Hello,
I am looking to buy a polaris sportsman. I am leaning towards a 700. I am looking to spend less then 4500 but would like to stay around 3500. Are there any years better than others? Anything to be aware of? are the 700's good motors? Thanks, Troy

 

First two year models (2002-2003) had problems with the Ducati ignition,after 2004 ignition system was changed to Kokusan,PLUS unless update water pump plate support was installed on first year model,the cover would leak coolant.Also ecm recalls on 2005 carb models,most were done,some still out there may still need to be done,still are under warranty because of electrical/fire damage. Over all good motors,they do have a tendency to use a little oil on some machines compared to the 500 single(my favorite of ALL Polaris engines) just my opinion. OPT

 

So basically I should stay away from the 2002 and 2003 models. Anything after that I should be good to go?

I am also considering a 550xp, which would you suggest between the 700 sportsman and 550 xp. I was reading that the 500xp is like the cadillac of trail riding. But coming from a 1990 or 91 trailboss 350 I would bet either one would be a huge difference.

BTW, I will be mostly trail riding and work around the cabin.

Thanks, for the help.

 

Go with the 550 the difference in hp will not be made up bye the xp has.

 

Ive been reading on here and it may be a good idea to go with the sportsman 600 instead of the 700.

 

Isnt the 550 the xp?

 

I think the 600s kinda bombed. I don't think they sold many. but the 550XP would be your better choice with all the updates. Also did they ever make an EFI 700? I would NEVER buy anything without EFI. My dad has a 700 non-EFI and after I got my 800 its a cadiliac over that other stuff.

 

I looked on craigslist theres not to many for sale and it might be tough to find a 550xp in my price range? Up to $4,000.

 

Out of curiosity why are you leaning to the 700 over say a 500?

 

No real reason, I was just assuming the 700 has more power and faster? But then I searched on here and found the 600 to be just as quick and powerfull along with being more reliable. How about the 500?