Described as surfing asphalt, the Polaris Slingshot, a reverse trike, is the star of yet another teaser trailer as the three-wheeled cross between a car and motorcycle nears its official release.
Available in two trims, the base model and the "SL," the Slingshot's 9.8-gallon fuel tank will feed a 2.4-liter DOHC engine (Dual Overhead Camshafts). The reverse trike will deliver a peak of 173 horsepower at 7,200 RPM, and 166 foot pounds of torque.
The base model of the Slingshot had a suggested price of $19,999 and the SL trim had a suggested price of $23,999. The SL comes with 18-inch wheels, forged with 10 spokes. The base model sits on 17-inch wheels and is supported by 8 spokes -- at 1,743 pounds, the SL is also 18 pounds heavier than the base model.
Mike Jonikas, VP of Slingshot, said the thrill of sitting in the cockpit of a streaking slingshot will be heightened by the attention the three-wheeled vehicle will draw.
"Slingshot was designed to deliver head-turning exhilaration on two dimensions," said Jonikas. "First is the exhilaration that you can see, hear, and feel while riding in Slingshot. Second is the exhilaration you feel when people turn their heads to stare at Slingshot's unique and exotic styling."
And because Slingshot riders will likely want to set their three-wheeled excursions to music, the media console in Polaris' reverse-trike features a six-speaker sound system. The console, which also includes a back-up camera, has Bluetooth support and USB ports that are ready to delivering thumping sound tracks to Slingshot riders.
Both trims of the Slingshot will come standard with antilock breaks, traction control and electronic stability control. While the Slingshot won't include airbags, it'll include forged-aluminum roll hoops behind the headrests.
The topless Slingshot isn't without a paddle when the rain comes down, as it has been fitted with waterproof seats and rustproof paneling.
"Slingshot is an entirely new on-road driving and riding experience," stated Polaris in a press release. "The open air cockpit of Slingshot hits you with a 360-degree rush of sight, sound, and smell. With side by side seating, both driver and passenger experience a front row shot of adrenaline. Its wide stance and sport-tuned suspension will make you want to charge every corner and never let off."
Polaris' Slingshots have been slated for a September release and will be accompanied by a full line of Slingshot gear. Most states will require that Slingshot drivers possess a motorcycle license, according to Polaris.
