[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-confused.gif[/img] I currently own sportsman 500ho and so far I am happy with mostly everything. I am considering getting a 700 sportsman; but not sure if I will gain much with performance. Any owners out there that has had both that is willing to help or please give any suggestions.

 

the 700's are restriced to about just a bit more ommph than a 500ho.(but tons more bottom end grunt)
but if ya uncork em with a few mods (hotseats or aaaens speed kits)
then they run like raped apes, unlike the 500ho, wich doesn't gain much through performance mods.

 

Do search on "slyfox" in the polaris forum.I believe there were about 20 replies to a smilar inquiry.

 

I dunno man I have lots of friends with 500's and my 700 has way more power. It does take more effert to wrestle that 700 though.

 

lancesamuel,
these are some differences i've noticed between my '01 SP500 and new 700:
-a definitive "clunk" from the drivetrain. it's both annoying and embarrasing.
-very loud "moaning" exhaust. both the volume and tone make it impossible to travel un-noticed.
-throws too much heat. in the hot summer, wearing shorts are common. the heat burns my right leg about 6" above my ankle.
-low range revs too high. the 700's RPM's are much higher than the 500's in low range.
-coolant line running from overflow jug to radiator poorly positioned. flip-up a stick in that fenderwell and it's gonna get tangled in that clear coolant line.
-the engine idle i'm getting used to. it's rough and out-a-sink like a Harley....well, KINDA like a Harley.
-the power seems similar to the 500 up to about 35MPH.

i'm tempted to do some mods. like what 'PolarisMech' suggests. BUT, i don't have a qualified tech to work on my ATV...and i'm not sure i can live with the god damn 'CLUNK' whenever i take-off or driving over bumps. it's like something is loose.

i gotta tell you, sometimes i REALLY MISS THAT 500!

good luck with your decision.
sincerely,
-MT

 

forgot!
one more difference!
-fuel usage! it seemed like my 500 fuel-ups were far and few between. the 700?
i went 42 miles yesterday on 4 gallons of gas.
you do the math.....it stinks!

sure you still want that 700 now? LOL
see-ya,
MT

 

just got back today with trip with son. 36 miles still have about half tank left. I think I may wait a while see see if polaris comes up with something else. Thanks for all the info

 

i traded my leaking,clunking,gas eating,sp700 in on a new sp500,,and i have no regrets,,,,i liked the power of the 700,,but thats it,,,besides being a polaris,,i would like to get another one in a few yrs. when the bugs are worked out,,

sp700..freedom series

 

Sportsman43, "sp700..freedom series"
i think you mean 'SP500...Freedom Series' in your signature?
-MT

 

Yes and no.......i have a sportsman 500ho freedom series,,but when i trade for my next one..in 2 yrs..it will have to be a sp700 freedom series,,nothing else will doooooooo,,love those colors......