Lookin at a scrambler 500 ho. Any opionion on performance and reliablity. Is the whole HO thing just a marketing spin. I've heard its actually the same motor as past years. All opinions are welcome. Thx.

 

When it first came out, the 500 was slow compared to the 400 2 stroke. Polaris changed things and made it so they are about the same when they are both stock. Modified, the 2 stroke will still kill any 500 but the HO I believe was the result of the changes. As for the 500 HO I love mine. I show up others all the time. Its funny that I can jump a 600 lb quad and do wheelies, and climb very steep hills with no problem. Other guys sit and watch as It tares up the dirt, mud, and any thing else I come accross. I don't know how many times I have pulled others out. I think it is one of the best all around quads made. Unless you are looking into racing and jumping very high you will be very happy with the scrambler.

 

You won't find another stock 500cc quad with as much power as the 500ho.

 

I've had mine a week and jumping back and forth between a 99 2-stroke and mine I can't really tell a difference. The 2-stroke has a little better throttle response but the power's about the same. There are bigger engines and faster bikes out there, but between the reliability of the Scrambler in general, the optional pull-start, the great AWD system, and the most comfortable ride you'll find, I think the Scrambler is the best all-around bike you can get.

 

The 2 stroke can become a 90+HP beast with the right mods! stock they are about the same. If yours seems about the same as your 500 than you must not have many mods to it.

 

I love my scrambler and tell everybody who will listen to buy one.

 

Thanks for the info. Can anyone offer an unbias comparison between the Scrambler 500 HO and and the Kawasaki (gasp!!) KFX700? Just curious. Thanks again.

 

your 400 scrambler is a 2 stroke? right?

 

The scrambler is 4 wheel drive with the flip of a switch. The KFX is not. If that is not important to you than I would test both of them. I love the scrambler, but have heard many good things about the KFX. I think the KFX is a good quad, but I want the 4 wheel drive option.

 

Thanks. Any problems with the Scrambler in mud, overheating etc?? Seems (from other posts) that RCR and HSP are good places to look for Polaris mods and aftermarket upgrades. Any other good places?