I've been riding a 2003 SP600 since I bought it new and now I'm getting ready to get a new ride. I'm agonizing between the 550XP and the 850XP. So I'm throwing this out for opinions from those with some experience with the two.
Most of my riding is on a 4600 acre lease. We have high ground and flat river and creek swamps. The top gets washed out and the riding in places is technical or else you'll turn over. While down below during the fall and winter months the river will flow over the banks and we got deep mudholes and bottomless ruts. In between are planted pines and that's the main problem. I use my 600 to carry in deer stands and bring out game and sometimes I have to spin the tires to scrub through trees that are a little too close. Sometimes this involves a lot of backing and trying to turn those hard to turn handlebars to get into and out of tight places. Power steering would be great!
While I'm an older guy now, I'm still a little wild and we ride hard and fast when we can and the 850 just really appeals to me. But...the 600 is just about right as far as power is concerned for the tight stuff. Sometimes a little overpowered down in the vines and trees, and I think the 550 would be better for the majority of my riding. Anyway we can't get to 50 mph anywhere on the property without betting airborne by the rough roads.
So, what do you guys think?

 

Sounds like the 550 with power steering has your name all over it. It will make as much if not more power than the 600 you have now. And handle way better! Although i'd be tempted with the 850 power, doesn't sound like there are alot of places where you could take advantage of it. The 850 will also feel heavier as well.

 

I haven't ridden the 850, but I've got nearly 700 miles on my 550. It sounds like you want the 550. It still has plenty of power and speed, but weighs a bit less than the 850 and is probably quite a bit more maneuverable. I'm gettin pretty old, but still like to get wild once in a while, especially to show my 20 yr old son he can't beat the old man, yet I can really throw the 500 around in the tight stuff thanks to the skinnier seat, power steering and with a top speed of 63 (for me), it sounds like it's fast enough for where you ride. Can't really speak for the 850, though.

 

Not sure if you would feel the 50lbs weight differance between the 550 and 850 that much, I like the 550 bigger 5.25 gas tank, 3/4 of a gallon does not sound like much but if the 550 gets 20-25mpg thats a extra 15-20 miles of riding range,who knows when that would come in handy.

[http://www.powersportsnetwork.com/en...2=180131&go=Go

 

The 550 will have equal power to the 600 but will steer much easier. I rode one without power steering and it was easier to steer than my SP500. The new XPs do seem to have a more nimble feel in the tight terrain. You will be amazed at the improvements made with the new XPs compared to the older sportsmans.

I think the 550 will suit your needs.

 

Darkhorse,

I don't either quad, but have ridden them both. My advise is to take them both for a ride if possible, even if only around the dealer lot. The 850 is a smoother machine. The 550 has a lot of vibration and high idle speed that tends to create some excessive drive line clunk. If that doesn't bother you, then the 550 is probably more than enough quad.

 

[QUOTE=TLC;2962198]Not sure if you would feel the 50lbs weight differance between the 550 and 850 that much, I like the 550 bigger 5.25 gas tank, 3/4 of a gallon does not sound like much but if the 550 gets 20-25mpg thats a extra 15-20 miles of riding range,who knows when that would come in handy.

Howdy all....TLC.... on the link you're comparing the 2010 to the 2011 models 550/850. The 2011's both have the bigger fuel tank, the 2010 have the smaller 4.5 gallon tanks.......and is there that much of a difference in tight, slow trails at times with an 850 over a 550? It seems like the only good from the 850 power is speed. Maybe mudding's a little different story......but for good ol' trail riding....what's the advantage of an 850...........NoJoke

 

OK I see the 850s have larger 5.25 tanks for 2011, Another reason never to buy the early birds of a new model. 2011 Polaris Sportsman® 550 EPS ATVs

 

The 850 have a ridiculous amount of power. The 550 for sure will do the work without problem. All people agree that the extra 50 pound are notable in the ride.

 

Get the 850 Dark. It's like riding a bull. Super fun machine and so darn smooth. The engine just purrs. The 850 is not comparable to the 550 IMO.

It can hurt you though if not respected. Don't ask how I know this....

Edit: Speaking of weight. I like the weight. It plows like an animal if you plow snow and it just adds to the Cadillac feel of the machine. I have no problems with the weight of the 850. I didn't like the light, top heavy Grizzly.

I'm sure the 550 would be fun too....but get the 850 if you are on the fence and dollars are not a consideration