I was wondering if anyone knew which atv is faster? Is the new Sportsman 500 HO faster then the Xplorer 400

 

This is an interesting question due to the fact that there are advantages to both machines.

First off the Xplorer 400 is still faster. But have closed the gap some with the HO. Also with the Xplorer, you can get a good 10 hp more out of it with a pipe/clutch kit. This is the advantage of a two-stroke. But since the Sportsman has IRS and other cool bells and whishles(shaft drive all the way around), it has some cool features as well. But as far as speed, I think the Xplorer still has an edge.

'96 Scrambler w/RCR Stage 1 Kit, K&N filter, and Boyesen Power Reeds. Clutch kit soon....

 

Not to mention that the Xplorer is about 100 lbs lighter than the Sportsman. Weight makes a big difference in acceleration.

 

The explorer is faster,and an all around great bike(also will be my next bike,unless the 700 comes out)
The sportsman is the KING of Quads.