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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 1 ส.ค. 2024
- The luxury of the VR1 versus the performance of the XCR, what machine is right for you? We take 5 riders of different sizes and riding abilities and put these sleds to the test. Tune in to see which sled is right for you. #polaris #letsride
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Levi,
Thank you for this excellent side by side comparison.
I have a Matryx 850 137” VR1 and love it!
Selling my 2017 850 Etec and was going to buy the 650 VR1 to add to the stable.
After watching this I changed my Snowcheck to Matryx 850 XCR 136 today.
Blessed to have the best of both world’s...and some lucky buddy gets to ride the other!!!
Great job and thanks again.
Stick
PS Adam Peterson can ride!
If you can have them both then you let the buddy ride the one until you come up on a rough section or a jump, then you swap sleds on to the XCR for some hard riding, then swap back when you get into some small bumps and let the VR1 eat them up! That's my kind of program! ;)
Great video Levi! I laid down my snow check on the VR1 850 137" Riding for a while but first time owning a Polaris and first time with a 137" track. Watching your videos really cemented my decision to go with my sled! Thanks! Keep that content coming!
Awesome! The VR1 is amazing on the trail!
How did you like it?
@@hermitrob5481 It is amazing. I loved the track length and it didn't take very long to get used to compared to a shorter track. The VR1 rides like a dream. And fast....
@@stonebuilder I’ve spun em. Yup they’re nice
Recently snowchecked an XCR 850. Can't wait to get it. Great review guys! Thanks!
Awesome! YOu will enjoy it.
Scott okopien I ordered a 2022 Polaris xcr 850
Thanks
I also checked an xcr 850. After watching your video comparing the xcr and vr1...I'm glad I went with the xcr. Keep up with the awesome videos. I also follow Zach the millenial farmer and loved watching your video with him. This is my 1st snow check and I knew red white and blue was for me. God bless the USA!!!
Heck yeah! Congrats on the new sled. Hopefully we will be able to do more videos with Zach, he’s a good guy.
Nick stock I ordered a 2022 Polaris xcr 850
Thanks
Two great videos on the xcr. I’m happy with my 2022 decision.
Going R/W/B in 22
Awesome to hear!
Nice video Levi. I got to ride both early in March and agree. For me the VR1 felt more in tune with my riding and I felt most comfortable. You can't go wrong with either though!
The Vr1 is one heck of a machine! so smooth and comfortable.
I ordered the XCR 850 136”. Thanks for the input Levi!
Pumped for you! Enjoy
Joey's I ordered a 2022 Polaris xcr 850
@@scottsweeney5005 that’s awesome bud!
@@Joeys990 thanks
Man i wish i could get one of your old iqr. The the vids bud keep killing it
Thanks for signing my hat Levi! You the man🤘
My pleasure!
The XCR looks amazing. One day I’ll work up to snow-checking a new sled! 😆 Keep up the YT vids, man! I’m a huge fan of your content.
Thank you for watching!
Dipstick TV I ordered a 2022 Polaris xcr 850
Thanks
Love the new intro levi!!
There’s my guy! Thank you man for always being awesome!
Great video! Just SnowChecked a 650 VR1 137. Feel it will make a great compliment to my ‘21 850 Matryx Assault 146. Did go with HD torsion springs for the VR1 given riding weight and to stiffen it up just a bit. Can’t wait for next season!
you will love it on the trails! not quite as versatile as the assault but a blast on the trail. good call on the heavier springs. This helps anyone over 200+ or hard chargers.
Killin me. I have 22' Assault 850 and almost did the same thing. I submitted the SC but punked out on the deposit. May have to do it this March 🤙
I moved from a small town in ND to Detroit Lakes MN for college , we got a chance to tour your race trailer and it’s still one of my most told stories today, that was 18-20 years ago.
That is awesome! Was it when I rode for Team Industries ?
Levi nailed it. Awesome review
Thank you. Hopefully it helps people find correct sled
My dad was a lifelong Ski-Doo man and so far I've been Ski-Doo as well but you're making me want to try a VR1 one of these years, ha.
Ive always been ski doo. My 850 xrs is a sick machine. These polaris sleds have come along way. Like all sleds yes but the polaris machines are sweet. Rode a rush last season. She went ! Haha
My uncle is a Skidoo lifer and he rode my VR1 at this shoot back to back against his and he was pretty impressed with how smooth it was and how well it turned... It's definitely worth going for a test drive on one to see.
Great video - nice nonchalant burp too at 16:29 hahaha - loved it. Would love to see the new Assault comparison as well. As always - great content!
Would you like to see the assault against the VR1 or XCR?
@@Levi_LaVallee I think the Assault def would have off trail advantage over both - so ON trail against XCR is a cool idea - i have been on-trail Assault riding (i change the tracks to 1" studded) - it out performs (in a lively fun way) other Poo's we have - all new sleds. But your opinions - for the aggressive trail rider - not just your level of aggressive (not many ride as hard as you). Really liked your small/medium/whooped out section breakdown too - awesome content bro. Cheers
Good feedback on these machine. Love that there is input from different people with different experience and riding styles. One thing that would help validate this feed back, would be to know the size and weight of these riders. It would help viewers maybe better relate and understand the opinions.
I agree and thought about that. I may try to that in future videos.
@@Levi_LaVallee you should do a video on uncoupled and coupled skids like an assault vs xcr that’s what I’m trying to decide between which do I snowcheck which is right for me
Great video Levi!!
Glad you enjoyed it
10/25/23
I looked at a 2024 polaris xcr 850 today. I think that sled would be a good sled for me. Why I say it is because I'm a 6'3" & 335 ponds.i like to ride fast curved groomed trails. Thank for your videos they are awesome to watch and I learn a lot as well.
Thanks for checking the videos out. yes the XCR would be a great choice. Because you are twice the man I am, if the rear suspension squats down, ask the dealer about stiffer torsion springs. that will help if it is squatting to much which will cause it to push in the turn etc.
We have decided not to buy sled but we be buying a new rzr
Awesome video and love all the people you included. Bruce is great
Great guys for sure!
Snowlover I ordered a 2022 Polaris xcr 850
@@scottsweeney5005 that’s awesome! I have a 2018 XCR 800 136 switchback! Would love to see videos on yours!
@@djg1028 thanks and yes
Checked a 650 136 XCR to replace 600 Axis Switchback 2014. Thank for the the excellent comparison
congrats! let me know what you think of it once you get to ride it.
I'm definitely on the older side 56 years youg with a yamaha nytro XTX . that being said I love fast trail riding in the State of Maine. No speed limit in that state. And the trails have all sorts of surprises. My nytro is tricked out for aggressive trail riding, the list goes on with aftermarket parts .I think I would go for the XCR.Thank you for the well put together video.
If you like top end speed, a small lug height makes a big difference. I had 2 850s - 1 with 1.5 and 1 with 1.75 lug and the 1.75 was 4-5MPH slower on hard pack than the other.
I didn't know the about Maine, I going to have to come out and go fast with you some time !
Possibilities are endless let me know
You seriously deserve 10 million subs! Straight legend huge respect
haha I need to start creating some videos to get there! Hang tight, I have some in the works.
@@Levi_LaVallee can’t wait
Thank you for this. I was unsure of which to go with and now I have Snow Checked a Blacked out XCR 850 with a 128 track. Being on the snow, bumps and jumps.
That is the sled for it ! Enjoy!
Adam vetter I ordered a 2022 Polaris xcr 850
Thanks
Such a tough call. I always been a guy of xcr. Ugh polaris is making it tough the last few years. In the end xcr. honestly they are both great sleds. Polaris doesn't make a dud. They build the best. Thanks guys.
The XCR is a hard charger but if you don't ride it hard, it is rough feeling compared to the VR1 through the bumps. IF you crank the clickers and torsion springs on the VR1 you can still get some air. I just posted a video of me jumping it so you can see. Anything bigger and you are going to want the XCR though. instagram.com/p/CNEUTG7HeJQ/?
Over here in Ny the price of the xcr is comparable in price to the assault switch back which has kinda been a dream sled for me 😩😩😩 its so hard to choose. Good luck this weekend! The whole trailer is going bonkers i love it! 🤘🏼
The If you like wheelies and off trail, Assault is your friend. Hard riding and jumping, XCR is the choice
I would love to see the Indy SP included in one of your comparisons for those on a budget. I just snow checked a '22 for the wife after we rented a '21 recently and loved it in comparison to our older sleds. I don't know where I could rent a VR1 to know if it's worth the extra money for a '23 purchase next year, so a review would be very helpful. We try to ride mostly smooth trails on weekdays in northern and lower Michigan and stay below ludicrous speed 99% of the time. We definitely don't need an XCR, but is a VR1 worth the price difference over the SP when looking at ride quality for grandparents. I know VR1 upgrades to 650 and Matrix but those add to the cost and we are OK with the 600 power. Thank you for promoting the sport.
Hello. That is a great idea! Let me check into doing a comparison between the Indy SP and the VR1. This winter I recently took a older couple from my area out on a little ride so they could try my 650 Vr1. The wife liked it so much they ended up buying it from me at the end of season. The Matryx platform is so comfortable and stable in the turns, the shocks ride extremely well through bumps, and the 7S display is amazing to keep track of the riders in your group and to navigate where you are going.
Do you need everything the VR1 has to offer? Probably not. But after riding it, you sure feel like you need all of the luxuries it has.
Great, honest review!
thank you!
Excellent comparison! The one component missing is the effect of adjusting the shocks during the variable test conditions. Maybe a separate video demonstrating effects of shock settings on the same two machines. maybe the VR1 would have scored higher once the going got rough? Maybe the XCR would have scored higher in the softer conditions? I'm curious to that comparison.
You are correct. i believe both would have scored better had the suspension been adjusted for the specific area. The suspension comes set in the middle for the most part so that you can adjust it softer or stiffer for your riding style and weight. With that said you can adjust the VR1 to make it stiffer so it starts feeling more like an XCR that is not set on the stiffer settings. The VR1 will not go as stiff as the XCR and and XCR will not go as soft as the VR1.
I ran them both stock so the viewer can see where both sleds "middle" setting or starting point is.
@@Levi_LaVallee Thanks for getting back to me. Looking forward to your next video.
Awesome video I'm glad I snowchecked a xcr 850 136. Can't wait
You and me both! ;)
Adam mack I ordered a 2022 Polaris xcr 850
Thanks
I just ordered the 850 xcr .Iam in my late 50 and hope i can stay with this thing. Iam an old snocross racer from csra few years back. Cant wait until next winter.
If you still have some rowdy in ya, You'll love the XCR!
Lee worsdell I ordered a 2022 Polaris xcr 850
Thanks
Good video Levi!👍 how about a video on that Assault in the garage?!?
That will come out in the fall. ;) .
I have been on Cats since the 90's but snow checked a VR1 650 137 a few weeks ago and am pumped to try and new brand! Hopefully MN will get dumped on with some snow next season.
I believe you are going love it! The VR1 is the best trail sled I have been on!
Mike d I ordered a 2022 Polaris xcr 850
@@scottsweeney5005 that should be a sweet ride!
@@217saleen thanks
It would be interesting to bring in both sleds appearing absolutely identical. That way preconceptions of what each sled brings into the equation could be ruled out if the sleds were simply labeled "A" or "B".
Between tests, switch the letters so the "A" and "B" labels are constantly changing. No pretest inspections, just get on it and rock and roll.
that would be they way to do it for sure. They use to do that when we were testing for snocross- change something while we weren't there and then send us out to see if we notice anything different.
I just wish the xcr was still available in a 600, so us normal guys could still race without having to go through the polaris race program for the new "cross country 600"
If you really want a 600, email us at info@teamlavallee.com
650 is a great sled
@@maxmartz4665 very strong motor.
Ak pro xr I ordered a 2022 Polaris xcr 850
Thanks
Great comparison video, you don't disappoint. What is your opinion of the 1.25" Ice ripper on a 850 136 XCR? Thanks for your time and effort for us sledheads
I haven't been on the lug studded version but I raced the normal track before at Arcticman. It has good feel around turns with some give due to the shorter lugs and angle cut side lugs, easy to tail slide, best for top end speed, but straight line traction is minimal compared to the 1.6. Probably about the same or better than the 1.35 though.
Love the video just wish there was a big guy like me testing them out. And when I say big I mean big big. I'm 400+
Great video! How about some input on the different track options that are offered for trail riding only?
Thank you. I plan to dive into the tracks for next season. The track makes a bigger difference than many think and it can really amplify or hinder the fun you have!
Levi, great vid.! I see you put your C&A skis on the VR1 in the beginning of the video. Did you put them on the XCR , and if so how was the handling of both sleds with those skis? Was one sled better than the other in regards to handling?
I had them on my VR1 and then I took them off so no one was feeling the difference. The main difference is the C A bite better in the turns so less pushing. I like to know the skis are going to bite so I run C A and 8" Woodys Carbides.
The stock skis are a little more forgiving with less darting but they push more.
thanks for great info, last year i bought 650 vr1 sled has 1274 miles on it, i put only 60 miles on but was impressed, my buddies 16 year old son put on the rest, i could not get him off sled so i'd like 850 xcr 128 but i'm going with 850 vr1 129 for snow conditions & how i ride that is the one for me
Vr1 is the best trail sled. XCR is if you want to get rowdy. haha
@@Levi_LaVallee i'll stick with VR 1 if i bought XCR i'd have to get grecian formula & join the hair club along with getting that little blue pill lol
@@oldslow3694 LOL That is funny!
Thats awesome you had Bruce out there! Now you'll have to get Jessie James out there, you and him would be perfect riding partners
Bruce is great! Lots of knowledge
Great review/comparison - Thanks! At 250 lbs., will I need to respring the XCR? I would expect I will.
Yes I would put the HD torsion springs on.
Awesome review, thank you for doing that...have you ever compared the 137 to the 146 on trail riding?
not a serious test. I will do a back to back this coming year... A few people have asked . In general the 137 stays flatter because of the flat rails and rear coupling. We had a 146 Assault with and the Vr1 seemed smoother through the bumps .
Levi - maybe a better question for a different video but how would the XC with the Fox QS3 suspension do against these? Maybe a video comparing to the VR1 sometime? I think the XC with the Fox setup is gonna be a dark horse this year
Good call. I will see what we can do.
Checked an xcr 128 a little bit ago. My tnt 850 just wasn't cutting it. Bottoming out on bumps and jumps, not great at cornering going fast but not bad, just lacked precision compared to other polaris sleds I rode. It was my first new sled and I think the xcr should be a better fit.
Sounds like the XCR will fit your riding style well.
Thank you Mr Levi! i am almost ready to pull the trigger on the xcr! ill be more than happy to make my sno check with your deal r ship lol this vid is a year ago and my times average more than that. if you can manage to get the addres to me or my wife on the faceless book we will give a call over there and taslk with a sales rep and get started. all the best to ou and your family .Be safe and God bless from upstate ny where we jerry rice race 600 ft hill drags. my cat eats well up there sir.
Hello Mike.
I really like the XCR for the way I ride. It is best to find a local dealership to work with.
Levi, This was definitely needed, spot on.
Can you help me out with my “can't get here soon enough” 22 850 XCR 136"? What is the measurement from the taillight to the back of the seat at the tunnel? Trying to order accessories early.
Side note, what’s your thoughts on a 1.25” ice ripper track.
Thanks for all your great and honest videos.
Thank you for checking the videos out. All the new sleds are so good, but very specialized for a specific type of riding / rider. If you get a sled that doesn't suit your style, your experience won't be very good so that is what I am trying to help people with.
About 17.5" of clear tunnel. about 20" if you go over the plastic before the back of the taillight.
1.25. I don't have a lot of time on the ice ripper with the studs in it, but I raced the 1.25 with out the studs for some cross country races. Top speed the track is best of the options and it has good give around the turns so it tail slides nice and is easier to pivot through turns.
@@Levi_LaVallee Yes I fully agree, if you aren’t honest with yourself your riding will suffer. Polaris now offers so many choices everyone can pick a sled to suit their needs.
For me, the XCR checks all the boxes for a arm pulling, hard charging trail machine. I am pumped for next season. Maybe we could rail some turns together someday. The upper peninsula will treat you well.
Thanks for your quick response and time.
Enjoy your summer
How about a 128/136 comparison ? Also did both sleds have the same tracks?
The XCR had a 1.66 and the VR1 had a 1.35 track. both were 136/137. I plan on doing a 128/136 comparison...definitely a differences between them both but they are easily over looked if you don't have the chance to ride them back to back to feel it.
had i seen this video prior to ordering a 128" XCR (like to be able to make the turn, unlike on my 21 renegade XRS) I may have ordered a VR1, however, I don't think I will change my order seeing i do like to know i have the suspension to take any bumps i will hit on the trail. Levi, how much adjustments did you do on the trails for each condition if any?
I will adjust them on depending on the conditions. If I am going ditch banging I crank everything up and the torsion springs. If I am trail riding and it has small to medium bumps, I will soften them up a bit so it drives through the bumps better. After riding the XCR try taking some of the compression out by turning the clickers counter clock wise. Go like 4 clicks or so , so it is noticeable. it is feels better, go a couple clicks more and see what it says to you. once you notice it feeling worse, then go back to the previous setting. It is best to run through the same section that has conditions that you usually ride in so you get a fair test.
@@Levi_LaVallee thanks so much for taking the time to respond. truly appreciate it!
@@juliendugas6865 No problem. If you have any other questions let me know.
What is your view on the 2021 indy 850 xc launch edition with the 137 track. Can it be upgraded to velocity shocks and coupled with the xcr rear suspension and runner set up
You should be able to put the velocity shocks, and the coupling block bracing, and the 8" carbides on the XC. The You would be missing a few of the HD suspension components with the rails being the biggest thing, but you could get most the parts to convert it to a XCR if you wanted to.
650 has one of the best color schemes in the last 10 years
The assault 800 2012 being the last one.
Aj bertelson I ordered a 2022 Polaris xcr 850
Thanks
Thanks, I know what I want. Vr1 650
smoothest sled down the trail!
Levi, how did you get Bruce to come out? LOL Awesome video
having a next year sled helped. ;)
Great video i have the 2020 xcr 128 and the rear came very soft had to replace to stiffer torsion springs and shocks revalved how is this XCR in the rear
you must be a hard charger! the set up is very similar from 20 to 22
Hi Levi, thank you and the guys for the review on the VR1 and XCR. I have been out of snowmobiling for 10 years and I have tried two up sleds before being longer I don't like the way they handle it's like driving a bus through the trails. I am leaning towards the VR1 850 129 and the dealer is promoting the 137 . What is your opinion on how they both handle on the trails is the 137 a lot more work ? Also I am going with the 1.35 cobra track how many picks would you suggest the dealer said 80 and I think that is not enough ? I will be doing a snow check soon .
Not enough 3 studs per paddle. I put 151 in my 129 track so like 160
80 doesn’t even put 2 in each row
I use gold digger 1.450 in my cobra 1.325
THe 129 is more nimble and easier to get through the turns. the 137 is more forgiving feeling but slower reacting in the turns is what it feels like. If you are just cruising on the trails, the 137 is what I go for. If you like getting agreesive, 129 is the ticket. I run no less than 2 studs per lug. This gives some traction in if you come up on a icy turn.
With the different riders and there weights, were springs changed to compensate for the heavier/ lighter riders. I am 250 with gear. I'm ready to snow check between the two. Leaning towards VR1 650/ 137". Guess I will need heavier springs. Your thoughts. I ride easy and very aggressive. Kinda getting old for the latter though. Thank you
I did the fat boy springs on my 600 xc jo bottoming out was definitely worth it!
Yes the HD springs will help on either sled. VR1 with heavy springs would work great for easy and if you crank the clickers up you can get aggressive. With the XCR it doesn't understand "cruising" only Flat out! haha
Hey , i really enjoy watching your videos, very technical and teaches many details, i have a question, i have a 2022 xcr 850 in 136 track. it is a very good sled all around. but i am told that the 128 track version would be "much" better in turns, I have never owned or ridden a shorter track so it is hard for me to compare the shorter track with my 136 track. So talking about trail riding for someone like me ( medium level rider ) Would I really feel the difference between 128 and 136 in the trail turns on a XCR ? very much appreciate your help and keep up the good work.
Great question. I plan to do a video on this topic as it is very common question.
The question "does a 128 turn better than a 136?" The answer is "yes or no". The answer depends on what a persons opinion on "turning better" means.
In my opinion, the shorter track turns better. REASON - I view corning a snowmobile (tradition flat turns, carving excluded) as the skis having to pivot/drag the track to a new direction. What makes it harder for the skis to pivot the machine? More track to pivot / drag to a new direction, all while the longer track (with more traction) is trying to drive it straight forward.
With that said, the amount of bite in the snow on the outer edge of the track and the length of the track touching the snow has a lot to do with how easy it allows it to "pivot" around a corner.
You can make sleds corner differently by changing the coupling blocks, tipping the rear of the rails up slightly (like XCR and Switchback Assault) , adding more aggressive skis and carbides to over power the rear, adjusting suspension, adjusting limiter straps, and the list goes on.
But in my opinion I believe a sled that pivots easier around a corner "turns better" so I like the 128/129 over the 136/137 for cornering. But my history as a snocross racer has conditioned me to be very comfortable will having the tail be a little "looser" to allow it to pivot around the corners easier. This also is a little makes it less likely to have inside ski lift and feels more playful on the the trail to me.
On the other hand, the 136 may not pivot as well, but if the traction is correct front to back, you can drive around the corner great with more of the "on rails" manner which to some means "it turns better".
I like riding the 128 when I want to feel like I'm on a rocket on the trail, but the 136 is a little more versatile allows me to go off trail a little better so want to make some changes to my 136 to give it more of a 128 feel on the trail.... stay tuned for when I tackle that project.
@@Levi_LaVallee Thank you very much for your detailed explanation, I truly appreciate it and it answered my questions in many ways on this topic, You are awesome and i really enjoy watching your videos and your rides, Looking forward to see your new rides and new videos.
I would be extremely interested in this new video concept
Were these sleds in stock set up? I really enjoyed the video but perhaps having riders that are close to the same size and experience level would be a more fair comparison?
Now how about a video with an Assault and XCR doing the same thing? (But with above mentioned parameters)? :)
Hello.
Thanks for checking the video out.
Yes they were both stock. The reason for having multiple riders of different size and experience levels was to help viewers find similarities to their own experience and size.
Many people cannot relate to me because I have a different level of experience from competing professionally on snowmobiles for the over 15 years, and that I am about the size of a 6th grader. haha.
If I had 5 riders the same size and experience level as me, I feel the video would not be as relevant to the majority of riders out there.
Yes I would love to do an Assault vs XCR video. I have been working on setting it up for this winter so hopefully that comes together.
Levi I just got up northbound Vt Derby area
I asked about track a month ago
I ended up going with 1.35 and I’m very happy with this track for my style of riding thx for your feed back.
The ECU sent me a code for the first time max detonation. So I looked it up on Polaris forums answers were bad gas or bad sensor. It only came up once on 7S display. What do you think. Should I take out the remainder gas out ? Replace spark plugs ?
I had a funny feeling that the gas station we stopped at said 91 octane questionable lol my buddies were 850 skidoos no codes came up they used same gas. I figured I’d pick your brain a little. Thx bro
I haven't had that code come up before but, i would make sure you get some good fuel in for next time if the code went away. If the code is on I would call your dealer and ask them. They may have had the same thing or maybe heard of someone who has.
This dudes got 35 sleds on his shelf talk about goals
Haha lots of trophy sleds.... lots of hospital time to get them though ;)
Both sleds are great but most will buy the XCR because of the name and colors.
The XCR name is legendary for sure but I hope people get the correct sled for the the kind of riding they do because it really makes your experience that much better.
Polaris is done it again that's why they're the best
Randall Halsen I ordered a 2022 Polaris xcr 850
@@scottsweeney5005 so did we the red white and blue one can't wait
@@RJ-wy6cx I know right
I was planning to go SkiDoo, I really wanted a turbo 4stroke and a lazy boy with a track & skis...
But between the 650 engine and the Matryx chassis, plus saving $4k think a VR1 650 137 is in my future for next yr.
Is the 650 as good as it has been hyped or should I be upping to the 850?
Plan for the new sled is 500+ trail mileage weekends in MN, WI & MI. I want to hit all the usual places people from the Twin Cities trailer to.... without the trailer.
The 650 is very impressive. It certainly does not feel like a 600 class engine, it has very strong mid range pull. I got to demo the 2022 sleds in early March and the 650 was the most impressive thing to me. So much so I ordered a VR1 650. For the tight and twisty trails it is no slouch and easier to get into a good rythm than the 850. Only if you do a lot of high speed lake running would you be giving up anything to the 850.
The 650 rips! It feels closer to the 800 than a 600.
Great video. I have a '22 XCR 850 128" and on the fence ordering a '24 XCR 850 128" or I would like to get the Boost so am forced to a '24 VR1 850 137". If I put 100lb springs in front, HD torsion spring and revalve shocks for slower rebound, do you think they are closer so I wouldn't be disappointed with a VR1?
You would love the Boost but let me explain what you may notice coming from a 128 xcr to a 137 Vr1.
I rode a 24 128 850 xcr yesterday along with a 136 xcr and a 146 assault for a XCR vs Assault comparison. The thing I feel when jumping from sled to sled is they sleds start feeling bigger the longer you go. A little less nimble, a little less feeling like you can throw it around, and little heavier feeling. The 128 feels racier, were the 136 feels like it is on rails around corners (if you have good ski bite). The 146 feels the least nimble but, easy to ride off trail.
If you "XCR" a Vr1 Boost It will be a fun sled for sure ! the extra power makes things feel more playful so you won't be disappointed. I think the thing you would notice if you ever went back to back on the sled is how the 137 back end is locked in more in the turns.
But the boost power will make you forget about that. haha
Just picked up my 2022 VR1 650! What kind of break in process do you do on your new sleds?
I try not to hold them wide open for more than a few seconds at a time for the first tank. I believe they feed them a bit more oil during the break in period to help safeguard the engines as well.
Great comparison. I'm a Ski-Doo guy looking to try a Polaris next season ('24). My question is: is a VR1 set full stiff comparable to an XCR at full soft? On an aggressive riding scale with 10 being the most aggressive, l'm a solid 7.5/8 (sport touring) and 235lbs geared up. I ride mainly smooth trails for the most part but will run into the occasional junk from time to time. I'm looking for the best sled for the widest range of conditions. Thanks for any input you can provide.
great question. I think the VR1 is the smoothest ride on the trails and with it full stiff I could do some ditch banging with it.
The XCR shocks are valved a little stiffer and have stiffer springs on the IFS. for me the XCR is a bit stiff for comfortable trail cruising, but is great if I am going race mode down the trail. But I am only 160lbs , maybe 170-175 with gear on.
IF you are 235 I would turn the torsion springs up to medium , medium / hard, then full hard on both springs to see if it is enough to hold you up on both XCR or VR1. If it feels like it is squating down in the back and the front end is pushing with the torsions on hard, then get the HD torsion springs to hold the back end up better.
The other thing I noticed is the IFS has more body roll on the VR1 than the XCR. The XCR has stiffer springs up front so it makes sense that the VR1 rolls more, but you can tighten up the preload on the ifs springs to get it closer to the XCR feel.
The VR1 handles the bumps awesome where the XCR chatters around on the bumps more, but the XCR takes the G out "spine tinglers" better.
Unless you are blasting big bumps or ditch banging, I feel like you would be better off with a VR1.
@@Levi_LaVallee UPDATE...great assessment, Levi and thank you! After watching this video and reading your response 100x (LOL!) I had to be honest with myself and ended up going with an XC (as I stated in another video reply) as I prefer a more plush ride and I don't ditch bang or usually experience trails where an XCR would be required. I love the color/graphics better on the XCR but I feel it just isn't the right sled for me personally. I'll assess the needs for heavier springs after I get a few miles on my sled. Once again, thank you for your great videos and for taking time out of your buy schedule to reply to my questions!!!!
@@bartunertl302 awesome! Congrats on the new ride!
You will enjoy that sled. The Xc has the QS3 Fox which make it super easy to adjust, and you can really feel the difference between each click.
Next season when you get out on it let me know what you think. If have any concern with the way it rides or handles, let me know and we'll get it dialed in!
@@Levi_LaVallee Will do, thanks again!!!
You didn't put in a category for which jumps 412 feet?
haha going to need some heavy mods for that.
Heyy can you do a vid showing how these exact sleds do off trail
not a bad idea. a huge variable with how they do off trail is the track . they get around a lot better with taller lugs. let me put some thought to how i could do it. 👍🏼
@@Levi_LaVallee thank you
Those are the exact two machines I’m debating on which one to get I have a girlfriend that likes to go for a ride every once in a while with me i’m in my 50s if I got the VR 1. With the extra heavy duty spring would that keep it from bottoming out if she was on with me
It would certainly help. With out getting in to how much you weigh and how aggressively you ride, that is what I would do. The goal is to get a spring that is soft enough for the sled to feel good on the low setting and stiff enough on the high setting to have a passenger. You may need to stiffen up the compression on the rear shock if it feels a little soft with a passenger.
I have not tried it with a passenger yet to see what changes would be ideal for going from 1 rider to 2 riders but there are a few easy ways to adjust the sled quickly and with minimal tools .
Let me know if you try the 2 up program and if you are having a tough time setting it up and I will help you get it figured out.
Do you recommend the VR1 or XCR in a 650 for smaller rider who weighs about 145lbs? Also, thinking the 129 or128 track.
Depends on what you want to do with it. What kind of riding do you want to do?
@@Levi_LaVallee i ride northern WI and UP all trail. I'm not a balls to the wall rider. I'm concerned the shocks wont adjust light enough on the XCR for my body weight. I'm riding a 2020 XC 600 now
@@Outlander18 I would recommend the VR1. You can still blast the trails on it super fast on it and it so smooth. The XCR will feel rigid on the trail with your lighter weight.
@@Levi_LaVallee thank you!
@@Outlander18 let me know if you have any other questions.
Did you take these sleds off trail? How do they handle in deeper snow?
Hello Brian. I did not for this test as snow conditions did not allow.
How come the vr1 has c&a skis on it in the beginning of the video but stock skis by the middle of the video??
That was my personal sled which I put CA Pro on for the season, then I realized it midway through the shoot and knew it would not be an accurate test for the corning portion so we put stock skis on it.
So if hitting the average trails is that XCR going to ride stiffer than that VR1 till you really push it hard
Yes for sure. If you weigh 200+ it starts feeling better in normal trail conditions , but in general the VR1 is more smooth in normal conditions .
So it still sounds like they don't have either shock valved correct, specially when guys are saying its not much different between the 2. When is Polaris gonna get Rid of Walker Evans on the Snowcheck sleds? These are floor model shocks. Worst shocks I've ridden
What has been your issue with the shocks? I am surprised to hear that as I thought the shocks work great for trail riding and aggressive riding .
HAY LEVI ONE QUICK QUESTION... I SEE YOU HAVE A RANGER MY QUESTION IS WOULD YOU CONSIDER A GENERAL??? AND WHY OR WHY NOT THANX LEVI STAY COOL AND KEEP PUSHIN ON MY MAN... PEACE...
a General would be awesome! we use the Ranger at my shop for work and for the heated cab during the winter.
I ordered the xcr 850 128
Congrats on the new ride! Let me know what you think when you get to ride it.
Are the springs the same for VR1 and XCR?
N O different
I was told the front and center springs are stiffer on the XCR and the torsion springs are the same.
Spill a little lunch on the jacket Levi? 😉
Derrick was roosting me 😉
Would a VR1 with shocks set to stiff equal an XCR set to soft.
I don't know for sure, but I would like to think so based on the riding I have done. Once my sleds come in I'll have to do a back to back.
Everyone is different and I think they all should've had time to adjust the shocks to see how stiff or plush to their liking. That is the deal breaker
Yes the suspension could have been adjusted to too make them better for each rider but the idea behind the suspension being set as they come from factory was so the viewer can get a general idea of the difference between the 2 machines.
Is it possible to stiffen the VR1 as stiff as it goes and soften the XCR to make them feel similar? I'm sure you could, but I felt that, that wouldn't help people see the differences between the 2 machines.
My assumption was by testing them this way people would see that in general the XCR is stiffer and built for a more aggressive, whereas the VR1 is more plush and for a less aggressive rider.
hey i know that dude! another great video levi. the mixture of riders was good. i liked the different opinions they had. do both sleds accelerate the same on the smooth and flat?
Yes. Both rip! Only different is traction depending on what tracks they have.
Don't see much on the Indy 2022 650 vr1 129 inch track why
what would you like to know about it?
what happened to the " darting" catagory?
?
hey when are you gonna post agian?
Hello. We will be firing up our You Tube in December.
Would a vr1 benefit from xcr springs
Depends on what your goal is. The IFS springs are the difference between XCR and VR1, the front track and rear track are the same.
The stiffer IFS springs will do a few things- have less body roll, stiffer through the stroke, and it would also hold the front end up a little more if you have the same preload.
What the 100lbs XCR springs should do compared to the 80lbs VR1spring if you have the same preload -
front end should bite a little more in corners, but could make it more effort to turn because of the extra ski pressure.
May feel more ridged and deflect off small bumps because it is stiffer.
You remember what the clickers were set to?
Both were set in the middle. We didn't change them
@@Levi_LaVallee i found throughout the season that one click stiffer in the back track shock really settles the rear through any terrain
Assault vs xcr ?
Assault is a wheelie machine as it is not coupled in the rear. I would have to do a back to back to see what the suspension says to me between them both. Stay tuned next winter.
heads up for the 45 min ad
?
@@Levi_LaVallee i was watching your vid stepped away for a couple sec came back before i noticed some ad was playing it played for 10 min before i realized it had switched
@@garthbookhout5207 lol. if you don't hit the skip ad button or have a paid you tube subscription , You Tube makes sure the ads run as long as they can.
No bad feeling keep up good work. More. More more
Thanks Garth. 👍🏼
Bottom line xcr suspension is set up stiffer
Stiffer, has heavier duty components, tipped up rail in the rear. The stiffer suspension and tipped up rails are the 2 things that make the biggest difference on the feel between the 2 machines.
128 vs 136????
If you want to feel racy, 128. If you want extra forgiveness 136
First
I thought It was big going from xtra 10 to xtra 12
haha, They have come a long way since those days!
Average rider should get the vr1. If you are the type of rider then no one can keep up with get the xcr. There you don’t need to watch the video
haha there ya have it. For some reason I feel like if I simply stated that with a picture of each sled and then ended the video, some people may still have questions. 😂
The Arctic Cat
haha