1998 triples do it better

Polaris Indy 600 XCR
Grins: Great serviceability.

Groans: Lacking in the Pizzazz department.

In its third year, the 600 XCR has had a few refinements made for durability and value. With the focus on the big twin project at Polaris, we didn'texpect to see much done to this sled. We got what we expected: a good snowmobile with good top end performance from the Fuji-built triple.

The majority of improvements on the XCR are in places where the consumer will not see them, and that's the way it's supposed to be. For instance,the oil pump was changed to a four outlet design, which features a PTO oil line to improve crankshaft durability. Also, Fuji changed its core mold to improve the strength of the engine in the bridge area between cylinders.Little things that improve durability don't add up to a lot of marketing flash, but they do make a difference to the long term owner and eventual resale, which reflects the sled's overall value.

Then there's the little things the consumer can see, touch and appreciate.With the elimination of the SE package, electric fuel and temperature gauges are standard features on the XCR this year.

To provide enough power for the Lazer headlights found on all Aggressive chassis sleds, Polaris upgraded to a bigger 280-watt alternator with a low inertia flywheel.

The new .82-inch track design sports more rubber near the lugs to improve that component's durability. The new high-performance, white hyfax provides better performance for longer than the colored ones- apparently there's something in the pigmentation which Polaris engineers found increases friction and wear.

But enough of the changes, here's how our test riders scored the XCR.

The strong suit for the Indy is clearly in serviceability. We found ample room to make the routine part replacements snowmobilers have come to know and love. Things like changing the belt and getting to the carbs are easily accomplished.

In the performance feeling cluster, which considers such things as weight transfer, engine and clutch response, we found the XCR fared adequately,but didn't set the snow afire. The weight transfer, both on take off and slow down, was comparable to Ski-Doo's F-III, but a little off from theother two. Our riders noted that brake response, which was once a Polaris strong point, has faded. The XCR's hydrualic brake felt mushy and didn'tseem to let go as crisply as the other brands.

The 597cc liquid-cooled triple and P-85 clutch combo also fared nearly as well as the F-III. Though this is the sled that won top speed honors last year at the Shoot Out, it doesn't get to that speed quickly. Don't get us wrong, the XCR got up and went when we asked it to, but the speedo's needle didn't cover the numbers quite as quickly as the others.

The XCR's XTRA-10 front and rear suspensions are capable of absorbing impacts and maintaining a stable ride. Both are equipped with Fox gas shocks to monitor 9.5 and 10.2 inches of travel, respectively. Polaris was first with controlled roll steering and the XCR's front setup features the CRCsteering package which worked well to maintain level ski contact with thesnow in turning. Our riders found that cornering the XCR is better, thanksto the new composite skis which offer a better bite than last year's units.

The rear XTRA-10 performed its role well, too. Our riders felt that itdidn't provide nearly the same comfort as the SRX but did do a better job of softening the blows than the F-III.

Polaris loyalists will be happy with the changes in the current 600 XCR. It is a solid performer, a good value, and a proven speedster.

Polaris Indy 600 XCR
Overall Height: 44 inches
Overall Length: 109 inches
Weight: 547 lbs.
Ski Stance: 41 inches
Engine: 597cc liquid-cooled, case reed Fuji triple
Exhaust: 3 tuned pipes
Clutch:
Drive: P-85
 Driven: P-85
Suspension Travel:
 Front: XTRA-10, trailing arm, CRC, Fox gas shocks, 9.5 in.
 Rear: XTRA-10, Fox gas shocks, 10.2 in.
Fuel Capacity: 11.8 gallons
Key Features: Hydraulic disc brake, Lazer headlight, new track design, electric fuel andtemp gauges, hand and thumbwarmers, speedo, trip meter, tach, compositeskis, carbide runners
Retail Price: $7,149
Riding Impressions:
"The engine definitely has the power and speed to belong in this class."-Jerry Bassett, Test Rider