look at the new sportsman 550 and was suprised how differnt it was form the old models. lower to the ground w/ better ground cleanance is cool and w/ the narrower seat its seems nice. like the sound of the engine as well. it has the carlile tires (that would have to go)w/ good tread but not very deep lugs. instrustation seems nice. about time they got rid of the damn struts and have adjustable front shocks. looks like a totally differnt rear end. amost wanted to take it for a ride but didnt have the time as i was making a delivery and a rep just left it there for the dealer to try out. looks like a very nice package for sure.

 

Any chance of you going back to test drive that beast??!! That would be pretty awesome if you could!![img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-happy.gif[/img]

 

most liely i could have right there as i didnt have time. the keys was in it so i started it up. he said test rode the 850 and it was quiet the beast compared to the 800. going to miss the front storage though.[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-sad.gif[/img]

 

<div class="FTQUOTE"><begin quote> looks like a very nice package for sure. </end quote></div>

Better be, I hear the new 550 sell for the same price of a 800 Sportsman.[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-shocked.gif[/img]

 

$8200. w/ the eps and the xp is $7500. so you arent too far off since i bought my 800 i think was $8600. have to wait a year and see how you all fair w/ them.

 

From what I understand they will have a front box that replaces the flat front rack available for an extra charge. It is said to have more room than the front box on the present Sportsmans.

 

Yep. It's a Lock & Ride so you pop off the rack and the box takes it's place in seconds. I like it. IIRC the 550 XP is $500 more than a 500 EFI and gives you even more for your money. That sounds good to me.

 

just remember that the new lock and ride stuff doesnt fit on the new models i do beleave. it is a nice looking set up bike for sure.