latebreaking news from polaris updated

We've received limited information and images for Polaris' Snow Check models, released yesterday at its annual snowmobile dealer meeting in Orlando, Florida. There will be three sleds only offered during the pre-season ordering season: Indy 800 LE, 600 EDGE X and 800 RMK Snow Check Special.

The Indy 800 LE will sport the well-proven M-10 rear suspension from FAST. That's right, we have finally seen the other end of the deal between FAST and Polaris. This is what we had suspected we'd see already last season. Will there be more suspension goodies coming in the next few seasons? Time will tell.

The 800 LE will use the big block 800 twin found in the 800 XC SP and 800 RMK sleds already released. It will also feature reverse. The EDGE-based sled will have plastic skis, the standard EDGE IFS front suspension and will be available only in Rigel Blue.

Polaris also announced that the 600 Classic will feature the M-10 rear suspension all season long. This solo cruiser sled is also built on the EDGE chassis and has electric start, reverse and mirrors as part of its luxury package.

According to FAST's David Karpik, "Polaris hasn't changed the design of the M-10 significantly to put it into the EDGE sleds. There are some subtle differences to better economize parts and manufacturing, but it will perform just like our M-10. Plus, it still weighs in at just 53 pounds."

Karpik also told us that while Polaris is producing the M-10 for its own sleds, FAST will retain all rights to the aftermarket version. "Consumers will not be able to buy an entire M-10 rear suspension from Polaris. They could probably buy it bolt by bolt, but that wouldn't be cost effective."

The 600 EDGE X is the second Snow Check-only sled offered from Roseau. It is essentially a fully-dressed race sled with an exceptionally loud color scheme. It will use the VES 600 engine, the same as the 600 XC SP, but the tunnel will carry the support braces found on the racer-only XCR, as well as standard tunnel roll grippers. Both of those pieces will come in blaze yellow, as will the front and rear bumpers, the ski loops, the EDGE IFS trailing arms and the rear skid's torque arms. You definitely won't miss this sled in the parking lot!

The final Snow Check-only sled is a 151-inch track 800 RMK in red with a black bellypan. This is essentially a cosmetic special, with unique decals and paint scheme. You'll remember that the 151 is only offered in black during the regular season and the blue 800 RMK carries a 144-incher. The 80 RMK Snow Check Special is still built on the Gen II platform.

For more information about these sleds, contact your local dealer in the next week, as they return from the meeting in Orlando.