I was just wondering how these two ATV's compare. I know a dealer that is really willing to deal on some 200 regular 500's. I am looking at buying my first fourwheeler so am in need of help when it comes to what is different between the two. I thought it looked like the 2000 had the independant suspensions but didn't seem to sit up as high. Do they have a lot less clearance. There was two right there that I could really compare and haven't test rided any yet. Just kind of looking for your opinions on what is better about either of the two. I know the HO is better overall but is it worth $1500 more? thanks for any help.

 

I guess it would depend on whether or not I could afford the 2001 and if so I would get it, there were some good upgrades to it, the HO motor, better steering and upgraded brakes. but if money was an issue I have a 2000 and love it. 1800 miles and not a single bit of trouble. Personally I would say it is worth it to get the 2001. But either way you will be getting a great ATV.

 

im surprised that your dealer even has a 2000 sp500 in stock. the HO's have been out for a while too. the HO's are all around better, u should be able to get a HO for $6200-6400.


later
jon

 

$1500 difference?!! The dealer selling the 2000's for cost and 2001's for retail or what?

 

I traded a 2000 Honda Rancher ES in this week for a 2001 DU500 HO. I have seen the two bikes drag race and the HO is in front all the way, but not by much until the last third or so of the race. It really begins to shine on top end which is no surprise being a " Scrambler " race motor. If outrunning people is important then get the 2001.
If not, you will be happy either way.

 

I ride my H.O. with my Bud on my old SP 2000.
They are very evenly matched. Ground clearance,
speed, power. The H.O. is 2% faster, that's all.
The SP has a much softer ride due to the gas shocks on the H.O. The Sportsman is the Cadillac and the H.O. is the BMW. The brake lines and steering post bearing are nice improvements but...$1500!!
Take the SP for under $5800. How much did this guy want for a H.O.? I paid $6400 for mine plus nothing.
Silly later,,,,Fourlix

 

Didn't you modify your 2000 Sportsman clutch with 48 gram weights and a white spring?

 

Like most of its models, Polaris has been steadily “improving” the Sportsman marquee since its introduction. Those of us who enjoy the mechanical aspects of our machines have appreciated these upgrades, but it wasn’t until the HO that Polaris gave us any PERFORMANCE improvements. Like the old Chrysler Cordoba commercial where Ricardo Montalban says “I like what they’ve done to my car,” I’m very happy with what they’ve done with the HO. How do you make a great riding machine even better? Improve the power, steering, handling and braking. Whether or not the improvements are worth it to you is a personal decision based on your available funds, what you want to use it for and how much time you plan to spend in the saddle.

 

We have a 2000 and a 2001.The 2001 does feel a little peppier though I have yet to put the two side by side.They are both good bikes but I feel you would be just as happy with the 2000.You have to own a pre 2001 to appreciate the few upgrades they did and an extra $1500 never hurt anyones pocket book.

 

Do you think that the 2002 models will be equipped with "Fine Corinthian Leather"? LOL