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The Polaris 600 Cleanfire engine returns in the trusty IQ RMK chassis. This chassis is a great mix between rider forward ergonomics and sit-down conventional ergonomics. It's about half way between an M-series and XP riding position and it combines the best of both worlds. In powder, this chassis is light, nimble and easy to maneuver. While the chassis works great, the engine seemed slightly down on power compared to the other machines in this comparison. This sled just wouldn't go where the other three would in our test.
For 2010 the RMK 600 gets a new single-ply Series 5.1 track with 2.4-in. lugs and is available with either a 144-in. or 155-in. track. The RMK 600, like the M6, is aimed at a value-oriented customer so only comes in base trim, there is no Dragon 600. Also new? Revised foam in the seat. The seat on the 144-in. model is a little softer and wider to be more comfortable on the trails. As with the 800 base model RMKs, the 600 comes in a new blue color scheme.
The Ryde FX suspension on the RMK worked very well providing a good plush ride in a variety of conditions. It was our favorite of the group on the trail, and the riding position allows you to tackle the trails at a good pace. While we liked the suspension, the running boards on the RMK were not our favorite as they are a little too narrow. The upside is that they don't hang up in the snow; the downside is that they are a bit too narrow for moving around on at all. We found ourselves always standing on the outside rail of the running board.