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Polaris 550 Voyageur LXT: A Versatile Two-Up Utility Snowmobile

The Polaris 550 Voyageur LXT is a sport-utility snowmobile designed for both work and recreational use. It features a fan-cooled 544cc Liberty 550 engine, delivering reliable performance in various snow conditions. The PRO-RIDE chassis provides a lightweight and durable frame, enhancing maneuverability and control. With its two-up seating and cargo capacity, the Voyageur LXT caters to riders seeking versatility and comfort.

Equipped with a 15 x 144 x 1.0-inch Energy track, the Voyageur LXT offers excellent traction on both trails and off-trail terrains. The front suspension utilizes Polaris IFP shocks with 7.1 inches of travel, while the rear suspension provides 14.1 inches of travel, ensuring a smooth ride over uneven surfaces. The sled's overall dimensions include a length of 124 inches, width of 48 inches, and height of 54 inches, with a dry weight of 467 pounds.

Engine and Drivetrain

The Liberty 550 engine is a two-cylinder, fan-cooled, carbureted powerplant known for its simplicity and durability. It features a bore and stroke of 73 mm x 65 mm, contributing to its 544cc displacement. The engine is paired with a CVTECH PowerBloc50 / Invance clutch system, providing smooth power delivery and efficient performance. The chaincase drive system and RMK hydraulic disc brake ensure reliable power transmission and stopping capability.

The fuel capacity of the Voyageur LXT is 11.5 gallons (43.5 liters), allowing for extended rides without frequent refueling. The sled's ignition system is a CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition), offering dependable starts in cold conditions. The exhaust system is a single-pipe design, contributing to the engine's efficiency and performance.

Comfort and Convenience Features

The Voyageur LXT comes standard with electric start and push-button reverse (PERC), enhancing ease of use for riders. The two-up seat includes a fixed backrest and passenger hand grips, providing comfort and security for both the operator and passenger. A rugged steel cargo rack is capable of carrying up to 30 pounds, accommodating gear for work or recreational activities.

Additional features include adjustable hand and thumb warmers, a tall 20-inch clear windshield, and standard mirrors, all contributing to rider comfort and visibility. The sled also offers a digital tachometer and low oil light, keeping the rider informed of the machine's status.

Suspension and Handling

The PRO-RIDE front suspension system, combined with Polaris IFP shocks, delivers 7.1 inches of travel, ensuring precise handling and a smooth ride. The rear suspension features a Coil Over 144 design with 14.1 inches of travel, providing excellent flotation in deep snow and comfort on trails. The ski stance is set at 42.5 inches, contributing to the sled's stability and maneuverability.

The PRO-STEER skis enhance steering precision, while the 15-inch wide track offers a balance between flotation and trail performance. The sled's lightweight design, attributed to the bonded aluminum construction of the PRO-RIDE chassis, improves responsiveness and control.

Versatility for Work and Play

The Polaris 550 Voyageur LXT is designed to accommodate a variety of riding styles and purposes. Whether navigating trails, venturing off-trail, or performing utility tasks, the sled offers the necessary features and performance. Its two-up seating and cargo capacity make it suitable for riders who require both passenger accommodation and gear transport.

The combination of a reliable engine, durable chassis, and practical features positions the Voyageur LXT as a versatile option for snowmobile enthusiasts. Its balance of performance, comfort, and utility caters to a wide range of riders seeking a dependable machine for winter activities.

Polaris 550 Voyageur LXT snowmobile
Polaris 550 Voyageur LXT
Manufacturer Polaris Industries
Model 550 Voyageur LXT
Category/Class Utility/Touring Snowmobile
Years of Production 2013 - 2021
Engine Fan-cooled 2-stroke, 544cc, air-cooled twin-cylinder
Horsepower Approximately 60 hp
Fuel System Carbureted
Fuel Capacity 11.5 US gallons (43.5 liters)
Drive System Chaincase, CVT (P-85 drive clutch / Invance driven clutch)
Track 144 × 15 × 1.35 in (366 × 38.1 × 3.43 cm)
Front Suspension RydeFX shocks, RMK Adjustable Strut
Rear Suspension INDY® articulated with RydeFX shocks
Brakes Hydraulic disc brake
Electric Start Yes
Reverse Yes (mechanical reverse)
Seating 2-up touring seat with passenger backrest and hand warmers
Dry Weight Approximately 518 lbs (235 kg)
Primary Uses Utility transport, trail touring, backcountry exploration, snow-covered work environments
Target Users Recreational riders, rural landowners, park rangers, hunters, outfitters, forestry workers
Strengths Reliable fan-cooled engine, good flotation in deep snow, stable ride, high utility versatility
Weaknesses Moderate power, older engine tech, not suited for aggressive mountain riding
Geographical Use North America, Scandinavia, Russia, Alps, Canadian Shield, Northern Japan
Common Countries of Use USA, Canada, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Russia, Switzerland, Japan
Ideal Terrain Forests, groomed trails, deep snowfields, remote cabins, tundra, frozen lakes
Typical Operating Conditions Temperatures from -30°C to 0°C; snow depths of 20+ cm; long-distance trail riding
Fuel Type Unleaded gasoline mixed with 2-stroke oil (pre-mix or oil-injection)
Cooling System Air-cooled (fan-assisted)
Instrumentation Analog speedometer and tachometer, optional digital display, heated grips
Legacy Renowned for dependable performance in harsh winter utility environments
Replaced by Polaris 550 Voyageur 144 / 650 Voyageur LXT (in newer models)
Manufacturer Information
Brand Polaris
Country of Origin United States
Headquarters Medina, Minnesota, USA
Company Founded 1954