If you try to accelerate really slowly it's going to be jerky just because of the way the system works. The proper way to accelerate in most CVT equipped vehicles is to give it a semi hard jab of throttle to get going initially and then you can let up a bit to take off slowly.

 

So much depends on so many variables. A perfect system will have a smooth engagement. When one is talking used then.....well it gets complicated. What kind of condition is the belt? Does it have flat spots? Is the clutch full of dust and dirt? Would not totally judge a used machine by engagement. More on the condition of the overall machine. Engagement can be or might not be an indicate of how machine was used. Without pulling the cover and doing an inspection it is very hard to tell a lot. If looking for a good engagement, purchase a new one with a warranty. All used are a risk and will have issue one has to work through. Very, very few will behave as a new one will.

 

Stock belt on the 2015 ALWAYS had a jerky engagement. Loading it onto a trailer was always a PITA. Call @Hunterworks and ask about a fix.
Check the New Owner FAQ at the top of the forum. New Owner must do's / FAQ / Alerts

Also,

New to me 900s — advice

Hi All, Bounced into a great deal on a 2015 900s. Only has 1100 miles. Give me some advice. What do I need to fix proactively? I have been on a ride with a 2015 900 S and I can’t exactly remember but something broke with the rear A-Arm bolt. Is that a common issue? Is the wheel bearing...

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Thoughts:

1. Buy as much machine as you can, in as good a condition as you can.
2. Don't buy a '16 Turbo.
3. I have a life-long friend with a '15 Maverick 1000r. It looks and sounds great! He sure has helped sell a lot of Polaris machines. Run Forrest run!
   1. Poor ground clearance
   2. Poor front diff engagement vs Poo's
   3. Not really very fast
   4. PITA to work on. (kind of a mid-engine thing)
4. Sooner or later most guys end up needing a dealer. I would ask around about quality service options in my area.
5. Clutch: It's like any other cluthed machine - You don't want to stay partially engaged. As engagement occurs roll into the throttle smoothly and let it transition. If you don't it will buck, and that's your clue that you aren't being aggressive enough. But you should not need to feel like you need to stab it.
6. I do think the Poo 900 and the maverick 1000 are relative competitors, while the poo 1000XP is better than either in most every way.
7. I would try to find an XP1000 with fox shock if you can afford it. The only better buy in SxS is an '18 XPT.