For several years now, Polaris has positioned itself in the highly competitive sport hybrid category with its Switchback series, especially since the arrival of the Axys chassis. Offered in Pro-S version for hikers and Pro-X for rough trail enthusiasts, the 136-inch track Switchback has allowed the Minnesota-based company to re-enter the trail snowmobile market in the northeast. In fact, many enthusiasts, including myself, like the Pro-XC suspension in the rear of the Switchback more than the 120-inch track Rush. However, one of the sales issues that the Switchback series has experienced is that the Pro-Ss offer a much more comfortable package for the vast majority of Quebec riders, but with a more sober look. In reality, the typical snowmobiler is looking for the look and sporty ride of the Pro-X, without the great stiffness of its suspension. This is precisely the gap that the new XCR series fills in the Polaris Switchback line.
The Switchback XCR 800 comes with a few standard features such as a medium windshield that fits well with the vehicle’s sporty look. Essential for the conditions we encounter in Quebec, this windshield, which is higher than the one on the Pro-X, still needs to be complemented with hand guards in extreme cold. Mandatory in Quebec, but offered as an option by Polaris, I recommend the original Polaris mirrors designed specifically for the Axys chassis cab. They are of good size and have a flat mirror surface unlike some convex models. Combined with the fact that they are well positioned on the cab and integrate well with the design, they optimize rear visibility by providing a clear image without much vibration. Electric handlebar controls are standard, but our tester was equipped with the Polaris Interactive Digital Display color screen.
This system, launched by Polaris a few years ago, offers a multitude of very interesting functions for serious hikers. Several statistics on the hike are available as well as the GPS function combined with the cartography, which allows you to visualize the trails taken. The Bluetooth option is also available to connect your cell phone to your screen and be notified of incoming calls. The version of the Axys chassis equipped with the Pro-XC suspension in the rear offers virtually no storage space by design. An optional rear seat bag was available for our Switchback, but again, it has very limited cargo capacity. For those who want to go on multi-day trips, a metal rack that can accommodate larger bags can be installed in the back.
Now well known in the market, the Cleanfire 800HO engine is clearly one of the engines with the most punch at low rpm and offers 160hp according to the manufacturer. Without having official figures from Polaris, it is clearly the most sold engine in the Polaris fleet. Despite the break-in period where I had to follow the instructions of our Pro-Performance dealer, a Polaris dealer in Boischatel near Quebec City, the engine’s performance under acceleration is very impressive without any hesitation. The acceleration at different speeds is explosive and the experience for the rider is simply exceptional. When you know that it won’t be at its best before the first 500 to 600 kilometers, it sets the tone for the rest of the drive. However, you can feel a slight vibration in the engine at very low revs, but this soon dissipates, because as soon as you press the gas pedal, the engine becomes very smooth and releases all the available power. In very cold weather (-33°C), this big engine is easy to start, both with the electric starter and manually.
The handling of the Switchback, based on the Axys platform, is well proven. As soon as you drive the first few kilometers, you get a feeling of lightness and you quickly get used to the vehicle’s reactions, which are very predictable. Thanks to the Pro-XC front suspension and the “Active pitch control” system, driving is easy and precise. You don’t feel like you’re fighting the vehicle’s inertia, which makes the ride more enjoyable and helps you feel confident faster. This precision is made possible by the Pro-Stear skis, even without having installed any devices under the skis. The rear of the vehicle also contributes to its maneuverability thanks to the 15x136x1.35 inch Cobra track. Unlike the Ripsaw II of the Pro-S, this one is more resilient in turns without compromising on traction. This makes it easier to tackle tight turns without having to deal with the lift of the inner ski. Under acceleration, this track provides ample bite to take full advantage of the available power, as well as during braking. The PRT braking system is inspired by racing technologies. With superior ventilation, the XCR-specific brake disc disperses more heat even in warmer temperatures. The result is impressive as soon as you touch the brake lever.
In terms of comfort, Switchback Pro-S fans are already well served, even though the sportiest riders can occasionally reach the maximum capacity of the rear suspension. The Pro-X version simply offers too much stiffness, so the XCR version becomes the solution for those looking for the best of both worlds in terms of comfort. Equipped with Walker Evans high- and low-speed shocks in the front and rear, as well as stiffer springs than the Pro-S version, the Switchback XCR offers very good comfort while allowing a sportier ride with better bump capacity. The performance of the Pro-XC rear suspension is much better in this version, but the front of the vehicle might be a bit stiff for some. Our partner Pro Performance suggested the option of switching to 80-pound springs instead of 100-pound springs on the front suspension if you want to gain comfort, which your dealer will be able to do without any problem.
