Joined
·
154 Posts

You guys knew that I was going to save the best questions for last didn't you?! To end our sit down with James, Lead Engineer on the Slingshot, we broke out the big guns. The questions that have been cropping up in the Slingshot Performance sections of the site. Enough with this lead in, and lets get to the pressing questions:
SlingshotForums.com What is the weight bias and can you elaborate on why it's set to what it is?
James It varies between approximately 66:34 and 59:41 based on how much load is being carried. This was chosen to balance tire loading, grip, stability, and rear traction.
SlingshotForums.com Is the brake setup GM or from another production vehicle?
James Polaris developed the brake system specifically for the Slingshot. It is unique to our roadster.
SlingshotForums.com We've heard that it has a short shifter? Is that something Polaris developed for the AR5 and added on or is it just the standard AR5 shift linkage?
James It is a modified AR5 shift linkage (shortened front-to-back) with a custom-designed shift knob to provide short shift throws.
SlingshotForums.com What is the widest rear tire/wheel width that the swingarm will accept?
James Larger wheels/tires can have a different rolling diameter, which could reduce effectiveness of the stability control system, alter ride height, and compromise the roadster’s handling. We do not recommend altering Slingshot’s wheel and tire sizes.
SlingshotForums.com Will a larger stickier rear tire interfere with the stability control or traction control systems?
James Potentially. A larger rolling radius will affect the rear wheel’s speed signal, which could alter the performance of the stability control system. Polaris does not recommend altering wheel sizes or using non-Slingshot tires.
SlingshotForums.com What is the stock 0-60 mph time?
James We are currently not publicizing performance figures. Doug, you’ve been in a Slingshot, so I think you’ll understand what I’m getting at here. Slingshot’s unique combination of low stance, open air cockpit, side-by-side seating, responsive corning and acceleration provide an experience that we feel is unlike any other vehicle currently in the marketplace. We want consumers to experience the entire vehicle rather than just relying on 0-60 time before forming an opinion.
SlingshotForums.com How much additional hp will the drive belt be able to withstand?
James Our experience shows that the most severe loading on the drive belt does not occur due to the engine’s power- it occurs on hard downshifts. The main limitation on belt durability will be on its exposure to rocks and other debris.
Again, we would like to send a big Thank You out to Polaris Industries and James for taking time out of his busy day to sit down and answer our questions! All of us here at SlingshotForums.com know how lucky we were to get his ear for even just a minute!
In case you missed the other two parts of our sit down with James, check them out here: