Story: Vaughn Lowery × Anthony Sovinsky
Photos: Tyren Redd
You’ve been working all winter for a chance to display the fruits of your labor during the hottest time of the year – summer! What better way to stunt than in a new 2017 Polaris Slingshot SLR on a sunny California day. Sure, a motobike is a great option, but if you don’t possess a motorcycle license and/or the skills to drive one, it can be a very daunting process. Problem solved – the Slingshot slightly encompasses the aesthetics of a motorcycle with less red tape (in the state of California) because it can be operated with a basic driver’s license (search licensing requirements in your state here and/or contact your local law enforcement agency for details).
What exactly is the Slingshot? It’s a three-wheeled car, delivering an emotion which can’t be evoked by any car or motorcycle – it’s in a league of its own. In the rear, its opened frame sits on one 20″ 305mm wide rear Kenda Tire attached to an enormous swing arm which rides on a color matching coilover. Up front, they’re two 18″ wheels attached to two forged aluminum control arms, making it 77.2 inches wide and creating a longer wheelbase than a Lamborghini Huracan.
With 0-60 MPH in 5.3 seconds, the SLR is propelled by a 173HP 2.4L DOCH 4-cylinder engine with a 5-speed manual transmission (approximately 1762lbs with 163LB-FT torque). The vehicle is light enough for quick acceleration and maneuverability. Even with a passenger, there’s an occasional sideways take off with an aggressive 1st to 2nd gear shift alongside of a slight burnout.
On the other hand, the breaking and suspension is soft so allow yourself a few hours to adjust. And, if you decide to travel on an interstate highway with trucks, the short windguard isn’t enough to protect your face against rocks and debris. We recommend wearing protective headwear; or at minimum, rock some shades alongside of a folded bandana wrapped around the forehead. Moreover, you should use tons of sunscreen to combat harsh UV rays. Lastly, if it rains, don’t fret because the interior is completely waterproof with small openings in the floor to release access water.
The SLR comes in 2 distinct colors, Orange Madness and Turbo Silver, both showcasing eye-catching full body graphics. The interior contains two race-inspired bucket seats with 3-point harness and Sparco touch points that include the steering wheel, shift knob as well pedal covers. Ergonomic seats and adjustable steering wheel allow you to create an optimal driving experience. Also, comes standard with locked key storage cabinets behind both seats for your helmet (wearing protective headgear is optional within the state of California) and/or small cargo (light jacket, a bag of groceries, etc.).
For late night excursions, SLR has an ambient interior LED lighting kit (toggles between white or blue) to add some visibility inside the cockpit. This sporty trimobile also features a premium Rockford Fosgate speaker system which drowns out most engine noise while also allowing bystanders to enjoy your music taste levels. The 4.3-inch screen display shows media that’s currently being played and back up display automatically turns on when vehicle goes into reverse, remedying tons of blind spots. In addition, the infotainment system comes with Bluetooth capability for both audio/smartphone coupled with USB connectivity which can be retrieved from inside glove compartment.
The 2017 Polaris Slingshot SLR is undoubtedly one of a kind, giving you an unmatched driving experience with the thrill of a motorcycle but the drivability of a mini roadster (or a convertible Mazda Miata). At around $28,499 USD, the SLR is an attractive choice for this summer’s automotive toy to share with both your friends and family.
#PolarisSlingshot is #360Recommended for #GoodTimes!!!
For additional information on Polaris Slingshot SLR visit here.
About Polaris
For millions of people around the world, Minnesota’s Polaris has become synonymous with adventure and passion, in both work and play. For more than 60 years, they’ve been making high-quality, breakthrough products—whether it’s launching the snowmobile industry, reinventing ATV categories year after year, developing the first purpose-built military vehicles or introducing a radical 3-wheel moto-roadster.
From their entrepreneurial roots as a mechanical shop, they’ve grown into one of the world’s largest Powersports companies. And in recent years, they’ve expanded beyond Powersports into adjacent markets, like commercial and military vehicles, where they can add value. Today, Polaris offers a diverse portfolio of best-in-class brands.
