2023 Polaris Patriot 9R Pro RMK Slash, in the mountain snowmobile segment, we see many professionals making a multitude of modifications to their machines to make them perform even better and handle better. Chris Burandt and Dan Adams are definitely two of the main players in these types of modifications on the Polaris side. Thanks to their advice, we saw the short tunnels appear last year at Polaris with the SLASH version and the introduction of a turbo engine, the BOOST version of the 850 Patriot engine. And since we know the Minnesota manufacturer to be very reactive in a hyper-competitive market, we are once again entitled to a great novelty… For 2023, Polaris has not been idle and is introducing something really exciting: the ”big bore” 9R engine for mountain snowmobiles. Wow, it’s promising!
Patriot 9R Engine
At first glance, the big ”9R” on the side panels announces that we have the ”big bore” engine. This name means that the engine bore has been increased. We find ourselves with an engine originally of 840cc to one of 900cc. Several other modifications were made in order to increase the performances in first place, but also the aspect reliability of this new mechanics. Thus, we will have a 10% lighter flywheel, an improved crankshaft with 3% less inertia and even pistons with a ceramic cover to reduce weight as much as possible. The result is an engine that is 1.2lbs lighter than the Patriot 850 while offering 7% more power and 12% more torque. This is a huge difference that can be felt from the very first throttle. As an added bonus, the engine’s response is even quicker since the inertia has been reduced.
When you consider that the Patriot 850 engine delivers about 175 horsepower when using the same dyno method as other manufacturers, you end up with the most powerful naturally aspirated 2-stroke engine ever produced for snowmobiles. We’re talking about 187 horsepower! That’s everything you need to climb the highest peaks efficiently or to easily keep your line when side-hilling.
Polaris opted for the second generation QuickDrive (QD2) transmission system to efficiently transmit the Patriot 9R’s monstrous power. This system greatly enhances the riding experience, as it adds up to less inertia in the engine. Then, we connect it to the TEAM and P22 clutch to optimize the delivery to the track. Note that there is no delay in engaging the movement and that a tiny fraction of a second is needed before you find yourself floating in the powder.
What I really like about this new engine is that you have a substantial reserve of power and you can rely on it instantly with an unmatched engine response. You can exploit all the 9R engine’s rpm until you have to press the throttle for a quick maneuver. Polaris is once again pushing the limits with this engine, which is even more adapted to the Quebec market than its sister, the BOOST. Moreover, its response is much faster than the turbocharged version. However, at altitude and in wider terrain, the BOOST will have an advantage over the 9R. It’s up to you to choose now depending on where you plan to ride next winter.
MATRYX SLASH
This name means that we have the MATRYX platform. It is known since 2022 for the off-piste models and we know that it offers an increased rigidity while providing an optimized ergonomics for the pilot. In addition, the name SLASH means that we have the configuration of a short tunnel that ends in a bevel with a minimalist snow guard (”flap”) or even nonexistent. This means that the snow will be expelled more efficiently and less effort is required to drive it. Another interesting aspect is that the cooling system has been modified to be centralized under the pilot and to favor mass distribution.
The MATRYX SLASH platform provides several advantages including:
- Low overall weight and optimal center of gravity.
- Polaris claims that it is 22% lighter in use because there is less snow and ice that can accumulate due to the radiator that no longer stretches to the rear.
- The drag caused by the tunnel has been reduced and less effort is required in maneuvers like the side-hill.
- Handling is improved because the tunnel no longer bumps against the snow at the rear.
- The design of the tunnel has been streamlined, so there is less breakage. So more time to play in the mountains.
Suspensions
On the suspension side, we find ourselves with the RMK React system for the front A-arm geometry. The handling is sound and above all, very light. In fact, the components are perhaps too light, and stiffer lower tables would be advisable, since they often cause deformations. On the other hand, the Walker Evans Racing-Velocity shocks, both front and rear, offer the best. It’s easy to configure their behavior to suit your physique and riding style. High and low speed compression can be adjusted as well as spring preload to get exactly what you want.
Unlike its more playful little sister, the RMK KHAOS, the PRO RMK offers a very firm suspension and a very precise ride at all times. It’s perfect for riders who don’t want to compromise on ride quality at the expense of comfort.
Strong Points:
- Big bore engine directly from the manufacturer. We benefit from high performance and professional tuning while keeping a complete warranty from Polaris.
- The MATRYX platform offers the pilot an ergonomic position, a very narrow fairing and an optimal design for the mountain.
- Narrow tunnel configuration (SLASH version) that surpasses anything previously known by reducing the weight, pushing back the skills and especially the effort required to pilot it.
Areas for improvement:
- 9R engine based on the architecture of the Patriot engines which are known to go through several spark plugs in a season… Let’s hope that the manufacturer to finally find THE solution to solve this abnormal situation.
- A reliability that remains to be proven, although we know that Polaris carries out very rigorous tests and that with the warranty we are well protected.
- A purchase price that continues to rise with all these technological and performance advances. We just passed the $20,000 mark before taxes!
Conclusion
With the arrival of this new engine, which pushes performance to another level, the 2023 Polaris Patriot 9R Pro RMK Slash equipped with the 9R engine takes a step ahead of the competition. We can bet that we will see this kind of modification in the coming years from other manufacturers who will not remain idle. And that’s just as well, because we’ll be the ones to benefit from it at the end of the line.
If you would like more information on Polaris mountain models, visit their website or your nearest dealer.
