1999 polaris indy trail

If our survey of American Snowmobiler readers is correct, Polaris is right on the mark with the Indy Trail. Those of you who own a Polarist ell us that the most important consideration in choosing a sled is itsreputation for reliability. Polaris owners then rate price, comfort and value as their most important considerations.

Kind of sounds like a crowd that would like an Indy Trail doesn't it?The base model with its "evolutionary" styling and time-tested 488cc twin is a proven commodity. Perhaps it's a reason why 27 percent of all snowmobile sales in 1998 were of sleds with displacements under 490cc.

For 1999, Polaris recognized the popularity of the Indy Trail by offering it in three iterations. The base line model comes with the XTRA-10 rear suspension, improved hydraulic disc braking system and E-Z Steer carbides.

One of the two "stretch" chassis versions designed for trail touring, is the Indy Trail Touring. This model features a lengthened tunnel to accommodate the 133.5 inch-long track and the two-up seating arrangement.You'll find the Deluxe touring package with its single lever adjustable backrest standard.

The other Indy Trail "stretch" model is the Indy Trail RMK.This sled differs quite a bit from the other two versions as it uses the new 550cc fan-cooled twin with cylinder-reed assist, which provides ninepercent greater peak power than the 488cc twin. There is also the revised styling of the Gen II design. Under the sled is a long 136-inch track with1.25 inch lug profile. While this sled bears the "Trail" nameplate,in reality, the RMK version carries more of the features you'd find on the new Super Sport.

For low altitude, deep powder running, where the engine won't find its power sucked away by lack of oxygen, this 550cc Trail RMK just might be all the Indy you'd need.

As many tour rental operators already know, the Indy Trail's powertrain is one of the most fail-safe in the business. The 488cc Fuji twin is a reliable piston port design with dual 34mm Mikuni carbs, electronic ignition and tuned two-into-one exhaust system. The new 550cc twin used in the SuperSport and Trail RMK is a new engine that is said to offer not just more power, but improved fuel consumption as well. We can tell you that this new twin is definitely stronger and quicker than the old 488. We expect that the new twin with its improved midrange will be found in more and more models next season

Overall, our test crew found the "vanilla" flavor of the IndyTrail spiced up with enhancements in the braking and suspension. For value and outright reliability, the Trail is a solid bargain for many seasons.

Polaris Indy Trail
Overall Height: 47.5 inches
Overall Width: 48 inches
Weight: 457 lbs.
Ski Stance: 42.5 inches
Engine: 488cc piston port, fan-cooled Fuji twin
Exhaust: 2-into1 Tuned Pipe
Clutch:
Drive: Polaris P-85
 Driven: Polaris
Suspension Travel:
 Front: IFS, XTRA-10, Nitrex gas shocks, 10 in.
 Rear: XTRA-10, Nitrex gas shocks, 10 in.
Fuel Capacity: 11.8 gallons
Key Features: Hydraulic disc brake, hand and thumbwarmers, speedo, steel skis, EZ Steer carbides
Retail Price: $4,399 (Base Model)