Polaris Slingshot Unveiled

 

Polaris Slingshot SL
Polaris Slingshot SL

Polaris introduced the highly anticipated Polaris Slingshot 3-wheel roadster to dealers yesterday evening. “Slingshot was designed to deliver head-turning exhilaration on two dimensions,” said Mike Jonikas, Vice President of Slingshot. “First is the exhilaration that you can see, hear and feel while riding in Slingshot. Second is the exhilaration you feel when people turn their heads to stare at Slingshot’s unique and exotic styling.” Polaris Slingshot retail price is $19,999.

Like the Can-Am Spyder, Slingshot has two wheels up front and one wheel in back, but the open-air, sit-in cockpit of Slingshot has side-by-side seating, pedals and a steering wheel. It’s designed with a wide, low stance and sport-tuned suspension for high-speed cornering.

Polaris Slingshot SL cockpit
Polaris Slingshot SL cockpit

Slingshot is powered by a General Motors-sourced 2.4-liter, dual-overhead cam engine and 5-speed manual transmission. The frame is steel with an aluminum swingarm and carbon fiber-reinforced drive belt. Polaris rates the engine at 173 hp. Dry weight is less than 1,700 pounds, Polaris claims. Other Polaris Slingshot features include  electronic stability and traction control, 3-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, LED taillights, aluminum roll hoops and 3-point seat belts. Slingshot can also be personalized with premium accessories, including larger tires with forged aluminum wheels, media console, windscreens and vehicle covers.

Polaris Slingshot Trim Levels

Slingshot is offered in two trim levels. The base Slingshot has titanium metallic paint, 17-inch lightweight alloy wheels up front and an 18-inch rear wheel. The premium Slingshot SL features red pearl paint, larger 18-inch forged aluminum front wheels, 20-inch rear wheel, blade windscreen, media console with 4.3-inch LCD screen, back-up camera, Bluetooth integration and 6-speaker audio system. The Slingshot SL retails for $23,999. Both trim models will be available this fall at Polaris Slingshot dealerships across the United States and Canada.

To help classify Slingshot, Polaris included this note in its release: Slingshot is a 3-wheeled motorcycle. It is not an automobile, it does not have airbags and it does not meet automotive safety standards. Three-wheel vehicles may handle differently than other vehicles, especially in wet conditions. Always wear helmets and fasten seat belts.  Driver may need a valid motorcycle endorsement. Don’t drink and drive.

One thought on “Polaris Slingshot Unveiled

  • Avatar for Debra Wivell

    Hello, can’t get on to add my predictions for the watercress challenge. Any chance you would add mine? List follows are 1st place to 5th place. McCurdy, Maki, Lindbeck, Strub, and Zurn. I currently am in 6th place! Thank you so much! Debra Wivell

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