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SCOTT LUKAITIS - POWERSPORTS, MOTORSPORTS & RACER - MARKETING, MEDIA & MANAGEMENT

Powersports, Motorsports & Racer Marketing, Management, and Media

You are here: Home / All Posts / This Week in Powersports Business – The week of July 30, 2023

This Week in Powersports Business – The week of July 30, 2023

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News and stories from the world of Powersports business.

Polaris Expands its RANGER Lineup with the All-New RANGER XD 1500, an Entirely New Class of Extreme Duty Utility Side-By-Side

Polaris Off Road, the global leader in powersports and off-road innovation, is once again breaking new ground with the industry’s first extreme duty utility side-by-side: the all-new RANGER XD 1500. With its unprecedented capability, brute strength and unmatched comfort, the new extreme duty class of RANGER side-by-sides are engineered with the first-ever ProStar 1500cc 3-cylinder engine that offers an industry-leading 110 horsepower, the industry-exclusive STEELDRIVE automatic transmission for greater durability and precise control, and over 70 new accessories for enhanced customization, highlighted by Polaris’ exclusive Lock & Ride MAX system. The RANGER XD 1500 establishes a new benchmark for utility side-by-sides.

“We spent over five years meeting with farmers, ranchers, large acreage property owners and big game hunters to develop an extreme duty vehicle that was missing from the market. From its ProStar 1500cc engine to the industry’s only STEELDRIVE transmission, RANGER XD 1500 is unlike anything else offered today and is yet another example of our relentless commitment to advancing the industry with fresh thinking and innovative solutions that meet the real-world needs of our utility customers,” said Steve Menneto, President of Polaris Off Road.

“Polaris RANGER has been the No. 1 selling utility side-by-side brand for more than 15 years and with the introduction of RANGER Extreme Duty, we’ve taken the industry’s hardest-working lineup and expanded it,” said Chris Judson, Vice President of Off Road Utility. “A segment of our utility customers said they are facing exceptionally large tasks and they simply need a machine with more power, more torque, more hauling and towing capacity, and more durability. And our team set out to deliver just that, incorporating dozens of new features and the latest engineering to make the RANGER XD 1500 more capable, stronger, and more comfortable than any other utility side-by-side out there.”

Unprecedented Capability

Farmers, ranchers, and large landowners routinely haul and tow heavy loads around the property, and they’ve been asking for a solution when it comes to their heaviest tasks.  The RANGER XD 1500 delivers unprecedented capability for hard-working customers to haul more, tow more, and get more done in less time. With the industry’s only 1500cc utility engine, the RANGER XD 1500 provides over 30% more power and over 50% more torque than the next closest competitor.

  • ProStar 1500cc 3-Cylinder Engine – Effortless towing, hauling, and confidence in tough terrain with an industry-leading 110HP and 105 lb-ft torque.
  • 1,500 lb Cargo Box Capacity – Three-quarter ton box capacity providing nearly 50% more box volume than existing models for maximum productivity with fewer trips and bigger loads.
  • 3,500 lb Towing Capacity – For those routinely towing heavy loads on the property, drive better productivity with nearly 40% more towing than existing models.
  • Industry-leading Ground Clearance – All RANGER XD 1500 models get 15″ of ground clearance with high-clearance arched A-arms to overcome large obstacles.

Brute Strength

Utility customers asked for a more durable, longer lasting offering to maximize their uptime and drive efficiency.  Designed to last longer than any model before it, RANGER XD 1500 is the industry’s most durable utility side-by-side and has been engineered from the ground up to be stronger and stand up to the demands of the longest days.

  • Industry-exclusive STEELDRIVE transmission – Offers a 100 percent steel constructed belt that delivers smooth, precise operation and a fully sealed, liquid-cooled design for unmatched durability.
    • Maximum Strength and Durability – Fully sealed and liquid-cooled design allows for maximum durability and longevity with less maintenance than a rubber belt.
    • Smooth, Precise Control – Smooth, predictable throttle engagement and precise low speed control when backing up to trailers, navigating rough terrain, or spraying a fence line.
    • Effortless Shifting, Quiet Operation – Effortless shifting between drive, park, and reverse. The fully sealed design reduces operating noise for enhanced comfort.
    • Hill Assist – Hill Assist prevents the vehicles from rolling backwards when letting off the accelerator and brakes when heading uphill, and engages the transmission to maintain better control while descending slopes.*
  • High-Strength Steel Heavy Duty Frame – RANGER XD 1500 has a high-strength steel one-piece chassis featuring 160 percent more torsional stiffness for a smoother ride and better cab sealing.
  • Industry-leading Service Intervals – RANGER XD 1500 offers the industry’s longest service intervals so customers can maximize their uptime.

Unmatched Comfort

  • From the farm to remote backcountry, utility customers work from before the sun rises to after it sets, and need something that delivers all-day comfort. Beyond industry-leading capability and durability, the RANGER XD 1500 prioritizes comfort across the entire lineup to keep customers going strong on the longest days.
  • Most Spacious Interior – Equipped with the most spacious and premium cab available in utility side-by-sides, the XD 1500 offers increased leg and shoulder room, making it easy to enter and exit the vehicle. Adjustable seating and a telescopic steering wheel lets drivers find the perfect fit for height and riding preferences.
  • Premium Seating – Contoured seating with added bolstering provides more rider comfort along with a center seat that flips down into an armrest with additional cup holders.
  • Available Heated Seats – For comfort on the coldest days, RANGER XD 1500 NorthStar Ultimate is the first utility side-by-side that comes from the factory with heated seats.
  • Drive Modes – RANGER XD 1500 comes with an intuitive and easy-to-use rotary drive mode selector that lets customers choose from four different drive modes, including:
    • Comfort mode limits throttle response and engine braking, reducing operating noise for quieter ride experience.
    • Standard mode delivers optimal throttle response and moderate engine braking for everyday driving scenarios.
    • Sport mode maximizes throttle response and eliminates engine braking for an exhilarating ride after the workday is done.
    • Tow/Haul mode maximizes engine torque and limits speed for heavy payloads.
  • Heating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) – Riders can stay comfortable in harsh weather conditions in the RANGER XD 1500 NorthStar Edition, featuring an all-new HVAC system and a fully-enclosed, next generation ProShield cab that’s been redesigned with improved sealing to prevent dust and water intrusion, while locking in the temperature from the climate-controlled cab.
  • Sun Visors – All-new integrated sun visors provide improved visibility throughout the day for added confidence while driving.
  • RIDE COMMAND – Available 7″ waterproof touchscreen display powered by RIDE COMMAND technology featuring a back-up camera, GPS navigation regardless of cell service, and AM/FM radio with Bluetooth® streaming capability.
  • RIDE COMMAND+ – Customers can keep tabs on their vehicle directly from the Polaris App and access critical vehicle information like vehicle location, maintenance reminders, and issue diagnostics right from the palm of their hand with the industry’s only connected-vehicle technology. Available from the factory on NorthStar Ultimate.

Customization

Customers have been asking for increased versatility, durability, and ease of use for the different work applications they face throughout the day. With over 70 new Polaris Engineered Accessory options designed specifically for the RANGER XD 1500, plus options from partners brands including JBL®, Rhino Rack®, Pro Armor, Kolpin, and HD Parts, customers have more opportunity than ever before to make their vehicle fit their specific needs.

  • Lock & Ride MAX – Polaris’ easiest to use, most versatile, and confident accessory attachment platform ever. With customizable configurations and the ability to reconfigure on the fly with no tools required, this new accessory platform allows users to prepare for their day, their way. Customers can simply choose and place their accessory, lock it in place, and ride confidently knowing their gear is secure.
  • New JBL® Audio – Polaris partnered with JBL® to create the highest performing audio system ever included in a RANGER from the factory. For customers wanting to turn it up a notch, the JBL® Trail Pro 4200 audio upgrade adds rear speakers and two subwoofers for an immersive audio experience.
  • Glacier Pro HD Plow – New 84″ plow designed for faster, more efficient plowing during the winter months. A hydraulic plow lift and angle kit can be paired with an all-new plow controller to manage the largest plow Polaris has ever offered, all without ever leaving the comfort of the cab.

2024 RANGER XD 1500 Premium: Starting at US $29,999 / CAN $36,199
The RANGER XD 1500 Premium commands a large presence thanks to heavy-duty components and the industry’s largest bumper, providing complete front-end protection. The vehicle comes equipped with one of the most comprehensive standard packages in a side-by-side to date including 29″ tires, tilt steering and seat slider for customizable comfort, four drive modes, high output LED headlights for enhanced visibility, and USB ports with multiple charging capabilities. The vehicle also comes equipped with boosted brakes and heavy-duty suspension to ensure performance across a variety of off-road environments.

2024 RANGER XD 1500 NorthStar Premium:  Starting at US $39,999 / CAN $48,799
The next step up is the RANGER XD 1500 NorthStar Premium. This machine features a fully enclosed cab with HVAC temperature and five different mode controls, lockable full doors with power windows and a fixed front glass windshield. Additional features include an electronically controlled power tilt bed to dump heavy loads with ease, an overhead switch panel for easy accessorization, and an overhead rear work light to illuminate the cargo box in low-light conditions. NorthStar Premium comes stock with 30″ Kenda® CrossTrail tires and available 32″ tires to overcome large obstacles and tough terrain.

2024 RANGER XD 1500 NorthStar Ultimate: Starting at US $44,999 / CAN $54,499
Rounding out the lineup is the RANGER XD 1500 NorthStar Ultimate, which features everything from the NorthStar Premium trim, plus the 7″ infotainment display powered by RIDE COMMAND and heated seats. The NorthStar Ultimate trim also delivers an immersive sound experience, featuring full AM/FM radio with Bluetooth® streaming capability and industry-exclusive JBL® speakers for precise audio and premium sound. Finally, the vehicle comes standard with RIDE COMMAND+, allowing for vehicle health monitoring and more.

The 2024 RANGER XD 1500 lineup is expected to begin shipping to dealers in late summer. To learn more about the 2024 RANGER family, please visit https://ranger.polaris.com/en-us/ or join the conversation and follow on Facebooksm, Instagramsm, YouTubesm and Twittersm.

Polaris Off Road Stays On The Gas with 2024 Lineup, Featuring Ride-Inspired Updates & Refreshed Styles for its Industry-Leading Range of Side-By-Side and ATVs

On the heels of debuting its innovative Polaris XPEDITION and the all new Extreme Duty RANGER XD 1500, Polaris Off Road today unveiled updates for 2024 to the off-road industry’s most expansive lineup. The 2024 lineup features a host of rider-inspired updates and refreshed styling and new colors. Additionally, the customer-favorite Polaris Sportsman 570 and XP 1000 Hunt editions make a return, and a Premium trim offering is now available on the 2024 GENERAL 1000 to provide customers with an upgrade in style and performance. RIDE COMMAND+ also received enhanced features for 2024, delivering unmatched connectivity and peace of mind to riders through all-new Location Bump Alerts and Check-In Messages.

“From the completely redesigned 2024 RZR XP and the industry’s first “adventure side-by-side” Polaris XPEDITION, to our introduction of the all-new RANGER XD 1500, this year has been a powerful showcase of our ongoing commitment to lead the industry and innovate for our riders,” said Steve Menneto, President of Polaris Off Road. “While those revolutionary product debuts are pivotal, our unwavering focus on refining and enhancing our current offerings based on customer needs and feedback remains essential, and that’s what the 2024 updates represent.”

From fresh new styles and colorways, to improved trim levels that appeal to a wide variety of riders, the Polaris Off Road 2024 model year lineup and RIDE COMMAND+ technology enhancements include the following:

RIDE COMMAND+:

Making its debut last fall, RIDE COMMAND+, the industry’s first connected-vehicle technology, continues to roll out new enhancements to its service for 2024. With new features like Location Alerts, that will notify the owner if its vehicle has been bumped or moved from its last location, owners can now protect their vehicle more than ever before. RIDE COMMAND+ is now available as a factory option for 2024 RZR Pro R Ultimate, RANGER XD 1500 NorthStar, RANGER XP 1000 NorthStar, Polaris XPEDITION NorthStar and Sportsman XP 1000 RIDE COMMAND Edition. This service is also available on most 2024 RZR, RANGER, Sportsman and Polaris XPEDITION models as an accessory install.

Sportsman

Polaris Sportsman, the long-standing No. 1 selling automatic 4×4 ATV, is reintroducing the Sportsman 570 and XP 1000 Hunt Editions, while also implementing key improvements across the core 2024 lineup. A customer favorite, specifically designed to meet the unique needs of hunters, the Sportsman 570 and XP 1000 Hunt editions include accessories such as the 3,500 lb Polaris Winch, Kolpin Gun Scabbard & Mount, Kolpin Ratchet Claws and more.

Additionally, the 2024 Sportsman 450 and 570 lineup boasts several quality refinements for a better riding experience including a new rear brake pedal for reduced pedal effort and feel, improved sealing around the shifter, and enhanced seat fitment delivering a more comfortable ride. The 570 EPS trim and above will also include enhanced PVT clutch sealing with a higher intake location for better performance in wet conditions.

For added utility, the model year 2024 Sportsman 570 lineup will be equipped with new LED lights for the Premium and Utility HD for added visibility from dawn to dusk.

New color options also are available for the 570 Premium and Trail, 570 Ride Command Edition, Sportsman 850 Premium and Ultimate Trail, Sportsman XP 1000 Ultimate Trail, Sportsman XP 1000 High Lifter Edition, Scrambler XP 1000 S and Sportsman XP 1000 S.

The 2024 Sportsman lineup starts at $6,999 US MSRP and will begin shipping to dealers this early fall. For additional pricing on the entire model lineup, visit https://www.polaris.com/en-us/off-road/sportsman/

GENERAL

Polaris GENERAL is the industry’s most versatile crossover side-by-side, capable of tackling tough trails, while also knocking out tasks around the property. For 2024, the GENERAL 1000 receives a new Premium trim offering that provides both style and performance enhancements. Featuring 14″ wheels with 27″ Coronado tires, and FOX® Podium QS3® shocks that riders can adjust between soft, medium and firm based on terrain changes, the new Premium trim will deliver a smooth ride over rugged terrain, while LED headlights provide greater visibility at morning and night. These upgrades will help riders knock out more tasks and hit the trails confidently in the GENERAL 1000.

Additionally, new colorways on the GENERAL 1000 model include Ghost Gray and Volcanic Orange. The Premium and Ultimate trim levels for the GENERAL XP will feature new colors and graphics in Matte Silver Quartz and Polaris Blue.

The 2024 GENERAL lineup starts at $17,499 US MSRP and will begin shipping to dealers this summer. For additional pricing on the entire model lineup, visit https://www.polaris.com/en-us/off-road/general/

RZR

Polaris RZR, the No. 1 sport side-by-side brand, receives fresh new colors and graphics across its lineup, helping riders make a bold statement when hitting the trails. The 2024 RZR Trail and RZR Trail S are now available in Storm Blue on the Sport trim and two-tone Storm Blue with White Lightning on the Ultimate. Both Sport and Ultimate trim levels now receive the same upgraded steering wheel offered in the fully-redesigned 2024 RZR XP that provides a sportier feel while driving on trails. New for 2024, the RZR Trail and Trail S Sport level feature electric power steering and LED headlights standard, providing riders easier steering input on tight trail corners and enhanced visibility. Additionally for 2024, the RZR Trail S Ultimate trim now features Walker Evans Racing® shocks, while the Sport trim moved to ZF Sachs shocks, both offering riders plush suspension performance against the rugged terrain.

For 2024, the RZR Pro XP Sport and Premium models feature Walker Evans Racing® shocks, while the Ultimate will continue to be equipped with FOX® Live Valve shocks with DYNAMIX active suspension. Both the Premium and Ultimate trim received a refresh with new graphics on the Super Graphite colorway.

Lastly and by consumer demand, the Wide Open lineup of RZR Pro R and RZR Turbo R receives refreshed color options for 2024. For the first time since launching, the RZR Pro R Ultimate is available in an all-new Matte Onyx Black with Lifted Lime accents or Matte Heavy Metal, while the Premium trim level is offered in Matte Heavy Metal. The 2024 RZR Turbo R also welcomes vibrant new colors like Velocity Blue with Green Burst accents and Military Tan with Orange Burst accents.

The 2024 RZR lineup starts at $15,999 US MSRP and will begin shipping to dealers this fall. For additional pricing on the entire model lineup, visit https://www.polaris.com/en-us/off-road/rzr/

RANGER

In addition to the newly launched Extreme Duty RANGER XD 1500, the Polaris RANGER lineup receives a variety of rider-inspired upgrades and quality refinements for 2024. RANGER SP 570 gets new color options, while the NorthStar Edition gets exclusive tailgate badging and new 25″ 8-ply Pro Armor X-Terrain tires for added durability and enhanced puncture resistance.

Additionally, Polaris expands the color options for the RANGER 1000 Premium which will now be offered in the sleek Granite Grey color and graphics, while the XP 1000 will be featured in two new options: Desert Sand and Super Graphite with orange burst accents. Furthermore, the RANGER XP 1000 NorthStar Ultimate model boasts connectivity features such as vehicle health, issue diagnostics, and maintenance reminders enabled by RIDE COMMAND+.

The 2024 RANGER lineup starts at $11,699 US MSRP and will begin shipping to dealers this fall. For additional pricing on the entire model lineup, visit https://www.polaris.com/en-us/off-road/ranger/

Youth

Dedicated to inspiring the next generation of riders, Polaris Off Road delivers the industry’s largest and most varied lineup of youth offerings. For 2024, the Polaris ORV Youth lineup receives a refresh with eye-catching new colors and graphics. This lineup continues to provide industry-leading safety features that give parents peace of mind and help instill confidence in growing riders, including pin code start, adjustable speed limiter, geofencing, helmet aware technology and industry-exclusive safety gear kit.

Specifically, the 2024 RZR 200 EFI is now offered in Storm Gray and a new graphic pattern with bright red accents. The Outlaw 70 EFI ATV is offered in Velocity Blue with either Lifted Lime or Fierce Fuchsia accents, while the Outlaw 110 EFI is now offered in both Bright White with Polaris Blue and Bright White with Radiant Green details.

The 2024 Polaris Youth lineup starts at $2,999 US MSRP and will begin shipping to dealers this winter. For additional pricing on the entire model lineup, visit https://www.polaris.com/en-us/off-road/shop-by-use/youth/

Polaris XPEDITION

The Polaris XPEDITION, which recently launched in May 2023, is the first-of-its-kind adventure side-by-side, combining the all-terrain capabilities of traditional side-by-sides with comfort and cargo capabilities typically associated with overlanding at the highest level. With a host of standard features and optional configurations to accommodate the greatest range of outdoor pursuits and enable consumers to keep chasing the wild, the 2024 Polaris XPEDITION XP and ADV are the most adaptable, comfortable and capable adventure machine on the market.

The 2024 Polaris XPEDITION lineup starts at $28,999 US MSRP and is currently shipping to dealers. For additional pricing on the entire model lineup, visit https://www.polaris.com/en-us/off-road/polaris-xpedition/

To learn more about the Polaris ORV 2024 lineup and to stay up to date on testing and demo opportunities, please visit https://offroad.polaris.com/en-us/ or join the conversation and follow on FacebookSM, InstagramSM, YouTubeSM and TwitterSM. Walker Evans Racing® is a registered trademark of Walker Evans Enterprises Incorporated; FOX® is a registered trademark of Fox Factory Inc.

Suzuki and Pipes Motorsports Group Announce RM Army Boot Camp #4

Suzuki Motor USA and the Pipes Motorsports Group are pleased to announce the third in a series of RM Army Boot Camp events for riders of Suzuki RM and RM-Z motocross bikes.

Scheduled for Friday, August 25th at Ironman Raceway, Crawfordsville, IN.

RM Army recruits enjoying their day with the PMG and Suzuki team

RM Army recruits enjoying their day with the PMG and Suzuki team.

The Suzuki RM Army Boot Camp lets Suzuki RM and RM-Z owners hang with some of their favorite Suzuki racers at select MX tracks around the country.

RM Army Boot Camp

The RM Army Boot Camp is a one-day event featuring an exclusive, friendly experience with MX track ride sessions, bike setup coaching and tech tips from the Pipes Motorsports Group’s Supercross racing team technicians and pro riders*, a Suzuki product display, rider interaction, food, refreshments, and fun at some of the best pro and amateur motocross tracks in the USA.

Attendees will also walk away with great memories and exclusive RM Army Boot Camp gear to commemorate their day at the track.

Based on the outstanding success of the first, second, and third RM Army Boot Camp held earlier in this year at DT-1 MX Park in Tulare, CA, Perris Raceway in Perris, CA, and Spring Creek MX Park the momentum behind the fourth event in the series is strong and building. With more than 300 attendees enjoying the hospitality and expertise of the Pipes Motorsports Group and Suzuki staff, all had a great couple of days.

All current Suzuki RM and RM-Z owners are encouraged to attend these once-in-a-lifetime events, which are complimentary for being loyal Suzuki owners and honorary RM Army recruits.

Ken Roczen's mechanic, Travis Soules, showing RM Army recruits some tech tips

Ken Roczen’s mechanic, Travis Soules, showing RM Army recruits some tech tips.

Suzuki RM and RM-Z owners may induct themselves by pre-registering at SuzukiCycles.com/Racing/RM-Army-Boot-Camp for the chance to hang and ride with premier Suzuki athletes like Ken Roczen, Freddie Noren, Kyle Chisolm, and Marshal Weltin.*

Attendance for on-track riding is limited, and offered on a first-come, first-served basis, so pre-register today to ensure you have a chance at a great MX experience for Suzuki fans. For more information and to keep an eye out for each event’s announced date and when signups will be accepted, visit SuzukiCycles.com.

Chris Wheeler, Suzuki Motor USA, LLC, Motorsports Manager, giving an RM Army recruit

Chris Wheeler, Suzuki Motor USA, LLC, Motorsports Manager,
giving an RM Army recruit some rider feedback.

“We are thrilled at the response to the first Boot Camps held so far from the RM- faithful,” said Chris Wheeler, Motorsports Manager for Suzuki Motor USA, LLC. “We more than delivered on our promise to provide Suzuki RM and RM-Z owners an amazing experience and are encouraged to keep the momentum going!”

“The Pipes Motorsports Group’s partnership with Suzuki has been very successful,  and the RM Army Boot Camp events are another example of the success and drive this partnership has fostered,” said Dustin Pipes, General Manager of the Pipes Motorsports Group’s racing and marketing efforts, “We couldn’t wait to get these started, hang with fans of the team and share real race-won insights with the Suzuki brotherhood.  A great time was had by all, and we are confident the same level of excitement and fun will be experienced at Ironman Raceway.”

RM Army recruits gathering around for rider's Q & A

RM Army recruits gathering around for rider’s Q & A. 

Additional information will follow as event details are finalized.

Stay tuned for more information at SuzukiCycles.com or on all the Suzuki social media channels @SuzukiCycles.

*Pro rider lineup may vary by event and is subject to change.

Parts Unlimited names Fiedor as new Central region sales rep

Parts Unlimited recently announced that Megan Fiedor has joined the distribution company and will serve as the new sales rep for the Central region, covering Northern Pennsylvania and New York.

Megan Fiedor joins Parts Unlimited after several years in sales at the dealer level. She will cover the Central region as a sales rep. (Photo: Parts Unlimited)

Fiedor brings several years of powersports industry experience, including parts and after-sales management at the dealer level, to her new position at Parts Unlimited. She also is an adventure rider who tours on her BMW F800GS and participates in the Soggy Bottom Motofest in central Pennsylvania.     

In her spare time, Fiedor enjoys hiking, camping, exercising, hunting, fishing and church. Be sure to give her a warm welcome when she stops at your dealership.

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