Slingshot... What I REALLY think after 300 miles

I have now had this 2022 Slingshot SL for the last week and have logged nearly 400 miles (300 as I filmed this video). It was an absolute blast. I also want to thank ‪@RobDahm‬ for making me appreciate what the slingshot is and really who it is for. It was in his last 4 Rotor shakedown video (link below this word vomit) as he was pounding through that ridiculously amazing sequential gearbox specifically the audio that made me get off the couch and go for a drive in the Slingshot. It truly is the affordable and more practical everyday hooning car / motorcylce / gocart machine.
• Never thought the AWD ...
(Also just to be clear, by no way am I tying Rob Dahm to the slingshot in any endorsing way. It's very possible he hates these things. I am merely thanking and tipping the cap to another KZbinr, who through his content helped provide me context for mine. I think they call that inspiration)
Catch me on Social Media:
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#Gears #Polaris #Slingshot

[@richardwrathell14]

Thanks!

[@GearsGadgets]

Oh wow, I just saw this $2, thanks I really appreciate that. First time I've seen that and didn't get notified. Super appreciate the support!!

[@jimmeekii18]

How tall are you. It was great video. I'm 6'5 280lbs. Just wondering if I'd fit comfortably.

[@bendaaa69]

no u wont im 5'10 220 and i barely fit@@jimmeekii18

[@msgtkevinpatnode5649]

I have had my Slingshot for eight years now and have over 35 thousand miles on it. I absolutely love this vehicle, I have owned motorcycles all my life and will never go back to two wheels.

[@FortunateSon]

Wow! Any major issues?

[@geraldwelch8117]

What kind of gas mileage do you get?

[@survivorbeste87]

4 wheels will blow your mind

[@WW-wf8tu]

As a motorcyclist, I can see why this would product would evoke more smiles than flipped off fingers. Too many divided feelings about motorcycles in general. The enthusiasts love to ride, but there are enough riders that have tainted the image to those that have never and will never enjoy a motorbike. But a reverse 3 wheel bike in a go cart stance generally does not give off a negative vibe. Not enough of them running around tainting the image.(yet)

[@jollyamoeba]

Kinda crazy that I've watched so many reviews about slingshots and this was the first one to finally show that a full helmet can fit behind the seat. Thank you!

[@Bikerbug2020]

Our Slingshot is a 2021 RED SLA, we changed out the seats to PRP custom seats, put in a THermal R&D sport exhaust, added a Bullet Speed canvas V back roof, upgraded the HP with a Polaris ECU Flash to 203 HP ( you need that), Put in floor mats and tunnel mat, entry bar pads, and Thermal R&D Travel Kit for the sling. Also have the travel bags for the storage compartments and the center console storage bag. (Then you need the power commander to help ditch the AutoDrive lag.) Love the Sling… the worst thing is the horrible heat coming from the engine into the cabin, and the fact that driving in Florida is a hot proposition during the late spring to early fall. But it is a hoot.

[@Darius_Icewood]

I have a customized Orange & Grey *Signature LE* Slingshot! I'm not here to lie to you, it's the best vehicle I've ever driven around it's price range. Soon I'm going to customize it further and get the Pearl Slingshade hard rooftop with the doors.

[@roneshakeaton8340]

Let's see the picture of it

[@Darius_Icewood]

@@roneshakeaton8340 You can look my name up on your browser and see what it is I do bro lol it's not that hard.

[@winwithgrn]

I bet you have so much fun driving that around LA area!! Cool vehicle.

[@johnkelly6392]

I'm in the process of purchasing a slingshot Im getting sling shade and A)c I installation

[@khalilarts901]

What credit score do you have to have to get one I want to start a crew

[@jacobfoster9185]

One of the best, honest and well rounded reviews for this vehicle. Thank you.

[@artiejohnson703]

I am 62 years old and a woman. I would love to have one of these. I have had my eye on the Slingshot for a while now. I love to go fast!!!!!

[@conniejones8588]

I'm 63 on my second one. You won't regret it. I've had the time of my life.

[@Tonycrossfit]

Don’t wait any longer. Just Do It!

[@tomfonner1886]

My wife and I just purchased an SL and agree. We talked about a can am but this makes us more comfortable out on the road. We are small folks and this is a great option.

[@glenncate44]

Thank you for one of the best reviews ever about what it is like to drive/own a slingshot. I have over 10k miles on my 2020R and have loved every second of it. Hoping to move out to the Mesa area some day and already have Tortilla Flats as a planned ride.

[@patriciamoppin9404]

I have a 2018 SL manual transmission (there was no automatic at that time). I’ve added a top, rear view mirror and wind dams to stay cool in the summer. Just got back from a trip to Big Bend. I absolutely love driving “Red”. I started with a half helmet and Sena setup to communicate with the hubby while he rides his Indian. I changed over to a 3/4 helmet with face shield after a few bugs and rocks popped up in my face. It handles great on twisty roads and I love the constant shifting. It also handles great cruising on the interstate going 80 mph.

[@TheTicassShow]

why would you even want the Automatic transmission lmao

[@bobgrayson6220]

Wow, you're a girl ! Have fun out there ! Bugs in the face ? 😂 Rocks in the face are not so funny...

[@JohnnyJohnson30]

I have always been very interested in these machines…. Good review

[@papa-grammy]

My grandson wants a slingshot. I like it! Thank you for the review. I will share video with my grandson so he can start saving up for his first dream vehicle.

[@gregnutter4658]

I have a 2021 R model and absolutely love it. I bought mine in August, it's the 1st week in May and got 10,000 on it.

[@jimeverett2772]

That looks exactly like my '21 and love it. So fun to drive, handles curves fantastically, does tend to "wander" a bit. Live in Oregon so with the hydroplane aspect and preferred no semi-useful roof cage, pretty much a "half-year" ride. Still worth it. Feels totally safe and meets my criteria (a "must") to carry my sticks to the golf courses.

[@j_boogie_483]

where in Oregon? Do you where a helmet all the time?

[@feolender2938]

Golf, a good walk ruined.

[@2kdad]

thanks for the review. i’m definitely buying within the next year

[@crossup357]

I got a 2022 sl ultra blue on the 1st of april. Already logged 1300 miles. Haven a blast

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Killer review and edit. I never considered the slingshot but watching you rip around in one gives me an itch to try one out. 💯

[@GabrielZang]

Thanks for this review! I'm from South America and a slingshot is way beyond my reach, but later than sooner, I'll make the dream happen! ❤

[@DeterminedVeteran]

My wife and I owned a 2016 she loved it ! Sadly it was totaled after 14k miles but thankfully she was alright

[@FusionTechCinema]

Did you get another one

[@charleslindsay3201]

good video,i'm impressed with the improvements

[@jeffmoore6279]

Being able to just sit down in one of these and relax brings so much more to the experience over a bike. I've had mine for about 2 years now. Absolutely love it. Going anywhere in it feels like an adventure. My wife likes to take off her sandals and kick her feet up on the dash as we cruise and listen to music on the two lane highways around the outskirts of town. Best money 💸 I ever spent. Great for trips, just kick on the cruise control and your set. Twisty two-lanes are a blast in these. Now that I own one, don't know what I'd do without it. Much safer than a bike. Many places rent these so go try one.

[@Cjizzle-bc7my]

How is it on a road trip? Is the ride super rough, not expecting a rolls Royce ride

[@mjareacts2731]

@@Cjizzle-bc7my I've had mine for a little over a year (2021 model) and I can honestly say at least for me it's extremely enjoyable long distance. Although I would suggest opting for the slingshade roof and the taller windshield, that way if you choose to ride without a helmet you're not getting pelted with rocks from some semi.

[@comfortablynumb4491]

Renting is a good idea.

[@jpogigtxcr1778]

Omg, you mic set up is so smooth and clear with all that road noise

[@edwardthetruth8994]

Wow! Great job! Very informative! Being a retired trucker, I still want something that is stylish, and I can still bang out some gears!

[@ralphplazachesmarhomes]

Thank you for posting. Always enjoy the content. I never liked the concept. I think the experience is more of a car than a motorcycle. At 60 year old I still riding my two wheel Harley but suddenly I didn’t feel confident riding with my wife on. So recently I started considering the slingshot but I bought a Can Am RT instead. We very happy with the decision. Still keep the Harley. 😉 My question have you rode a Can Am BRP? In honesty would love to hear your opinion comparisons between both rides.

[@johndaniel5448]

I have done over 78000 in my Polaris Slingshot SL here in the UK and am still going just love Slingshot .

[@stepk8459]

I have the 23 Roush and I love it! I drove it from Va to Pa and I enjoyed the ride!❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@coltykuu]

Great review

[@rbmalley1]

I lives near Chicago and bought one of these in July. And I can promise you I absolutely love my slingshot. In addition to the things that you highlighted I would also point out that it is

[@rbmalley1]

... continuing... the slingshot is a blast to drive and is a great platform for modifications. Also something I didn't expect was that almost every single day that I take this thing out a crowd gathers around it at the supermarket at the library at work at the grocery store just about any place just to look at it and ask questions and admire it. It's a lot of fun in a lot of ways

[@donnabartsch4019]

Nice Review 😊 I'm in Mesa as well and my 2019 GT is my daily driver to Phoenix 😊

[@justinv4036]

Comprehensive review and experience by a "real" / genuine sounding person.

[@GearsGadgets]

Appreciate that.

[@dennisreid9039]

I can't wait till I get one

[@ndocds]

I think their awesome. Great review. When it’s time to replace the m3 I may consider one of these. :)

[@Tonycrossfit]

I own a 2022 Vanderhall Carmel Blackjack and I love it!. I thought about getting a Slingshot but after seeing the Vanderhall I liked the look better than the Slingshot. If you are interested in a three wheel, make sure you test drive the Slingshot and the Vanderhall. Have fun and be safe 🙏.

[@mpshay]

A couple comments…good luck finding a turbo kit for the Polaris engine. They exist but only for older ecotech engine slingshot. Also, Polaris offers an upgraded engine tune. 202 hp is standard on the R and available as an option all lower spec models

[@michaelfoley1296]

Great Video! I’ve been interested in these for while now and after watching your video make me want to go test drive one and look at my options. What options did you get with yours?

[@tomfonner1886]

The rear view camera is a great idea.

[@mikedunn2022]

Those tires are awesome for hydroplaning in a rain storm and not to mention you wash all your gear in the compartments because everyone of them leaks but no complaints here because you get free showers or bath’s depending upon how hard it’s raining but I’m sure someone will say I drove mine under Niagara Falls and didn’t get wet but ☝️ you will learn

[@iamaretheone4083]

I see that you’re in Arizona, I was there a few months ago and got to drive my uncle’s slingshot for the 1st time both me and my 12 yr old son loved it

[@shirleygorre6003]

SWEET!

[@epicmotorcyclechannel307]

They definitely have a "look at me" attitude but at the same time they do look like a lot of fun! And compared to an exotic sports car, it turns heads on the cheap!

[@fredrickhall6506]

What you see is what you get

[@michaeljohnson-sd4yo]

I have a 2021 sl and i love it. I only have 2 complaints that's the brakes which I would change to the brembos as recommended and the heat coming off of the engine into the driver's compartment.

[@bb57365]

Very intriguing. With a turbo and Brembos.

[@Patriot-pq1ku]

Would love to buy one some day looks like a lot of fun

[@paultrombetta]

Very nice presentation

[@imskeptic1]

Looks like a total blast. As much as I would love to have one of these, I'm not sure it would be as useful as I would llike. I live in Florida, and believe me, riding in an open vehicle under the blazing May thru October, yes even October sun is just torture for me. Yes, I know some people seem able to tolerate it better than others, but not me. However, November thru early May would be a dream.

[@tommitchell1049]

There are a number of hard and soft top options out there from Polaris and other aftermarket companies. After much research, I decided on the Bullet Speed V-Back Canvas top which I purchased through SlingMods. It keeps the sun off, reduces road noise, and the canvas is removable should I want to go “top down.” As I said, there are many options out there that would answer your concerns.

[@imskeptic1]

@@tommitchell1049 That's great, I was not aware of that. That would certainly make a big difference.

[@blockbusterz2370]

That rear view camera would be a great idea! Idk how they ain’t think of that?

[@jamesmcritchie8310]

Well I’ve owned and driven one since 2015. They fun in the sun only they hydroplane extremely easy so ext really scary in the rain ( especially on if any lightning) as your sitting in wet. It’s expensive replacing tires as you burn out at least one rear a year. And if any dirt on the road in a corner your sliding into the curb and wrecking.

[@Shuberry1]

I just drove 2000 miles in my red and black 2020 auto R w roof. It was unbelievable Susan

[@seadog686]

First test drive evoked memories of driving in 60's era "Bug-Eyed" Sprites and MG Midgets. A day later I traded-in my Indian Vintage for a Slingshot SL. 77 and still young-at-heart (or immature)!

[@1974dodgecharger]

I owned a 2017 slr. It was the best car ever. Considering buying another

[@richardferster8049]

I have/had 14 Polaris sleds and Atv's. and 1 PWC.Great machine's. Stiill have 5 sleds and 4 Atv's, all Polaris.

[@1YouTube_you]

The GM ecotech is a great engine and still in use today in many GM vehicles. So far the 2.0 has had good reports but if anything goes wrong you’ll wish you had the ecotech because the parts are cheap and abundant. Dave at DDM works did a good comparison between the 2.0 and the 2.4 and the GM engine still beat the 2.0 in the quarter mile. I have recently installed the DDM works supercharger kit on my 2019 and let tell ya, I could never go back to normally aspirated

[@pay2play456]

I have a 2018 it's a toy for me so I enjoy everytime I take a drive in it doesn't get old for me...

[@smilingbiter]

I think these types of three-wheel vehicles, are a unique type. They are not exactly a motorcycle or a car, but more a car than a motorcycle. I wave at the drivers but always feel that I'm being defrauded. If I was considering a three-wheeled motorcycle due to an injury or just getting too old to ride a motorcycle, I would consider this a viable and maybe preferred option.

[@jimeverett2772]

Lawrence: Yes, exactly = injured and old but want that wind and fun. And it is; got a 2021 S new about a month ago and love it.

[@tomfonner1886]

They fall into a category called auto cycle in most states.

[@dougbarkdull3469]

have a 2015 and love it..take it out sans wife and really put it through some corners..it drives like a car but handles like a bike...example; he mentioned braking before a turn.. who does that, besides my sister? Drop two gears and then punch it..shifts the weight to the rear and I've taken hairpins at 40 mph..never even complains...just watch for loose gravel. It's kind of like Kryptonite for the Slinger

[@papap.8006]

Dan I think you have sold yourself on the Slingshot. Very nicely done on this video. But I think the Tri Glide is more my style. But I could see it working for other folks. 👍

[@spireland5]

These things are just fun, and hard to beat the fun for the price.

[@Larsgman]

I’ve always wanted one of these

[@TheRealChetManley]

Would like to get one of these in the future so that my wife can join me on my adventures. She’s not very interested in riding on the back of an MC. This would be perfect.

[@BaggersandBrews]

I think they are pretty cool, i would imagine they are really fun to drive, however.........you're not getting a motorcycle wave from me 🤷🏼‍♂. great video .

[@conniejones8588]

All the motorcycles here in Florida wave..... respect

[@Perfectjzman]

Wouldn't buy this, but glad you made the video and glad you like it.

[@kyrangerman519]

My wife and I considered a Can Am and a Slingshot, we miss biking! She had her own Street Glide but now has back issues so a 2 wheeler is out, plus I don't have great balance anymore at 65 yrs. old. We rented a manual shift Slingshot in Gatlinburg last year, put about 100 miles on it. It was a blast but didn't feel like a bike in any way, it reminded us exactly of driving a Miata convertible. Great vid!

[@Propnut48]

I saw one in Cali about 3 or 4 years ago with the ecotech engine. The guys driving it we’re the reps showing it around and getting peoples opinions of it. I now live in Missouri and there’s places that rent here. I am going to rent one a see if I really one one of them or a 1320 Challenger.

[@timmitchell4633]

..... SUBSCRIBED, ..... keep the info. coming bro. .....

[@ag4allgood]

I like your review of the Slingshot. However I drive a 2016 MX-5 Club soft top year round in 4 season weather. Much more practical as a daily driver. About the same price range too ! No helmut needed either unless your in a Auto-X or going to the track. When it rains or snows the top goes up in 2 seconds flat. Nice to have options like the Slingshot though.

[@johnhutchison9782]

What is this "snow" you refer to? Thanks, John in St. Petersburg, Florida

[@davidtaylor111]

Judging by your grammar and your spelling I would say you've needed a helmet in the past

[@bas4903]

Have never seen these in Australia and I doubt we will. The authorities here would never let them on the road. But they look like a blast!

[@RickRairdon]

We lived in Gold Canyon 9 years Been on that road and people hauling boats can be scary.

[@arcdawg5425]

I won a 24 hr free rental of a Slingshot......I cannot wait to buy one of own now.

[@davidtaylor111]

I've rented these a few times in the only thing I wish they had is a 3-point harness because there are no airbags... my other concern is your very low to the ground any of you get T-boned in one of these you're going to be crushed

[@SarcasticFOX]

2020 type r hit 197 mph , daily driver love it. also yes people get a kick out of it.

[@donjohnson8952]

Great video

[@charlesdemay4192]

I NEED TO CHECK IT OUT, LOVE SHIFTING GEARS, MUCH SAFER THAN A MOTORCYCLE AND LESS NERVOUSNESS ESPECIALLY NOW HOW PEOPLE DRIVE NOW AFTER THE COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS WERE LIFTED. I FEEL VERY UNCOMFORTABLE DRIVING ON MAJOR HIGHWAYS NOW 🤔😯😞

[@leonmccalla7962]

What microphone do you use for the drive. The voice was really clear.

[@gregburns5638]

Where I live in a city of approximately 150,000 residents, there are about 6 "Slingshots" cruising around. Most seem to be owned/driven by Latinos, although a bright yellow one with optional "T-Top" style roof is owned by our police chief!!! WOW!!! 👍 😀 If they weren't so pricey, I would definitely consider buying one. Unfortunately, having no roof, side windows, windshield wipers, or heating/defrosting/air conditioning system would make it somewhat less desirable... 🤔

[@johnprice8625]

My wife has one we’ve had it since 2017

[@m.hughes2521]

Trikes are the result of a frustrated childhood. I understand. I want one.

[@aliveandfilming2]

Great video, I'm a tad sadden by the fact in 2023 folks still can't design a 3 wheeler covered and with doors .. ...limits the usage .

[@javersowens2035]

Can the rounded roll bars be switched out for the square ones.

[@comfortablynumb4491]

It looks like the shark fin behind and to the right of the driver blocks any view to that back side. Seems to create a blind pocket. Did you find that to be true?

[@denniskelly2177]

I am a senior citizen that have road motorcycles for over 50 years. Still I ride my harley softail but I know that I am likely one day to have to give it up. I love the looks of the slingshot and will possibly end up with one. Is there room to take clothes for a couple days ride?

[@itzjdub282]

I have a 2017. if I could drive it every single day I would.

[@BenDover-cv7vj]

I am a Polaris tech. Do not wreck it, it will total very easily. The frame will bend where the a arm attaches.

[@DuttyBoukmansToe]

comments like this is good 👍🏿

[@NANA-ji1gt]

That sucks.

[@NANA-ji1gt]

My son's putting a V8 Hemi in mine, lots of alterations tho.

[@jamesmapps1835]

I hear so much about the heat from the exhaust. Is it as bad as they say it is " for the passenger "?

[@paulregner5335]

These are great for people that can't ride a motorcycle for physical reasons or can't pass the motorcycle skills test for the endorsement on their operator's license.

[@josephshealey]

I ride a street glide. To me, the slingshot is a miata. Small 2 seater, convertable. That being said I've never been in one. I can't say I wouldn't get one until I experience one.

[@javersowens2035]

Is the Miata a three wheeler with no top? So how do they compare?

[@josephshealey]

@@javersowens2035 the makita has 4 wheels but yes, an open top. I rented a slingshot over the summer and it was a lot of fun. That being said. I'll stick to my street glide .

[@scottanderson4175]

Just picked up a C6 Corvette for $18K I am extremely happy with it would never consider a slingshot for any reason ever 🤦🏻‍♂️

[@reynetallents]

There are companies that make a rear view mirror add on. Mounts on the dash.

[@joycebricker3814]

Just got back from 1500 mile trip

[@JaySorsby1]

I wouldn’t pass up a chance to spend some time with one for sure. Also: I’m not sure how I feel about the Ford ad in the middle of your video. 🤔

[@GearsGadgets]

Haha I think it’s great.

[@nvalles2565]

@@GearsGadgets FORD. found on the road dead. I think that’s what they were alluding to.

[@joycebricker3814]

Rode one 1500 miles. met lots of people, what kind of engine does it have? “Gas” I was educated before title 9 you put the gas in here . How fast will it go? The speedometer says 220 but not with me in it or driving it. It was 100 degrees got very warm.

[@lloydsplace101]

O goody, i ll run right out and buy one.

[@GearsGadgets]

I can appreciate some sarcasm from time to time

[@johnprice8625]

My wife’s got one whose shoe had it since 2017

[@manvirsinghpt8430]

How do you chat in the helment without road noise>??

[@BombsAwayLP]

Ill be dammed if i wear a helmit in that thing

[@Mamadordeculosprofesional]

You'd be forced to by the bugs lmao. Or at least goggles. You decide what looks more goofy.

[@JCFariasUSMC]

What is the Maintenance on these??

[@kniteprince3798]

I would like to know if they still have problem with heat? Noise? And if the pass compartment is still so cramped? We have a 2017 SLR, it IS a LOT of fun, and we very much enjoy it.... but the passenger has to deal with HEAT coming in, and it gets uncomfortable on hot days in traffic... the pass compartment is cramped, I am only 5'9" and I cannot straighten my legs. THAT really gets uncomfortable on a long ride when the wife insists on driving, and then there is the exhaust, dumping by the passengers feet, it drones and is seriously annoying, again, on the longer rides. I can put heat shielding on it, and I can buy an aftermarket rear exit exhaust, but that wont fix the fact that the passenger is trapped in a compartment that is too short to get comfortable.... A little less annoying... is that the seat FORCES you to sit very upright. I like to lean back JUST a little, but there is nowhere for the seat to go... We have over 5000 miles on our SLR, and intend to put more on it, because it is fun.... However if I had the ROOM to be comfortable??? I would buy the exhaust and heat shielding, and we would probably have 20000 miles on it by now.... but, we just cant take it on long rides.

[@Ryan96se]

How is it in the rain? If you do not have a garage, are there covers that can keep it safe from snow, etc.? Do you need a motorcycle endorsement on your license to drive one of these?

[@wrxct]

there is a back up camera but im pretty sure u cant switch to it mid drive

[@KaiserDragonTV]

I used to have a 1st gen for 20 grand was good vehicle fun as hell but now they sell for almost 60 grand..... I bought a BMW 2023 330E instead brand new custom from the factory...