I'm possibly looking at a new quad. I am looking for something with a plush ride and of course very reliable. Any thoughts on the Magnum 500?

 

I own a Magnum 500 and it is the best Polaris I have ever owned. Its faster than the Sportsman, requires less work, and has a higher towing capacity.

 

I've got 1400 miles on mine and it hasn't been back to the shop yet.

The Magnum 500 is geared 5% higher than the Sportsman 500 in Hi range and 10% lower than the Sportsman 500 in Low range.

The mileage on these Magnums is good. Mine averages between 25 and 26.

The shaft ride system is good although not as smooth as an Xplorer or Sportsman.

While not as plush as the IRS on the Sportsman the rear drive is more durable. (and weighs 50 pounds less)

It sure beats the Honda 450ES we used to own.

 

My brothers and I recently purchased four 500 Magnums. I have a 2000 model and the others are 2001. Unfortunately we don't have a lot of miles on them yet but we chose the 500 Magnum for its great ride, power, overall comfort, and from what I have read it should be very reliable. One of our units had a faulty clutch upon delivery and that was replaced under warranty. So far we are happy with our purchase.

 

I have an Xplorer 400 and my dad has a Mag 500. the Mag seems to be a great quad but compared to my Xplorer the steering is heavy as hell. On a tight trail the mag will work your butt to death compared to the Xplorer.

Andy G

 

Powerchoke,

I believe you're wrong. Unless I'm mistaken, the Magnum and Sportsman have the same towing capacity.

 

Do the '01 models steer easier than the '00 machine? I have heard they improved the steering linkage for reduced handlebar effort, but haven't had the chance to drive an '01 yet. About the only gripe I can come up with on these machines is the effort required to steer compared to my Xplorer.

 

I am completly satisfied with mine. It does steer hard with the original dunlop tires, shelve those and buy a set of Mud-Runners. It will reduce steering effort and with the new easy steer on the '01 models it ought to really be easy to steer. I know that one of the group we ride with just bought a 2001 Mag 500 and she has no complaints about the steering even with the dunlops.

1157 miles and no problems. Ridden hard and not babied at all! I have modified it though, too attempt to meet the expectations that it fell short from (only in my opinion). Had I to do it over again now I would buy the new 2002 Magnum RMK.

In any case pick the Mag, you won't be disappointed!

 

If they would only put the HO 500 in it...
There's hope for 2002...

 

Jerry
What is a Magnum RMK?

Andy