You’ve got the keys to one of the most capable adventure UTVs on the market: the 2024 Polaris Xpedition ADV 5 NorthStar. You can already feel the rumble of that ProStar 1000 Gen 2 engine, and you’re picturing yourself blasting down a desert wash or a wide-open fire road. But one question is burning in your mind, the same one every new owner asks: “Just how fast does this thing really go?”
You’ve probably heard numbers thrown around online, but you’re looking for a no-nonsense, real-world answer. You’re in the right place. We’re here to give you the straight scoop on the 2024 polaris xpedition adv 5 northstar top speed, what to realistically expect, and how to get the most out of your machine safely and reliably.
In this guide, we’ll break down the factory-limited speed, explore all the real-world factors that can slow you down, provide a step-by-step guide to safely reaching your rig’s potential, and even touch on the common problems that might be robbing you of that top-end rush. Let’s get into it.
What is the Official 2024 Polaris Xpedition ADV 5 NorthStar Top Speed?
Let’s cut right to the chase. Straight from the factory, the 2024 Polaris Xpedition is electronically limited to a top speed of approximately 65-68 miles per hour. You might see the speedometer tick just a hair over that on a perfect downhill run, but the ECU (Engine Control Unit) will cut fuel or spark to prevent it from going faster.
Why the limit? It’s not because the 114-horsepower engine can’t push it faster. The limitation is a carefully engineered decision by Polaris for several key reasons:
- Safety: These are high-center-of-gravity vehicles. Limiting the speed helps ensure a safer operating envelope for the average driver on unpredictable terrain.
- Drivetrain Longevity: The clutch, belt, transmission, and differentials are designed to operate reliably within this speed range. Pushing far beyond it consistently can lead to premature wear and failure.
- Regulatory Compliance: Off-highway vehicle regulations often play a role in how manufacturers set these limits.
So, while the number might not sound like a supercar’s, remember that 65+ mph in the dirt feels incredibly fast. The real art isn’t just hitting that number, but understanding how to do it consistently and safely.
Factors That Rob You of Top End Speed (And How to Fix Them)
Ever wonder why your buddy’s identical machine seems a bit quicker, or why you can’t seem to hit the speed limiter? It’s rarely one single thing. Your rig’s actual top speed on any given day is a result of multiple factors. This is a core part of our 2024 polaris xpedition adv 5 northstar top speed guide.
The Weight Factor: Passengers, Gear, and Accessories
This is the biggest one. The ADV 5 NorthStar is a heavy machine to begin with, thanks to its fully enclosed cab, HVAC system, and seating for five. Every pound you add makes the engine work harder.
Think about it: five adults, a cooler full of ice and drinks, a roof rack with a spare tire, and a bed full of camping gear can easily add 800-1000 lbs. That extra weight significantly impacts acceleration and the ability to reach max speed, especially on an incline. A smart 2024 polaris xpedition adv 5 northstar top speed care guide always starts with managing your payload.
Tire Pressure and Type: Your Connection to the Trail
Your tires are critical. Running big, aggressive mud tires with deep lugs? They are fantastic for finding traction in the slop but create a ton of rolling resistance on hardpack, which will absolutely lower your top speed.
Likewise, improper tire pressure is a speed killer. Too low, and the tire flexes excessively, creating drag. Too high, and you get a smaller, less stable contact patch. Use a quality digital tire pressure gauge and set your pressures according to the terrain and Polaris’s recommendations for best results.
Wind, Elevation, and Terrain: The Uncontrollable Variables
You can’t fight Mother Nature. A strong headwind is like a constant brake, and you’ll feel it at the top end. Higher elevations mean thinner air, which means less oxygen for the engine to burn. This power loss is real—expect a 3% power drop for every 1,000 feet you climb.
And of course, trying to hit top speed on a soft, sandy wash is a lot harder than doing it on smooth, packed dirt. Choose your testing ground wisely.
A Practical Guide to Safely Reaching Top Speed
Knowing the number is one thing; achieving it is another. If you want to see what your machine can do, you need to do it responsibly. Follow these 2024 polaris xpedition adv 5 northstar top speed best practices to ensure you, your passengers, and your rig stay safe.
Step 1: The Pre-Ride Inspection is Non-Negotiable
Before any high-speed run, do a thorough walk-around. This is a fundamental tip for how to 2024 polaris xpedition adv 5 northstar top speed safely.
- Check tire pressures and look for any damage.
- Verify engine oil and coolant levels are correct.
- Give the rig a quick visual check for any loose bolts or hanging wires.
- Ensure your drive belt is in good condition, with no glazing, cracks, or flat spots.
Step 2: Find a Safe and Legal Environment
This is not something to test on a public road or a tight, wooded trail. You need a long, straight, and smooth stretch of private land or a designated OHV area where you have excellent visibility and no cross-traffic. The surface should be hardpacked dirt or a well-maintained gravel road. Never attempt a top-speed run in an unsafe environment.
Step 3: Use the Correct Drive Mode
For achieving top speed on a good surface, you want the least amount of drivetrain resistance possible. Put the machine in 2WD High. Using 4WD adds drag by engaging the front differential, which will scrub off a few MPH at the top end.
Step 4: Be Smooth and Progressive
Don’t just slam the pedal to the floor. Apply the throttle smoothly and let the clutches do their work. The ProStar engine builds power progressively. As you approach top speed, the machine will feel light. Make small, smooth steering inputs and keep your eyes far down the trail.
Common Problems Affecting Top Speed and Performance
If your Xpedition feels sluggish and can’t get close to the 65 mph mark, it might be more than just weight or tire pressure. There could be an underlying issue. Here are some common problems with 2024 polaris xpedition adv 5 northstar top speed that you should investigate.
Worn or Glazed Drive Belt
The CVT drive belt is the heart of your transmission. If it’s worn, stretched, or glazed from heat, it will slip in the clutches under high load. You’ll lose power, and your top speed will suffer. Symptoms include a burning rubber smell, slow engagement, or jerky acceleration. A belt is a wear item; inspect it regularly and replace it as needed.
Clogged Air Filter or Fuel System
An engine needs to breathe. If your air filter is packed with dust from the last ride, the engine is being choked of air and can’t make full power. The same goes for the fuel system. A clogged fuel filter or dirty injectors can starve the engine of fuel. This is a simple but often overlooked performance killer.
Clutching Issues
The primary and secondary clutches control how your engine’s power gets to the wheels. Worn rollers, stiff springs, or excessive dirt inside the clutch housing can prevent them from shifting out fully, effectively keeping you in a “lower gear” and limiting your top speed. Keeping your clutches clean is a key part of performance maintenance.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly High-Speed Riding
Being a responsible off-roader means enjoying your machine while respecting the environment. The concept of a sustainable 2024 polaris xpedition adv 5 northstar top speed run might sound odd, but it’s all about your approach.
An eco-friendly 2024 polaris xpedition adv 5 northstar top speed mindset means performing regular maintenance. A well-tuned engine with a clean air filter and fresh oil burns fuel more efficiently and produces fewer emissions. It also means sticking to designated trails and open areas. Never blaze a new path just to find a straightaway. Practice Tread Lightly! principles to preserve the trails for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2024 Polaris Xpedition ADV 5 NorthStar Top Speed
Does the NorthStar package affect top speed compared to other Xpedition trims?
Yes, but only due to weight. The fully enclosed cab, glass windshield, and HVAC system of the NorthStar edition add several hundred pounds compared to a base model. This extra weight will make it slightly slower to accelerate and may reduce the top speed by 1-2 mph on level ground.
Will installing larger tires increase my top speed?
This is a common misconception. While larger tires cover more ground per revolution, they also change your effective gear ratio, making it harder for the engine to turn them. They also add significant rotating mass. In most cases, without corresponding clutch work or a gear reduction, adding bigger tires will decrease your actual top speed.
Can you remove the speed limiter on the Xpedition?
Yes, the speed limiter can be removed or raised via an aftermarket ECU tune. However, doing so will almost certainly void your factory warranty. It also puts additional stress on the entire drivetrain. While a tune can unlock significant power and speed, it’s a modification that should be done with a full understanding of the potential risks and trade-offs in reliability.
The 2024 Polaris Xpedition ADV 5 NorthStar is an incredible machine built for adventure, not just for straight-line speed. Its 65+ mph top end is more than enough for the vast majority of off-road situations. By understanding the factors that affect its performance and practicing safe, responsible riding habits, you can enjoy every bit of power it has to offer.
Focus on proper maintenance, manage your payload, and always choose a safe place to open it up. Now you have the knowledge and the tips you need. Get out there, stay safe, and enjoy the ride!
- Getting Polaris 570 Error Codes – Your Ultimate DIY Diagnostic Guide - November 20, 2025
- All Polaris Error Codes – The Ultimate Guide To Diagnostics & Fixes - November 20, 2025
- Polaris Red Paint Code – Your Ultimate Guide To Flawless Touch-Ups - November 20, 2025