difference in model years

[ruffryder]

anyone know of a thread that discusses the differences between the IQ sleds for each model year?

I am looking at a 600 rmk 2007, but it seems there are some changes that were made in the other years.

2008 seems like they got a new seat and tank
2009 seems like they got a new front suspension (what was wrong with the old one)

any drivetrain changes? clutching changes? chassis and suspension changes?

please help a poor nytro rider..

 

[ruffryder]

I should add, I have been searching for the last couple of days too, but I didn't find anything complete..

 

[MARV1]

'08 up new seat and tank but too narrow, new spindles that allowed easier steering. '09 lighter spindles on some models, new plastics for less weight, new rail design.
'07/'08 some models still had carbs which I prefer over CFI... I get better fuel economy than any of my buddies that have CFI 600's.

 

[bretton_s]

The bumper/front end is definitely different on the 09s+. I know the airbox is different as well, the box seam is sealed up better on the newer ones too. Also different are the rails and the tail light location. I belive I heard that there is something different in the cooling system too, not too sure about that. The riser height MAY be different, can someone else verify these points?

 

[bretton_s]

How did you like the nytro, by the way? Why are you switching?

 

[ruffryder]

How did you like the nytro, by the way? Why are you switching?

nytro stays mine, I am looking at the 600 or 700 for the wife / backup / spare sled. The nytro is too heavy for an inexperienced woman imo. Or rather, she didn't like it off trail. She has been in the mountains twice, and done great on a rev 800. I think the ergo's of the polaris's are better for her, and I don't like tinfoil revs either... btdt.. stupid nuns.. She is only 5' 4" and is slim. I don't think she needs much at all to keep up with my fat sled and fat arse..

Nytro rocks, but you have to love it (have big blinders on), otherwise it isn't for you. Oh, and I don't have boost, and never will. I LOVE the fourstroke though, if only it had a chassis.

 

[diamonddave]

The bumper/front end is definitely different on the 09s+. I know the airbox is different as well, the box seam is sealed up better on the newer ones too. Also different are the rails and the tail light location. I belive I heard that there is something different in the cooling system too, not too sure about that. The riser height MAY be different, can someone else verify these points?

The airbox upgrade is on the CFI's

The 09-10 has different length a-arms, sway bar, and different plastic in the front end (thinner). The plastic being thinner cuts through the pow easier, the geometry changes with the arms and sway bar has better handling. There wasn't anything wrong with the 08 and earlier design front end IMO. Polaris needed changes to continue to sell new sleds. To me it was more of this than anything. The 09's doo handle better though, no doubt about that. But there are no Carb'd sleds in 09 from Poo. The 08 600 Shifts were the last carb'd 600's.

Poo has an 09 plastic kit for peeps that want to upgrade or who have cracked theirs. Some guys that cream their 08 and older front ends are upgrading to the newer 09 a-arm and sway bar.

08 and earlier sleds had a complaint of hard steering. This can be addressed by installing a 225lb front skid shock spring available from Carls Cycle and really be fixed all the way from a set of spindles available from Holz for $300 or a take off set of spindles from an 08 or newer sled. Highly rec'd both.

An aftermarket "REAL" bumper would be a must if it were me. Especially when you loan it to me so I can show you how well that sled will kick A$$!!

09 and up dragons have pro taper bars without a riser. RMK's and older models use a conventional bar and riser which by my instructor's and my calcuations puts less stress on the steering shaft.

 

[ruffryder]

dang dd, that is some good information..

 

[volcano buster]

What year did they upgrade the intake vents up by the key/ steering post going away from those easily lost pantyhose pod filters?

 

[GKR]

Have the 07 600 for my wife. I ride a 09 Dragon and had an 05 900 before that. Very little difference in the 07 and 09 other than power. Front bumper is different, some set up differences of course. Don't hesitate or underestimate the 07, its a great sled and she will love it. If you end up with it let me know, I'll give you some good set up info.

 

[diamonddave]

What year did they upgrade the intake vents up by the key/ steering post going away from those easily lost pantyhose pod filters?

^^^2008. SLP has replacements that are much better

The lower airbox attachment to the t-bodies was upgraded by Polaris on the CFI's in 09. This is a great upgrade for 2008 CFI's (a 2009 airbox) to prevent belt dust and other crap from getting into the motor so easily. This is only for CFI's.

 

[bretton_s]

Yeah, good info diamonddave. Had no idea about that other stuff. I wonder if a guy would notice the handling going from an 09 to an 08. My buddy and I have these sleds, respectively, and will test this out this winter. First ride on the new sleds for both of us to come! Thinking snow! At least it's getting colder... -7 last night here.

I'm pretty sure the airbox is different, though. I saw some pre-09 sleds and there is a vertical split in the case that is at least 1/8 inch. You can shine light through it pretty bad. I hear silicon fixes that however. Just my observations looking at a few this summer.

Brett