Buyers who wanted a smaller ATV were forced to compromise on features.  They either opted for a model that was bigger than they wanted, or they would forego features to get the smaller ATV.  With the introduction of Hawkeye, riders can get all the features they need in the size they want.

“With Hawkeye, Polaris and its dealers are providing these riders something entirely new: a power-packed, full feature ATV in a slightly smaller package,” said Mike Dougherty, general manager of the ATV division.  “Until now, these buyers had to compromise on features and performance.  Polaris and its dealers realized many customers wanted a mid-size ATV with the same features, performance and tough versatility they enjoyed in our full-size models.”

The important feature and rider benefit in rough terrain is Polaris’ industry-leading Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) – and the Hawkeye has it.  Hawkeye uses IRS to yield a smoother ride, allow better handling and reduce fatigue.  IRS features 8 inches of suspension travel, while a new MacPherson strut provides 7 inches of travel in front.  The front and rear travel are segment leading for the best ride in its class.  Together with the front suspension, the IRS delivers unmatched handling, tracking and stability.  With the Hawkeye, consumers finally have a 4x4 available with IRS at a mid-level price.

Another unique feature to the Hawkeye is its versatility and handling over rough terrain.  Hawkeye 4x4 comes equipped with Polaris’ On Demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD) to deliver better traction.  Most models in this price range don’t even offer 4WD. This produces a performance vastly different from the 3 ½ wheel drive limited slip systems found on competing models.  It means that all-wheel drive fully engages both front wheels as soon as Hawkeye encounters loose terrain.  A switch on the handlebar enables the driver to quickly and easily activate the system that automatically senses rear wheel traction loss and transfers full torque to both front wheels.

Hawkeye comes with popular storage, cargo and towing features found on best-selling Polaris Sportsman ATVs.  Like the Sportsman, the Hawkeye comes with a convenient, integrated front storage box.  The front storage lid has numerous tie-down points and can be opened even with cargo strapped to the outside.

The rear rack accepts Pure Polaris Lock & Ride™ accessory mounts that use expansion anchor technology to let riders attach accessories in seconds.  The rear rack also has numerous tie-down points. 

Hawkeye also comes equipped with a fuel gauge and digital instrumentation.  The digital instrumentation is backlit for easier reading and includes a speedometer and an odometer with trip and hour readouts. 

Hawkeye’s full features are unique in a mid-size ATV, many of which lack even a fuel gauge.  Polaris completed the package with several more standout features exclusive to the mid-size class, including:

Automotive style 4-wheel hydraulic disc brakes;

1.25 inch standard receiver hitch;

Steel front bumpers;

High and low beam headlights;

Large 4.5 gallon fuel tank.

On the trail, Hawkeye uses a powerful 299cc 4-stroke engine to keep pace with larger ATVs.  Here is a look at some of Hawkeye’s key specs:

750 lb. towing capacity;

170 lb. rack capacity (70 lbs. in front, 100 lbs. in rear);

8 inches of ground clearance;

7 inches of front suspension travel and 8 inches of rear suspension travel, both with adjustable preload.

Hawkeye also comes in a 2x4 model.