Lagoa de Albufeira
Showing posts with label Sportsman. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sportsman. Show all posts
Monday, January 9, 2012
Monday, December 26, 2011
2009 Polaris Sportsman XP Models
There's a strikingly similar question for buyers in the market for a middle-of-the-road Polaris utility quad. With a mere 0 price difference between two strong contenders, which mid-displacement Polaris ATV offers the most bang for the buck? Candidate A, the Sportsman 400 H.O., rides atop a newer platform (see: change), while Candidate B, the Sportsman 500 H.O., is the company's token utility quad and one of the best selling ATVs of all time (see: experience).
Meet the Candidates
How is one to decide? Polaris makes a strong case for both the mid-size Sportsman 400 H.O. and its full-size 500 H.O. model - the 400 is a new entry level machine with big boy features, while the full-size 500 offers a larger engine and a slight price penalty. With such a narrow difference in fiscal policy (a.k.a. price), the choice seems fairly insignificant.
As you dig in to the specifics, though, you'll see there are some meaningful differences that must be aired out - namely how the 400 spins the truth and actually packs a 455cc single cylinder engine from the departed Sportsman 450, whereas the 500 meets expectations with a 499cc unit in office for a decade. Looking at dry weights, obesity being a key issue and all, there's a 91-pound advantage for the 400 - 605 pounds versus 696.
The wheelbases also offer a stark contrast. The 400 is 4.5 inches shorter than the 500, which makes for a more manageable package for less experienced riders, or loading up in a crowded toy hauler. Let's not get bogged down in contrast - there's a lot in common here, too. Both rigs have carburetors and liquid cooling, are suspended by MacPherson struts in front and IRS out back, display vital statistics through full instrumentation and divide power with the company's selectable "true" on-demand all-wheel drive. Sounds even-Steven but we're nowhere close to naming a front runner.
The Initial Debate
It was time for some face time, a true knock-down-drag-out debate. Forget Iowa, New Hampshire or the Carolinas, we're outdoorsmen here at ATV Magazine and headed for the snowy trails of northwest Wisconsin to pit the candidates head-to-head.
Just thirty seconds into our trail ride, and with only 2 miles on the odometer, we noticed the four-wheel drive wouldn't engage on the 400. We were unable to self-diagnose the problem. A tough first debate had now raised some potentially serious character flaws with the red candidate.
Even though our destination was snow-covered and slippery, 4WD wasn't essential and we continued along the undulating, scenic woods trails. Switching off between the two clearly illustrated a disparity in suspension performance. Our 500 rode like so many Polaris 500 H.O.'s before it - soft. Bumps are absorbed to the point of elimination, for a fatigue-free experience. Credit that to the 500's ample 8.2 and 9.5 inches of suspension travel, front and rear, compared with 7 and 8 for the 400. Acceleration is moderate, body roll isn't a concern, controls are where you expect them and it feels like a true-blue, full-size machine.
Bruised, but still fighting, the 400 motored along like the underdog it was - lighter and less bulky. Two testers, tall and taller, both felt comfortable on the downsized ride and appreciated its tossability. The four-hundo still delivers that trademark cushy Polaris ride, but whether it's firmer dampening rates, different suspension geometry or the shorter wheelbase, there is less rider comfort. Instead, riders get a sportier feel than the 500. Lower fenders and three inches less width for the 400 back up the smaller, playful feel imparted by the lower curb weight.
This round's a draw.
The Power to Change
Finding a clear victor is easier when it comes to raw power. Polaris says the 500's mill generates 35.9 peak hp, and 31.1 pound-feet of torque at 5000 revolutions, while the 400's 29.2 peak hp and 24.6 pound-feet of torque scrambles to catch up.
There's that weight difference, though, and for that very reason, we pulled out the radar gun and did some acceleration testing - never a bad way to kill some time on a deserted country road.
Less weight and more petite dimensions were not enough for the 400, which was soundly outrun by the faster 500. It took 101 feet for the 400 to hit 30 mph, while the 500 accomplished the same task in less than 90 feet. After putting on several miles, and frequently switching between machines, the numbers weren't a surprise. They're both fairly close, and can hang with each other on trails, but the 500 wins the speed voters.
Kitchen Table Issues
More time with the candidates brought out some of the finer points of contention - matters of performance, harshness and tone.
On paper, there's nothing different with the duo's braking packages. Both offer single-lever hydraulic discs up front and a hydraulic rear foot brake - traditional single-lever braking. But, then you look at the actual record. Our 400's braking was noticeably front-loaded, with nearly all of perceived braking force sent to the front wheels. Around slippery corners, it was enough to send the machine into instant understeer. Braking on the 500, on the other hand, is a model of consistency - exactly what you expect, when you expect it, and without the front-heavy bias.
Ergonomics are another battleground for any consumer cross shopping these two. As both of our testers were above the 6-foot mark, we were surprised to feel comfortable with both. The trimmer 400 felt like a 9/10ths scale quad designed for smaller riders, but it's still spacious enough to appeal to the masses.
With all things being equal, noise, vibration and harshness can make a big difference to fickle comparison shoppers. Why go with one, when another is less irritating? To that end, neither single-cylinder engine is all that high-tech or polished. Since this is a debate, after all, we'd be remiss if we didn't give it to you straight - the age-old 500 vibrates less, a nod to its years of refinement. While the 400 is not harsh, there is more engine and chassis vibration that makes it to the rider. There's no landslide here, but the Sportsman 500 is the smoother operator.
Wedge Issues
Moving past the big-ticket questions, there are a few small differences worth mentioning. You never know what's a deal breaker with pesky issue voters. First up, while it has most of the full-sized features of the 500, the 400 does not have low-range or parking gears.
If you're shopping for a Polaris Sportsman, you're probably excited about that storage bin under the front rack - we love the feature and use it every chance we get. A smaller space, combined with service access to the radiator and battery charger plug creates a smaller cubbyhole on the 400. It's still usable storage, but 500 H.O. buyers can be more of a pack rat up front and they get an additional storage box under the rear rack.
Instrumentation is another area that shows some minor cost cutting on the 400 - its all-digital gauges are not as readable as the digital-and-analog display on the 500. There's also a pod light on the 500. Hey, this is a campaign, and every little detail counts.
Damage Control
As the sun was setting and the trail reached a dead end, it was time to turn around and head back to the trailhead. We gave it all we had for a powerslide-filled trip back, trying to make the final call on these two opposing rides. The truck's always a good place to think.
Back at the shop, we decided to dig up some answers on the 400's faulty 4WD system. Polaris service technicians later poked around, prodded and told us that a snap ring either popped out of its groove in the main gear case, or it was never seated at the assembly line. When the power was transmitted through, it pushed against the snap ring until the pinion gear on the snorkel shaft was no longer making contact - hence, no front-wheel action.
Surely a problem bound to be cast in a harsh light by the media. Not so! ATV Magazine has a proud history of objective reporting. Such driveline problems are rare for any mainstream manufacturer, and we'll cautiously attribute it to a one-off blunder.
Election Day
Trying to nail down a winner, the media rehashed the same old questions. Who's the ideal buyer for the smaller 400? Who should go with the larger 500? Is there enough of a difference between them? And, which would us testers go with, if we had to make the call for ourselves?
Our vote? The Sportsman 500 H.O., for its full size, super-plush ride, low range, higher speed, more torque and the fact that a Sportsman 500 has never been priced so low. Whether it's work or play, and we like both, there are plenty of reasons to justify the extra 0 spent. Store more gear, haul more butt, pull more stuff.
By contrast, those maybe aren't major compromises for someone who appreciates the simpler operation, more managable dimension and lighter weight of the Sportsman 400 H.O. It may offer more of the important-to-you features than any other quad in its class.
What's right for you? That's your call. But if you're like us, and you're looking for a full-size worker and a lively trail rider, mark your ballot for the Sportsman 500 H.O.
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Polaris Sportsman 500 EFI
My friend driving his polaris sportsman 500 in Finland Kokkola. ps. I know I'm bad to drive in this video but it was the first time I drove in a long time. Song: Bon Jovi Have A Nice Day
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Polaris Sportsman 500 0-60 MPH
0-60 mph acceleration run of my 2002 Polaris Sportsman 500 HO. This was done on an ATV legal road, but I should've been wearing a helmet.
Friday, December 2, 2011
1998-1999 Polaris Sportsman 500 4x4 ATV Electric Rectifier / Regulator
!±8±1998-1999 Polaris Sportsman 500 4x4 ATV Electric Rectifier / Regulator
Brand : Rick's Motorsport ElectricsRate :
Price : $50.95
Post Date : Dec 02, 2011 04:51:07
Usually ships in 4-5 business days
Rick's Motorsport Electrics ATV Electric Rectifier / Regulator
Save I12040 Kidde Graco Comfort Sport Car Seat Best Electric Hand Mixers Order Now
Monday, November 28, 2011
Friday, November 25, 2011
1998 Polaris Sportsman 500 6x6 ATV Electric Rectifier / Regulator
!±8± 1998 Polaris Sportsman 500 6x6 ATV Electric Rectifier / Regulator
Brand : Rick's Motorsport Electrics | Rate : | Price : $50.95
Post Date : Nov 25, 2011 09:33:54 | Usually ships in 4-5 business days
| Price : $50.95Post Date : Nov 25, 2011 09:33:54 | Usually ships in 4-5 business days
Rick's Motorsport Electrics ATV Electric Rectifier / Regulator
- All Regulator / Rectifiers are New and Built to O.E.M. Specifications
- Includes 1 Year Manufacturer Warranty
- High Quality Cost Effective Factory Part Repalcement
- Includes O.E.M. Style Connector
- Compatibility: 1998- Polaris Sportsman 500 6x6
Monday, November 21, 2011
2007 Polaris Sportsman 500 6x6 ATV Electric Starter Motor
!±8±2007 Polaris Sportsman 500 6x6 ATV Electric Starter Motor
Brand : Rick's Motorsport ElectricsRate :
Price :
Post Date : Nov 21, 2011 20:21:36
N/A
Rick's Motorsport Electrics ATV Electric Starter Motor
Affordable starters are constructed with longer-life bearings than OEM. Many OEM starter motors have an unprotected output needle bearing on the outside of the output shaft's seal; moisture can and does enter the output cap of the electric motor and follows the armature shaft to the unprotected output needle bearing which corrodes the bearing. Rick's takes the extra step of installing a double-sealed ball bearing with the output shaft seal on the outside of the bearing in their new aftermarket unit.
Friday, November 11, 2011
Polaris SPORTSMAN 500 HO ATV HIGH PERFORMANCE DRIVE BELT 0242
!±8± Polaris SPORTSMAN 500 HO ATV HIGH PERFORMANCE DRIVE BELT 0242
Brand : MOOSE | Rate : | Price :
Post Date : Nov 11, 2011 09:42:37 | Usually ships in 2-3 business days
| Price : Post Date : Nov 11, 2011 09:42:37 | Usually ships in 2-3 business days
Comes with warranty card that if filled out and mailed in, will give a one year warranty on belt. Warranty will be handled by the manufacturer only. You must send in warranty card for this to apply.DESIGNED TO DONINATE ANY TYPE OF TERRAINExtra strong p-aramid cord reinforcement and engineered fiber loaded neoprene compounding.DELIVERS THE "MUSCLE" AND DURABILITY DEMANDED BY TODAY'S HIGH-PERFORMANCE ENGINESRuns cooler and provides longer belt life.Tested under severe field conditionsShipping usually takes about 3-6 business days for product to reach customers door.High quality, heavy duty material used during manufacturing process
- ATV HIGH PERFORMANCE DRIVE BELT
- POLARIS SPORTSMAN 500 HO 2003-06; SPORTSMAN 500 X2 2006
- SPORTSMAN 500 HO DUSE w/ EBS 2001-02
- SPORTSMAN 500 HO RSE w/ EBS 2001-02
- SPORTSMAN 500 HO w/ EBS 2001-02; SPORTSMAN 500 w/ EBS 2000-02
Saturday, October 29, 2011
KFI ATV 2500lb Winch COMBO-KIT for a 2005-2010 Polaris Sportsman, X2, and Touring
!±8±KFI ATV 2500lb Winch COMBO-KIT for a 2005-2010 Polaris Sportsman, X2, and Touring
Brand : KFI ProductsRate :
Price :
Post Date : Oct 29, 2011 06:40:38
Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Please click on the images above to see all of the machines that this Combo Kit is compatible with. This mount ONLY works with the Sportsmans that have the front end shown in the above image. This is a complete Combo Kit package that includes everything you need to install this winch onto your ATV. This Kit includes the ATV Winch shown and the model specific winch mount that is required for the ATV's listed in the above images. Whether its on a winding trail, plowing snow or deep in the mud, a reliable winch is the most important accessory a rider can have. Equip your ATV, UTV or SxS with a KFI WINCH and feel confident you can pull yourself out of any situation. This 2500lb ATV Series winch features quality cast aluminum and durable steel components, Water Resistant seals to keep the elements out, a standard 4-hole mounting design and a heavy duty all metal turn clutch. It is also backed by a KFI 1-Year Limited Warranty. Everything shown is included along with detailed installation instructions and hardware to mount your winch to the model specific ATV winch mount. If you have any questions on whether your winch will work please give our customer sales representatives a call at 1-877-346-2050.
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