My sportsman's rear drive shaft both left and right have broken at the joint at the rear wheel. The first time (left side) was just 2 after weeks of riding. About 100 miles. Polaris replaced this under warranty. Now with just 3 weeks left on the warranty the right side died. I have looked at the 2000 Polaris sportsman’s and the rear end has been totally re designed (CV JOINTS).

 

They don’t use u-joints back there any more for a reason. You now know the reason. At least you found out during the warranty.