Intended use, trail riding and exploring. Occasional snow plowing.

The SP500 costs $700 more than the SP400. Is it worth the extra money? The SP600 is $400 more than the SP500. Of these three quads, which one is the best all around value? Note: I really like the SP500, but if the SP 400 is a better value, I rather not waste $700. Thanks, Dave

 

The SP400 will go anywhere the 500 or 600 would go (except the really deep stuff with big tire's on) just a little slower. So unless you don't plan on racing your buddies, or need the biggest atv then your friends, or do any deep mud runs, the 400 will be more then enough to do what you plan on doing.

 

It all depends on what your wallet will handle and what you plan on doing with the machine. I have a 500HO and went back/forth between the 400 & 500. I rode them both and noticed the power difference on the 500. The 400/500 are built about the same - same frame - same components. The 500 has more power and the engine braking. I use my 500 for work - mostly - and it's strong as an ox. I went with the 400/500 line - over the 600/700 because of (of course) money and the fact that the 400/500 machines have been out there for almost 10 years. Thus: tried and true technology.

Bottom line: look at your wallet, evaluate what you want it for, and then ride them all. Good luck.

 

The only Polaris 4 stroke I've ridden was my brother's Magnum 500. Even though it wasn't the H.O. motor, it had more than enough power to do what I want. After reading other threads, I've already eliminated the SP600 from my list. It simply has more power than I will ever use. I didn't realize the SP400 doesn't have engine braking. That's a feature I would use alot. Money is always an issue, but I'd rather spend the $700 and have a machine that suits me better, than save the $700 and regret the purchase. At the same time, I don't want to waste $700 if the SP400 is capable of my intended use. I'm unable to test ride either machine, so I'm counting on the advice from Polaris owners on this board. Thanks. Dave.

 

i had a 03 sp400, it was a great running atv,no problems except im a speed freak and traded it for a 04 sp600.

 

Just to aid you the Sp400 has a buy back program for the clutches. It ends up costing you another $150 for EBS on the 400. It has to be done at time of purchase to be eldgible. That makes the difference between the two (apples to apples) $550. I would step up to the 500 personally.

 

If you want plenty of power and want to keep up with your friends on the bigger quads then the 600 has tons of power. The 400 is very good but it just is not fast at all. The 500 is even better but for the extra little money the 600 is well worth every penny. It will keep up with the 700 easily except on the very top end. The 600 has tons of bottom end torque. Drive them all and I bet your face lights up on the 600.

 

I wouldn't consider the 400, not enough power for a big machine. I have an HO and I'm very happy with it. I can run with most quads, go through mud like nobodies business and can run all day on a tank of gas. As I have said I'm very happy with the HO but if were buying a replacement Polaris today I'd go with the 600. I just love those twins.

 

I was in the same dilemma you are in. I chose the 400 over the 500 because I couldnt see spending the extra 700 dollars. My riding style and terrain never allows me to get above 40 MPH anyway. Im RARELY over 20. I put a Heelclicker clutch kit in mine for better engagement (something you should consider no matter which unit you decide to buy) And with me and My wife on I can spin all 4 tires in 4 high going up muddy Hills no problem.
Low range is more than adequate, As I routinely pull 1200-1500 pounds around the house without it breaking a sweat. They are right, Its not a speed demon, and if you want to do alot of riding over 50 MPH then look at the 500, But otherwise, the 400 will handle anything the 500 can.

Ron
04 Sportsman 400

 

SP 500 is the best value. Saying that, I plan on buying a 600 for my next ride....GREAT low end power.


The 400 is UNDERPOWERED compared the the 500 and it does not have EBS.