ATV MAN..dont count out a Polaris for the reasons you stated. As far as the chain drive it does require a quick clean and lube but thats all. I was not all that crazy about a Auto either, I grew up on MXers, I dont think I would want to go back now though. Maintenence is what you make of it, you still need to clean the filter and change oil and all that. My current Scrambler requires no more maint than anything else.

 

I almost forgot. The ability to run 2wd. You cant touch that with a wolverine.

 

i love me 99 500! i wish it was faster but it is faster than a utility! and with the 4*4 it is way more fun in the snow and mud that a rapter or ex. i havent broken anything yet...but i joke with my honda buddies that they better have a rope when i ride with them cuz im sure it will brake!! lol i was in the same boat as you..i wanted speed power and 4*4 so i had to chose the scrambler..with a clutch and a pipe im working on making it shouild be quicker!

 

Hey guys~
Just like most of you, I have had minimal problems with my Scrambler. I have replaced the silencer because the stock one was faulty(there was a recall). Throttle cable has froze up on me in the dead of winter! I still have original chains(3) and sprockets, lower steering post bearing, tie-rod ends, annd most everything else! I replaced the belt three months ago...not because it needed it, but because it was going on 5 years! Machine has close to 2900 miles now and still runs like a champ! Just like EasterEgg, I too get pissed off when people question the reliability of a Polaris. I probably have one of the best reliability records in this forum with Polaris quads! Of course, I am a maintainance and clean freak with ATV's also! First ATV my dad owned was a 1989 Trailboss 250 4x4. Every damn part of that machine(besides sparkplug and brakes) lasted close to 10 years without being replaced. That includes CLUTCH BELT, all CHAINS and SPROCKETS, STEERING BUSHING, and TIE ROD ENDS. When my dad sold it, he was quite happy to get 3500 bucks for a 10 year old machine. I've been through 6 Polaris quads. I've never burned up a belt or replaced chains/sprockets or any of the other "normal Polaris problems". So for whoever doubts a Polaris lasting over the long run...keep your damn mouth shut unless you know the facts!

 

Hey Atv-man
I had a wolverine before I bought my Scrambler and if you want a sport 4x4 theres nothing better than the scrambler . The Wolverine is an excellent machine and is super reliable.I put a locker ands swampers on it and the thing went everywhere.But the ride isnt as nice nowere near the power and the 2and 4 wheel option is a must on any sporter. The 500's great at everything but not the best at anything might sound strange but its the only quad that lets you do everything.
And there a blast.Try out both quads before you buy.If you want 60%sport and 40%utility then get the Wolverine. If it 100% sport 4x4 then the only thing out there right now is the Scrambler .
Hope this helps you .
Matt 2000 500 Scrambler Pulled by Z71

 

Well the Wolverine would be alot cheaper, with only 350cc's and then the scramblers with 2wd-4wd mode, auto trannies and 400-500cc engines would be more expensive

I like the Scrambler 500 4-stroke 4x4 the best...I would buy a used one(like 1998-1999), no point in getting brand new one. What year was the first scrambler made in??
2wd right now doesn't cut it...I hate it, it's snow that I get stuck in all the time, I bet that 4wd switch would help me good

 

I had a piston score on the 400 after modifying it, and just replaced the lower steering post bushing last Sunday. Other than that, no problems what so ever.
Rick Ritter and I were joking the other day about my ability to " Screw up a ball bearing in a sandbox with a rubber mallet"
The mere fact that the Scrambler has survived my heavy throttle thumb is a testament to the reliability of the machine.
Look for a '98 and up Scrambler, as they have Cocentric Drive and a shaft for the front drive system.

 

What's the top speed of the 500 4x4 4-stroke??

 

The top speed is around 65.

 

I can't really tell you anything about your problem specificly but i have some advice that I think might help you. Have you ever heard of the lemon law where if a part on a vehicle breaks so many times inside a certian time period the manufacturer has to replace the whole thing. Idon't know all the specifics of this law or if it even works with ATV's but you might want to look into it.