Live from the Polaris dealer meeting in Las Vegas, we have the latest from Polaris and their plans for the 2011 snowmobile lineup.
We just sat through the meeting kickoff and the announcement of the 2011 lineup. But before we get to the lineup, let’s pause to talk about something that is on the mind of many Polaris enthusiasts; reliability. No doubt Polaris has innovated even in the face of a powersports industry that got hammered by a 25% reduction in volume in 2009. The 2010 Rush is a great example of Polaris being on the gas when others are struggling and coming out with “bold new graphics”. But the 800 engine has been a concern. Reliability is not where they want it to be and they are working like crazed dogs to correct it. Bennet Morgan, COO even spewed some profanity to get the point across. They aren’t satisfied and the 2010 issue will be corrected and the 2011 product will be ready with over 110,000 miles of testing.
The other really big news is the new 800 RMK. Billed as the “lightest, strongest, most durable RMK” ever, the new RMK appears to be one sweet machine on paper. 41 lbs (431 lbs total) lighter than last year, it’s “flickability” makes it the go to mountain sled for 2010/2011. According to Chris Burandt of Burandt Backcountry Adventrures who has been riding the sled since November, “the RMK Team took every single aspect of what a mountain sled should be and they made this – 40lbs lighter, 300% stiffer. It’s a suspension guys dream. It’s like one of the baddest mod sleds I’ve ever ridden and it’s stock. It’s so cool. It’s the lightest, fastest, most flickable sleds out there.”
Personally, I think the new Polaris lineup is sick. While a lot of the snowmobile industry is trying to weather the recession storm, Polaris continues to be on the gas.
Below are some photos of the new sleds and some promo videos from the marketing department at Polaris. Check them out and let us know what you think of the 2011 lineup in the comments section.
Photo Gallery:
Video: Introducing the 800 Rush
Video: Battle of the Bumps – Rush vs Rev XP
Video: Rush Virtual Test Ride
Video: Rush Documentary
Video: SnowGoer Sled of the Year
Get ready for spring. Every Saturday, March 6 through April 24, we have a special offer for Honda and Yamaha owners. Stop in our Indianola location for a $49.95 oil change for your motorcycle or ATV. No appointment necessary.
This special includes:
- New oil and filter
- 31 point ATV inspection
- 19 point motorcycle inspection
- Inspection of brakes, cables, tires, chains/belts, electrical, bearings, and much more!
- Free t-shirt
We strive to enhance your riding experience through three points of focus:
- SAFETY
- PERFORMANCE
- RELIABILITY
Van Wall Powersports is pleased to announce the addition of BMW motorcycles to our carefully selected line of powersports brands. The long BMW heritage of engineering and manufacturing excellence is a perfect match for the Van Wall reputation for outstanding customer support. With models ranging from the 650 to 1300, the BMW lineup serves all riders from the beginner-enthusiast to the million-mile touring rider.
In October of 2009, BMW motorcycles will be sold and serviced from our Perry, Iowa location. The Perry location will serve as an interim location for BMW motorcycles. A new location in the Des Moines area is currently under development, and this new location will become the permanent home for BMW motorcycles. We currently project this new location to open in the second half of 2010.
We are very excited to bring such an outstanding brand to the Des Moines market – a market that hasn’t ever had a BMW motorcycle dealer. The Des Moines and central Iowa motorcycle community has proven to be one of enthusiasts with great passion for motorcycling and the freedom of the road. For these riders, BMW motorcycles can now be purchased locally and with the reassurance that Van Wall Powersports will support all of their service and support needs.
For a history on BMW motorcycles, check out this Wikipedia article or visit the official BMW Motorrad site for more information.
UPDATE: Showroom Photos
Yamaha’s new model for it’s Star line of motorycles is the 2010 Yamaha Stratoliner Deluxe. Take the Stratoliner we’ve all come to recognize by it’s art-deco design scheme and add a fiberglass front fairing and bags, dress it up with some extra chrome, and the Stratoliner Deluxe is born. By the pictures, we’d venture to say this is one of the best looking metric cruisers on the market. Yamaha’s press release below:
Think all baggers are created equal? Think again…..Star is pleased to introduce the 2010 Stratoliner Deluxe. Whether you’re traveling cross-country or crosstown, this new bagger is one of the most powerful and stylish ways to go.
The Stratoliner Deluxe features a distinctive, wind shearing fairing that includes a handlebar-mounted audio control system with integrated high fidelity speakers, connectors for an iPod® jack and ultra cool shorty windscreen. To compliment the fairing a pair of large, color-matched, locking hard sidebags with handy one touch openers provide spacious storage for long hauls and short trips.
The powerful and beautiful 113 cubic-inch (1854cc) air-cooled, pushrod V-twin has massive looks and performance. The computer controlled twin-bore downdraft electronic fuel injection with 12 hole injectors ensures optimum engine efficiency and throttle response in the widest possible range of conditions. Combined with the four valve cylinder heads with dual spark plugs, ceramic-composite-lined cylinders and 2 –into-1 exhaust with O2 sensor and three way catalyst to reduce emissions, maximum torque is reached at just 2500 rpm for performance second to none.
No matter what the angle. the Stratoliner Deluxe just plain looks good!
The long and low aluminum frame provides great looks and light handling unlike any other full-size cruiser with very few welds for a smooth, clean look and a near 50/50 weight distribution between both wheels. The light, Controlled-fill swingarm casting compliments the streamline style and reduces unsprung weight to assist in the great handling. Additional features such as 46 mm fork tubes with slant cut chrome covers, a tucked out-of-sight single shock with adjustable spring preload, a richly chromed 1.25 inch oversize handlebar and large front discs with monolock brake calipers add to the unmatched functionality of the chassis. A strong and light belt final drive routes power smoothly and efficiently to the rear wheel while the floating floorboards and adjustable heel/toe shifter provide a comfortable, low effort ride.
The Neo-streamline design gives the Stratoliner Deluxe a completely distinctive look which is accented by a level of fit and finish that is second to none. Details such as the switchgear wiring being routed internal to the handlebar, a flangeless, teardrop fuel tank, 12-spoke wheels, chrome front brake master cylinder with integrated lever, a sculpted seat and special custom machining of the cooling fin edges give a jewel like appearance to the engine as light hits it from different angles. Additional details like Star quality paint and chrome, bright multireflector headlight, LED taillight and amber turn signals behind clear lenses complete the custom look.
The 2010 Stratoliner Deluxe will be available in Star motorcycle dealerships nationwide beginning in January in a Raven finish with a starting MSRP of $17,490.
The Star® Accessories Catalog is packed full of high-quality parts that invite Star owners to fully express their individuality.
Full information on all Star models can be found at www.starmotorcycles.com.
A tough economy hasn’t kept Yamaha from some serious engineering innovation. The 2010 Yamaha YZ450F is a case in point. For 2010 the 450 motocrosser shows up to the game with a backward slanted engine, battery-less fuel injection, a new chassis, “tornado” exhaust and more. The reversed engine also means the location of the airbox and fuel tank have swapped meaning the fuel weight is more centralized in the bike and the intake path is more direct. By centralizing the mass within the bike, Yamaha claims that the bike feels far more agile and tossable than any other 450 that has come before it. Check out the official pictures and videos from Yamaha below. Seen enough and want one? Let us know.
2010 Yamaha YZ450F Intro Video:
2010 Yamaha YZ450F Official Movie:
2010 Yamaha YZ450F Technical Movie:
Polaris Industries today announced the RANGER HD has been awarded “Best of the Best” by “Field & Stream” Magazine. “Field & Stream” also named the vehicle one of the “Best Off-Road Rides for 2009” in a previous issue.
“Polaris would like to thank ‘Field & Stream’ for naming the RANGER HD as the ‘Best of the Best,’” said Jan Rintamaki, marketing director of the Off-Road Division for Polaris. “It’s an honor to have the world’s leading outdoor magazine recognize the RANGER HD as a premier product for its readership.”
Built for ultra heavy-duty work applications, Polaris introduced the RANGER HD as part of its 2009 model year line-up. The vehicle has all the new RANGER features plus an exclusive Self-Leveling Suspension and Variable Assist Power Steering. The RANGER HD was introduced with Nivomat shocks making it the first-ever Self-Leveling Suspension on a utility vehicle. When carrying heavy loads, the shocks automatically adjust the suspension resulting in the highest loaded ground clearance of any utility vehicle. Due to a lower spring rate, the Nivomats provide a smoother ride and the ability to go long distances at 50 MPH fully-loaded, making hauling loads quicker and easier.
For easier steering during heavy-duty work applications, RANGER HD also features power steering with exclusive Variable Assist. RANGER HD’s power steering allows for one-finger steering at low speeds and eliminates feedback at high speeds so the operator can work longer and enjoy the ride. The system is perfect for plowing as well as the new BOSS Lift & Carry System that attaches to the front of the RANGER HD and can lift and carry up to 500 lbs.
Outdoor enthusiasts can see the RANGER HD in “Field & Stream’s” Gear of the Year, September, 2009 issue which is available on stands now.
Want a reminder of what the 2009 Ranger lineup was/is all about? Check out the video overview below.
Victory just released some great videos showcasing their touring bike lineup including the new Cross Country and Cross Roads bikes. From engine, frame, and suspension, to electronics, comfort, storage and more. You can see from the footage that Victory is quite proud of their touring bikes, as well they should be. Since you can’t yet take on for a test drive, we figure this is the next best thing. Watch the series and let us know what you think in the comments section.
Overview:
Engine:
Frame:
Suspension:
Storage:
Comfort:
Electronics:
We’re just back from the Victory dealer show in St. Paul, Minnesota. During the event, Victory showcased their new 2010 models, the most notable of which are the Victory Cross Roads and Cross Country models. Both of these new models feature a new sand cast aluminum frame using what Victory refers to as CORE technology. This frame is similar to the one found on the Vision, but specifically designed for the two “Crosses”. Also common between the two bikes is the 106-cubic-inch air-cooled V-twin engine and six speed overdrive transmission, 21 gallons of storage, and 4.7 inches of rear suspension travel. MSRP for the new bikes is impressively low at $15,999 for the Cross Roads and $17,999 for the Cross Country.
The Cross Country wears a large, fork-mounted fairing, while the Cross Roads incorporates a removable Lexan windshield. Victory claims both bikes have the lowest seats and the lightest weight in their class. Features include:
- Weatherproof hard cases offering a total capacity of 21.3 gallons; 70% more than the Yamaha Stratoliner, and 25% more than the Harley-Davidson Street Glide
- Standard chrome tubular highway bars on the Cross Roads, and forged aluminum highway bars on the Cross Country
- Adjustable rear air suspension via Schrader valve
- A standard AM/FM stereo on the Cross Country, with iPod connectivity, and optional cruise control
We were not able to test ride these new bikes, but are very impressed from a stationary seat-of-the-pants feel. Victory had a HD StreetGlide on hand for comparison, and the ergonomics blow away those of the HD. Unless you have a HD tattoo, it’s hard to imagine why you would choose the StreetGlide over one of these bikes. From the way they feel sitting still, we can’t wait to give them a run down our favorite road.
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If you’re now saying to yourself “I have got to get me one of these”, then you’re not alone. You will, however, have to wait with the rest of us. A firm shipping date is still elusive, but unofficial word from Victory is “sometime after the first of the year.” Production is reported to be limited, so if you think this is the motorcycle for you I suggest you send us a message or stop in and let us know you want to be on the list.
A photo gallery of Cross Roads and Cross Country pictures from the dealer show below. Photos of the rest of the bikes on display can be found here.
We’re just back from the 2009 Polaris dealer meeting where Polaris unveiled their plans for the 2010 ATV and UTV model year. Both lineups get some refreshing throughout the line, but the big news comes by way of the Polaris Ranger 400 and its brother the Ranger EV. Both of these units share the same, smaller, two-seat chassis, that fits in the back of a pickup truck, with many of the riding features of their full-sized counterparts: On-Demand True All-Wheel Drive with VersaTrac Turf Mode, Independent Rear Suspension, and high ground clearance.
The Polaris Ranger 400 specifically features the 455cc engine also found in the Sportsman 400 ATV. It’s a robust single-cylinder power plant that is capable of propelling the 1,050 lb UTV down the trail of across the field with surprising spirit. Polaris could have put a 600 sticker on the side of it and we would have believed them; there’s that much get-up-and-go. Despite the smaller operator’s station, the 400 feels comfortable and can easily accommodate larger and taller people. With a cargo capacity of 500 lbs and towing capacity of 1250 lbs, this “mid-sized” Ranger can still get a lot of work done.
The Polaris Ranger EV is the brother to the gas-powered 400. The EV is powered by a 30 hp/48V AC electric motor. The EV features a three range mode selector allowing the operator to select between High, Low, and Max Range. With Max Range engaged the EV is reportedly capable of running 50 miles before it needs a charge. That charge would come courtesy of a standard 110V AC outlet.
We were able to run the EV and honestly our expectations were pretty low. Just how good could an electric Ranger be anyway? Well, pretty good actually. Although it doesn’t have the snap of the 400, the EV is very capable at putting a smile on your face. There is something inherently appealing about pounding down a trail with only a little whine from the electric motor. If it weren’t for the snapping twigs, you might just be able to sneak up on that whitetail you are hunting. What’s most remarkable about the EV is that it gives you the ease of use of a golf cart with the true trail tested all-wheel-drive capability of an off road UTV. At an MSRP of $10,699, it comes at a $2700 premium over its gas burning brother. That’s not a small amount, but it does offer a low hassle and environmentally friendly UTV that is currently un-matched in the industry.
Hell for Leather reported today that the Piaggio MP3 Hybrid has been officially launched in Europe. Details of the revolutionary scooter are as follows:
Configuration:
A leaning three-wheeler combines the advantages of a scooter — traffic busting, easy parking — with something that’s easy-to-use and, most importantly, unintimidating to new riders. Unlike other, supposedly eco-friendly vehicles like the Toyota Prius, the MP3 Hybrid will never get stuck in traffic nor create congestion for other road users, thereby further reducing its impact on the environment.
Since the gasoline engine only displaces 124cc, European riders will be able to ride it on nothing but a car license or a motorcycle learner’s permit.
Fuel Economy:
The MP3 Hybrid performs like a 250cc scooter, most of those return about 90-95mpg. In similar urban conditions, the MP3 Hybrid adds 50% to that figure. In comparison, the 2010 Toyota Prius, the most fuel-efficient car sold in the US, returns only 50mpg in the combined EPA cycle.
The Plug:
A common modification for super nerdy Prius owners is a plug, enabling them to recharge their batteries at home or at the office and then run on electricity-only for longer and faster. That also enables them not to suck down gasoline to recharge the battery when electricity, even from coal-fired power plants, is created far more efficiently and is so easily available.
Electric-Only Operation:
Many European cities are rapidly defining areas open only to electric vehicles. In electric mode, the MP3 can access these areas. Additionally, you never need use gasoline for short trips just super-cheap electricity.
Lithium Ion Battery:
More energy density and reliability than NiMH or LiPo cells, Lithium Ion means higher performance, lighter weight and increased longevity. Expect the batteries to last the vehicle’s lifetime.
Range:
Unlike all-electric competitors, the MP3 Hybrid’s range is indefinite. Need to take a long trip? Just stop at gas stations and top up.
It’s Coming To America:
Piaggio Group President and CEO Paolo Timoni exclusively revealed to us that the MP3 Hybrid will go on-sale in the US Q1 2010 for around $8 or $9,000.
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