I was just looking at used ATV values at kbb.com the other day, when I stumbled into the '97 Polaris selection, and saw that, according to KBB (and NADA Guides, now that I look there), there was a Sportsman produced in that model year with the 400cc (378cc) 2-stroke, also found in the Xplorer and Scrambler. Is this really true (I have to ask... its not the first misprint I've seen on KBB), and if so, is there anyone that has one that can give me their opinion on it. Also, is this in the Gen IV chassis, or the Gen III?

I've always wanted the power of my Xplorer, but with the better ride of independant rear suspension. If anyone can attest to these things, then I'll seriously look into getting one of these things.

 

Yes there was a Sp 400 2-stroke. Its was a chain drive with a straight rear axel. I don't know about the frame.

 

I had one,it was the same body and frame as the old 350L & 400L with a few extra's like rack extenders, heavy duty rear spring, and tow hooks.It was sold mainly for hunters.In 93 they were 350 sportsmans,in 94 they were change to 400 sportsmans.I traded it for a magnum 425 thats basically the same thing,except it had a 4 stroke motor.

 

It was before they introduced IRS onto the Sportsman?

Well that sucks...

 

That's my baby! From what I've learned so far, it only came in green otherwise its basically the same as the xplorer except for the body. My machine is a GenII, & has steel racks.

 

Why must we all be doomed to have power at the expense of ride quality?

 

Campy... I can live with the ride quality, it may not be IRS but it works for me. Anyway my seat is nice & comfy.

 

I suppose. The swing-arm/straight axle on my Xplorer isn't all that bad (it sure beats no suspension at all). However, I've driven my uncle's Sportsman HO, and the ride is soo much better, but its not nearly as powerful as my Xplorer.

It makes me wonder... why doesn't Polaris put the 378cc 2-stroke into a Sportsman frame?

 

I also think the 400 2-stroke would be a sweet engine in the new Sportsmans, but the emmissions **** are trying to eliminate it even though we have the technology to reduce the emmissions. This is the last year anybody can buy the Polaris 400 2-stroke,(Xplorer model only). Too bad!:-(