Powersports Market Weathers Supply Turbulence, Expands With Exciting New Models

November 3, 2021May 4, 2023 Michele Boyarsky 0 Comments Arctic Cat, ATV, Can-Am, Kawasaki, Moroso, Polaris, Powersports, SxS, UTV, Yamaha

The powersports industry emerged from the pandemic in better health than anyone could have predicted. Unfortunately, impressive spikes are often accompanied by drastic drops – and the powersports market is feeling the rollercoaster ride of 2021.

While 2020 was a banner year for the powersports industry, the post-pandemic economy is less kind. Just like their automotive counterparts, powersports manufacturers battled closed assembly plants, production bottlenecks, and severely-diminished parts supply this year, stagnating the market’s sharp, quarantine-fueled growth trajectory.

Take Polaris for example. The company accounted for 700,000 new customers who purchased from dealerships in 2020, growing the company’s base by 40%. In April, the powersports giant reported a whopping 70% increase in North American retail sales for the quarter compared to the previous year, noting improved market share for all segments. And, while sales dipped in 2021 Q2, thanks to supply chain constraints, Polaris’s retail sales were still strong compared to pre-COVID levels – sitting about 14% over 2019 Q2 numbers.

This most recent sales earning notice, however, tells a more frustrating story for the company. Despite clear market demand, Polaris’s North American retail sales decreased 24% in Q3. CEO Mike Speetzen noted “the substantial deterioration of the supply chain permeating the global economy” in his commentary. On the bright side, the company expanded its product portfolio with an impressive fifteen new vehicles, and gained Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) share for the 4th straight quarter.

Polaris is hardly alone in this fight. Many manufacturers—like Honda and Yamaha—halted US production during COVID spikes and semiconductor shortages. BRP (parent company to popular brands like Can-Am and Ski-Doo) reported similar production turbulence this year, as well. The company’s North American retail sales for powersports vehicles decreased by 19% for the three-month period ended July 31, 2021. “Limited product availability” is named as the culprit.

Silver Linings

It’s not all doom and gloom for the powersports market, though. As mentioned, Polaris dropped a ton of new vehicles this quarter – an action shared by several manufacturers.

Check out some of the new recruits below. Limited promotions may not have you snagging any deals per se, but it’s always nice to window shop!

Polaris

Polaris serves up plenty of additions and enhancements for the 2022 model lineup – including the all-new RANGER SP 570. Purpose-built for people who work hard and play hard, the mid-size RANGER features a larger cargo box, increased ground clearance, added storage, and accessory options that altogether create the perfect machine to get more done and have more fun.

Available in two-seat and CREW models, the RANGER SP 570 offers a class-leading 44-horsepower Prostar 570 engine with 1,500lbs of towing capacity. An improved turning radius and compact 56-inch width help maneuverability in tight spaces.

BRP/Can-Am

Can-Am Maverick X3 speeds through dirt — *Can-Am*

For the 2022 model year, BRP-owned Can-Am focused on more horsepower, better traction, and enhanced comfort. The company revealed its all-new Maverick X3, setting a bold new standard in performance by being the first side-by-side to offer a 200 HP engine option. (Bonkers!) Paired with the all new pDrive roller clutch system acceleration on the Maverick X3, acceleration is instant and gobs of power are available on command.

In addition to the best power-to-weight ratio in its class, the Smart-Shox adaptive suspension ensures responsiveness and handling don’t take a backseat. With new 30 and 32” Maxxis Carnivore tires, more ground clearance, and a sturdier frame, Can-Am sure has a hit on their hands for 2022.

Kawasaki

Kawasaki hits the side-by-side market with the new Teryx KRX 1000. Engineered for high adrenaline adventures and conquering tough terrain, the Teryx KRX 1000 sports a durable 999cc parallel twin engine paired with a CVT transmission and centrifugal clutch. Kawasaki says this combo provides the power and torque necessary to “tackle a whooped-out trail,” as well as conquer technical rock crawling.

On-the-fly electronically selectable 4WD and front differential lock, two power modes (Full and Low), a high-rigidity frame with integrated Roll Over Protection Structure, FOX 2.5 Podium LSC shock units, and 31-inch MAXXIS Carnivore tires round out this exciting new entrant’s features.

Kawasaki Teryx KRX 1000 — *Dirt Wheels Magazine*

Yamaha

Over at Yamaha, the new Wolverine RMAX2 1000 Sport is the belle of the ball. Blending comfort, capability, and confidence-inspiring performance, the new RMAX2 1000 sports plenty of added user-benefits. These include three power delivery settings to match drivers’ mindsets and trail conditions, plus new adjustable FOX 2.0 shocks that deliver quality damping feel at higher speeds, without sacrificing low-speed comfort. A set of new 30-inch GBC Terra Master 10-ply rated radial tires also ensure versatile riding options and rugged durability.

Available in two- and four-seat configurations, the RMAX2 1000 Sport also wears an advanced 999cc twin-cylinder engine, housed in an optimized chassis built for adventure. The model – which is based off the best-in-class RMAX 1000 platform – maintains its best-in-class 13.8-inches of ground clearance, 14.2-inches of front, and 16.9-inches of rear suspension travel for ultimate capability in nearly any terrain.

Arctic Cat

On the ATV side, Arctic Cat debuted the all new Alterra 600 EPS as part of its model year 2022 lineup. The launch coincides with the brand’s 60-year anniversary, so it’s safe to say the stakes were high to nail this debut.

Thankfully, it appears Arctic Cat did. The Alterra 600 EPS features an all-new 600 cc, single-cylinder, fuel-injected engine making 45HP, while a new Arctic Cat-tuned CVTech CVT system — paired with a more durable transmission — ensures the power gets to the ground. An all-new chassis provides a lower center of gravity and incredible balance for increased stability and a performance-oriented ride experience.

Additionally, the new vehicle’s dual A-arm front and rear suspension provides 9 inches of travel and up to 12.25 inches of ground and its larger shocks feature pre-load adjustment to soak up trail bumps. Large disc brakes provide ample stopping power, and are quieter than previous models. Finally, the Alterra 600 EPS can be equipped with 27-inch tires, the largest available tire in its class.

Meet Moroso

Two Polaris RZR models race through desert — *Polaris*

If you love spending your free time zipping down trails and kicking up dirt with your ATV or SxS, then you want to invest in quality aftermarket parts to keep it running. And those adventurers piloting the immensely popular Polaris RZR should check out motorsports giant Moroso.

Think of Moroso as a high-end odds and ends company. While sporting some offerings in the tire, ignition, and exhaust segments, its claim to fame lies within buttoning things up. Moroso excels in the way of oil pans, valve covers, bracketry, coolant tanks, and other products that help to elevate an otherwise stock-appearing platform to all-out, performance-built stature.

The company got its start in 1968 by former drag racer, Dick Moroso. Today, it offers over 4,000 products found in everything from backyard builds to NASCAR race cars. With roots on the racetrack, Moroso is diversifying on the dirt – adding Polaris RZR coolant expansion tanks to its lineup.

As vital components to any cooling system, Moroso ensures these aluminum bolt-in replacements are built to take the beating of high heat and vibration situations. Available in two finishes, polished and black powder coat, these tanks include a billet aluminum vented cap with O-ring. The polished tank can be chromed, painted, powder coated, or left as-is for a race look.