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POLARIS GOVERNMENT & DEFENSE
HELP CENTER
12/10/2024

Shifting on Off-Road Vehicles

Polaris Off-Road Vehicles should not be shifted while driving. Polaris XPEDITION, ACE, GENERAL, RANGER, RZR, Scrambler and Sportsman vehicles are equipped with Polaris Variable Transmissions (PVT). Made up of an infinitely variable drive clutch, driven clutch and belt, it changes gear range to match vehicle power, engine output and changing load conditions. The exception to the PVT is the STEELDRIVE transmission that comes standard within the RANGER XD 1500 lineup. The STEELDRIVE transmission utilizes a 100% steel-constructed belt that requires little maintenance. 

In addition, Polaris Off-Road Vehicles have a gear selector for use when the vehicle is not in motion. ORVs have five gears: park (P), reverse (R), neutral (N), low gear (L), and high gear (H). The exception to the previous gear selections is the RANGER XD 1500, which has three gears: DRIVE (D), REVERSE (R), and PARK (P).

To change gears, stop the vehicle and, with the engine idling and brakes applied, move the shift lever to the desired gear. Do not attempt to shift gears with engine speed above idle or while the vehicle is moving. Attempting to shift the transmission while the vehicle is moving could result in damage to the transmission.

Low gear is intended for lower speed and hauling or towing loads. Always shift into low gear when operating in rough terrain or over obstacles, loading the vehicle onto a trailer, towing heavy loads or operating consistently at low speeds. On Scrambler and Sportsman ATVs, use low gear when pulling a heavy load at less than 7 miles per hour for extended periods and when operating uphill at a slow speed.

High gear is intended for higher speed use on hard-packed surfaces with light loads. Using high gear for heavy loads, hilly terrain or in wet, muddy conditions will decrease drive belt life.

For more on the transmission and drive system of Polaris Off-Road Vehicles, listen to the Off-Road Vehicle Drive System Basics episode of the Polaris Podcast.

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