1997 polaris indy xlt special
Amsnow
For '98 Polaris reinvents the XLT Special as a very nice, less potent,but better handling Storm/Ultra/XCR hybrid. We think the secret lies in the reduction of front end weight. Instead of three pipes, the XLT monoblock triple has a three-into-one exhaust header dumping into a single, quieter tuner. All XLT engines now use a revised crankcase for improved strength.While this 597cc XLT triple is similar to other XLT triples, this one gets the revised "hi-port" engine porting for added performance. The idea in using a more aggressive port job is to give the Special a little more snap when you engage the three 38mm round slide Mikuni carbs. As with the other XLT engines, displacement remains 597cc from a bore and stroke of 65mm x 60mm.
Since this is the only XLT on the Storm-type chassis, the Special differs from the other XLT models in other ways. The front end setup features the controlled roll center and parallel steering linkage. This trailing arm setup is similar to what you get on the higher powered aggressive chassis models. The current XTRA-10 front end delivers up to 9.5 inches of travel controlled by Ryde AFX shocks. Concern about front end weight is shown as Polaris opts to outfit the Special with composite skis which are claimedt o be up to four pounds lighter than the previous XLT skis.
The rear suspension is standard XTRA-10 fare with 10.2 inches of travel and a pair of Ryde shocks attached.
Additional features that make this sled a friendly trail unit are the nearly 12 gallons of fuel that you can carry, more readily accessible handwarmer controls, automotive-style instrumentation and ease of serviceability.
While our test riders were picky about the overall fit and finish of this Polaris, the XLT on the aggressive chassis is one of the better styled Indys for '98. It is also the best handling of the aggressive chassis models.
If you prefer this body style, but like a lighter, more nimble package,you should seriously consider this updated XLT Special.
1998 Polaris Indy XLT Special
Overall Height: 46.5 inches
Overall Length: 109 inches
Weight: 503 lbs.
Ski Stance: 41 inches
Engine: 597cc, liquid-cooled, piston port, Fuji triple
Exhaust: Tuned pipe
Clutch:
Drive: Polaris P-85
Driven: Polaris P-85
Suspension Travel:
Front: IFS XTRA-10,CRC, Ryde FX shocks, 9.5 inches
Rear: XTRA-10, Ryde AFX shocks, 10.2 inches
Fuel Capacity: 11.8 gallons
Key Features: Electric start, speedo, tach, hand and thumb warmers, Lazer head lights,mid-height shield, composite skis, carbide runners
Retail Price: $6,199
Riding Impressions:
"I liked this aggressive chassis Indy more because of its differencesfrom the Storm and XCRs. It's lighter, more fun to ride, yet amply powered.And the styling is the best of the 'aggressive' Indy bunch." -JerryBassett, Test Rider