Nice, you bought a Polaris Slingshot, new or used and it has a good top speed. Still, you want to drive faster and accelerate better. But what is the top speed of the Polaris Slingshot and what can you do to increase the top speed? If you’re looking for the top speed of this model, here’s what you need to know:
There is hardly any performance difference between the models. The top speed is factory-restricted to a maximum of 125mph across the models.
The numbers in this article have been collected through spec sheets as well as watching the many YouTube videos where the Polaris Slingshot models are driven fast. This way, you can be sure we haven’t just collected the theoretical data, but also checked how the Slingshot models performs in practice.
Additionally, we’ll give you 9 suggestions on how to ramp up your Slingshot and increase the top speed, so read on!
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Polaris Slingshot Top Speed (S, SL, SLR, R, LE)
The 2015 to 2019 Slingshot models had a 2.4-liter inline-four gasoline engine supplied by General Motors. The engine generates 173 hp and 166 lb-ft of torque.
Starting in 2020, the Slingshot features a Polaris 1,997 cc Prostar 2.0-liter inline-4 r engine. The engine makes 203 hp and 144 lb-ft of torque in the Slingshot R and SLR models.
The S, SL and LE have an output of 178 hp and a torque of 120 lb-ft. The SLR and R have an output of 203 hp. The Slingshot can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds and has a factory-restricted top of 125mph across the models. Yet, some owners have reported 4.6 seconds 0 to 60 times. There is hardly any performance difference between the models.
The main distinctions between the models are primarily aesthetic: the higher trims will have fantastic paint jobs, steering wheels, etc. The higher variations suspensions have different shocks, which enhance the Slingshot’s stability and handling, particularly at faster speeds. These suspension modifications are the only ones that affect performance. But even though they might improve the handling of your Slingshot, they won’t speed up your ride when traveling straight.
Also read: How To Bypass The Polaris Speed Limiter?
How Fast Is The Slingshot Compared To Tree-Wheel Motorcycles?
Let’s also compare the Polaris Slingshot to its competition. Keep in mind that the top speeds of these models are taken from the standard version, the special versions are not listed in the table.
These speeds also come from the technical specifications and various YouTube videos, and are average top speeds.
| Model | To Speed (mph) |
| Polaris Slingshot | 125 |
| Can-Am Spider | 110 |
| Can-Am Ryker | 102 |
| Vanderhall Venice | 140 |
| Vanderhall Carmel | 140 |
| Morgan 3 Wheeler | 130 |
The Venice and Carmel have the highest top speed of all three-wheel motorcycles, 140 mph. The Can-Am Spider and Ryker are vehicles you “sit on” and the other models are vehicles you “sit in”.
Also read: 6 x Most Common Polaris Slingshot Problems!
How Can I Make the Slingshot Go Faster?
By ramping up the engine and engine related parts, the Polaris Slingshot will definitely reach a higher top speed. However, keep in mind that the Slingshot is not designed for this, which can cause more wear and tear, resulting in more frequent maintenance.
If you still have factory warranty on your Slingshot, I advise against ramping it up. Making changes to your Polaris could void the warranty, meaning if you run into any major issues, you’ll likely have to pay for those yourself. So, first check your warranty before you make the alterations.
There are several ways to make the Polaris Slingshot go faster, (but remember, this is at your own risk) including:
1. Keep the Weight as Low as Possible and Upgrade the Rare Tire
This is the quickest and least expensive method of accelerating your vehicle. Reducing a few dozen pounds will make your Slingshot lighter and increase its overall performance. You can do this by simply removing a few of the panels. You can remove some of the external Slingshot panels, as they are rather heavy.
Your ride will become substantially faster if you do this, and all you need are a few specialized wrenches. Also, you can lighten the load on your machine by keeping less fuel in the tank and getting rid of any accessories you seldom use. Upgrading to the rare tire gives you better traction and enhances your look! A 305 mm wide rear tire and wheel kit can fetch $2,649.99
2. Get an ECU Tune
An ECU tune-up is another excellent technique to raise the performance of your Slingshot. It’s inexpensive and can dramatically speed up your ride, even though it isn’t as effective as installing a turbo.
You have two alternatives for increasing speed; either installing an ECU tuner on your Polaris Slingshot, so you can make the required adjustments, or having the ECU tuned by professionals. You can modify features like the speed limiter and rpm restriction by connecting an ECU tuner to your rig’s electrical system.
Some owners modify the radiator fan’s temperature setting for on/off to maintain a low engine temperature. You can also alter the fuel curve and ignition timing to determine the amount of fuel delivered at certain RPMs and advance the timing. It can significantly boost the acceleration and throttle response.
A tune-up of an ECU carries considerable risk. It’s advised that you leave the installation to a skilled individual because it could harm your Slingshot if you are incompetent. A professional tune-up can cost around $400.
3. Clutch Upgrade
Installing an aftermarket clutch assembly is a great way to boost your Polaris Slingshot’s peak speed and acceleration. With the right upgrade, you may increase your top speed and acceleration, while the kit modifies your RPM curve to maximize maximum power. Often, clutch kits include new springs and weights that alter the timing and speed of the clutch self-adjustment.
So, clutch kits are highly adaptable to engine modifications, riding conditions, and riding style. A clutch kit offers better acceleration and throttle response, higher top speeds, torque, and power, and less belt slippage and heat buildup, which extends belt life. Polaris Slingshot clutch kit can cost $995.00.
4. A Cold Air Intake System
This is among the first modifications Polaris Slingshot owners make to their engines. Not only does it enhance throttle responsiveness, but it also boosts horsepower, torque, and occasionally MPG. Most cold air intakes are easy to install, and the models either include or offer a heat barrier to prevent unwelcome engine heat from flowing to the rare of the air filter.
Additionally, keep your air filter clean because a clogged or dirty air filter impedes airflow to the engine. Your Slingshot’s engine will choke or smother while you are traveling if the air filter blocks the airflow. Increased air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber results in more power. As a result, you might want to install a high-flow air filter to improve engine airflow.
Manufacturers with a track record include Injen, DDMWorks, and 1320 performance. You can get a Polaris Slingshot cold air intake system for $249.00.
5. Upgrade the Exhaust
You can boost the performance of your Polaris Slingshot by upgrading the exhaust system. The engine can take in more air since it has more exhaust capacity. This modification performs well when used with a high-flow air intake system. A performance slip-on exhaust is a fantastic substitute if changing the exhaust system from the headers down is not an option.
The slip-on muffler is the most popular method because it allows you to swap out your factory exhaust for a typically lighter one. In addition, these systems have cores for higher exhaust flow rates compared to the more baffled ones of the stock systems. A performance slip-on exhaust also produces more power than stock, but a full-performance exhaust system has the most output.
Aftermarket exhausts can make your car noisier, so ensure the system you buy complies with local noise regulations. You should be able to get the decibel reading from the exhaust manufacturer. Polaris Slingshot Slip-On Exhausts are available from $128.95, while full system exhausts start at $309.95
Installing a good turbo in your Slingshot is the top method to boost speed. Your 0-60 times should improve by around a half-second, and you should be able to reach speeds of more than 130 mph. Although it is the most efficient way to sate your demand for speed, excellent turbo systems can be rather pricey, costing several hundred dollars.
6. Install a Turbo
In addition, you will be responsible for the cost of installation. However, reliability will deteriorate, especially when it comes to larger turbos. Yet, it’s still the best approach to increase the speed of your Slingshot.
7. Cylinder Head Porting
Porting a cylinder head is sanding or polishing the ports to make it easier for air to enter and depart. The engine can generate more power if more air can enter and exit the chamber. You should send your cylinder head to a company for this modification; they will ship it back to you. An expert technician should handle the port operation, since excessive grinding or grinding in the wrong spots could harm the head or cause the engine to run poorly.
8. Performance Camshafts
Performance camshafts work by modifying the lift and duration of the cylinder head valves. It allows the engine to receive more airflow. Cams work best when used in conjunction with other engine upgrades, such as including tuners, clutch kits, performance exhausts, and cylinder head porting. Often, camshafts have stages, such as stage 1, stage 2, and stage 3.
The stage demonstrates the aggression or power boost it provides. In contrast to a stage 3 cam, which increases power at the upper end of the rpm range, a stage 1 cam will be mild and enhanced at the lower end. The middle would house Stage 2. Stage 3 is perfect for high-revving or competitive applications. Polaris Slingshot Stage 3 Performance Cams by DDMWorks cost $1,047.00
9. Use Better Fuel
Using fuel with a higher-octane rating will enhance engine performance. Because it burns more thoroughly, higher octane fuel can quickly boost your Slingshot’s speed. Additionally, it increases fuel efficiency and reduces corrosion of your fuel system mechanical components. Although the better mileage isn’t very noticeable, you can see the performance has changed. When you press the gas, it performs admirably, despite possibly costing more than the more affordable fuel.
