So, you’re staring at a spec sheet for a Polaris General, and your eyes are starting to glaze over. Horsepower, suspension travel, payload capacity—it’s a dizzying list of numbers and abbreviations. You just want to know what it all really means for hitting the trails, hauling gear, or getting work done.
I get it. At FatBoysOffroad, we believe that understanding your machine is the first step to mastering it. That’s why we’re here to translate those technical details into real-world knowledge. This isn’t just a list of numbers; it’s a complete breakdown of the polaris general 2 seater specs that you can actually use.
In this guide, we’ll decode the engine’s power, explain what those suspension numbers mean for ride comfort, and show you how to safely max out your machine’s utility. You’ll walk away knowing your General inside and out, ready to ride with more confidence and skill.
The Heart of the Beast: Engine and Drivetrain Specs Explained
The engine and drivetrain are the core of your General’s personality. They dictate how it accelerates, how it climbs, and how it claws for traction when the trail gets nasty. Let’s break down the key components.
Horsepower and Torque: What 100 HP Really Feels Like
The Polaris General 1000 is powered by the legendary ProStar 1000 4-Stroke DOHC Twin Cylinder engine. This powerhouse pumps out a class-leading 100 horsepower. But what does that number mean?
Horsepower gives you top-end speed, but it’s the torque—the twisting force—that gives you that punchy, off-the-line acceleration. The ProStar 1000 delivers a broad torque curve, meaning you have pulling power readily available at low RPMs for crawling over rocks and responsive snap when you mash the throttle on a fire road.
Understanding the PVT (Polaris Variable Transmission)
Your General doesn’t have traditional gears. Instead, it uses a Polaris Variable Transmission (PVT), which is a type of continuously variable transmission (CVT). It uses a drive belt and two variable-diameter pulleys to provide seamless acceleration.
The PVT system includes Park, Reverse, Neutral, Low, and High ranges (P/R/N/L/H). Low gear is your best friend for technical rock crawling, steep inclines, and towing heavy loads. It keeps the engine in its powerband and helps prevent belt slippage. Use High gear for faster trail riding and open terrain.
On-Demand True AWD/2WD/VersaTrac Turf Mode
This is one of the most brilliant features. With the flip of a switch, you can change how power is delivered to the wheels.
- 2WD: Power goes only to the rear wheels. Perfect for drifting on gravel roads or for general, high-traction conditions to save wear and tear on the front diff.
- AWD: This is the “On-Demand” system. It primarily drives the rear wheels, but if it detects them slipping, it instantly engages the front wheels to pull you through mud, snow, or loose terrain.
- VersaTrac Turf Mode: Found on many General models, this unlocks the rear differential. It allows the rear wheels to turn at different speeds, which is a lifesaver for your lawn. It prevents tearing up your grass during tight turns.
A Deep Dive into the Polaris General 2 Seater Specs for Suspension & Handling
Power is nothing without control. The suspension is what separates a bone-jarring ride from a comfortable day on the trail. Understanding these specs helps you know your machine’s limits and how to tune it for your riding style. This is a key part of our polaris general 2 seater specs guide.
Front & Rear Suspension Travel: Soaking Up the Bumps
Suspension travel is the total distance the wheel can move up and down. The General 1000 boasts impressive numbers:
- Front Travel: 12.25 inches (31.1 cm)
- Rear Travel: 13.2 inches (33.5 cm)
More travel means the suspension can absorb bigger bumps, ruts, and drop-offs without bottoming out or transferring the shock to you. This is what gives the General its famously plush ride over rough terrain.
Shocks Explained: From Standard to FOX or Walker Evans
Different General trims come with different shocks. Base models use quality ZF Sachs shocks, while premium models like the XP 1000 feature high-performance Walker Evans Velocity Series or FOX Podium QS3 shocks.
These upgraded shocks offer adjustability. You can change the compression damping (how stiff the shock is when it compresses) to match the terrain or your load. A key tip is to start with the factory settings and make small adjustments, one click at a time, to feel the difference.
Ground Clearance: Why It Matters
The standard General 1000 has 12 inches (30.5 cm) of ground clearance. This is the distance from the lowest point of the chassis to the ground. This spec is crucial for clearing rocks, logs, and other obstacles on the trail without getting hung up or damaging your undercarriage.
Remember, this measurement is taken with stock tires and no passengers. Adding weight will slightly reduce your clearance, while larger aftermarket tires can increase it.
Dimensions, Weight, and Capacity: The Numbers That Define Your Ride
These specs are all about the practical side of owning a UTV. They determine if it fits in your trailer, how much gear you can carry, and how much work you can get done. Paying attention to these numbers is one of the most important polaris general 2 seater specs best practices.
Overall Vehicle Size (L x W x H)
A typical General 2-seater measures approximately 116.4″ L x 62.5″ W x 73.8″ H. The width is especially important. At 62.5 inches, it’s wider than many 50-inch trail-restricted UTVs, so always check local trail regulations before you head out.
Also, measure your garage door and trailer! Nothing is worse than getting your new toy home and realizing it doesn’t fit.
Towing and Payload: The “Work” in this Crossover UTV
This is where the “utility” in Sport-Utility UTV comes in. The specs are impressive for its class:
- Payload Capacity: 1,100 lbs (499 kg). This is the total weight the machine can carry, including you, your passenger, fuel, and all cargo in the bed and cab.
- Bed Box Capacity: 600 lbs (272 kg). The large dumping cargo bed is a workhorse.
- Towing Capacity: 1,500 lbs (680 kg). The standard 2″ receiver hitch allows you to pull a small utility trailer with ease.
Safety Tip: Never exceed these limits. Overloading can lead to brake failure, suspension damage, and dangerous instability, especially on hills.
Common Problems with Polaris General 2 Seater Specs and How to Address Them
No machine is perfect. Being aware of potential issues tied to the specs helps you perform preventative maintenance and troubleshoot problems before they ruin a trip. Here are some common problems with polaris general 2 seater specs to watch for.
Premature Drive Belt Wear
The PVT system is strong, but the drive belt is a wear item. Aggressive riding, consistently using high gear for slow-speed work, or a dirty clutch can burn up a belt fast. Always carry a spare belt (like the Polaris 3211186) and the tools to change it on the trail.
Suspension Sag and Bushing Wear
With over a foot of travel, the suspension components work hard. Over time, the springs can sag, and the A-arm bushings can wear out, leading to a sloppy steering feel and reduced ground clearance. Regularly inspect your bushings for play and check your ride height.
Carrier Bearing Failure
The two-piece driveshaft is supported in the middle by a carrier bearing. The factory bearing is known to be a weak point, especially on lifted machines or those with larger tires. Upgrading to a heavy-duty aftermarket bearing from brands like Sandcraft RCR or SuperATV is a highly recommended reliability mod.
Best Practices and Care Guide Based on Specs
A solid maintenance routine is the key to longevity. This polaris general 2 seater specs care guide links the machine’s design to its needs.
Regular Fluid Checks
The high-performance ProStar engine requires clean fluids. Regularly check your engine oil using the dipstick. Monitor your coolant level in the overflow bottle, especially before long rides. Don’t forget the front and rear differential fluids and the transmission fluid—they are often overlooked.
Suspension and Drivetrain Inspection Checklist
Before each ride, do a quick walk-around:
- Check tire pressure. The recommended PSI is printed on the tire sidewall and the vehicle’s warning sticker.
- Look for any leaks around the shocks, engine, or differentials.
- Grab each wheel at the top and bottom and try to wiggle it. Any excessive play could indicate a bad wheel bearing or ball joint.
- Grease all zerk fittings on the suspension and driveshaft to keep everything moving smoothly.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Riding Tips
Part of being a responsible off-roader is protecting the trails we love. To practice sustainable polaris general 2 seater specs usage, always follow Tread Lightly! principles. Stay on designated trails, avoid creating new ones, and pack out everything you pack in.
When performing maintenance, use a drain pan to catch all fluids. Dispose of used oil, coolant, and filters at an authorized auto parts store or recycling center. This is a simple but crucial step for eco-friendly polaris general 2 seater specs care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Polaris General 2 Seater Specs
What is the top speed of a Polaris General 1000?
A stock Polaris General 1000 can typically reach speeds of 65-70 mph on a flat, level surface. However, top speed can be affected by tire size, clutch setup, and overall machine condition.
What’s the difference between the General 1000 Sport, Premium, and Deluxe models?
The core engine and frame specs are the same. The differences are in the features. The Sport is the base model. The Premium adds features like a poly roof, better wheels, and a front bumper. The Deluxe (or Ride Command Edition) adds upgraded shocks, a winch, and the Ride Command infotainment system with GPS.
Can I put bigger tires on my Polaris General?
Yes, but with considerations. You can typically fit 30-inch tires on a stock machine without any rubbing. Going larger, to 32 inches or more, will likely require a lift kit and possibly clutch modifications to compensate for the increased rotating mass and altered gear ratio.
Knowing your polaris general 2 seater specs is more than just trivia; it’s the foundation of being a smart, safe, and capable owner. It empowers you to make informed decisions about maintenance, modifications, and how you tackle the terrain ahead.
Use this guide to get familiar with your machine, perform your pre-ride checks with confidence, and understand its incredible capabilities. Now you know the “why” behind the numbers.
Get out there, ride smart, and have a blast. We’ll see you on the trail!
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