Hi I really would appreciate input from Polaris ATV Owner's only. I am in a wheelchair and have excluded Polaris from my ATV search based on negative comments on many different websites. Everything from fires to electrical problems were noted. It really appears that Polaris for one reason or another does not want to fix problems. Like I said I excluded Polaris right up to the point of using one with power stearing. I really like it and am currently rethinking my stance.
My question is Knowing the person can only do limited mainteanance, would you still recommend Polaris? Has Polaris turned around to the point they are addressing their problems?
Thanks in advance for your thoughts and ideas.

 

Welcome to the forums.

I can't speak for the newer models, but I was happy with my 2000 and two 2003 models. The 2003 models were pretty general maintenance. One was a 2 stroke and needed the top end rebuilt, but I think that is just as common for any brand on that. The 2000 model mechanically was fine, just tended to end up hitting a few trees and going tires up a few times. Not the fault of the manufacturer.

 

i can only speak for my 2001 Polaris TrailBlazer 250cc 2 stroke automatic. it is a solid machine. i have had ZERO issues with it. sorry i can't speak on behalf of the newer models either.

 

I have a 2008 that I use for work and play. No issues other than a front differential seal leak. Easy fix.

 

Welcome to the forum!

Even though I'm riding Can-Am (at the moment)
I've owned a couple of sportsman's in the past-
My biggest complaint was the drive train clatter / chatter.

They are probably one of the most stable atv's out there- and the new xp's have some amazing upgrades over the previous sportsmans.

If i were you- I would also read up on profesional reviews of the models you're thinking about buying- in addition to what you're reading on forums. Keep in mind, most people use these forums to get assistance on repairs, so that's what you'll see most of the time... IMO, I think the new polaris atv's would make a great "modified" atv for a wheelchair bound person- they are built pretty tough.

 

Between the Wife an I we have owned several Polaris atv's.

2-2006 500 Sportsmans
2-2008 800 Sportsmans
2-2009 850 Sportsmans with EPS
1-2011 850 Touring with EPS

Out of all these machines we had the most trouble with the 500's, not the fault of the machines as we attempted to use them as submarines on several occasions and a lake of experience with the machines lead to a general lack of maintenance. We traded them off and stopped abusing them and started maintaining them properly, we also no longer seek out the wet and sloppy, now we try to find the rocks and hills. The 800's were problem free minus the tree incident. Her 850 has been great mine did go thru a few parts all covered under warranty. So far my 2011 has been trouble free but hasn't seen much use yet..... it will finally be getting a workout this weekend as the trails are finally starting to open back up from spring thaw.

 

2006 Sportsman X2 500. One minor issue with foot brake that is a backup to the hand lever which controls both front and rear brakes. Other than that 2700+ trouble free harsh environment miles.

 

From my experience with my 2007 X2 500....I wouldn't hesitate on purchasing a new Polaris. At this time I have 2410 gremlin free miles......and you can't beat the ride with a stick. Have you looked into a two up ATV?.....a little longer wheelbase than the single ride Sportsman. Also CanAm has some nice looking quads.....that would be my other druthers......

 

I don't believe Polaris makes the tough ATV's they used to. IMHO, they are over engineered. Many rip the other companies for not coming out with "new" stuff like Polaris. Problem is...all this new stuff and new engineering has it's problems, always takes time to work out the bugs, and some of these "bugs" are pretty big. Been alot of unhappy new polaris owners roaming the forums. I agree, we usually read the bad and not the good...but it seems alot of bad compared to other makes. 2 personal friends that are sick about there Polaris 850 XP choice right now...both motor problems.


On a different note...I'm not even sure they make these anymore?? The john deer buck with the open platform...I'm not pushing "john deer". Just curious if any of the manufacturers still make this style platform? Seems like it would be pretty helpful for someone in a chair, not having to lift/swing your legs over the seat/tank to get on/off. Something to consider...basically a function over "style" thing.

Choose what you feel is right for you...good luck!

Wenty

 

I have 4 Polaris units and I'm an overall happy owner. However, it seems like most models have one or two issues though: for instance my kids 06 Hawkeyes had well known frame crack issues and that happened and the '07 Rangers broke belts and have throttle position sensor issues, I have the '07 and yes I have both of those issues. I also have an '07 800 Sportsman, it had a reputation for being solid, except for a wire harness, which I haven't had any issues with. It has about 5,000 trouble free miles, I haven't even replaced the battery.

Two of the upsides for Polaris are the ride and handling and the four wheel drive system. The four wheel drive system will take you places that the competitors can't go and you will get there much more comfortably. Even the Polaris RZR had lots of bugs early on, it took awhile to work through those issues, but nearly everyone that owns a newer one will tell you it's by far the class leader.

If you buy a model with the major bugs worked out, you should be happy with your choice because they are not bumper to bumper junk as some may lead you to believe.