I have ridden fast sport quads all my life. Right now I own a 400ex and live in North Carolina. It is a fun quad but there are alot more trails I could ride if I had a 4x4. I won't sell my 400ex because I want something to ride wheelies and jump. Money is not an issue when it comes to choice. Is that 500 Sportsman all that and a bag a chips?

 

Search the this forum for information on the SP500. Just remember there is no one perfect quad out there. I would test drive several & then buy the one that fits you the best.

 

Like your EX the SP is the best in its class, not much can touch it ride, power, ground clearance is all there. you don't need to buy one and add crap oto it to make it good it comes with it all, just isnert key fire it up and slap in in high range and hit the gas, no other utility will stay with you in the rough stuff. Unless it happens to be a Polaris.

 

Dont forget about the srcambler 500 4x4

 

Dont forget about the scrambler 500 4x4

 

It is a very nice quad. The most important thing is to ride different models and find the one that fits you.

 

Make sure you ride the 400 explorer,it likes wheelies to.


TRUCK

 

I would recommend the Scramblers. The Sportsman may be to "utility" for your style of riding. My 2 cents worth.
HTH Good Luck

98 Scrambler 500