Polaris 700 Switchback

Polaris is aiming its 700 Switchback at riders who go where the snow falls, no matter how far away.

The sled is powered by a 140hp, 700 Cleanfire engine, which Polaris claims is the strongest on the market. The four-injector Cleanfire system boosts midrange power and has exceptional acceleration.

To keep the ride as smooth as possible, Polaris has a new, fully coupled rear suspension. The sled is fitted with Ryde FX IFP gas shocks up front and a Fox Position Sensitive rear-track gas shock that provides 14 inches of travel.

The new IQ spindle has been redesigned for reduced steering effort and control, while weighing one pound less than previous models.

Polaris’ new Raw hybrid chassis uses a full-length tunnel cooling extrusion instead of a radiator. Foot-well ice buildup is reduced by snow evacuation holes. Tunnel rigidity is aided by side fish bones, which also improve boot traction.

The track is 136 inches long, 15 inches wide and has 1.25-inch lugs. The ripsaw track can take you from the trails to the deep powder, depending on where you want to ride.
 
A spare belt can be stored under the hood on an integrated holder, which can also store a clutch tool and plug wrench.

Heated hand and thumb warmers and reverse come standard on the Switchback, but to trim the base price several options are available as add-ons. Adjustable bar hooks and a grab bar are available for an extra cost, both of which are standard on the more expensive Dragon Switchback.

To carry cargo around Polaris offers an optional accessory bag, which attaches behind the seat and matches the rest of the sled.

MSRP: US$9,399/C$12,099

Specs

Estimated Dry Weight (pounds/kg):  494 / 224.3
Overall Length (in./cm.) :  120 / 308.4
Overall Width (in./cm.) :  48 / 121.9
Overall Height (in./cm.) :  48.5 / 123.2
Ski Center Distance (in./cm.) :  42.5 / 108
Fuel Capacity (gallons/liters) :  11.7 / 44.3

Engine Type/Cooling:  Liberty / Liquid
Cylinders-Displacement (cc) :  2, 700
Bore x Stroke (mm) :  81 x 68
Horsepower:  140
Ignition:  Digital CDI w/TPS, WTS, DET
Exhaust:  SC VES, Single
Emissions:  HC/CO 80 / 230
Carburetion:  Cleanfire Injection – 4
Disc Brake Type:  Phantom, Hydraulic
Drive/Driven Clutch:  P-85 / LWT TEAM

Steering:  Fixed
Electric Start:  Accessory
Reverse:  PERC
Speedometer:  Analog / Digital MFD
Tachometer:  Analog / Digital MFD
Fuel Gauge:  Analog / Digital MFD
Temp/Low Oil Light:  Analog / Digital MFD
12v-DC Outlet:  Accessory
Handlebar Hooks:  Accessory
Hand & Thumb Warmers:  Std. Adjustable
Mirrors:  Accessory
Seat Type:  Freestyle
Rear Rack / Tow Hitch:  Accessory
Color / Graphics:  Black / Lightning

Front Suspension:  IQ
Front Travel (in./cm.) :  10 / 25.4
Front Shocks:  Ryde FX, HPG, IFP
Ski Type:  IQ
Rear Suspension:  IQ 136 Coupled
Rear Travel (in./cm.) :  14 / 53
Front Track Shock:  Ryde FX, HPG, IFP
Rear Track Shock:  Fox PS5
Track Width/Length/Height (in.):  15 x 136 x 1.25 RipSaw