I'm also a little scared of the Honda transmission. If it breaks it will cost you a fortune. It just hasn't stood the test of time yet. I also have to look at the new Arctic Cat. With the new engine you have a whole new animal. The independent suspension is as good as anyones. It also has the five way adjustable shocks. Towing and rack capacity as good as anyones. My dealer just called said he has been riding his new 03' the last two days and the top end is not even in the same league as the 02'. He will also put a warn 2500# winch on for $375.00. Out the door for $6750. Seeing as the freight charge to Texas is quite a bit more than other places, that is pretty darn cheap. I have checked him out with other dealers and he is about $750.00 to $1000.00 cheaper. That is the total package with winch installed. He told me he hit 57 mph and still had some left, but had to let off. As far as comfort, Polaris and Arctic Cat are a toss up. The Polaris just costs about $500.00 more plus it has alot better looking gauges for sure. Watch out for the Grizz, I know of several people who have some serious problems with them. Especially in the mud and water. Not so sure about just dryland riding, probably just fine.

 

My take is this. But first, do you want independent rear suspension or not? If so then you owe it to yourself to consider a SP500HO or Arctic Cat 500i.

If its a solid axle you want then consider a Rubicon. I am adding a Prairie 650 in here because I am biased. But for about $6,100-$6,400 its a great value.

The Cats have new motors for the '03 year but still lack true 4wd. The Rubicon is all time 4wd but if you want sportier riding the 4wd takes some of the thrill away. I am not totally sure if it is TRUE 4wd. Maybe someone else can chime in here with that answer.

The SP500HO has an awesome four wheel drive system with the ability to switch to 2wd. The Kawi Prairie 650 has 2 and 4wd with locking differentials.

Weigh the options and see what you want. Test drive each of them a lot before you buy.

 

Hi Everyone, It has been a while since I have logged on. I bought a 02 Sportsman 500HO about 2 months ago and I just love it. Ride and power is incredible. I have about 27 hours and 110 miles on it and it has not skipped a beat. I use the my quad for about 75% work and 25% riding. I know you have heard this before, but ride both quads and go with one you like best...No doubt about it the Honda reliability is the best, but the Sportsman has better ride and features..and as the years past the Polaris's are getting right up there in reliability too. BTW I paid $5,825 for my standard red HO. Good Luck with with what ever you choose...see you on the trails.