Hello All,
Looking to ride about 6 times a year in upstate NY.
I started out buying a trailboss 350
but it rides too much like a typical dirt bike (2 wheel)
I'm up to the sportsman 400 or 500
Half of me says buy the 400, its all i really need.
the dealer keeps pushing the engine breaking system on the 500.
I rode a 700 (way too fast) and the engine break seemed too much.
i'll probably have the bike for 5+ years.
our intent is mainly to tour the country trials, nothing major.
but i wouldn't want to make a mistake over $500
thought on this purchase are appreciated
thanks
Chris D

 

in my honest opinion, if you are simply going to trail ride and not need the EBS, then stick with the 400, it is a great machine, lacking some power compared to the 500, but you aren't trying to compete with anyone, rite? i would save the $500, use that toward other parts for your atv, this is all my personal opinion. i have the 500, and i love it and the ebs, but if it is not needed, don't pay the extra money. Just my .02 cents. PB500

 

For that amount of riding would go with the 400 save a few hundred $$, maybe opt for a winch though. IMO the engine braking is WAYYYYYYY over rated, wish I did not have it on my 700.

 

I'd have to agree with these guys. The 400 is more than enough for riding, mine has gone through everything I've come across (well, looked for). With the extra money, get yourself a winch or some luxuries like handwarmers, rack extensions, whatever you need. A 400 is more than enough for any riding (mud/snow/trails), its just a bit slower than a 500 and can pull a little less.

I'm not at all disappointed with mine.

 

True the 400 does have decent power but my vote is for the 500, not just because it's bigger but the resale value is higher and there is more of a demand in the used atv market for the 500's because of their proven reliability and performance.

 

You will be happy with either the 400 or 500HO ... my bet [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-wink.gif[/img] is the 500HO.

 

Chris, check your PM.

The 425 is an old reliable polaris engine as well.

Test ride both at the dealer. The difference between the two should be pretty evident, see which you are more comfortable with. Silver has a good point with the resale, an old 500 would probably sell better than an old 400.

 

I know this is older thread bit i wanna post something. Im having a real hard time deciding.Is the 500 that much weaker than the 400?

 

I assume you mean the other way around. I've never ridden a 500, but I know the 400 is enough power for me. Gone through the deepest mud and snow around with no problems. So power is not an issue, but I have heard that the 500 is a bit faster in the mid range and acceleration. Top speed should be only a little different, the 500 is maybe 5 mph faster? My 400 can go about 45-50 on a flat dirt road.

Ride both. See what you like. The Polaris's are great machines, I don't think you would be disappointed if you went with any of them.

tyler

 

is that the 400 two stroke? My buddy has a polaris xplorer 400, like a 2000 or maybe 1999. Thats a nice bike i think for pleasure cruising it would be more then enough for you. If its not their 400 two stroke motor then i have no idea what its like.