Polaris RideCommand: Navigation, Connectivity, and Control at Your Fingertips
If you ride a Polaris side-by-side or ATV, then you’ve probably heard of RideCommand. It’s more than just navigation - this system transforms your machine into a smart, connected cockpit. At Noam Audio, we believe in offering not just great sound, but also making sure your ride has all the tech to match. Here’s a deep dive into what RideCommand is, why it matters, and how it complements your audio setup.
What is Polaris RideCommand?
RideCommand is Polaris’s integrated touchscreen system that provides:
- A 7-inch glove-friendly display in-dash for vehicles equipped with the touchscreen option. You can tap, swipe, and control navigation, gauge displays, and more. Polaris+2Polaris+2
- Extensive mapping and trail information - over 1.3 million miles of verified trails, including public/private land data. Polaris
- GPS navigation, waypoints, points of interest, 3D flyover previews of rides. Polaris+1
- Connectivity through the Polaris app and/or web-based interface: plan your rides, upload tracks, keep track of your machine via the Garage, view vehicle health, update software. Polaris+1
There’s also RideCommand+, the enhanced version, which includes remote vehicle location, diagnostics, and additional remote features. Polaris+1
Why RideCommand Matters for Riders & Audio Lovers
For off-road enthusiasts, RideCommand offers several significant benefits, especially when paired with an upgraded audio system like those from Noam Audio. Some of these include:
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Integrated Controls & Less Clutter
RideCommand centralizes many functions - navigation, trail maps, gauges, performance data - into a single screen. That means fewer separate devices to mount or wires to run. As someone installing speakers, amps, or head units, you’ll appreciate fewer competing components. -
Contextual Awareness & Route Planning
Want to map a trail ahead of time, know where you’re going off-road without cell service, or share your route with fellow riders? RideCommand enables this. And when you combine that with an audio setup that can deliver clear sound outdoors (despite wind, engine, etc.), you have both awareness and enjoyment. -
Match Tech & Audio for a Seamless Experience
Great sound is one thing - but if your ride-control tech lags behind, you might feel disjointed. Having RideCommand ensures your machine’s tech feels modern, responsive. And when your audio keeps up (good speakers, clean wiring, waterproof components), the whole ride is more immersive. -
Durability & Off-Grid Reliability
Many RideCommand features work without constant cell coverage. Trail data can be downloaded; GPS works in remote areas. Similarly, Noam Audio gear built for off-road must resist water, dust, shock. When both your tech and audio are built for the same rugged conditions, you get reliability when it counts.
Tips for Pairing RideCommand & Your Noam Audio Setup
If you're considering upgrades or already have a Noam Audio system, here are ways you can get the most out of RideCommand with your audio:
- Use the RideCommand adapter (if available) to integrate your audio head or amplifier so control of media is simpler and possibly routed through the RideCommand system. NOAM discussions of RideCommand compatibility suggest certain audio systems come with adapters for this. NOAM Audio
- Match audio output to ambient noise: RideCommand helps you plan trails and know elevation, conditions, etc. - all help predict how noisy it may be. Use speakers with good power and waterproof or rugged construction so your tunes are heard and your gear survives.
- Place audio hardware smartly: Since RideCommand is in-dash, you’ll want your speakers placed so they don’t interfere with your visibility or trail-map view. Roll-bar speakers or tower speakers mounted close to the roll cage often work well.
- Think about power draw & electrical load: RideCommand, audio systems, lighting, etc., all draw current. Make sure your battery, alternator, and wiring are up to the task. If your audio upgrade pulls a lot of power, ensure your machine’s electrical system can handle it without dimming RideCommand or other needed tech.
Final Word: Is RideCommand Worth It?
For serious off-roaders, the answer is yes. Having a navigation and mapping solution built in that works even off the beaten path adds safety and confidence. For casual riders who want good maps and the ability to track rides, the value is still strong. Combine RideCommand with a high-quality audio setup (like NOAM’s rugged marine/off-road-grade speakers & subwoofers) and your adventure is both informed and fun.