I have negotiated a great deal with a local dealer for either a 2009 550XP or a 2009 500 X2 and I was looking for some input from you guys before I pull the trigger. I get the appeal of the new tech in the XP but I am drawn to the 2-up and box feature on the X2. 2-up is a must for me and I am reluctant about a passenger seat on the XP. Thoughts?

 

I have a 2006 X2 and love it. The front box can store a lot of items. I have; a tow strap, tree strap, ****** block pulley, extra belt, small ratchet set, 3 pocket knife style hex and torx bit tools, a leatherman, two rolls TP, hitch *****, cargo net, first aid kit, and a little more. The dump box is a great feature. I use the box 95% of the time and the fold up seat about 5%. If goes up or down in about 10 seconds. They improved the latching mechanisms from the 2006 models. Mine is fine but the newer ones are better. The only real difference is that the XP has dual A-arm front now. Handles better and also has a bigger engine. Not that the X2 is too bad. And I'm not sure if the XP version of the X2 comes with the front box. I think it does but I'm not sure.

 

Have you looked at a 2010 550 xp x2 ???? Sweet

 

x2 is a work horse.
xp is a cadillac.

Pick yur best use.

 

X2 is better for two riders but the XP truely is a more refined (cadilac) machine. If two up is a must then I would lean torwards the X2.

 

I would agree with Colt2245p and buy the 2010 XP X2. It has the front storage box already on it and has the benefits of BOTH the XP and X2 features.

The non-XP Sportsman models are really just dinosaurs at this point. In fact, Popo dropped EFI in the 500 SP for 2010. Only a carb, non-EBS, non-EFI model is offered in the 500cc.

Ride a XP to feel the difference, then study the improvements made on the XP over the old model. I think it's a no-brainer.

 

I agree with all the comments above.

I had to make the same decision. Ended up going with the X2, due to 2 up riding, plus the dump body makes it a great little utility vehicle for hauling or carrying gear. It's made for true, legal, 2 up riding and is more stable due to the extended wheel base.

You won't regret getting either one, just need to determine how you plan on utilizing the ATV and base your decision on that. If mostly 2 up riding, absolutley get the X2.

Good luck.

 

I recently purchased a 2010 550X2. Haven't had it on any serious trail rides yet, but it's great so far. As somebody else has said it has all the benefits of the XP, but in a more rugged/work-horse platform. As for a 2009 model I don't think you would really be disapointed with the 500X2. It was rated as a VERY capable and comfortable machine by all the reviews I've seen. The only real drawback of the '09 X2 would be the low radiator position for those that like mudding. As for riding two-up on a quad designed for one? No way, at least not for me. The rider won't feel comfortable, and with the added safety concerns you will have stress trying to keep things fun. If you can get a great deal on an '09X2 (what...under $7k?), then I would go for it. But if you want improved styling, XP features, better radiator placement, and slightly increased power....go for a 2010. One thing to keep in mind about the '09 though is that the 500 engine is tried and tested as a very reliable powerplant...the new 550 is far too new to tell yet if it's a bullet proof design. I hope so.

 

550 is made by the same folks as the 500 (FUJI). The 850 has been used in sleds for other Polaris products. Both engines should be reliable/indestructable.

 

I'll help make it real easy for you. Buy a 2009 Yamaha Grizzly 550 with EPS. You will never regret buying a Grizz!