Once again this year, the American manufacturer didn’t make any big announcements regarding its mountain snowmobile range. We’ll have to make do with a limited edition. Nevertheless, without any major advances, these extreme snowmobiles still perform just as well in the powder. Let’s take a closer look at the 2026 Polaris 9R RMK KHAOS 155.
New for 2026: A limited edition
For 2026, we’ll have to make do with a Chris Burandt limited edition as a “novelty.” It’s worth noting that this version is available exclusively for the ”Snowcheck”. All in all, a distinctive color scheme (navy blue, orange and chrome) and practical accessories come as standard.
The front bumper is well integrated, with a lower section to protect the front end and body pan. It’s often the first place you hit and break the fairing, so it’s an essential for off-road riding. What’s more, its design adapts perfectly to the lines of the fairing, keeping snow accumulation to a minimum. This preserves the model’s optimized weight.
Same work done on the rear bumper to make it as rigid as possible. 30% stronger than the original. And once again, without causing snow accumulation or excessive weight. Polaris explained that the engineer who designed the chassis is the same one who worked on these bumpers. This ensures optimum integration while minimizing the chance of breakage in the event of impact.
The handlebar bag
The last but not least accessory that comes as standard with the limited edition is the handlebar bag. Compact, it doesn’t interfere with aggressive mountain riding. At the same time, it keeps essentials such as a second pair of glasses, gloves, cell phone, etc. within easy reach. And it’s worth mentioning that it attaches securely or can be removed in seconds. It’s this type of accessory that enhances outings with practicality, functionality and protection.
Note that these items will also be available in the manufacturer’s accessories catalog for next season.
Patriot 9R engine
On the sides of the machine, the 9R immediately catches the eye, signalling that we’re benefiting from the “big bore”engine. The engine bore has been enlarged compared to the Patriot 850, from 840cc to 900cc (9R). Already on the market, these improvements enable the engine to offer instant responsiveness, thanks mainly to reduced inertia. The difference with the standard engine is definitely felt at sea level. In Quebec, the 9R dominates! Conversely, at high altitudes, the Boost is recommended to counteract the loss of power.
Although Polaris doesn’t really want to reveal official figures for its Patriot 9R… It’s still reasonable to assume that power reaches around 185-190 hp. That’s what you need for big wheelies and a substantial reserve of power for tough situations.
3, 2, 1 ACTION!
As soon as you sit on the 2026 Polaris 9R RMK KHAOS 155, you immediately notice the attention paid to ergonomics. The rider is positioned centrally and very high up. This makes maneuvering from left to right on the running boards particularly smooth. From the very first bends, the ease with which you can link slaloms is impressive. The SLASHversion, with its narrower, more open and shorter tunnel, reduces drag. In other words, it reduces the effort required to penetrate the snow, while at the same time enabling superior capabilities. As a result, this snowmobile offers ideal dynamics, a very compact fairing and a design conceived specifically for the mountains.
The KHAOS’s driving precision is equally impressive. It’s not as flawless as its sister, the Pro RMK, but the KHAOS’s fun factor balances it out. This is due in large part to its suspension geometries offering greater flexibility. What’s more, the Walker Evans Velocity shocks are fully adjustable, making it possible to adapt to different terrain conditions. In short, we found that the KHAOS maintains a good sidehill trajectory while remaining constantly in control.
Tracks, QuickDrive 2 and flotation
Every time the throttle is applied, there’s no delay in initiating movement. Thanks to the engine’s performance, combined with the 3.25” track and QuickDrive2 system, the snowmobile is propelled effortlessly.
Contrary to the common idea of creating a trench with large studded tracks, the vehicle literally stays afloat. Power transfer is perfect, and we’re on the move in a fraction of a second. Once again, this snowmobile’s performance pushes the limits of what’s possible in the mountains.
Note that other track options are available (2.75/2.6” studs) if you’re into other types of terrain. Or if you’re more the “jumper” type, this is the option to choose.
Highlights
- The Patriot 9R engine continues to surprise with its instant response and insane power.
- Choice of tracks with 3.25“ or 2.75/2.6” studs for impressive powder performance.
- All in all, the KHAOS delivers precision handling, fun factor and unbeatable maneuverability.
Areas for improvement
- Unfortunately, we still have the reliability problem of “jumping” spark plugs…
- Year after year, the purchase price continues to climb. There’s plenty of technology and high performance, but the sport is becoming even more inaccessible. A retail price that easily exceeds $20,000 before tax!
Conclusion
Once again, no big news for 2026 on the mountain side for Polaris. A limited edition, additional accessories and “that’s it”! On the other hand, we’re still enjoying riding this beast of power: the 2026 Polaris 9R RMK KHAOS. And when we compare it to the competition, it still performs as well as ever, in an enviable position. So why change a winning recipe?
For more information, visit the Polaris website.
Equipment shown in photos
- Helmet: CKX Titan Air Flow
- Suit: CKX Elevation Zero
- Boots: CKX Colchester Pro
- Bag: FXR Ride Pack
- Gloves: Klim Gauntlet
Photo credits: Steve Maillet
