Innovation in the snowmobile world is very present every year, manufacturers introduce new technologies. This is especially true for engines. After presenting us more powerful engines, manufacturers are now offering new entry-level engines and even engines designed for teenagers and children.
Since 2015, Polaris only offered snowmobiles powered by 2-stroke engines. Moreover, for 2023, Polaris introduces a new 900cc engine to its 2-stroke engine family. This article will focus on the Polaris 800 engine specifications, exploring its performance, variations, and comparisons with other engines in the market.
Polaris 2-Stroke Engine Lineup
The American manufacturer offers a nice variety of 2-stroke engines.
Liberty 550 Engine
The Liberty 550 engine has proven its reliability and versatility over the past 20-25 years. It is the last carbureted 2-stroke engine in the industry. It is also the last fan-cooled 2-stroke engine. This engine had a resurgence in popularity when it found itself on the Indy platform. In the EVO lineup, the Liberty 550 develops approximately 55 hp, while on the other full-size models, its power is around 60 hp.
650 Patriot Engine
Introduced in 2021, the 650 Patriot engine is built with the same technologies as the 850, which means that it offers increased reliability, according to the manufacturer. In addition, it uses less gasoline and oil. As for power, it develops around 131 hp. This engine is available in several models in the Polaris line and is a very good buy. For many snowmobilers, it would be an excellent alternative to the 850 Patriot depending on their real needs.
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Liberty 800 Engine
This engine develops about 154hp and was used extensively until the arrival of the 850 Patriot in 2019. Since 2021, it is only offered in the Titan line.
It’s fair to say that this engine was highly anticipated when it was introduced in the 2019 lineup. Indeed, at the time, there were many rumors circulating within the industry. Polaris did not disappoint its fans by introducing this engine.
When the Liberty 700 was unveiled in the 2007 Dragon, we sang praises of the engine’s power. Once the snow was on the ground, Dragon 7s didn’t meet expectations. Polaris might have to deal with another batch of riders whose sled doesn’t measure up.
Erickson told us that Polaris engineers reported a slightly longer break-in period with the revised Liberty 800, too. While not disputing the peak horsepower number we found, he said Polaris expects peak power in the 149-150 hp range.
Polaris engines make great mid-range power, are trail-friendly and they run well in the field. That was the case of the 700 Dragons, and we think that, too, will repeat. Owners won’t get all the horsepower they believed they were buying, but they’ll be getting a powerful sled with a great mid-range rush.
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Owners can purchase an EFI fuel controller and, according to DynoTech’s Jim Czekalia, modify the fuel map to reach the 154 hp claim.
Patriot 9R Engine
The latest addition to the Polaris family of engines, the Patriot 9R makes a remarkable and, above all, unexpected entrance. This engine comes straight from the racing world, but Polaris reserves it for mountain use. In fact, it offers more punch than the 850 Patriot, but without the extra weight of about 20 lbs of the 850 Boost. The estimated power of this engine is 180hp at sea level. So, since the Patriot 9R is naturally aspirated, its power will be affected by altitude unlike the 850 Boost. However, for use below 2,000 meters, the 9R retains an almost equivalent power-to-weight ratio.
850 Patriot Boost Engine
This engine has been the talk of the town over the past year. In 2022, it was offered exclusively on mountain models. However, for 2023, this engine is also offered on the Indy VR1 and Switchback Assault. The approximate power of this engine would be very close to 185hp. If this estimate is true, the 850 Patriot Boost would be the most powerful production 2-stroke engine offered in the snowmobile world.
Comparison Table of Polaris 2-Stroke Engines
Here's a table summarizing the key specifications of the Polaris 2-stroke engines discussed:
| Engine | Displacement | Approximate Horsepower | Key Features | Availability (as of 2023) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberty 550 | 550cc | 55-60 hp | Carbureted, Fan-cooled | Indy Platform, EVO Lineup |
| 650 Patriot | 650cc | 131 hp | Increased reliability, Fuel efficient | Several Polaris models |
| Liberty 800 | 800cc | 149-154 hp | Great mid-range power | Titan Line |
| Patriot 9R | 900cc | 180 hp (at sea level) | Naturally aspirated, Mountain use | Mountain models |
| 850 Patriot Boost | 850cc | 185 hp | Turbocharged | Indy VR1, Switchback Assault, Mountain models |
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