Polaris Guys - No Bashing Please

Ricki Bobby

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I’ve been riding the Doo’s for years and would like to try a Polaris. Looking at buying a used sled to try out. My question is are certain years better than others and what should I look for?
 

niner

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I would go 18 and up for the 800.
And 20 and up for the 850.
What kind of riding?
 

Teth-Air

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Also how much are you willing to spend? Each newer chassis design has been an improvement for rideability but not always reliabiility (eg a 21 might be just as reliable as a 23 model but the 23 is a better ride). There are some incredible deals for hold-overs and slightly used sleds.
 

Teth-Air

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My 19 was the best sled I ever owned and lots of guys didn't have luck in 19. That said, if you wnat an Axys go for the 850 and you will get the narrow front end and longer legs. If you go Matyrx you get updated fueling and timing as they had more pick-up resolution on the flywheel. They also got the Cobra cord pull start which is really noticable. The slash tunnel is very nice too. Hardly gets stuck. Now you need to decide on track length and lug depth. The 2.75' Series 8 track is light and works well. The Series 7 is bullet proof but heavier and trenches a bit. Series 9 is only available in 24. Lots of choices.
 

niner

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IMG_4502.jpeg
I agree with the why buy used when new prices like this.
 

Dazzler

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I had no issues with my 17 800, or my 20,21,22 850's not one
Same here, I have an 18’19’ 20, and a 21… never heard of jackshaft bearing issue. I also help out in the back at the local Polaris shop…. Haven’t seen jackshaft bearing issue. Maybe some of the guys with the brake issue possibly cooked one?
 

Eagle

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I have a 22 Pro RMK Matryx Slash 165 2.75 track. Only 74 miles. Has extras. Late snowcheck so has 7S Display and Velosity shocks. PM me for pictures and info.
 

jcjc1

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Same here, I have an 18’19’ 20, and a 21… never heard of jackshaft bearing issue. I also help out in the back at the local Polaris shop…. Haven’t seen jackshaft bearing issue. Maybe some of the guys with the brake issue possibly cooked one?
 

S.W.A.T.

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In our lineup we currently have sleds ranging from 440 to 800, years from 92 to 2020. If looking at 800s I would steer clear of the the 2002 to 2008 models. Newer sleds and newer technology is obviously better, almost pulled the trigger on a 2023 850 today. Last year's sleds are blowing out right now.

Been a polaris family for 3 generations now and can't really complain, good service from our dealer (yes small town perk) and feel we get what we pay for. I know lots of guys love their cats, my uncle is one, and many love their doos. Each have pros and cons, ford Chevy argument, but we have always been happy. One thing I know for certain is the setup is key. If your messing with clutching and gearing do your research regardless of brand, if your running stock, I can't honestly imagine there is anything more than subtle differences.
 
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