Denis Lavoie from Motoneiges.ca shares insights on the 2026 Polaris snowmobiles after the Snowshoot event in Montana. He highlights the 650 Voyageur Adventure Ultimate, designed for Quebec riders with features like a 155-inch track and Back Track suspension. Lavoie also discusses the 850 Titan Adventure Ultimate with the Patriot 850 engine and spacious trunk. Finally, he advocates for the Indy VR1, noting its comfort, handling, and advanced features, making it ideal for long-distance rides.
Denis Lavoie from Motoneiges.ca Shares Insights on 2026 Polaris Snowmobiles
Exploring the 650 Voyageur Adventure Ultimate
Denis Lavoie, a passionate snowmobiling enthusiast, recently shared his thoughts on the latest Polaris snowmobiles after attending the Snowshoot event in West Yellowstone, Montana. He noted that Polaris has always viewed Quebec as a vital market.
“Staying true to its roots, Polaris has introduced two models this year that are tailor-made for Quebec riders,” Lavoie remarked.
The first model he highlighted is the 650 Voyageur Adventure Ultimate, featuring a robust 155-inch track.
“This snowmobile is designed with a double seat and boasts the Back Track suspension, an articulated rear suspension that enhances snow climbing during reverse. Up front, the IFS suspension ensures superior comfort and allows ski spacing adjustments from 39 to 41 inches. The new Trail Braker skis, with their curved rear design, greatly improve handling during reverse maneuvers. With a 50-pound cargo rack and a towing capacity of 450 pounds, this model offers versatility. Riders can choose between 1.6 and 2-inch lugs on the 15-inch wide track. Plus, the standard 7 S screen adds a modern touch. It’s an ideal snowmobile for trail riding, off-trail adventures, or even work-related tasks in Quebec,” he explained.
Unveiling the 850 TITAN ADVENTURE ULTIMATE
Next, Lavoie introduced the 850 Titan Adventure Ultimate, which now comes equipped with the powerful Patriot 850 engine, making it an exciting choice for 2026.
“For those seeking a robust utility snowmobile, the 850 engine is an excellent fit. The articulated rear suspension, TrackBack 2.0, enhances agility during reverse operations. The 20-inch wide Cobra track measures 155 inches in length, with options for 1.5 or 1.8-inch lugs. A spacious trunk at the rear can accommodate up to 110 liters. Additionally, the integrated passenger seat and tall windshield provide substantial wind protection,” he noted.
While discussing the mirrors, Lavoie had some reservations. “The mirrors are positioned on the handlebars, reminiscent of motorcycle styling. While they eliminate the need to look down, they aren’t the most aesthetically pleasing. Nevertheless, this snowmobile is well-tailored for Quebec’s needs. Polaris is clearly aiming to capture a larger share of the utility market. For heavy-duty use, I strongly recommend opting for the Patriot 850 engine to maximize performance,” he advised.
Why the INDY VR1 Stands Out
Lavoie, an advocate for long-distance rides, expressed his preference for the Indy VR1. “As a trail rider who enjoys covering great distances, I find comfort and power in the Indy VR1,” he shared.
“Equipped with the Patriot Boost engine, this model is also available with the 650 or 850 engines, which perform admirably. While testing in Montana’s high altitude, the Boost engine clearly outperformed the others,” he stated.
For him, the Indy VR1 offers a complete riding experience. “What I appreciate most is its well-rounded design. Mounted on the beloved Matryx chassis, it feels right from the moment I take control. The handling is precise and predictable, even on rough terrain. Although the skis may lift at times, finding the right line is easy. There’s an option to enhance performance with the Dynamix system, a semi-active suspension that adds stability during turns, accelerations, and improves traction,” he explained.
He emphasized that this snowmobile provides exceptional comfort for long journeys. “The comfortable seat facilitates quick maneuvers and weight shifts, while the windshield offers good protection. In Quebec, mirrors are a must, and on this model, they are seamlessly integrated into the bodywork, although they are slightly low and require a downward glance to use. It features a 7 S gauge with trail maps and group functionalities, making it truly a comprehensive snowmobile for any enthusiast,” he concluded.