I got the impression from a Polaris rep that the Rush/Pro-Ride style chassis was built to be strong, with less weight and he mentioned putting a 4-stroke engine in that chassis would most likely not happen.
I couldn't get any info out of them on any new 4-stroke in any chassis coming for next year, another rep mentioned the new model year release is coming shortly, as we all know, so as I expected they really didn't (can't) reveal any info at this time.
I do not see this new chassis going away anytime soon, and will only get more refined. It definately isn't a "niche" sled.
A few 'older' guys were on the demo ride with us and one of them is getting a new Rush.
As for the design and wind protection, it was around 15-20F degrees on the demo ride and I was very surprised how well the windshields worked, only area I felt a need for better wind protection was when crossing a couple lakes at higher speed-the air flow around the side of the side panels would hit me in the knees-maybe better snow pants would solve that?
They mentioned they do or will(?) have some wind deflectors available to address that. Let me point out that I normally ride closer to the front area of the seat, if I moved back just a bit, I could tuck my knees in a bit out of the wind.
Prior to riding these sleds I had read where it made a big difference on rider position to get it to handle-for me, I didn't see or feel it, I pretty much sat close to the front of the seat and it handled well, hooked up well, stuck in the corners once set up-with stock carbides, I was very surprised how well it carved in the corners-snowcovered or icy.
My only complaint about the Rush chassis, but most new sleds by all manufacturers are in the same boat here-the engine compartment is packed fairly tight and access is limited until you remove all of the plastic. I may be old-school but prefer the old-style open the hood and have access to the entire engine. Just something to get used to.
Have a chance to ride one, do it and base your own opinion, I do not think anyone would be disappointed. Oh yeah, that 800 goes!!