The first thing to say is that if you want to stand out from the crowd, riding a Polaris Slingshot is a pretty good way of doing it. In short, if you’ve ever seen this vehicle, you know it turns heads.
It’s very distinctive, with its eye-catching, aggressive angles, low profile, and open cockpit, it does what it says on the tin by achieving a look that is a cross between a sports car and a motorcycle.
If the idea of owning a Slingshot appeals, here’s the lowdown on how it stacks up against traditional motorcycles.
What is the Polaris Slingshot?
A good place to start would be by describing what this vehicle is all about. The Polaris Slingshot is a three-wheeled, open-air vehicle that has two wheels in the front and one in the back.
With that configuration, it’s technically classified as an autocycle in many states. This means you don’t need a motorcycle license to drive it in some places. That’s because it comes with the sort of features found in a car, like seatbelts, a steering wheel, foot pedals, and a five-speed manual or automatic transmission.
The fundamental difference between the Polaris and a car is that it’s completely open to the elements, with no roof and no doors.
What about ride and handling?
Without question, the core appeal of riding a motorcycle is the ability to lean into turns and feel almost every curve in the road. The Slingshot doesn’t lean. In fact, it corners more like a car.
If you are a bit of a motorcycle traditionalist, that difference in ride and feel is very noticeable. However, if you are used to driving cars, the Slingshot instantly feels natural, but with a sporty edge. It hugs the road thanks to its low center of gravity and wide front stance, giving a go-kart-like experience that’s fun in a totally different way compared to riding a bike.
Safety and comfort considerations
Motorcycles might offer the feeling of freedom, but they’re also an experience that exposes you to higher risks.
The good news with a Slingshot is that it adds an extra layer of protection, as you’re seated, belted, and surrounded by a frame. Sure, it doesn’t offer airbags or crash cages like a car, but it’s arguably safer than a motorcycle in certain situations.
Comfort-wise, it’s less physically demanding to ride. There’s no balancing at stops, and no strain on your legs or back from long rides.
Comparing weather resistance
This is an area where motorcycles and Slingshots share common ground. You are exposed to the elements in both types of vehicle. Neither option will save you from a sudden downpour, or cold or extreme heat.
Having said that, some Slingshot models offer an optional roof or windshield, but this is still an open-air ride.
The bottom line when comparing the two is that the Slingshot shouldn’t be viewed as a motorcycle replacement. That’s because it is uniquely different, and very much has its own personality and traits.
The Slingshot manages to blend the thrill of a bike with the accessibility of a car. If you crave the adrenaline rush of riding a bike, but want more stability, the Slingshot hits a sweet spot.
