We’ve been thinking about the Indy a lot lately.
In MY2017 Polaris dropped the 121-inch 800 and went exclusively with the 600 and various utility-targeted versions of the Indy, powered by either a 550 fan or a 600 Liberty.
Based on the success of the new 144-inch Switchback and various Indy versions with long tracks Polaris converted into the AXYS front end this year, we can’t help but think the company will show us a new 121-inch Indy-AXYS next year.
The looming question however, is this: Is just adding a new AXYS front clip to the existing Indy skidframe enough to stir the hearts of potential buyers?
We think Polaris will need to take things a notch higher and deliver better ride compliance from a new AXYS-based platform. Don’t agree? Check out the way the new Switchback 144 rides. That sled is amazing and world’s apart from the Switch it replaces.
The key to the Switchback’s improved ride is its re-calibrated long front arm design, similar to the RUSH. We think a skidframe re-design along those parameters plus a shock tune-up would revolutionize the appeal of the shorter tracked Indy.
Face it, there are a lot of snowmobilers who will never buy into the external shock RUSH theology but would drool over a more conventional shock-in-skid 600 or 800 Indy.
The caveat is this: A new Indy needs to ride (much) better than the old one to get the attention of buyers. Probably the biggest problem is the potential that a redesigned Indy might ride better or as good as the flagship RUSH.
Polaris needs to walk a fine line here.
