2025 Polaris Khaos 146 850: Honest First Impressions
Yes, I’m a Polaris Ambassador. Yes, I love the brand. However, I’ve been riding for 43 years (since I was 11) and I’m a straight shooter. Take this for what it’s worth, but these are my honest thoughts on my new 2025 Khaos 146 850.
After 15 years on 155" tracks, I finally pulled the trigger on a 146". Here is how the overall machine stacks up and how the shorter track compares to the 155.
Power & Performance
This is my fourth 850, and while none of them have been slouches, the 2025 feels noticeably snappier with more horsepower. I’ve ridden the 9R and an 850 with SLP twins this year; while the 9R responds quicker (as it should) and the twins are absolute animals, the stock 2025 850 is incredibly impressive for Midwest deep snow.
Clutching
I feel like the backshift could be a little quicker when letting off the gas coming out of a carve on a logging road. I’m planning to experiment with a few things to sharpen that up.
Ergonomics
Hands down, this is one of the narrowest-feeling sleds I’ve ever ridden. With the way the tank and seat are tapered, it feels like riding a dirt bike. The seat is a little stiff, but on a mountain sled, you aren't sitting often.
One gripe: I wish Polaris would offer a handlebar height selection during Snow Check at no cost like they used to. I had to add a riser to the stock low bars to get them where I like them, though I know some riders prefer the lower bars for better control.
Electronics & 7S Display
The handwarmers are literally fire, and the included tether is a great added feature that the Axys chassis lacked. This is my first sled with the 7S display, and it is a total game-changer. Having a bright, customizable screen makes tracking your group and navigation easy.
Polaris also upgraded the buttons for '25—the toggle button was redesigned and fixed so it can’t fall off. My only "con" is that I’d love the ability to upload my own mapping programs for more detail on logging roads. I’m still learning the tech, so maybe that's a feature I haven't found yet!
Suspension & Handling
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Suspension: It’s stiff from the factory, so be prepared to spend time dialing it in. It has a ton of adjustment, and I hope to have mine perfected by the next big ride.
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Handling: Pure FUN. The 146 x 2.6 track makes this sled super nimble and playful.
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Flotation: Deep snow hasn't been an issue yet. It does trench more than a 155, but the Slash tunnel allows you to keep digging until you are up on plane.
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The 146 Factor: The sled washes out much quicker than a 155—if you like tight circles, you’ll love this length. I’ve had to adjust my style on logging roads due to the quicker return, and while I’m a bit too old for bowties, this sled makes me feel like I could almost pull one off.
Storage
What storage? Like most modern sleds, there isn't much unless you add it. The area behind the 7S is decent-sized, but it’s not snow-proof, so be careful what you put in there (Polaris does sell a dry bag for it). I do miss the under-seat storage from the Axys; you don't realize how much you can fit there until it's gone.
Final Verdict
I love this sled. Most of my negatives aren't unique to Polaris—they are common across the industry. The only thing I’d truly change is allowing external mapping inputs on the 7S.
If you have questions, feel free to reach out: paul@sledsolutions.com