Polaris MATRIX INDY VR1 Series User manual

2021
INDY VR1
INDY XC
SWITCHBACK ASSAULT
OWNER’S
MANUAL
For Maintenance and Safety

WARNING
Operating, servicing, and maintaining a passenger vehicle or off-road
vehicle can expose you to chemicals including engine exhaust, carbon
monoxide, phthalates, and lead, which are known to the State of California
to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. To minimize
exposure, avoid breathing exhaust, do not idle the engine except as
necessary, service your vehicle in a well-ventilated area and wear gloves
or wash your hands frequently when servicing your vehicle.
For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov/passenger-vehicle.
!WARNING
Read, understand, and follow all of the instructions and safety
precautions in this manual and on all product labels.
Failure to follow the safety precautions
could result in serious injury or death.
For videos and more information
about a safe riding experience with
your Polaris vehicle, scan this QR
Code®with your smartphone.
!

2021 Owner’s Manual
Matryx Platform
Indy VR1 129 / 137
Indy XC Launch Edition 129 / 137
Switchback Assault 146

Unless noted, trademarks are the property of Polaris Industries Inc.
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Association® is a registered trademark of Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle
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a registered trademark of NGK Spark Plug Co., Ltd. BatteryMINDer® is a
registered trademark of VDC Electronics Inc. QR Code® is a registered
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Copyright 2020 Polaris Industries Inc. All information contained within this
publication is based on the latest product information at the time of
publication. Due to constant improvements in the design and quality of
production components, some minor discrepancies may result between the
actual vehicle and the information presented in this publication. Depictions
and/or procedures in this publication are intended for reference use only. No
liability can be accepted for omissions or inaccuracies. Any reprinting or
reuse of the depictions and/or procedures contained within, whether whole or
in part, is expressly prohibited.
The original instructions for this vehicle are in English. Other languages are
provided as translations of the original instructions.
Printed in U.S.A.
9931271 Rev 01

Thank you for purchasing a POLARIS vehicle, and welcome to our world-wide
family of POLARIS enthusiasts. Be sure to visit us online at www.polaris.com for
the latest news, new product introductions, upcoming events, career
opportunities and more.
Here at POLARIS we proudly produce an exciting line of utility and recreational
products. We believe POLARIS sets a standard of excellence for all utility and
recreational vehicles manufactured in the world today. Many years of experience
have gone into the engineering, design, and development of your POLARIS
vehicle, making it the finest machine we’ve ever produced.
For safe and enjoyable operation of your vehicle, be sure to follow the
instructions and recommendations in this owner’s manual. Your manual contains
instructions for minor maintenance, but information about major repairs is
outlined in the POLARIS Service Manual and can be performed by a factory
certified Master Service Dealer (MSD) technician.
Your POLARIS dealer knows your vehicle best and is interested in your total
satisfaction. Your POLARIS dealership can perform all of your service needs
during and after the warranty period.
For the most up-to-date owner’s manual visit https://www. polaris. com/en-us/
owners-manuals.
3
WELCOME

The following signal words and symbols appear throughout this manual and on
your vehicle. Your safety is involved when these words and symbols are used.
Become familiar with their meanings before reading the manual.
DANGER
DANGER indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, WILL result in
death or serious injury.
WARNING
WARNING indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, COULD result
in death or serious injury.
CAUTION
CAUTION indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, COULD result
in minor to moderate injury.
NOTICE
NOTICE provides key information by clarifying instructions.
IMPORTANT
IMPORTANT provides key reminders during disassembly, assembly, and
inspection of components.
The Prohibition Safety Sign indicates an action NOT to take in
order to avoid a hazard.
The Mandatory Action Sign indicates an action that NEEDS to
be taken to avoid a hazard.
4
SAFETY SYMBOLS AND SIGNAL WORDS

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Ride Command Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
The Perfect Fit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Snowmobile Break-In . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Pre-Ride Inspections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC). . . . . . . . . . 201
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215
Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 223
Maintenance Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 233
5
TABLE OF CONTENTS

6

INTRODUCTION
IMPORTANT NOTES FOR OWNERS AND
DRIVERS
After reading this manual, store it in the snowmobile for convenient reference. It
should remain with the snowmobile when the snowmobile is sold.
Some of the illustrations and photos used in this manual are general
representations. Your model may differ.
Follow the maintenance program outlined in this manual. Preventive
maintenance ensures that critical components of the snowmobile are inspected
at specific mileage intervals. This service can be performed by your authorized
POLARIS dealer.
You and your dealer must complete the registration form included with your
snowmobile and forward it to us. This completed form is necessary to ensure
warranty coverage.
Protect and preserve your right to ride by joining your local trail riding clubs.
When teaching inexperienced operators to ride, set up a predetermined course
for practice. Make sure they know how to drive and control the snowmobile
before allowing them to make longer trips. Teach them proper snowmobile
courtesy, and enroll them in driver’s training and safety courses sponsored by
local or state organizations.
PRESERVATION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
POLARIS is committed to supporting an environmental education campaign. We
encourage state and provincial governments across the snowbelt to adopt
rigorous safety training programs that encourage protection of our environment,
including wildlife and vegetation.
Snowmobile clubs and other organizations are working together to protect our
environment. Please support their efforts and operate your snowmobile with
consideration for the protection and preservation of our environment.
NOISE LEVEL
One of the most publicized issues about snowmobiles is noise. The Society of
Automotive Engineers (SAE®), the standard-setting body for snowmobile
development, recommends that snowmobiles conform to prescribed sound
levels.
7
INTRODUCTION

POLARIS snowmobiles are engineered to conform to these SAE® standards.
Our muffler systems are designed to reduce noise levels and must not be
altered or removed. The sound of your snowmobile may not be welcome to non-
snowmobilers, so you have a responsibility to operate your snowmobile with
concern for others. We do our part by manufacturing quieter machines; we ask
your help to further reduce the impact of noise by operating your snowmobile
safely and responsibly.
AIR POLLUTION
POLARIS engineers continuously investigate ways to reduce emission levels of
two-stroke engines. We expect our efforts to lead to the reduction of potential air
pollution.
In addition to our technological research, we encourage government agencies,
manufacturers, distributors, dealers, ecologists, and other interested parties to
work together to develop data on environmental topics.
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS
Record your snowmobile's identification numbers and key number in the spaces
provided.
NOTICE
If installing an aftermarket tunnel wrap, do not cover the tunnel certification,
tunnel VIN or emissions certification labels with the wrap. If the tunnel wrap
doesn’t provide an opening for these labels, remove the section of wrap where
the labels are located.
qCertification Label
wTunnel VIN
eEmission Certification Label
VEHICLE MODEL NUMBER:
TUNNEL VIN (RIGHT SIDE OF TUNNEL):
ENGINE SERIAL NUMBER (ON RECOIL
HOUSING):
KEY NUMBER:
8
INTRODUCTION

ENGINE SERIAL NUMBER
The engine serial number qis located on the identification label on the engine
recoil cover.
KEY IDENTIFICATION
The ignition keys are etched with an
identification number. Remove the
spare key and store it in a safe place.
Your key can be duplicated only by
mating a POLARIS key blank using the
same identification number with one of
your existing keys, so if both keys are
lost, the ignition switch assembly must
be replaced.
9
INTRODUCTION

10

SAFETY
OPERATOR SAFETY
Follow the recommended maintenance program in the Maintenance chapter of
this manual to ensure that all critical components on the snowmobile are
thoroughly inspected at specific mileage intervals. Your dealer can perform this
service.
WARNING
Driving a snowmobile requires your full attention. DO NOT drink alcohol or use
drugs or medications before or while driving or riding as a passenger. They will
reduce your alertness and slow your reaction time.
Snowmobiles are capable of traveling at high speeds. Use extra caution to
ensure operator safety. Make sure your snowmobile is in excellent operating
condition at all times. Always check major and vital safety components before
every ride.
All POLARIS snowmobiles are designed and tested to provide safe operation
when used as directed. Failure of critical machine components may result from
operation with any modifications, especially those that increase speed or
power. DO NOT MODIFY YOUR MACHINE. The snowmobile may become
aerodynamically unstable at speeds higher than those for which it is designed.
Loss of control may occur at higher speeds. Modifications may also create a
safety hazard and lead to bodily injury.
The warranty on your entire machine is terminated if any equipment has been
added, or any modifications have been made, to increase the speed or power
of the snowmobile.
STAY CLEAR OF TRACK
Your snowmobile is propelled by a revolving track that must be partially exposed
for proper operation. Do not stand on the plastic flap.
WARNING
Serious injuries may result if hands, feet, or clothing become entangled in the
track. Be alert when riding, and remain properly seated to stay clear of the
track. Never hold the snowmobile up or stand behind it while warming up the
track. A loose track or flying debris could cause serious injury or death. We
recommend having your dealer perform all track service and alignment
procedures.
11
SAFETY

STAY CLEAR OF ENGINE
Never attempt adjustments with the engine running. Turn off the ignition, open
the side panels or hood, make the adjustment, secure shields and guards,
secure the side panels and hood, and then restart the engine to check its
operation.
WARNING
Serious injury can occur if fingers or clothing contact the moving parts of an
engine. Always stop the engine before attempting adjustments.
RIDING POSITION
Operating a snowmobile requires skill and balance for proper control. Rider
positions may vary with experience and the features available on some
snowmobiles, but under many conditions, the proper position is to be seated
with both feet on the running boards and both hands on the handlebar grips for
proper throttle, brake and steering control.
WARNING
Improper riding position may reduce control and could result in serious injury or
death. Always ride in a position that allows for control of your vehicle.
RIDER CAPACITY
This snowmobile is designed for a single rider only. Never carry a passenger on
this snowmobile.
12
SAFETY

RIDING APPAREL
HELMET
Wearing a helmet can prevent a severe head injury. Whenever riding this
POLARIS vehicle, always wear a helmet that meets or exceeds established
safety standards. Clasp the buckle and pull each strap tight to ensure the helmet
is properly secured to the head.
Parents should verify that young operators have a helmet that fits, and should
obtain one of proper size if it does not fit before allowing operation.
Approved helmets in the USA and Canada bear a U.S.
Department of Transportation (DOT) label.
Approved helmets in Europe, Asia and Oceania bear
the ECE 22.05 label. The ECE mark consists of a
circle surrounding the letter E, followed by the
distinguishing number of the country which has
granted approval. The approval number and serial
number will also be displayed on the label.
EYE PROTECTION
Do not depend on eyeglasses or sunglasses for eye protection. Whenever riding
a POLARIS vehicle, always wear shatterproof goggles or use a shatterproof
helmet face shield. POLARIS recommends wearing approved Personal
Protective Equipment (PPE) bearing markings such as VESC 8, V-8, Z87.1, or
CE. Make sure protective eye wear is kept clean.
13
SAFETY

CLOTHING
WARNING
Avoid wearing loose clothing or long scarves, which can become entangled in
moving parts and cause serious injury. Always wear an approved helmet and
eye protection.
Be prepared, be warm and be comfortable
when riding. Be aware of the weather
forecast, especially the windchill, and dress
accordingly. See page 26.
SURVIVAL PREPARATION
For your safety, always ride in a group of other snowmobilers. Always tell
someone where you're going and how long you expect to be gone. If it isn't
possible to ride with others, and you must travel into remote areas, always carry
survival equipment that's appropriate to the conditions you may encounter. Such
equipment may include, but is not limited to: extra clothing, a sleeping bag, a
flashlight, food and water, a signaling mirror, a means of building a fire, and a
two-way radio or cellular telephone.
Always carry the owner’s manual on your snowmobile. For added protection,
purchase and carry the following items on your snowmobile as well:
• Spare Drive Belt
• Extra Set of Spark Plugs
• Tow Rope
• Extra Oil
• Fuel Deicer
• Winter Survival Kit
• Trail Map
• First Aid Kit
• Tool Kit
14
SAFETY

EXCESSIVE SPEED
WARNING
High speed driving, especially at night, could result in serious injury or death.
Always reduce speed when driving at night or in inclement weather.
Always observe all state and local laws governing snowmobile operation and
speed limits. Always be alert and pay attention to the trail ahead. If your speed is
40 MPH (64 km/h), your snowmobile is traveling about 60 feet (18 m) per
second. If you look back for only two seconds, your snowmobile will travel about
120 feet (36 m). If your speed is 60 MPH (96 km/h), your snowmobile will travel
about 180 feet (55 m) in two seconds.
Traveling at night requires extra caution. Check headlight and taillight to ensure
proper operation, and don’t over-drive your headlight beam. Always be able to
bring your snowmobile to a stop in the distance illuminated by the headlight.
DRIVER AWARENESS
Slow down when traveling near poles, posts, or other obstacles. Be especially
alert if you're snowmobiling after dark. Always be on the alert for wire fences.
Single strands are especially dangerous, since there may be a great distance
between posts. Guy wires on utility poles are also difficult to distinguish.
Make sure the way is clear before crossing railroads
and other roads and highways. The noise of your
snowmobile will drown out the sound of approaching
vehicles. Look ahead, behind, and to both sides before
turning or crossing railroad tracks or highways. Steep
embankments may also hide your view. Always leave
yourself a way out.
Variances in snow depth and/or water currents may result in uneven ice
thickness. You may drown if you break through the ice. Never travel on frozen
bodies of water unless you have first verified that the ice is sufficiently thick to
support the weight and moving force of the snowmobile, you and your cargo,
together with any other vehicles in your party. Always check with local authorities
and residents to confirm ice conditions and thickness over your entire route.
Snowmobile operators assume all risk associated with ice conditions on frozen
bodies of water.
When teaching inexperienced operators to ride, set up a predetermined course
for practice. Make sure they know how to drive and control the snowmobile
before allowing them to make longer trips. Teach them proper snowmobile
courtesy, and enroll them in driver's training and safety courses.
15
SAFETY

DISABLED OPERATORS
Safe operation of this rider-active vehicle requires good judgement and physical
skills. Operators with cognitive or physical disabilities have an increased risk of
loss of control, which could result in serious injury or death.
MOUNTAINOUS TERRAIN RIDING
Mountainous terrain operation, even for experienced riders, can present
conditions and situations that could result in serious injury or death. Please
review all of the information about riding in mountainous terrain on the following
pages of this manual.
WARNING
An avalanche can occur at any time, in any conditions and on any slope.
The avalanche information provided in this manual should be considered basic
information and is not intended to replace your participation in an avalanche
safety training course. After reviewing the avalanche information in this manual,
be sure to participate in an avalanche safety training course before riding in
mountainous terrain. The training course will provide more information as well as
the opportunity to practice riding and using proper search and recovery
techniques.
For more information, education, training courses, and links to additional
resources, visit:
•www.avalanche.org for North American riders.
•www.avalanche.ca for Canadian riders.
•www.lavinprognoser.se for Swedish riders.
•www.avalanches.org for European riders.
16
SAFETY

GET THE SAFETY GEAR
In addition to carrying a spare belt, spark plugs and tools on each snowmobile,
each person in your riding group should wear the recommended snowmobile
riding apparel and carry (on their person) the following survival items when
riding in mountainous terrain:
• A digital avalanche beacon with new
“fresh” alkaline batteries
• An avalanche probe
• A compact shovel and hand saw
• A backpack (preferably an avalanche
air bag backpack)
• Emergency provisions, including the
following items:
– Small first aid kit
– Extra pair of gloves
– Extra dry socks
– Tow rope, map, compass/GPS
– Lighter or waterproof matches
– Signal mirror and whistle
– Bottled water
– High calorie snack food
– Compact emergency blanket
17
SAFETY

GET TO KNOW YOUR SAFETY GEAR
Following the safety gear and apparel recommendations will increase your
chances of survival if you encounter an avalanche or become stranded in the
backcountry, but even experienced and properly-equipped snowmobilers, hikers
and skiers perish in avalanches or succumb to hypothermia. Using a beacon or
probe for the first time during an avalanche recovery operation, or not knowing
how to deploy your avalanche air bag backpack during a slide, should be
considered UNACCEPTABLE to you and all members of your riding group. It’s
critical that you and all members of your riding group know how to use the safety
gear.
While you may know how to use your gear, you may have to rely on your
riding group to find you in an avalanche. Make sure they know how to use
their gear.
• Dress in layers. Multiple layers of clothing provide the best barrier to cold and
wind. Layers can be removed, but if you start out without enough layers, they
cannot be added later. Avoid cotton materials, which will freeze if they get wet.
• Wear highly visible gear.
• Try on all gear and equipment to make sure it fits and doesn’t interfere with
your riding capabilities. Place all survival aids in your backpack and wear the
backpack at all times. Non-essential items can be stored on the snowmobile
in an accessory bag.
• Read and follow the manufacturer’s user and maintenance instructions for all
gear. If you have questions about how your gear works, contact the
manufacturer for more information.
• Practice using your beacons, shovels and probes with your riding group in
real-world conditions wearing all of your gear. Have someone hide an active
“transmitting” beacon by throwing it (not walking it) into a snowbank and
timing your group’s search for it.
• Test deploying your gear. If you own an avalanche air bag backpack, check
with the manufacturer’s test deployment guidelines and bottle weight
replacement specifications. Most air bag backpack manufacturers
recommend testing the pack once a year so you know it works and feel
comfortable with the bag and deployment time.
• Make sure your probe and shovel are in good condition and that you know
how to assemble them.
18
SAFETY