My old 500HO didnt have the torque in high that alot of places called for...but my 07 800X2 has better low end torque in high range than it did. I am in High the majority of the time on it now. Really, i only put it in low if i come to an obstacle that calls for a stop prior to hitting it. Like a ditch, rock climb, steep ricky hill, creek, or the like. Other than that, if im on the trails i stay in high. I did smell some belt the other day when i came up to my trailer and just cruised up to the ramp in high...

 

It's mostly to protect the belt when you put it in low for the slower terrain. If I'm facing a hill that is smooth all the way to the top and I know what's on the other side, I'll leave it in high and go for it. If you go slow up a hill in high you will wear your belt faster than necessary.

 

Thanks for the comments guys.
I'm in low 95% of the time mostly as a means of protected the belt. However, am I doing subsequent engine damage because RPM's are around 3500-4500 when in low at 10-15mph and even higher if I "get on it" cresting a hill or riding through a mud pit?
The manual states that the clutch engages at around 1600-1800RPM. When I'm in High and travelling at that same speed, RPM's are still around 2500. I would think that's high enough above to provide the necessary belt pinch?

 

The manufacturers limit the RPMs well under the engines breaking point so I don't think I'd worry about 3500-4500 RPM. You WILL be using more fuel, but that's the nature of the beast. From what I understand it's a little harder to change the XP belt out on the trail than the previous Sportsmans. I'd drive in favor of the belt.

 

When I'm riding around the trails on my farm I'm almost always in low. The only time I can really take it out of low would be around the edges of fields or something. The only time it is in high gear is if I'm running on gravel roads between places or riding to town. Around home I just don't have a use for high gear. Heck, on most of my trails you can almost walk as fast as you can ride.