Living With a Polaris Slingshot! Terrific or Terrible?
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The Polaris Slingshot is no doubt one of the strangest vehicles on the road today. It promises a raw and visceral experience, open air, and decent acceleration. Polaris was kind enough to lend me a brand new Polaris Slingshot R to see what I had to say about driving a three wheeled vehicle as a daily driver. I was always a little uneasy about driving one of these but thankfully with enough seat time I finally started to get the hang of it and understand why people are in love with the Slingshot. So what is living with a Polaris Slingshot like? Let's find out. Thanks for watching and new uploads every Tuesday,Thursday, and Saturday!
#polaris #slingshot #slingshotr
What are your thoughts my dudes?
I've always been curious about what they would be like to drive, and now even more so! That quoted criticism at the beginning was pretty harsh, but after I think about it, sadly kind of accurate.
I think it really needs 4 wheels . But still a cool car .
Definitely wanna experience it, it has potential to be extremely fun!
As a motorcycle rider/ owner its the worst of both worlds. Think about it... lack of space, lack of safety, can't split lanes, audio or music is terrible sounding, and you get no ✌from the motorcycle crew and nobody sees you (cutoff)... not for me. Just my two cents.
At first they were cool to me in South Mississippi, initial y they were rare and mainly as in the video driven by middle aged men, now we have a big club of very annoying slingshot owners who drive them around with massive rims, big boombox attached to them, and insanely overkill leds, and it just killed it for me, ( not to be rascist but you probably could guess the type of people I'm talking about)
Drive it as long as you want, wherever you want? Sounds like a free Slingshot to me.
Four years from now, "Can we have this back yet?"
Dave Taylor no
same
Great credit score
@@michaelrhodes9178 unbelievable credit score
You speak as a non-owner. After 38000 miles, my Slingshot is just as fun as it was at mile 1. After replacing all the tires (the rear 3 times) I purchased a set of Continentals. Yeah, they are not the gumball rears that came stock but the Continental will last at least 4 times as long. I have given up nothing as far as handling but I am not likely to do a over $200 burnout, but then I grew out of that when the price of tires skyrocketed. My Wife and I have driven our all over Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio. We have been to the top of Pikes Peak, went from 90 degrees at the bottom of the Rockies to 29 degrees (and sleet) at the top. All the time, it never missed a beat or stranded me (even though in the sleet I did pucker my cheeks a bit). . For the price you pay, you won't find a more fun vehicle that is as stable and gets 34 MPG. I would say buy one, and if you don't like it, you should be able to sell it for what you paid for it. By the way, the $20000 Slingshot is just as fun as the $30000 Slingshot.
I actually owe this one in red and have for about 5 months and put over 5k miles on it. I drive mine EVERYWHERE when it is not raining even if its 30 degrees. It is hard because anyone else that I see driving one is a lot older. As a 29 year old I love it and just enjoy every time I get behind the wheel but to add to it I did get the manual so it is a lot more fun. I am some one drove motorcycles for the last 10 years and after an accident I cant see myself riding again so to finally feel the freedom on the open air again you is just amazing. If you can afford it you wont regret it!! Just an awesome vehicle!
I'm 37 and been riding a long time. Thinking about selling my Ninja 1000 and getting a Slingshot.
I'm 42 with beer belly and my wife and I both love my slingshot. Definitely fit the stereotype
Better then these 90 pound lil dweebs testing it...,
@@frankbasile3662 talking about I wish it was a manual as if he could drive one, im 130 lbs not that it matters just felt like sharing 😂
It's all about having fun TBH
I showed this thing to my wife and she would love to go cruising in one. Definitely fitting the stereotype lmao
I bought my 2017 SR Slingshot new, and have a bit of 16,000 miles of smiles in it. I did not for a second consider what other people thought about how it looks, nor whether they like it. I bought it because I like it. Weird, I know! I've ridden motorcycles. Love 'em. A Slingshot is nothing like a motorcycle, except for the open cockpit. I've driven a variety of of sports cars, and a Slingshot is nothing like them, either. I especially test drove a new Miata. Liked it, but it is no where near as much fun to drive as my Slingshot, which was a few thousand cheaper than the Miata I drove. The Miata is more practical, but then if being "practical" was my goal I'd be driving a Prius. My Slingshot is more like an old English roadster, such as a MG Midget or Triumph TR7, only quicker and more reliable. It handles more like a mid-80s Lotus S3 Esprit than a modern 370Z or Z4, more like an adult racing go cart, a Yamaha Wave Runner VXR jet ski for the road. It goes exactly where I want it to go in the twisties, and though it feels quicker than it actually is, because it handles so well I easily kept up with a Boxter on the Tail of the Dragon, even before we both got stuck behind a couple of guys on cruiser bikes who didn't know enough to pull over. On other passes, I've actually had sport bikes and Vettes to pull over so I could pass, though I wouldn't want to challenge a good rider or Vette driver in quickest times. I just wanted to go faster than they did at those times. On another pass, a much faster Viper and I rode along together, and enjoyed talking about it at Deal's Gap. In three years of driving my Slingshot, I have yet to have someone pull out in front of me, though I confess that I do drive it defensively. It's wider across the front than a Z06, about like an F150 pickup, but it sit's very low. I'm especially careful around 18-wheelers, but then I am in my SUV also. The longest trip I've enjoyed so far was only about 7 hours on the highway. At last year's Slingshots in the Smokies in Maggie Valley, NC, I went on a ride with a great guy and his dog. Together, they had driven theirs from Alaska to North Carolina, and I believe they were headed up to New England from North Carolina on the the way home. My Slingshot is still practically stock. I added some stick on convex mirrors, and a Stinger roof. It hang off the roll hoops to provide some welcome shade in the hot Georgia summer sun, while keeping the open cockpit. Not the cheapest roof, but I shopped carefully, and got the one I thought was best. Listen, I understand that a Slingshot, Vanderhaul, CanAm, Aerial Atom, etc. is not for everyone. If it's not for you, don't buy one. But when you attack the intellect, character, or culture of those who do enjoy them with snide, ugly, uninformed comments, you are revealing far more about yourself than you are about these unique vehicles.
Well said! I want one cause I like them 😃
I will be purchasing one this summer and dont live far from maggie valley. Hope to see ya there!
Love your comment. I’ve had my 2018 grand touring since I bought it brand new in 2018. It’s very fun, turns heads and is what it looks like. Love it hate it, it always opens up a conversation every time I’m out in itZ also I’ve had 15 motorcycles and love them too.
@Tre Boy Hi Tre Boy - Yes, I honestly wrote that. My Slingshot handles Interstate highways just fine, though I do try to be very careful. I'm so low that 18-wheelers might miss me, so I tend to hang well back until I can scoot by them quickly and safely. I'm also cautious about road debris. While driving my Subaru Forester a truck ahead of me had a trailer tire to de-laminate, with "alligators" flying everywhere. I missed hitting one, but thought, "Glad I wasn't in my Slingshot!" (I wear a helmet as required in Georgia, usually a 3/4 one with a partial shield, but a full face modular one when it rains.) Speaking of rain, in a Slingshot, slow way down. I've had no issues with hydroplaning, but have friends who have. When I can, I avoid major highways, not because my Slingshot can't handle them, but because I prefer smaller highways and even backroads, especially the twisty ones around lakes or up in the mountains. I've driven The Tail of the Dragon and similar curvy roads near Ashville NC, and the Slingshot takes to them like it's on a rail! You're so low and open that even 35 or 40 can feel like you're flying - which could be a problem if you're not careful. Every vehicle has its handling limits. You don't have to push those in order to enjoy Slingshotting! There are a couple of online Slingshot forums you might enjoy.
How difficult are they to get in and out of them and how to well do they handle on the road?
"No one sees you in this thing" Welcome to motorcycles lol
Welcome to a world full of the automotive equivalent to Kleenex boxes (SUV, CUV).
On the contrary, it's so eye-catching that people actually do see you. I added reflective yellow strips on my roll bars for even get visibility, though. In over 25K miles I've never experienced a safety-sense that I wasn't seen.
30k is waayyy to much. This is a 10-15 thousand dollar vehicle imo
Just buy a real motorcycle. Even an overpriced Ducati is more worth it.
@@kirbyswarp For real. You can get something like a hayabusa or an r1 for less than this thing.
@@Ensaumneak facts
It's a rich guy toy. They know who their customers are, they know that their customers are willing to pay $30,000 cause it isn't that much to them.
Get a s550 for that price.
He doesnt like it😂 but is too nice to say it
CJ KELLEY well he says Polaris emailed him, said he can give it a try and have it as long as he wants. Do u expect him to shit on it?
Lol u right
CJ KELLEY unfortunately that is what KZhead reviews are these days
@@dennylafoss I mean he didn't really make me want to buy one
KZhead Isbroken well that’s my point. For the most part, KZhead doesn’t have honest reviews
As a motorcyclist hell no. As a car enthusiast it’s still a hell no.
Try to appeal to both car and motorcycle enthusiasts, fail both
A lot like the Spyder the way I look at it: All the disadvantages of the motorcycle, none of the benefits of a convertible.
@@ericmarois6960 At least with the Spyder, it's a lot more stable than a motorcycle and you won't have a catastrophic event if you lose traction on a single wheel (from gravel, rain, ice, etc) and you're still straddling it so it "feels" more like a bike. The Niken is the best effort of that yet. This however I see no benefit, but plenty of drawbacks to only have 1 contact patch for the driving wheel vs 2 (or 4). I think a 4 wheeled version would appeal to a lot of enthusiasts as something cheap and light with lots of modification potential for autocross, track, and canyon/mountain road driving.
💯
@@PapaP86 I completely agree with you.. I actually had no idea that this thing was rear wheel drive... I figured there's no way in hell they are going to put the power through the single wheel when there are two up front right? I know front wheel drive isn't ideal AT ALL.. but I just can't see how you could possibly choose to put the power through the end with one wheel when the other end has two... So basically you have all of the downsides of a motorcycle without the redeeming quality of it being incredibly small and incredibly light.... Wtf. I know 1600 pounds is really light for a car.. But it's not really light for something that has the turn in of a car, with bald tires on the back.. But the corner exiting of a motorcycle.. That's exactly the opposite of what I'd think would be good. In a car you can't throw that shit into corners until you know your car really well because you're either going to understeer from having to slow all of that weight down and turn at the same time... Or you're going to oversteer, if your suspension allows it, because there's not as much weight on the back usually... But then they excel at going through the corner depending on what wheels are driving it. You can either get the smallest amount of drift going if you have to, so you feel pretty confident if you end up going a little too fast... Or you have an AWD car and you can get on that shit before the corner even ends, full fucking throttle, and launch that sucker like a bat out of hell... RWD just has to wait a bit longer but it'll launch itself out of a corner with the best of em.. A motorcycle you can huck that shit into a corner and lean into it.. You're small as fuck, put a knee down! You gotta be careful going too fast around and especially exiting the corner though because you only have a skinny tire putting the power down, and a skinny tire steering you.. You're gonna wanna get completely straight and upright ready to go before you put the hammer down... This has all of the bad... None of the good. If it were a car with four wheels though... It'd just be an extremely light and nimble convertible kinda that has a little bit of the feeling of a bike with all of the benefits of four wheels... I don't know. Half of what I said could be COMPLETE BULLSHIT. I don't have a ton of experience on a motorcycle... It just seems like it'd be this way. Idk. This comment got way out of hand I'm sorry haha.
I own one, I love driving it and enjoy my adventures every single time I go for a drive.
do you use it as your daily driver? or more as a toy lol
Did you come out of the closet when you left dealership too?
@@bigbeef8935looks like you're still stuck in the closet
@@robertsmith20022 beef is looking for a boytoy
With the helmet on you are Stig`s Blue cousin :D *ThatStigInBlue*
I would gladly take that name 😂
Beat me to it hahaha
@@mattsee45 *Some say....* Trying to think of something :D
I think this is one of your best reviews! So interesting to watch and very informative. Good job!
i rode in one of these once, it was manual, which we can all agree is how these should be. and the dude driving was hauling ass, i literally almost shit myself. What you missed was how fast these things really are haha
I feel like if they put some body panels to cover the rear wheel, it might actually look alot more appealing.
like a honda insight lol
Something, it just looks like a bathtub from behind
@- Vanderhall is the only brand that makes a good looking 3 wheeler.
Or just make it 4 wheels
hell no if they have 4 wheels it would be more appealing to do
I have the same SS Rvin the stick shift. I'm a 68yo Nana and I absolutely love this thing. I drove a 2018 model on a test drive and fell in love and have wanted one ever since. When the time came my husband said for me to go and pick out what I wanted, I was looking at a 2019 GT then I saw the 2020 model and it was easier for me to get in and out with the new design steering wheel ( I'm not petite in size lol) and I love the fact you have controls in the steering rather than being distracted by taking your eyes off the road. My granddaughter is 12 and lives with us. She has never been interested in motorcycles or off road vehicles and didn't really want to ride in this at first, but she didn't have a choice when we went to pick it up from the dealer. We both had helmets, put them on and off we went. It was a 45 min drive home. By the time we were home, she was in love as I was. Now Everytime we leave the house she wants to take the SS. So my husband rides his motor cycle and her and I can ride together. Boy do we get alot of looks, compliments, and thumbs up and when I take my helmet off, people are surprised that this nana is the driver. I have to admit I feel like I'm back in my late teens when I'm behind the wheel spinning the tires and speed shifting. You can't wipe the smile off my face. It is totally worth every penny for the thrill each time I take her out. It's a new adventure. I do want to get the heated and cooled seats cause it does get hot here in Texas.
live in the area and been watching for a while wild to see you getting all these sweet deals good work man keep it up
It's cool, but a new Miata is cheaper. It also comes with the sky as a roof, if you want.
And, the Miata has doors, a smooth manual, 4 wheels, etc. The benefits are multiple!
@@AustinMBecker And...the Miata is a lot less likely to kill you in a collision, and also a lot more likely to be seen by other drivers. It was interesting to hear the comment toward the end about them being cut off in traffic a lot, and the Slingshot is basically using the "motorcycle" aspect to bypass a lot of safety regulations.
The miata also isn't hideous.
I've had mine for 5 years and I look forward to taking it out every time. I love it. For those who say, "get a Miata", I think you are missing the point of the Slingshot. It's not a car and it's not a bike. Miata is a car! I had a Corvette and the Slingshot but I sold the Vette because I never took it out over the Slingshot. I've been riding bikes for 50+ years and yes I am beyond "middle aged" and I also still ride my bike too but the Slingshot is very special to me.
The MX-5 has a properly closing roof, proven design and reliability, no need or want for a helmet. Honest question: Why buy this over a Miata at the same price point ?
Agree 200%...
or an old Morgan three wheeler
because its a hell of a lot cooler, better looking, and is like 700 lbs lighter. Some people buy things because theyre more fun, and theres no way you can say that thing wouldnt be more fun than a regular miata, and reliability doesnt really matter in sports cars all that much, people are gonna beat the piss out of them anyways. The slingshot is a fun novelty vehicle, id definitely get one over a miata on the sole factor of it being 10x cooler looking, it would make me happy to get in it everyday, cant say the same thing about a miata imo
@@Stax62 to each their own. I'd also take a Miata
Came here to ask this.
Most vehicles are just opportunities to fix a lot of stupid engineering mistakes, but I just bought a base model a few weeks ago...and love it. I had already identified a number of things that were less than ideal for me but found a large modification aftermarket. People don't see me, so I swapped out the stock horn for an airhorn. I added 4 storage compartments that complement the body style. Speaker pods behind the headrest for marine speakers. Cheap light kit for inside (so I can see where I dropped my keys at night...etc.). I like that it's unique and reflects my personality and not just another soulless drone like, oh, say, ALL the other vehicles out there in my price range.
what an entertaining review! I really enjoyed that, watching this has sold me on the slingshot!
I drove that before in a manual and it was amazing!
that auto seems to be the only real problem he has with the car idk what they were thinking sending him a auto
I have a 2016 - its awesome. I had to put in many upgrades (windshield, stick shift, carpet, etc) but its sooo worth it. Mine is stick shift, and that's the banger right there. Auto would suck IMO. Next upgrades are stereo, subs, etc. Overall it turns heads ALL day! I've had people stop me to take a picture, I've had groups of people come over and ask me all about it. I've had countless people video tape me driving it. It's like you are a celeb coming into town. Amazing. Are there some flaws with this vehicle, yes.. but overall it's a blast to drive around town, in the mountains and more. So fun. Will you get cut off, sometimes. Mine is bright red and I have a couple small American flags on the back that trigger eyeballs to look! Overall it's amazing and I'm glad I purchased it. Keep in mind you will get basically two kinds of people, the ones that are blown away with it and in "awww" and the other that refuses to acknowledge its right in front of them or actually yells something like, "thats a piece of sh*t" as they walk away. LOL. I laugh and yell back, "have fun driving your moms car". LOL. Chicks love this thing as well. Don't get the lame colors if you decide to buy one.. stick with red or black or that midnight purple one. amazing. The baby blue is sh*t imo for color as well as the orange. Again, summertime fun to be had for months! Worth the price.. or buy one used.. Don't get the auto trans, it's sh*t. always go for the stick!
Agreed- I bought a used 2015 and I’m glad I bought a base with the amount of extras I’ve put on it. It turns heads and all my passengers love it over ANY motorcycle. Infact when girls on harleys see it, they have told me they wished to be a rider in my slingshot. It’s not as fast as a motorcycle and isn’t a fair comparison. It’s a full time convertible but with better style and maneuvering. I have 20k miles on mine and have driven it from MN to FL in comfort
Hahahaahahahahahahaahahahhahahahahahahahahaahahahahah
@@ryanmorgan6406 Jealousy a mofo son...
Never really gave these things a second thought, really enjoyed the honest review. Definitely would love to see what you think about a manual one!
Great vid as usual. I really like these - I guess I'm the stereo type middle aged guy who used to ride motorcycles on occasion but prefer something open air and a bit safer/easier to maneuver. I just picket up a used 2017 slingshot SL - its a manual thankfully but doesn't have the nicer polaris engine (has the ecotech). The aftermarket is pretty good for these also - you can buy larger windshields, exterior and engine mods etc. I own a mustang so I do enjoy aftermarket stuff.
I wish Polaris emailed me and asked me to have one for "as long as i want"
Me too
That does look like a ton of fun. Those front calipers look pretty cool, too! You don't see that a lot; most of the time it's either whatever shape casts easy or something with a flat surface to stick a name/logo on. These calipers had some style to them!
You described me to a T. I used to ride but now I'm disabled and wish I could afford one of the slingshots. Especially now they have automatics. The stick would be fun for some yes. I loved them from the very first.
Great video. Thanks for posting this. Have a nice day.
Great review, exactly my thoughts! I sold my Slingshot as I needed some $$$, but looking to buy it again. For those who say that wearing a helmet while driving a Sligshot is a show-off, it is not. Slingshot is not a car and hence there are no airbags to protect you. I absolutely love the feel of Slingshot, no motorcycle can compare, no offence. For once, Slingshot has a very low clearance; so, riding it feels like driving a sport car, but much more fun. Honestly, I'd rather own a Slingshot that a Lambo - the experience is so different. I do agree they need to fix that automatic transmission issue. It is actually a manual transmission with an automatic drive that learns your behave. It needs to be programmed correctly and when it first came out not many dealers knew how to do it. I'm looking forward to see what they have for 2022 model.
Yesss!!!!! I'm also in the market of buying one as well I can't wait...Goodluck 2 you and be careful
58 years young just recently purchased that exact slingshot for my wife, trans takes a lil getting used to, never rode a motorcycle but didnt buy it for the speed just a toy, love it
Awesome! Does she love it?? My bf is getting me the SL and we will be getting it next week! I can't wait!! 😁
Same for us, mid 60's we don't feel secure any longer on two wheels. You will love it.
@@hankhorn3861 We test drove it today for the first time. It was so awesome!!! This was both of our first times ever driving one and it was definitely a fun experience!! I absolutely love it and can't wait to get my plate and get it next week!! I'm going to have so much fun with it!! I actually like it way more than my bf does lol. He still wants another motorcycle. Not me, I've wanted a slingshot for a long time. I can't drive standard, so I've been waiting for them to be automatic!! Finally they are! I'm super excited!! 😁
We did put the slingshade roof on ours and a back fender. It dressed the back up greatly.
@@hankhorn3861 I would've ordered the roof if it was removable, but since it isn't I decided to pass because I want the open experience more. I haven't seen a back fender though. That might be really cool to add. How much was it for that?
I have one, a used one, for the last three months, it is a treat to drive and have had no difficulties in any traffic situations. I have driven on major highways, single lane highways and narrow streets, without any problems. I have to admit it has a stiff ride, which is caused by the low profile tires. Mine is a standard 5 speed transmission with the GMC 4cyl economy engine. The vehicle is powerful enough to keep up with most motor cycles while navigating the twisty and hilly roads in the Tennessee Blue RIDGE Mountains. The low center of gravity allows for higher speeds on the sharp corners and s-bends. They are a fabulous ride....
@thatdudeinblue The "louder when faster" thing is called automatic gain control, or AGC. If you find an AGC setting you might be able to disable it. I could in my Mazda6.
I think the styling could be improved by making the back end longer. Have it come to a more boat tail rear end. Now it looks to square and there is so much empty space directly behind the passenger compartment. Having that area more tapered would improve the handling because it would be longer and you could have a few storage areas in the taper.
Great toy..got mine...manual transmission with sling shade is a must..✌️
My buddy is now disabled from a bad bike crash and can't ride anymore. He sold his bikes and picked one of these up and loves it. He still gets some sensation of riding in a more accessible package for him now. I have rode shotgun and they are pretty fun. Not exactly for me but to each there own.
Damn Fam! 🔥 This the first time seeing this. Love it
Really like the slingshot, I got to park one years ago it took a while to find a slot 👏👍
To really enjoy this you need to drive the manual. They are very fun and reduce the drift cost lol. Check out the Vanderhall.
I have a 2019 Base model with the 5 spd. The 5 speed is definitely a must. Wish i would have went with the upgraded model for the leather wrapped steering wheel and audio. But for right at 20k i can afford to install my own radio and backup camera. Mine has the Chevy engine which is good. Haven't modded the engine any but i would say there is some room for improvement. You do hear everything....alot of clunking and whining which can get annoying on longer hauls. But overall its definitely a fun machine
My wife and I at 75 years old rented one with manual transmission and drive it around the Smoky Mountains in Tennessee and enjoyed the heck out of it. Only negative was brakes seemed to not be powered assist and took a lot of foot pressure to slow down. Much more than driving a car. I would buy ine in a minute if UT wasn't so expensive but would definitely get the stick shift only which gives you more control than the apparent automatic.
I can't speak to the 2020 model, but I own a 2016 SL with the 5 speed manual transmission and absolutely love it. I have had 5 motorcycles in my life and will never own another one. The Slingshot is by far more fun to drive. And my wife enjoys having her own seat and not sitting above the windshield like she did on my bikes. If you ever get the chance to drive one, do it and you will understand.
Same here, Chris. I really miss the thunder of my Harley* and the pleasure of leaning thru the curves, but my wife can spend all day with me in the bucket seat, where she couldn't last more than a couple hours straddling behind me. Plus, pulling Gs in the twisties is a real thrill that's just different, but no less fun, than motorcycling around them. * - I put on an aftermarket muffler to get at least some of the rumble back.
I like the Slingshot. Hope to buy one someday. 👍💜😁
That road looks awesome. Reminds me of Richard B. Russell in North Georgia. Great road!
Nice to see you up in helen! Good roads.
After driving one for about an hour, it’s awesome. Definitely wouldn’t spend upwards of 20k for one... but it’s still amazing
If they made it with 4 wheels, manual, and an lsd I feel like everyone would want one tbh
YES!!! Why don't they make affordable cars like that?
Then it's an Ariel Atom. Or a KTM X-Bow. Or even an Exocet Miata. And I do want one of those. The Slingshot, hard pass.
I agree with CJ.... I live in Daytona Beach Florida and CJ nailed it!.
My wife and I rented a Slingshot SL in Branson, Mo. for 8 hours and we loved it. We loved it so much that we are looking at getting one. But I do agree about the automatic transmission, I didn’t like the rolling back when I was on a steep incline and I felt like I would have had better control with a manual
You don’t ever see anyone doing long trips on these like you do motorcycles
Try driving from Georgia to California in one of these things 😭😭😭😭
I've taken 5 multi-day trips in mine, including one 33-day excursion up and down CA/OR/WA for 4,400 miles. Two days were at 111°. One day I spent 6 hours in pouring rain. Can't wait for the next big trip.
30k is too much for me but I do think it is neat a manual, DCT, or sequential trans I think would make it better.
I wasn't a big fan of any of the 3 wheeled trike car/bikes until I saw a Vanderhall in my neighborhood and was totally struck by how cool it looked. You should definitely review one of those!
I have driven a Slingshot with a manual transmission and it was a blast! I was very surprised how hard I could push it in the corners, I was driving through the switchbacks 20 mph faster than my car and felt totally stable!
I always thought an AWD on/off road slingshot would be a great idea.
I've seen a few of these around where I live. I think an electric version is where this thing would really shine 1) if they can keep the weight low enough and 2) since they're s ticking you with an automatic 4 cylinder anyway.
My buddy Gavin rented one of these a while back and he took me for a ride. It was the one with the 2.4 and manual gearbox. Honestly so much fun. And you’re definitely right about the ride. I thought it would beat me up, but it’s actually quite smooth. Much better than I though it’d be.
Having rented one the past two weekends once to visit wine country and another to visit San Diego and take the scenic beach route it's the perfect toy to rent when traveling within 100 miles. After that the wind and just comfort of not hearing everything wears on you. We are actually considering buying one to play with and rent out when not being used. Very fun toy.
I rented 1 in San diego too it was fun I liked it
Hey David, 10:56 you forgot to blur the card out
Still not blurred!
Shopping spree?
I'd love to see someone put a high power bike engine in it, that would be awesome especially with a sequential
Look up the Campagna T-Rex for that design. Plus full cage and mid rear engine.
People have LS swapped these if you can believe that lol
Got an old one with GM motor 5 speed. Rode it 1400 miles my only complaint is the AC didn’t work. Met lots of great people.
I don't own one of these but I have driven the manual transmission version here in Minnesota. They (in my opinion) are awesome!
I'm disabled and can't ride anymore and I want a Slingshot so bad
My uncle's hip was replaced seven years ago, which ended his already limited ability to sling his leg over the saddle of his beloved Kawasaki 454 LTD motorcycle - a sad time for him to be sure. In 2017 he heard about the Polaris Slingshot and we went to a local dealer to check it out. It looked so cool and yet had belts, bucket seats and a steering wheel like a car, but technically classified as a motorcycle anyway! Their road test model was booked up that day, so we signed up to reserve a test drive session the next weekend. Before leaving, we went back to the floor model in the showroom to drool a little more and saw another customer trying to get out of the Slingshot driver's seat - They needed help from the employee who was there to answer questions! It was so low slung with a high rigid side rail, that it was a real challenge, whether you were getting into it or crawling back out! I rested the back of my knees against the rail and sort of fell into the passenger seat. I then had to retract my legs into a near fetal position to drag them into the cockpit - and banged my left ankle in the process - yeouch! My uncle had seen enough and said he wasn't even going to try to sit in it! I barely managed to crawl out of the passenger side on my own, but I made it without help (but not without some embarrassment). By then I saw my Uncle heading back to the sign-up counter and knew he was going to cancel the test drive we'd scheduled for the next week. Our visit to the dealership that day turned out to be such a disappointment for him. It was tough to come to the point in life when he was just no longer physically able to feel the rush that comes from accelerating in the open wind on a motorcycle - not even the 3-wheeled kind with seat belts.
Have you looked at a Ryker? I have a friend who has some serious back issues and he loves the Ryker with a comfort seat and airhawk pad.
It's fun and terrifying at the same time
Yes. These things have really grown on me. It seems like a fun vehicle to have to kick around and break the monotony of the week!
I want one. But I would love to have one with the GM Ecotec engine as I'm the proud owner of a Saturn Ion Redline. But I agree with you, MANUAL TRANSMISSION IS THE ONLY WAY TO GO. No Clutch pedal, No Deal.
I see this and im like...hmm I wouldnt mind one. Then I realize im 37 with a beer belly .... T_____T
Hell im 35 with a beer gut & I still want one
Haha do it brother, never too late to join the party!
45 and I would shred that tire. belly and all. I drive a slammed 370Z. I refuse to grow up.
I am 37 with a beer belly i dont want one I have a motorcycle.... i definitely want to drive one they look fun
What up fat guy gang gang. Y'all my homies. 31 fat guy, would also rip.
When you ask the question “ what toy should I get” does a motorcycle with training wheels in the front really come to mind?
Yeah, I don't get the point of it. I'd probably rent it for a day but I wouldn't own it. It's like a car with all the cons of a motorcycle, vulnerable to car wrecks, you have to wear a helmet, no a/c and bugs.
But what if you already own multiple motorcycles. Its all about have a large variety of toys.
If you've ever whipped around a corner flat with the rear wheels (or wheel) slipping and controlling the steering with the throttle you would understand. Lightweight cars like this and Miatas can corner much sharper than a bike. I've owned three bikes. My Miata is much more fun.
@badger519 - I feel it is! Those that die with the most toys wins! Lol
Awesome video bruh👊🏾
Love my 2022... agree with the transmission... I got the manual and it's so much fun
My family has 3 of them and we go out and drive them almost every single night. They’re a lot of fun. Edit: we have the manual ones
I'm really sure your family does and also think they are fun right....
Thomas The Paladin yes we love them. My dad is going to buy a automatic one soon. For my retarded sister who can’t drive stick
I feel like if that back tire blows with any kind of speed, your dead.
It might have run flats being there is no spare tire
Same with a motorcycle if the back tire blows
Just bought mine a month ago. 60 year old with arthritis took me off 2 wheels. I wasn't ready to give up 2 wheels in my mind, but it just wasn't safe for me anymore. I love the Slingshot. 2019 with a 5 speed stick. Probably going to put a rear wheel conversion on it over the winter. A street legal go kart. I also agree that the rear end is missing something and the 4th wheel fills that void. A little difficult to get in and out of, but that's the price you pay. I get tons of looks and not cut off once yet. Being a 40 year biker, I am kind of used to it and prepared for it. I wouldn't want the automatic (for now) and even though Polaris is a great company, I would wait on the new motor before getting one.
You drove the model with all the extras other than a roof. I drove the automatic last week but didn't like it. Maybe I was just not used to the feel of it as it seemed kind of jerky. I will be getting a manual which I think I will like more. It does concern me that so many people literally do not see this. You did not mention how the brakes feel and I have heard that that is a weak spot unless you get those expensive Bremco brakes. Excellent and honest review, thank you.
Good choice using helmets. Wind, bugs & other debris can get very annoying quick. Those are neat, but not something to daily drive.
Not really a choice I think, in most (if not all states) its regulated like a motorcycle so I don't think you can operate one without a helmet.
@@MagicBrownMan Polaris recommend wearing a helmet. Also it doesn't require a motorcycle license to drive one, That being said a helmet is not legally required. I'm speaking from California being a very strick law state.
I see hoards of these things driving down to the Keys every weekend from my place in Miami, most of them with bigger wheels and underglow. Cringe.
I live in Florida as well, just commented a whole paragraph about the slingshot ass holes here.
Underglow is probably more for safety than for looks since David mentioned being cut off a lot.
Wow haters
@KZhead Isbroken No I dont even have a slingshot but I'm not on KZhead bitching about what people I dont know spend their money on🤷🏾♂️
Will, dont be jelly son. There is a reason you see so many. The things are great. Fun and a blast.. its attention grabber like none other. chicks love them and guys eat it up! simple
hi David. nice vid. liked b4 watching b/c I knew it was going to b good
I recently purchased a 2020 SS R with the 5 speed manual and it definitely is not everyone's cup of tea. It sits in that netherworld between cars and motorcycles. I just turned 70 and my GF and I used to ride the motorcycle together but she became fearful in the curves. I also own a 2003 Suzuki Hayabusa and a 2016 Chevy SS both are high performance, good handling vehicles. To me the SS represents the best of both worlds albeit with all the inherent driving risks out there. I find the styling different and very appealing but agree that the rear end needs some sort of continuity. I'm blessed to live in No CA where there a multitude of winding, beautiful back roads to explore. For me, the SS is what the doctor ordered.
Well I recently purchased a slingshot I bought the 2019 model with the 5 speed manual my opinion of this contraption is that it will remind you of a little British sports car that a kid got ahold of and put loud pipes on it it's little hard to get in and out of and doesn't ride very well and the steering wheel is cheap made I'm looking for a different one anyways I wish I didn't even go look at it.
Harry Thoman I’m sorry man but lmao I was waiting for the bright side of your comment and it never came
At $30k it needs to have 4 wheels and a proper transmission. I would be very interested in a cheaper Ariel Atom.
I’m considering this as a fun toy to bum around town in. My hubs and I are avid bikers and I decided I wanted an Indian. He feels like I’d be more safe in this. Looks like I’ll be doing some research. How nice the company was in letting you test it out. Thanks for the review.
Nice review 👍🏻
David: *"I upload every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday"* Also David: *_*Uploads on Sunday*_* 😂
i don't think he uploaded yesterday
I think it's a slick ride that fills a niche, but man is it expensive for what it is. Great Video.
Honestly I love that crazy front bumper design, imagine if they made this into their own 4-wheel track monster like the ktm xbow.
They sent a car enthusiast a automatic? I mean if this was Martha Stewart's car review channel then maybe a auto would be alright.
Martha did time, she ain't no slouch.
not to mention when he got on it listen to how slow that thing was to shift i shift faster than that in my manual car just driving to work in the morning
You have to be over 40
well, they probably wanna let people know about the auto out there more
95% of american only buy atomatic
This would be so perfect paired next to Smurf, David!
Yes
I bought my 2017 new. I love it. It's a one-of-a-kind driving experience.
I have a 2018 Grand Touring and Love it. Im 33 years old now and its a blast, gets a lot of attention. Good or Bad depends on your view. My wife and I enjoy it and I have owned over 15 motorcycles in my life and get more use out of the slingshot. I think the price is the biggest letdown and hold up for people. I have $30k in my weekend ride so it is about costly.
My Dad has one and there pretty fun and easy to swing P.s the 5 speed manuals are more fun
You keep saying "Triptronic" but I'm pretty sure you mean "Tiptronic". I think you did this in another video before too.
Scream too. Watch it again, you see it.
That one looks familiar... 😉👍🏻 It certainly is a unique vehicle, huh? Great cinematography on this as well!
I have that exact slingshot but with a roof on it , love it lots of fun drive it every where
It's missing the rear half of the body and a fat tire for traction. Also $10k overpriced imo
It desperately needs a fourth wheel to fix that ugly behind
This is the 2nd time I have watched this video. The first was a little over a month ago.. Since then I bought my first Slingshot about 2 weeks ago and I am still getting used to driving it. Prior to buying it, I test road someones automatic and did not like it at all. I, however, am loving the manual though it is taking me a little bit of time getting used to the very short throw shift. Progress is being quickly made however. I have been driving conservatively and have not truly put it through its paces up in the S curves of mountain hood. I have gotten lots of stares, thumbs up and comments while I am sitting at the lights. I love the look of it but agree that the back end could use some sprucing up. My 2020 had only 1100 miles on it and the first thing I did was drive to the dealership and buy and extended warranty. Love that the audio raises and lowers depending upon my speed. Getting in and out is a touch awkward and I prefer seat belts from the left...not used to these belts yet. I think it is more of a spring and summer toy rather than a cold weather vehicle but as long as it isn't raining, I will be driving it. Thinking of putting a top onto it but not sure yet on that.
I love the way it looks now and the fact they they have their own motor now I'm curious to hear what an exhaust sounds like on one of these. Definitely manual only in my opinion or add paddles for the auto. Personally think a motorcycle engine would wake this thing up and I hope eventually they will make one with 4 wheels! Then I can justify the 30k
It reminds me of 2020..... good at first but becomes ugly the more I see it
If it had about 300hp with a turbo and manual I could see the price tag, otherwise needs to be about 10 grand cheaper
Prices are way to expensive! Great video! I’m like you I want to control the shifting. It’s way out of price for what the get. I’m 64 looking at Boss Hoss,Honda Goldwing ,& Slingshots,man I want my money’s worth so I am constantly looking!
I have a 2019 Slingshot GT....it has a top and a nice size windshield.. I love this vehicle, and I love my Suzuki m109