You’ve felt it, right? That pull to escape the pavement and dive deep into the winding, tree-lined trails where big, wide machines just can’t go. You’re looking for a rig that’s nimble enough for the tight stuff but still packs a serious punch when the trail opens up. It’s a tough balance to strike, and finding the perfect 60-inch trail machine can feel like a quest.
We promise this is the only guide you’ll need. We’re going to break down everything you need to know about the polaris rzr trail s 1000 premium, turning you from a new owner into a confident, trail-savvy expert. This isn’t just a spec sheet review; it’s your new best friend in the garage.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover what truly makes this machine “Premium,” walk you through a bulletproof pre-ride checklist, detail essential DIY maintenance, tackle common problems you might face, and even suggest the smartest first upgrades. Let’s get those knuckles dirty.
What Puts the “Premium” in the Polaris RZR Trail S 1000 Premium?
When you see that “Premium” badge, it’s not just a sticker. It represents a significant step up from the base model, packing in features that seasoned riders demand. Understanding these differences is key to appreciating the full benefits of polaris rzr trail s 1000 premium ownership.
Power and Performance: The ProStar 1000 Engine
At the heart of this beast is the proven 999cc ProStar 1000 Gen 2 engine. This isn’t just about the 100 horsepower; it’s about how it delivers that power.
The tuning is specifically geared for trail riding, giving you snappy, low-to-mid-range torque that helps you crawl over rocks and power out of tight corners. It’s responsive without being jerky, which is exactly what you need in technical terrain.
Upgraded Suspension: Walker Evans Needle Shocks
This is arguably the biggest upgrade. The standard model has basic shocks, but the Premium comes with Walker Evans 2.0 Needle Shocks. These are a game-changer.
They offer 16-position adjustable clickers, allowing you to fine-tune your ride for slow crawls or high-speed blasts. With 12.25″ of front travel and 13.2″ in the rear, these shocks soak up roots, rocks, and ruts, keeping your tires planted and your spine intact.
Advanced Tech: Ride Command and Premium Audio
Forget fumbling with your phone for GPS. The Premium model often includes the 7-inch glove-touch display with Polaris Ride Command. This integrated system provides GPS mapping (even offline), vehicle diagnostics, and Group Ride features to track your buddies on the trail.
Combined with the factory-installed Rockford Fosgate Stage 1 audio, your trail days just got a major soundtrack upgrade. It’s a luxury you won’t know you needed until you have it.
Creature Comforts: Full Doors and LED Lighting
The little things make a big difference after hours on the trail. The Premium trim includes full doors, which offer much better protection from mud, water, and trail debris than the nets on lower-end models.
You also get signature LED accent lights and headlights, which not only look aggressive but provide superior visibility for those late-afternoon rides that turn into night runs.
Your Pre-Ride Checklist: The 5-Minute Safety Walk-Around
Before you ever turn the key, get in the habit of a quick but thorough walk-around. This simple routine is one of the most important polaris rzr trail s 1000 premium best practices and can save you from a major headache—or worse—out on the trail.
- Tires & Wheels: Give each tire a kick and a visual inspection. Check for obvious cuts or embedded objects. More importantly, check the air pressure. Improper pressure ruins handling and can lead to flats. Also, grab each wheel and give it a shake to check for loose lug nuts or bad wheel bearings.
- Fluids: This is non-negotiable. Pull the engine oil dipstick, wipe it, re-insert it fully, and pull it again for an accurate reading. Next, check the coolant overflow bottle—the level should be between the ‘MIN’ and ‘MAX’ lines. Low fluids are a recipe for engine disaster.
- Brakes & Steering: Visually inspect your brake lines for any leaks or damage. Hop in and press the brake pedal; it should feel firm, not spongy. Turn the steering wheel back and forth and look for any binding or excessive play.
- Suspension & Axles: Crouch down and look at your A-arms, trailing arms, and shocks. You’re looking for any shiny, wet spots that could indicate a leaking shock. Most importantly, inspect the rubber CV boots on all four axles. A torn boot lets dirt in and grease out, quickly destroying the CV joint.
- Lights & Controls: Turn the key to the ‘ON’ position. Test your headlights (high and low beams), brake lights, and any accessories. A quick check now prevents you from getting caught in the dark.
Essential Maintenance: A DIY Polaris RZR Trail S 1000 Premium Care Guide
This machine is built tough, but it’s not invincible. Following a solid maintenance schedule is the key to reliability and longevity. This polaris rzr trail s 1000 premium care guide covers the basics every owner can and should do themselves.
The All-Important Oil Change
Your engine’s blood is its oil. Don’t neglect it. For the ProStar 1000, you’ll want to use Polaris PS-4 Full Synthetic Oil. It’s formulated for the high demands of these engines.
The process is straightforward: warm the engine, remove the drain plug (have a drain pan ready!), replace the oil filter, reinstall the plug with a new crush washer, and refill with the specified amount of fresh oil. Check your owner’s manual for the exact capacity, but it’s typically around 2.5 quarts.
Keeping Your Air Filter Breathing Easy
Off-roading is a dusty business. A clogged air filter chokes your engine, robbing it of power and efficiency. After every dusty ride, pop the cover off your airbox and inspect the filter.
Tap it out to remove loose dust. If it’s heavily soiled, it’s time for a replacement. Never use compressed air to blow it out from the outside-in, as this can force fine dust particles through the filter media and straight into your engine.
Driveline and Clutch Care
The CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) is a critical component. Periodically, you should remove the clutch cover and blow out the dust with compressed air. A dusty clutch can cause belt slippage and premature wear.
While you’re in there, inspect the drive belt for any glazing, cracking, or missing cogs. A belt failure on the trail is a day-ender, so proactive inspection is key. This is one of the most crucial how to polaris rzr trail s 1000 premium maintenance tips.
Common Problems with Polaris RZR Trail S 1000 Premium (And How to Fix Them)
No machine is perfect. Knowing the potential quirks and common problems with polaris rzr trail s 1000 premium models can help you diagnose issues quickly and keep your ride in top shape.
Overheating on Slow, Technical Trails
The Symptom: You’re crawling through a muddy, technical section, and your temperature gauge starts climbing into the red.
The Cause: The radiator, located up front, gets caked with mud, blocking airflow. The fan can run all day, but if air can’t pass through the fins, it can’t cool the engine.
The Fix: Prevention is key. After every muddy ride, use a garden hose (not a high-pressure washer, which can bend the delicate fins) to thoroughly clean the radiator from the backside forward, pushing the mud out the way it came in.
The Dreaded “Clutch Squeal”
The Symptom: You hear a loud squeal or chirp when taking off from a stop.
The Cause: This is usually caused by belt dust buildup on the clutch sheaves or the belt itself becoming glazed from heat.
The Fix: As mentioned in the maintenance section, remove the clutch cover. Blow everything out with compressed air. Then, take a Scotch-Brite pad and lightly scuff the surfaces of the primary and secondary clutch sheaves where the belt rides. This removes the glaze and restores grip.
CV Boot and Axle Issues
The Symptom: You hear a clicking or popping sound when turning, or you find grease splattered inside your wheel well.
The Cause: A stick or rock has torn one of the rubber CV boots that protect the axle joints.
The Fix: Stop riding immediately if you notice this! The sooner you catch it, the better. You can often save the axle by cleaning the joint, repacking it with grease, and installing a new boot kit. If you hear clicking, the joint is likely already damaged and the entire axle may need replacement.
Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Polaris RZR Trail S 1000 Premium Riding
Being a part of the off-road community means being a steward of the land we love to ride on. A sustainable polaris rzr trail s 1000 premium experience is about enjoying your machine while minimizing your impact.
Tread Lightly Principles
This is the golden rule of off-roading. Stay on designated trails. Avoid creating new bypasses around obstacles, which leads to erosion. Cross streams only at designated crossings and be mindful of sensitive areas like meadows and wetlands.
Managing Your Fluids
When you perform maintenance, have a plan for your used fluids. Used oil, coolant, and brake fluid are hazardous materials. Take them to your local auto parts store or municipal recycling center for proper disposal. Never dump them on the ground or in the trash.
Noise Reduction and Wildlife Awareness
While the roar of an engine is fun, be mindful of your noise levels, especially near campgrounds or residential areas. A stock exhaust is designed to be effective and reasonably quiet. Be aware of wildlife, give animals a wide berth, and never chase them.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Polaris RZR Trail S 1000 Premium
What is the real-world top speed of the RZR Trail S 1000 Premium?
While Polaris doesn’t advertise an official top speed, most owners report speeds in the 65-70 mph range on a flat, open surface. However, this machine is geared and designed for trail agility, not top-end speed runs.
Can I make my Polaris RZR Trail S 1000 Premium street legal?
This depends entirely on your state and local laws. Some states have very lenient laws allowing for SxS street legality with the addition of kits (mirrors, horn, turn signals), while others prohibit it entirely. Always check with your local DMV before investing in a street legal kit.
What is the absolute first upgrade I should make?
Protection. Before you add power or lights, invest in a good set of UHMW (Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight) polyethylene skid plates and A-arm guards. The factory protection is minimal, and a single well-placed rock can end your day and lead to a very expensive repair. Protect your investment first.
How often should I really check my CVT belt?
A visual inspection should be part of your regular maintenance every 25 hours or so. If you ride hard, in deep mud or water, or do a lot of slow rock crawling, you should check it more frequently. Heat is the number one killer of belts, so giving it a visual check for glazing or flat spots is smart preventative maintenance.
The polaris rzr trail s 1000 premium is an incredibly capable and fun machine right out of the box. It bridges the gap between nimble trail-width vehicles and more powerful, wider-stance models perfectly.
By understanding its features, committing to a simple pre-ride check, and staying on top of basic maintenance, you ensure your RZR is always ready for the next adventure. This machine will reward the care you put into it with years of reliable, grin-inducing performance.
Now get that pre-ride check done, gear up, and hit the trails. Ride smart, ride safe, and have a blast out there!
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