I am looking at a 2001 Sportsman 500 HO. It has 190 miles, has a winch, and front/rear baskets. They are asking $3500 which I think is a little high. The pictures I received show the bike to be in showroom quality. I know is an older machine but has hardly no miles. I have a 96 SP 400 two stroke...unfortunately it is in the shop needing an rebuild on the upper for around $600. Deciding whether to fix it or get another and possibly fixing the old one later and selling it or keeping it as a second. The 96 only has about 3000 miles. My issue is I mainly use the quad to pull a Swisher Mower which I have been told is hard on 2 strokes. Any help would be appreciated.

 

You're absolutely right on pulling a mower is hard on a two stroke! Have had several down here learn the hard way.We sold Swisher mowers also and saw several 2 strokes that couldn't hold up. One guy even used a Scrambler 400,bad idea down here in 100 degree plus heat. A better choice would be the old 250 air cooled Trail Boss with low range. Most dealers use Nada books,but Kelley is what the average consumer uses down here to sell to individuals. Even though it's low mileage the book valve shows to be about a grand too high,BUT you have to also consider the shape it's in along with options. It would go higher than book value if very clean as you say,but not worth a grand more!Kelley Blue Book
Consider too the shop I worked for is selling a brand new 500 HO for about 2 grand more than this guy wants for a 13 year old machine.. If you want it and it checks out,I offer 2800. No harm trying..

 

When buying used, go by condition NOT year.
I bought a 2001 and turned down a few 2005's without a regret.
A mint 2001 beats a rough 2011 any day.

I ride with guys with much newer ATVs and I would not trade with them.

 

These old ones may not be as aerodynamic. But they seem to be put together better. Things these came standard with is option now.

 

You're not talking about Polaris going cheap on the missing recoil starters are you?

 

I think EBS is a option now as well. I,m sure not a fan of the smaller gas tanks,the ecm brain Box and plastic single roller cage.

 

after having 06's and 08's i went to an 02' 500(had one before) but i agree thats a little high price no matter the miles. 2 strokes build alot more heat and working one like a 4 stroke will take it's toll more then if it was a 4 stroke. imo