If you live in mountainous terrain, go with the Kodiak. Unlike the SP, it has true engine brake going down steep hills and won't slide out of control. I have to give mine gas going down super steep hill sometimes. Also, the 4x4 or whatever you want to call it, kicks in when the button is hit and you don't have to wait for your rear tires to spin as on a Polaris. This makes steep up hills more predictable and stable. If you want the best mudder around bar none and a very smooth ride, go with the SP. One other feature is you can ride around in high all the time on the Kodiak as it still has very low torque. My buddies on SP's need to stop and put in low range on tight trails or hills so they won't burn a belt. Both are good quads, the Kodiak suits this area better for me due to smaller width and lighter weight on tight trails and high ledges.

 

I want to thank you all for your comments. After much deliberatin, I decided to go with the Sportsman 500 H.O. in the Yellow! After riding both machines, the comfort is more important to me. I really do not mind lubing it up once in a while, and paying closer attention to the mechanics.... Knock on wood. Thanks again for all of your input and happy trails

captain