Polaris unveils XD 'truck'
Think of a RAM 1500 or a Chevrolet Silverado and compare them to a Ranger or a Hilux: One is obviously a truck, and the other is a ute.
Since the launch of the Sportsman nameplate in 1996, each new model has raised the bar, such as with the new Sportsman XP, the company says.
With a 4-stroke, electronic fuel injected engine, and choice of a 550cc or 850cc, the Sportsman XP has been engineered for extreme off-road performance. “We took the engineering know-how of an entire category and turned it upside down,” says Polaris.
“Well, technically, sideways, by rotating the engine 90 degrees. This gives the rider superior ergonomics with 33% wider floorboards and a narrower space at the knees and ankles. Besides delivering a sporty, nimble feel, the positioning reduces leg fatigue and increases rider comfort.”
Polaris says it offers the best electronic power steering (EPS) on the market. It has 30% more power assist than the leading competitor, plus variable assist for easier steering effort at lower speeds and more responsiveness at higher speeds, it adds.
“EPS delivers a safer and more enjoyable ride, as it minimises the distraction of bumps, letting you focus more on the terrain. Plus our 2011 styling means you get a 16% larger fuel tank capacity on XP EPS models. EPS is optional on XP550.”
Sportsman XP has the biggest rack capacity at 55kg in the front and 110kg in the rear. And there’s enough power to haul trailers and sprayers with a 680.4 kg pulling and towing capacity.
The Sportsman was the world’s first ATV with IRS. Now it leads again with Rolled IRS with 26 cm of travel, which is angled rearward for that legendary Polaris smooth ride and less rear-end squat during acceleration.
A common problem for ATV riders is fatigue, says Polaris. “Longer dual A-arm front suspension with 22.9 cm of travel and preload adjustability decreases kickback, reducing rider fatigue. Sportsman XP models have the highest ground clearance at 30.5 cm.”
www.polarisindustries.co.nz
