Polaris announces 'Slingshot' trike

A new take on the two-wheels-forward, one-wheel-back theme, the Slingshot follows on from the Morgan 3-wheeler, Can-Am Spyder and Campagna T-Rex in combining the open-air thrills of a motorcycle with the stability of a car.

Weighing only 782.5kg (1,725lb), the Slingshot is powered by a 2.4-litre DOHC four cylinder engine sourced from General Motors. Polaris says the Slingshot has been made to charge corners at top speeds, with claimed power output of 173hp (127.2kW).

Transmission is a 5-speed manual and steering is power assisted, with an actual steering wheel, rather than handlebars. Other features including sport-tuned double wishbone suspension, coil-over gas filled shocks and sway bar.

Safety features include electronic stability control, traction control and ABS brakes.

With an open cockpit, dynamic performance and laterally-supported seats just five inches (13cm) off the road, Polaris says the Slingshot is one of the most exhilarating driving experiences on the planet.

Two specification levels have been revealed, with the entry model listed from US$19,999. This basic version has all the running gear, bodywork (what little there is!) and safety features, while the higher-spec 'SL' Slingshot adds larger wheels, a reversing camera, paint options, and in-car media equipment.

In the US, you need a motorcycle licence to legally drive the Slingshot, so expect the same rule to apply (like the Can-Am Spyder) if it comes to Australia.

"The Slingshot is a segment defining product and just another example of Polaris' constant innovation and product leadership," said Polaris Australia and New Zealand Managing Director, Peter Alexander.

"The drive to create models and think outside the box means that models such as the Slingshot are created.

"With the launch of the Sportsman ACE earlier this year it became Polaris' 15th local model to offer ROPS as standard. Interesting to note that given the uniqueness of the ACE the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) has yet to establish a proper classification for the segment that the model sits in.

"With the launch of Slingshot, should it come to Australia, we fear the confusion of classifying another unique model could prove even more problematic," Alexander continued.

"We are interested to hear feedback from our consumers about our latest jaw dropping release as we believe there will be a high demand in our local markets for the Slingshot.

"We will work with regulators in regards to what it will take to bring the unique Slingshot to our marketplace."

For more information or to locate your nearest dealer, please visit www.polarisindustries.com.au or www.polaris.co.nz