Without question, 2020 has been the most unpredictable year. However, for the outdoor enthusiast, it has been one of the best years. Working from home has afforded many of us the chance to get out and play outside a little more than normal. And the numbers are there to prove it. Sales of off-road machines are at an all time high. So what are you waiting for? Especially with the new 2021 lineup from Polaris there is now no reason for you to wait any longer.
Playing outside in any form, also happens to be the first instance of social distancing before it was en vogue.
A month ago, the lineup for the 2021 Polaris model year was announced, but after spending time behind the wheel of each model, I can tell you, they are worth it.
On the heels of the strongest quarter of consumer demand in its 66-year history, Polaris Off Road continues to demonstrate why it’s the world leader in powersports and off-road innovation with its 2021 model year lineup. The latest lineup boasts best-in-class products that resonate across the spectrum of riders, from the novice to the expert and everyone in between, who are looking to do more in the outdoors. But with the latest increase in sales, a new driver is entering the outdoors space. For the first time in a long time, the balance of weekend warrior and off road enthusiast is almost even.
Polaris Introduces RideReady Digital Platform
“For the new consumer, the desire to be a driver and mechanic is gone,” said Pam Kermisch, Chief Customer Engagement & Growth Officer and Vice President of ORV Marketing. “As a brand we always strive to find ways to add consumer markets and to grow in every way possible. By building a good strategy we were able to absorb the immense growth we have seen in the last few months. We are excited to see a new type of consumer and as we have talked to many of them through consumer engagement, the one thing that has been a common theme is how welcoming and easy the transition into the off road market has been. That is a testament to the brand, but more so a compliment to the type of consumer we have.”
One of the biggest additions to being a Polaris owner is the addition of Ride Ready. Ride Ready is a digital platform that connects Polaris owners with local dealers, offering owners a convenient platform to track, perform or schedule service for their powersports vehicle. Most notably, the platform provides owners with an opportunity to schedule at-home service. This service will be available across all of Polaris ORV brands including RANGER, RZR, GENERAL, and Sportsman. So in simple terms, you drive it, Polaris will maintain it right in your garage. “This is an absolute game changer for the turn key weekend warrior driver,” added Kermisch.
“When it comes to driving product innovation, we are always listening to our riders and our dealers, and that has never been more evident than with this year’s lineup, featuring rider-inspired upgrades across all brands,” said Steven Menneto, President of Polaris Off Road. “We are relentlessly committed to elevating the off-road lifestyle for riders of all backgrounds and experience levels by delivering the best and most advanced off-road vehicles, whether for work, adventure or play.”
For decades, Polaris Off Road has defined, then redefined the industry, refusing to settle for status quo. The 2021 lineup is packed with premium features, including enhanced audio and expanded RIDE COMMAND integration on more models than ever before. All four brands were evaluated from top to bottom with innovations made to increase durability and provide premium customization options with expanded accessory offerings. To find more information about the 2021 model year Polaris Off Road lineup, see below and visit Polaris.com/ORV2021.
Polaris Off-Road; Model Year 2021 Product Launch; Wyoming, Minnesota; September 2, 2020; Photo: Tyler Tate/T Squared Sports Media 
Polaris Off-Road; Model Year 2021 Product Launch; Wyoming, Minnesota; September 2, 2020; Photo: Tyler Tate/T Squared Sports Media 
Polaris Off-Road; Model Year 2021 Product Launch; Wyoming, Minnesota; September 2, 2020; Photo: Tyler Tate/T Squared Sports Media
2021 Polaris GENERAL
The GENERAL is the mullet of the off road industry. Rather than business in the front and party in the rear, the GENERAL is all party up front with a business back end. The GENERAL is the perfect cross over of the RZR lifestyle with how the machine drives and performs, but if you need to go do a little work and you need a machine to handle the work load on the property, you are covered.
After driving both the 2020 and 2021 GENERAL, there are noticeable upgrades. From high level performance, a comfortable ride and packed with versatility, the Polaris General is the perfect no-compromise solution for work, play and everything in between. For 2021, the Number 1-selling crossover side-by-side has added to its lineup with the first-ever GENERAL XP 1000 Pursuit Edition. Available in two- and four-seat models, the Pursuit Edition is purpose-built to transport avid hunters and their gear to remote locations and haul their trophy back to camp.
Other news about the GENERAL was announced during their launch but you will just have to wait. But I promise you, it will be worth the wait.
2021 Polaris RZR
“The RZR lifestyle is all about bringing the family together and going to discover and adventure,” said Pat McArdle, Product Planning Director of RZR. “The goal of the RZR aside from being the best performing machine in the industry, is to be the catalyst in creating the stories you and your family share over and over again.”
“RZR is designed, engineered and built for enthusiasts that love to ride,” said Steve Kemp, Vice President of RZR, Polaris. “We put the consumer at the center of everything we do to ensure we’re continually improving the riding experience, and that is reflected in the improvements we’re bringing for 2021.”
The model year 2021 RZR lineup adds rider-inspired features including enhanced technology and new vehicle trim features to the RZR Pro XP models. The 2021 RZR XP Turbo and RZR Turbo S lineup leverages the benefits of the Pro XP’s clutch design, providing an optimized geometry that pulls in more airflow to keep the belt cooler. Coupled with improved clutch alignment, the result is less wear and tear of the belt, which extends belt life.
New to the lineup, the 2021 RZR Turbo S Lifted Lime Limited Edition was added to deliver fresh style for riders looking to stand out and is packed with technology features to deliver an elevated ride experience. It has a premium paint scheme, DYNAMIX Active Suspension, RIDE COMMAND 7-inch display, factory audio, LED accent lights and LED headlights, lower doors and an aluminum roof. Beyond this limited edition, 2021 RZR models get new, unique colors and graphics to help riders stand out on the trails.
In addition to the RZR and GENERAL, the 2021 model year lineup includes the Sportsman ATV and the RANGER.