There doesn't seem to be that big of a difference between the Sportsman 400 and the 500 H.O. After checking Polaris' website, I saw that in reality, the 400 is really a 425, meaning that there's only 75cc difference between the "400" and the "500 H.O.." The carburation was another aspect that was slightly different, but other than that, their specs looked identical (including towing capacity).

Is there something I'm missing? It doesn't make sense to me to make a 425cc and a 499cc in the same model. Is the 500 that much more powerful??

I think it's kind of odd that Polaris classifies their 425 as a Sportsman "400" and Yamaha classifies their 425 as a Kodiak "450"

Any comments are appreciated.

It's the HO part that separates the 500. It really is a lot more motor. Given the weight of the SP, the stronger motor is a huge plus, unless you're just going to be putting around on it.

EBS and loads more power with the 500. The 500 IS worth the price difference!

I test rode the 400 and 500 ho one after the other before buying one and there was a definate power difference between the two.

Hey Snownut,

I noticed you're from SLC... any recommendations on a polaris dealer? I went to the Polaris on Redwood (8200 S.) in West Jordan and the sales guy couldn't answer any questions without pulling out his little binder. He was unhelpful, and definitely not a salesman.

Any help would be great

Thanks...

This sounds like a fixed question... You don't work for a dealer do you???

In all reality I would have to say that if you are going to go Polaris you should probably stick with Tri-City in Centerville. If anyone knows Polaris products they do. Some feel that they are more money but when you figure what included with the sale such as a complete 10 hour service, and knowledgable people its well worth the money. I have to say that I felt they were very competative on a 500ho, and I'm sure they would be on anything.

I have dealt with the dealer you mentioned in the past and they seem a little un-organized. When I've been in it was hard to get help as well.

good luck!

Definetly go to Tri-City in centerville! They are awesome. In fact my father purchased his 03' 600 from them and he lives in Price (2.5 hours away)! I was so impressed with their knowledge and service. In fact when we took the 600 up for its ten hour service we brought up his 500 HO for them to do a complete set up on because everything they had on the floor ran so much better than what the previous dealer set up. When I was looking for prices on the 600 for my dad they actually beat everyone I called and they have the knowledge and experties in their service department. Talk to Mike Poulson (sales manager), he'll set you up and he isn't the slightest pushy like most other salesmen.

i'd say the high out put engine on the 500 would make the 500 more powerful and then everything else is pretty much the same make a nice desion and buy more power you will see the difference

Power is a funny thing, even if you don’t think you need it now, get out there riding with friends and you’ll soon be kicking yourself in the but for not buying the HO the first time around. Plus the resale on used 500 HO’s is decent, hard to find a buyer for a used Sportsman 400.

No comparison, the HO is a lot faster, not to mention the EBS.[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]