Which is better, compaired the specs, like the sportsman, what do yall think. I've ridden a magnum only a few times. Which suspension is better, which one goes faster, which one has more available mods? I'll take any advice, Thanks

 

Put the HO parts in your Mag. and you will have one hell of a good trail machine. Sportsmans ride better, either one would be a good choice.

 

I have only heard good things about both bikes.i just read in the dirt wheels october 2000 issue that the sportsman HO can do 60mph,while the magnum does 55mph.One of the main differences between them is the rear suspension.My dad has a 99 sportsman and that thing rides like a caddilac.They are both great bikes though and you can't go wrong with either

 

The larger sp gas tank would be nice to.

 

I wonder why one has a larger gas tank than the other? That doesn't seem very smart.

If I was going to pick I'd go with the Magnum, though I'd like it even more if it had the HO motor. I just think it would be a bit sportier because of the straight axel, and a better work machine for the same reason. When I'm on my quad I'm either working with it, or going flat out.
As for the Cadillac ride of the SP...it's just not a priority for me.

 

I agree with you. If you want a more work oriented quad I would go with the Mag. If you are pulling anything with a heavy tongue weight your suspension sags all the way down, and thats hard on equipment. If you were looking for more sport oriented, the SP is so much better. I like mine because I can land a little awkward and not get a jolt when I land and I ride through chisel plowed fields alot and the IRS keeps the wheels on the ground.


98 SP500 - soon w/ K&N filter
96 Z71 - K&N filter, straight pipe exhaust

 

Sportsman 500 handsdown

 

Sportsman 500 handsdown

 

The H.O would be the best? The Sp can outmud and out run the Magnum.

 

If the extra cost of the SP500 HO is not a problem, then the better machine by far is the Sportsman,
Faster and a better ride? I have friends that all plow with treir SP500s, Hunt, Work pullin trailers, and one even mows his lawn with it. None of them have ever had a problem from the IND. rear end, just the SWEET RIDE!!