I have a Polaris 500 HO. Has anyone experienced issues with shifting? My bike seems hard to shift compared to other bikes (the same model) I have ridden. The dealer said it happens with all the Polaris's but I thought I would come to the "pro's" and ask. It's a 2005, just bought it a couple of weeks ago. I also read a few comments about plastic melting, I haven't seen this on the side of my bike but under the seat there is a small hole and it looks like something melted.....anybody have any ideas? The dealer has said he does not know what this is......woohoo for warranty but still would like feedback from you guys about possible problems.

 

its going to be rough till it gets broke in, or if its REALLY cold, so dont worry about it and give it some time to loosen up. also, the melting plastics are only on the 800 EFI's so you dont have to worry about that either. good luck with your new quad

 

On my 500HO (05) the removable side panel "male" tab that secures the panel has had it's head melted off.
I am sure a bit more heat tape would have helped,

 

The shifting can be fixed, my 800 was very stiff also. Check the idle speed to make sure it's not to high, check the belt alignment, mine was off. You can also add a secondary clutch shim under the primary clutch spring to increase the preload just a tad.