If the cam does have damage, is it as simple as replacing it, or does that induce other, unseen problems?

 

People who had it happen just changed the cam and rocker. Not a real had job.

 

Certainly buy 2001 or newer because the HO models had ALOT more power and better brakes due to braded steel brake lines. I have had an 01, 02, 04 and an 05 and never a problem with any of them (except for rolling the 01 down a hill and totaling it).

 

I'm not concerned so much about power since I'd be happy with even a 335, but parts for the 500 are much more readily available and I know the 500 can be an extremely reliable machine.

 

The motor and smaller tires are the only differance beteen the 335 and 500. 90% of the 335 parts are from the 500,so parts would be no problem.

 

As far as motors go, which Sportsman motors are the best? My guess is 500s are the best, but are there any to stay away from? Quite a few 400s around me and they're generally a little less expensive. A 400 is plenty enough power for me.

 

The fours and the five hundreds are equally reliable and you will not be disappointed with a 400 unless you ride a 500.

 

The 400s to 500s are the same motor just a different bore or stroke. 425, 455 and 500.

 

So now my dilemma is the following, I have two main choices right now....

99 SP 500 - 1035 miles - Clean - $2750
01 SP 400 - 3320 miles - Immaculate - $2500

Which would you choose for your $? I'm leaning towards the 99, but you guys have been saying 01s are good...

 

I would to, less miles and the 500 even being a non H.O has alot more power then the 425 motor used in the SP400 back then. Be different if it was the 455cc SP400s they made later on.

I also like the 99 being that it was the last with a non digital/analog speedo that did not require to work to have AWD functioning.