Single seat ATVs like the 2018 Polaris RZR RS1 can trace their history back to the original 1977 Honda Odyssey ATV. Back then, the idea of a 1,340 lbs vehicle powered by a 110 horsepower 1,000cc (it’s actually 999cc) two-cylinder engine would be outrageous. Starting at $14,299, the the 2018 Polaris RZR RS1 is Polaris’ newest offering.
Polaris RZR RS1
The RS1 is a unique animal because it’s riding on a 60-inch wide chassis that is a little wider than that of the Polaris Ace. The RS1 wheelbase has been shortened when compared to a regular RZR XP 1000. The RS1 suspension is very similar to that of the RZR XP 1000, and it has a selectable four-wheel-drive system.
Our buddy Wayne contacted us recently offering TFLoffroad the opportunity to shoot one of the first 2018 Polaris RZR RS1’s in the state of Colorado (it’s actually the fourth one sold here). This was an awesome opportunity to get a rudimentary feel for the vehicle. While we played, we opted to do something unique: a 0-60 mph – in the DIRT!
We used a SoloDL gas-based speed measuring device. It’s the same unit we use for truck and car performance testing, and it is as accurate as our VBOX Sport gps unit.
Driving Impressions:
Andre Smirnov: I thought the RZR Turbo S was a great fun to drive, but strapping into the Formula 1 car-like central driving position of the RS1 foreshadows great fun. This little thing just squats down and goes! It’s not the quickest UTV out there, but it sure seems wried directly to your brain. At speed, it leans into a corner, takes a set, and digs in with very predictable and neutral handling. You can see both front tires from the driver’s seat, which means you can place them exactly where you want them.
Driving the RS1 is definitely a bit addicting, and I cannot wait to get another driving opportunity in one.
In this video, we visit IMI Motorsports Complex in Dacono, Colorado and use their dirt tracks to put the 2018 Polaris RZR RS1 through its paces.
Dimensions:
Bed Box Dimensions (L x W x H)20.5 x 23 x 4 /1 in
(Front/Rear) (52 x 58 x 10.4 / 3 cm (Front/Rear)
Dry Weight 1340 lbs (607.8kg)
Front/Rear Rack or Box CapacityN/A lb / 50 lb (N/A kg / 22.6 kg)
Fuel Capacity 9.5 gal (35.9 L)
Ground Clearance 13-inches (33 cm)
Hitch Towing Rating N/A
Hitch Type Not Equipped
Overall Vehicle Size (L x W x H)112″ x 64″ x 73.75″ (284.5 x 162.6 x 187.3 cm)
Payload Capacity 300-lbs (136.1kg)
Wheelbase 83-inches (211 cm)
Front/Rear Brakes4-Wheel Hydraulic Disc with Dual-Bore Front and Dual-Bore Rear Calipers
Parking BrakePark In-Transmission
Additional Specifications:
Electronic Power Steering – Standard
Front Shocks – 2 in Walker Evans Needle with 16-Position Adjustable Clickers
Front Suspension – Dual A-Arm with Stabilizer Bar and 21 in (53.4 cm) Travel
InstrumentationC4 Gauge, Speedometer, Odometer, Tripmeter, Tachometer, Coolant Temperature, Volt Meter, Hour Meter, Service Indicator, Clock, Gear Indicator, Fuel Gauge, Hi-Temp Light, Seatbelt Reminder Light, Dc Outlet
LightingWhite LED Low/High & Red LED Tail / Brake Lights
Other Standard FeaturesN/A
Rear Shocks2.5 in Walker Evans Needle with 16-Position Adjustable Clickers
Rear SuspensionTrailing Arm with Stabilizer Bar and 21 in (53.4 cm) Travel
Seat TypeBolstered Bucket Seat with Seat Sliders
Tires / Wheels
Front Tires 29 x 9-14; Maxxis Bighorn
Rear Tires 29 x 11-14; Maxxis Bighorn
Wheels – Cast Aluminum
