So my wife just won a big settlement and I get a new toy . I am trying to decide which one I want. I know I am sticking with Polaris despite all the problems mine has had. I always buy American. Up until last weekend, I was pretty set on getting the 850 XP. I am a horsepower junkie so it was an easy decision, however...

Last weekend, I went out with my dad to our ranch. He has a low mileage 2005 800. I saw him really struggling to get up some of the hills and other obstacles on the trails and almost flipped it on several of them. I was able to go over the same on my 2000 500 with ease. Are the bigger models really that much harder to maneuver around, or should I chalk it up to inexperience on his part?

I don't plan on many modifications other than common items like a winch and some bags. I ride mostly for recreation, trails and getting around to neighbors houses. I usually cruise around at about 30-40 mph. I am not into going real fast, just into going anywhere I want. I occasionally take trips to places that have some pretty rough riding with a little mud and water involved.

Opinions on what I should get?

 

If big power is not needed, go with the 2010 550. The ride and handling is great on the new models.

 

If you are a horsepower junkie the 850 rules!

 

Get the 850 with EPS and don't look back. This is not a knock on anybody, but I would call his problems Rider Error. My SP800 was very well balanced, and the only time I ever had trouble with it being tippy was when I had some large duffel bags full of camping gear strapped all over it, affecting its center of gravity.

 

Thanks, that was the answer I was really looking for. I was concerned about loosing handling capability. My dad does not ride very much so I thought that may be the case. I noticed alot of mistakes he made like leaning down hill and putting his leg down to try to stop a tip ( I did that once, ouch). I guess I will stick with the 850XP, but I doubt I will get the power steering. The less stuff to break the better, hence the reason I was looking at a carbureted model.

 

the 800 is a stable as your 500 in every way like mentioned above. i'm sure the 850 power will be a eye opener after driving your 500. hang on and have fun.lol

 

The XP chassis is so much better handling than the old SP platform. I'm a HP junkie too, and the 850 is my fix, no doubt. I think the XP is a better hillclimber than the old Sportsmans too. Test drive both XP's and the 500HO, and I think you will go XP.

 

I am a fan of the extra power but if you normally ride at 30-40 and are occasionally on rough trails, the XP550 may suit your needs better. Either of the models with or without EPS will be good but the 550 is a little lighter and more nimble. The new 850 will handle better then your 2000 500 will. I wish I had the same dilemma as to which new machine I was going to get. I'm still stuck with my old 600. I don't think you will go wrong with either machine.

 

Buy the best you can afford. The new style sportsmans ride smoother and steer easier. I have owned four SP 500s (01, 02, 04 and 05) and I would choose a 850 without power steering (not needed - they steer much easier than the old machines).

I have ridden the 550 and it has more snap than the 500 HO. I hear the 850 is simply a joy to rided with endless torque and smooth power.

As for the old man's 800 not climbing well....it is rider error because they climb like a goat with plenty of power.

 

You can't even compare the stability of the 800 or 500 to the XP...the XP is ALOT more stable IMO. I have climbed hills on my 850 that I was not able,or more accurately comfortable to climb on the 800...go ride one and it will make the decision for you. It is so much more nimble and confident feeling...night and day difference..
As for mods winch is a must on any ATV IMO and on the XP good tires are the next must have. I suggest Maxxis Big Horns for most trail riding...makes it feel that much more stable and controllable at speed on the trail(alot less push in the turns) and the traction is drastically improved over the Terrathons. If you ride an XP and you are used to an old style Sportsman you will be amazed at the handling..then put some Big Horns on it and it is again that much better....jmo