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Polaris 600 XC SP's Evolution gives this Indy a winning edgeOver the past two seasons, Polaris tried to buy time until it could ready the new Fusion and RMK models and its all new "IQ" chassis and Cleanfire engine concept. In that time we saw a ProX and ProX2 with a short seat bun. These were both shorter-coupled and "improved" versions of Polaris' best ever Indy, the XC SP.
For 2005, you'll be inundated by Fusion and RMK marketing. That's to be expected; the IQ-chassis models are the future and the XC's EDGE chassis is the past. But, if you want to buy a classic and, perhaps, the best ever Polaris Indy, act now and get a golden deal on one of snowmobiling's all-time great sleds - the Polaris Indy 600 XC SP.
Ironically, two of our test riders absolutely glowed after riding the last of the Indy breed at our annual test session in March. Why?
Simply, the XC SP is the best all-around trail sled Polaris has built. It has an amply powerful Polaris designed and built two-stroke twin. It has the most evolved Polaris Indy drivetrain. It has the culmination of a quarter-century of engineering evolution in its trailing arm independent front suspension, and a well-balanced rear suspension suited for a wide variety of trail conditions. In short, the XC SP is the end result of all that worked for the Indy and made it the most popular trail sled ever!
The EDGE chassis design evolved from cross-country racing heritage and the success of the TX-L 340 Indy (see Back Tracks) of the late 1970s. From that basic design came two-up touring sleds, fan-cooled trail sleds, luxury performance models, award-winning mountain-specific sleds like the original SKS and RMK and a wide variety of racing versions.
What remains is an extremely versatile trail model that is bulletproof and a terrific value. For 2005 there is virtually no change on most models except for some graphics, the addition of an adjustable seat and a quiet tension chaincase system. There also is a 50th anniversary edition with unique graphics and top-shelf add-ons as standard equipment.
For our purposes, the key sled from Polaris for the 600cc or 120-hp category is the 600 XC SP. From a power standpoint the sled has come close to the Firecat F6 in previous Shoot-Outs. At that horsepower rating the 600 XC SP has a weight to power ratio of about 4.6 pounds per horsepower.
The Liberty twin measures 599cc and features electronic ignition and a fuel octane switch to help you protect it from ingesting too much poor-quality fuel. The pull on the throttles is moderate considering that you are opening dual 38mm flat slide carbs. Obviously the fuel injected Cat and Ski-Doo's semi-direct injected twins are easier to manipulate and less tiring on your throttle thumb.
The final drivetrain for this EDGE model is an updated P-85 drive clutch with TEAM final driven. Braking is hydraulic and uses the latest of Polaris engineering's designs for this model. Braking action is positive and consistent.
In fact, that is what can be said about this model overall. It is a positive handling sled with a consistent and readily-controllable feel. The best thing about the EDGE chassis has always been that it seems to watch out for the unwary. There have been times when this Indy series has salvaged some idiotic moves by this writer, making him shake his head in amazement at some maneuvers he managed to get away with through the years. The XC SP maintains that tradition, being one of the most sure-footed sleds.
Some of that comes from the controlled roll center of the latest trailing arm front end. Some of it comes from the sled's inherent balance.
With more than 10 inches of front travel and nearly 14 inches from its rear unit, this Polaris gives up nothing to its still evolving competitors.
Overall, the Polaris XC SP is still a terrific snowmobile and the only trailing arm-equipped model in this category. While the future is still a question mark for the new IQ chassis, the EDGE has had a wonderful history and is a great choice for fun everyday riding or riding on the edge!