Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/360137
12 • August 11, 2014 • Powersports Business NEWS www.PowersportsBusiness.com and the fun level gets amped up while the sta- bility remains. Burnouts bring a new level of "screeeeech" from tires that will be yearning to be replaced. We first hit ridiculous speeds on the Polaris testing half-mile straightaway, then gave it a real-world test on county roads near the facility. I still can't decide which one I want to repeat. A GM-built 2.4-liter dual overhead cam engine, five-speed manual transmission up front and a carbon fiber reinforced belt drive at the rear get things rolling. Throw in a dry weight of about 1,700 pounds and the engine that produces 173 horsepower, and it's not sur- prising to know that they had to shoo us off the testing track and ensuing road course. The ride and handling benefits come cour- tesy of a lightweight aluminum swingarm, high-strength steel spaceframe, electronic power-assisted steering, electronic stability control and ABS disc brakes. The sport-tuned suspension features a double wishbone front suspension with a sway bar, and coil over gas- filled shocks. The comfortable cockpit for side-by-side seating includes tilt steering, adjustable seat- ing, lockable storage bins behind the seat and a locking glove box. It's safety features include three-point seatbelts, forged aluminum roll hoops, LED taillights and projector beam headlights. Lightweight alloy wheels with low-profile performance tires from Kenda are addi- tional plusses. The 2015 base Slingshot is available in Titanium Metallic with an MSRP of $19,999. The premium Slingshot SL Red Pearl, which offers a blade windshield and 18-inch forged aluminum front wheels and a 20-inch forged aluminum rear wheel, has a $23,999 MSRP. The SL offers a 4.3-inch LCD media screen, backup camera, USB input, six-speaker audio system and Bluetooth integration. Among the accessories already available for the Slingshot are the blade windshield, double bubble windshield, interior lighting kit, pre- mium wheels and tires, smartphone mount, media console, dust cover, full vehicle cover and cockpit cover. Slingshot's lineup of riding apparel includes DOT-certified helmet, gloves, rainsuit and casual wear, including jackets, T-shirts and ballcaps. Dealers are expected to see machines in the fall. PSB SLINGSHOT CONTINUED FROM COVER With three wheels, Polaris' Slingshot is considered a motorcycle, requiring a valid motorcycle endorsement. Polaris recommends drivers wear a helmet when operating the vehicle. The Slingshot's cockpit offers a steering wheel, pedals and three-point seatbelts. While this base Slingshot does not come with an LCD media screen, the SL version does.