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I loved the 500 HO in my Scrambler. Never had a problem with it all in 3 years. Loving my 500 EFI in my SP. 1300 trouble free miles so far. The throttle response in the EFI seems better even tho I had a jet kit in the Scram. EFI is nice for colder weather, because you don't have to worry about choking it. But they still need to be warmed up. There are a lot more things that can go wrong with the EFI but I haven't had a lick of trouble yet

 

Have both. EFI, as ScrammyTodd said is much better starting in the cold. I've started both in 10 degree Fahrenheit weather and the EFI is tons better to start. Smoother on the takeoff than the carb. Both have great tourque and plenty of power. If you are going to ride places that have lots of elevation changes the EFI is definetly the way to go. We have about 700 miles on both machines. No real issues so far.

 

I never had any problems with mine except winter. when It got cold I had to leave the choke on to keep it runing.

 

Oh yeah, the EFI gets a couple more miles per gallon than the carbed HO. About 20 or so versus 18 or so.

 

According to the website, the 2008 polaris 500 HO cost $5999 and the 2008 polaris 500EFI cost $6999. Now if you are not in an area where it gets too cold, say less than 30 degrees, then you might want to get the HO. As for me, I love having the EFI on my 800. Starts up right away in any temperature and the throttle response is very crisp. Consider the following:

1. How long you plan on keeping the quad.
2. Calculate the difference in fuel cost. The EFI will get better fuel milage, but by how much I don't really know.
3. Then determine how long it will take to pay for the extra $1000 for the 500EFI.

Now if you have changing altitudes as well as cold, I say EFI all the way. But, then again, the sp500 HO has been one of the most tried, true and reliable quads every made. And, of course if you can only afforde the 500 HO, then that is the way to go. Another thing to consider is how much are you going to spend on aftermarket items like aggressive tires, rims, cargo boxes, winch, etc, etc. You can go a long ways with saving the $1000 by getting the 500HO. Also, if you plan on deep mudding water crossings, I would say the 500HO. I imagine the EFI would be ok, but history has proven electrical things don't like water. But, then again, look at the Motor Guide and Minn Kota trolling motors. I have one on each of my 2 boats and never a problem.

Lastly, as far as quickness and top speed, I think the EFI has a slightly quicker take off and the top speeds should be about the same at around 60mph, but then again, I could be totally wrong. Hope this helps a little and let us know what you get.

 

EFI if you can afford it.

 

Hey Sheepdog, I like your quote about the wife beaters. You hit the nail on the head.

 

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think I want a new 500HO. would It be wrong to trade my 04 500HO? It runs great but is a little beat up not really bad just wear and tear stuff.
I dont think I need to go bigger because I mostly trail ride. In fact there some trails my 500HO feels too big