

Polaris XCR Racing History

The XCR name was introduced in the early 1990s on a sled that was a close replica to the model that dominated cross-country racing and carried Hall of Fame Polaris racer Jack Struthers to back-to-back wins in the grueling I-500 (1991 and 1992).

Some of the same premium technology is also found on production models like the 600 and 800 RUSH XCR. “For over 60 years, Polaris has pushed the technological envelope in snowmobiles and racing to win championships and to develop suspension, engine, and chassis technology for our production sleds,” said Chris Wolf, Vice President, Snowmobiles. “Our newest RUSH models feature so much race-proven technology, they carry one of the most legendary names in racing history: XCR.”Polaris and riders are celebrating the Return of the XCR all winter, starting at Hay Days and continuing at major snowmobile shows and races.

2017 Polaris 600R Specs

*Sled for race use only. Sled not available for sale to consumers.