Thank God OEMs for the 500's are $50 because when you try to ride it like it's got the power of the 800 you burn a few belts

 

I got the new EPI clutch kit and belt installed, wasnt that bad to do once you have the proper tools, i also had to buy a good set of snap ring pullers.
Anyway, i feel better now knowing how it works and seeing it has a new belt and it did make a little difference in how the machine pulls from a dead stop. Also the machine shifts much better now.
Total in parts was $602 with a new severe duty belt, both pullers and the compression tool. I spent an additional $89 for the snap ring plier from my local snap on tool guy..
Also i now have a spare belt and the confidence to change it trailside if need be.

Thanks for all the tips.