SCORE Journal

score-journal-april-2020

SCORE Journal - The Official Publication of SCORE Off-Road Racing

Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/1236492

Contents of this Issue

Navigation

Page 68 of 114

POWERED UP & READY Polaris’ RZR Pro XP Offers The Next Level Of UTV Performance By Dan Sanchez Photos courtesy of Polaris Race after race, Polaris RZR model UTVs continue to display exceptional performance and speed that continually earn the respect of off-road racers and enthusiasts. With more people wanting to race UTVs in a variety of classes, manufacturers are tapping into the experience of their factory race teams. Polaris’ efforts have resulted in the latest generation of RZR to hit the market, the RZR Pro XP. The RZR Pro XP has all of the latest innovations that the company has been carefully working to improve and test in off-road racing. For example, professional off-road UTV racers have utilized aftermarket suspension components that give their vehicles a wider stance and maximize the use of a longer wheelbase to improve stability and create more wheel travel. Polaris responded by giving the new RZR Pro XP a wide 64-inch stance that also provides 20-inches of front wheel travel and 22-inches of rear-wheel travel. Combined with a long 96-inch wheelbase (for a two-seater), the RZR Pro XP has an optimum suspension platform that is well balanced and built for improved traction, but one that is also more reliable with axles that are eight-times stronger than previous RZR models, and a drive system that is three times stronger, according to Polaris engineers. Polaris engineers also maintain that the longer wheelbase also provides improved stability on straight-line acceleration and during long stretches that don’t compromise on the vehicle’s overall agility. The RZR Pro XP is available in three trim levels which include the RZR Pro XP Ultimate ($28,499 MSRP), the RZR Pro XP Premium ($24,499 MSRP), and the RZR Pro XP ($22,999 MSRP). While the various trim levels include a multitude of accessories such as a RIDE COMMAND infotainment system to LED interior accent strips and a 400-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system that can be upgraded to 800-watts, Ultimate models feature Polaris’ DYNAMIX 2.0 active suspension. This allows drivers to change the calibrations of its FOX 2.5 Live Valve Shocks on the fly via controls on the steering wheel. A DYNAMIC X button sends the suspension system to full firm mode, preventing bottoming out if the vehicle would happen to catch some big air during high-speed runs. All RZR Pro XP models feature an all-new 181 horsepower turbocharged engine that is water-cooled and creates more power on acceleration within the 20 to 50 mph range. Combined with the company’s AWD system, the RZR Pro XP is designed to handle tougher terrain at higher speeds and engage when there are three-degrees of tire slippage without reducing heavy steering or reduced turning capabilities. With the RZR Pro XP’s stronger axles and drivetrain, engineers were able to add larger 30-inch Maxxis Carnivore tires, the largest on a 64-inch UTV from the factory. The tires also help the RZR Pro XP to attain 14.5-inches of ground clearance. Another area that was strengthened was the transmission which engineers say is 39 percent stronger and uses a newly designed clutch that provides more airflow but also protects the belt from debris and the elements for longer belt-life. The seating position is also a key element to what Polaris has learned from off-road racing. Keeping drivers and passengers comfortable includes a lower center of gravity and more room. The RZR Pro XP offers four additional inches of interior width and six inches of length for added room, along with a lower seating position and a retractable harness that holds the driver secure. A flat-bottom racing-inspired steering wheel provides more space while the seats tilt and feature four-way adjustment. With off-road enthusiasts wanting to personalize their vehicles, the RZR Pro XP also has a full line of accessories including a new pre-assembled winch kit, Rigid lighting options, storage solutions, and Pro Armor products including a custom cage, doors, and more. As Polaris continues to expand and improve its vehicles, SCORE fans will continue to see increases in participation within the UTV classes and increase competition with faster, more reliable, and safer vehicles. SJ

Articles in this issue

Archives of this issue

view archives of SCORE Journal - score-journal-april-2020