Too Excited
Perhaps that is why we were so excited to see the ACE 900 XC because we knew Polaris had something up its sleeve for 2017. When we learned it was a new front suspension, we were ready to jump into the vehicle right then and there.
Then when we learned that Walker Evans shocks were a part of the new suspension deal, our disappointment at not being able to drive the new ACE was probably visible in our faces.
That anxiety heightened even more when we were told there is a new ProStar 900 engine beating in the belly of this vehicle.
More travel, more power and a better ride. What’s not to like?
The dual A-arm front suspension offers up 12.3 inches of travel in the front, an incredible 4.1 inches more than the 2016 ACE 900 SP. Out back, which is also a dual A-arm suspension, the travel is 12.6 inches, 3.1 inches more than the previous model. Throw into the mix the Walker Evans clicker needle shocks both front and rear and even without driving it we are pretty confident in saying the suspension has caught up to the horsepower.
We’re Pretty Sure
Most likely, that is. The new ProStar 900 EFI engine has a claimed 78 hp, a whopping 18 more horsepower than the ProStar 900 it replaces. That is fairly significant and really elevates the performance of this single-seater.
Changes have also been made to the chassis, which offers 13 inches of ground clearance (vs. 10 inches on the 2016 ACE 900) as well as a longer wheelbase, now at 67.5 inches, a full six inches longer than 2016’s model. And the vehicle is wider, now 59 inches compared to 2016’s 48 inches.
Are you getting a feel now for why we were so anxious to drive the new 900 XC?
Other significant new features on the 2017 ACE 900 XC are GBC Dirt Commander tires and a digital gauge with Bluetooth connectivity.
The XC barely resembles the SP.
We’ll soon have a full report on the XC as we just received that vehicle for a summer of riding.
Stay tuned.
