The Sportman is better mainly do to the IRS suspension, the ride is better. Though to be honest they are both awesome you could not make a wrong choice by getting either of them. but if you can afford it the Sportsman is the way to go.

 

I would say it depends on what you plan on using it the most for. They are very similar, but the Magnums' straight rear axle make it better for work, whereas the Sportsmans' IRS makes for smoother trail riding. I think the size of the gas tank backs this... the smaller gas tank would make more sense on the quad you use near your home to do work since you are near you gas can, whereas the larger gas tank would make more sense on the quad to trail ride on to give you more range since very often you aren't near someplace where you can refuel.

I think of it this way, they will both do whatever you want, but you should let what you are going to do the most direct you to the quad that will do that better.

Maybe your solution is something in-between... a semi-independent rear?

 

I own a Magnum 500 and the reason it has a smaller gas tank is that the motor sits further towards the front. This makes way for the rear swing arm. My modded magnum can beat a HO easily. It is about 70lbs lighter. It can also corner and the motor puts more power to the ground. The independent suspenion robs a little power.

No Im not biased. I own a new HO too!!