<div class="FTQUOTE"><begin quote>Originally posted by: anodyne

Great site-been lurking for close to a couple of weeks and in that time I've absorbed a lot. I'm leaning towards the Sportsman 500, used, or euphemistically put, "pre-owned."



I'm looking for a history of sorts that explains some of the changes made to this machine. I've got a 2004 with low miles lined up in my sights, but wanted to know if there is virtually no difference between the 2004, and say for example, a '99 model. In my market, it's about a $1500 difference. I've heard the points about maintenance and I understand that, but wondering about the mechanical differences.

there is an 04 and a 04.5, the 04.5 has the newer style front differential and an electric fuel guage and different shift pattern I believe. maybe some other changes also

My primary use will be plowing and dubbing in the yard/deer camp.



Thanks for all of your help.</end quote></div>

 

stendori-
I'm a Mainah too. Nice bike you have there.

 

As mini ex says,

there is a 2004 and 04.5... the o4.5 has the new racks, storage in front, better plastic for fenders, etc. among other things with the hubs etc. 2004.5 and up better in many minds.
Happy new year.

 

They put the zerks back on them in 04. 03 is the year without them

 

Thanks for the info.
I'll let you know when I pull the trigger.
I appreciate the input.

 

With the deals you can get on a left over 08 500 HO and the Polaris finiancing offers, you may be better off purchasing new. I bought my 500 HO with a Polaris 2500 winch for $4900.00 in April 08. I don't think it's possible to find more Quad for the $$$.