Pages: 1
Posted by: MegaCrash
I have seen a lot of old Polaris 500&39;s. There IRS system is completely over built and near bullet proof. It will squat under heavy loads, but so will a straight axle with the same weight. I have never seen any more tire ware on Polaris IRS quads then straight axle utility&39;s either, and the handling is greatly improved over straight axle quads at fast trail speeds because the tires stay in contact with the ground. On a straight axle Utility quad the rear tires can completely leave the ground, and if you&39;re not ready for it when it happens, you can get yourself into trouble quickly. The Polaris CVT belt drive is also a proven design that works great and is capable of heavy work loads without slipping and long belt life.
With all that said, I like in the K.I.S.S (Keep it simple stupid) theory.
If I was going to buy a quad for working around the farm doing slow, heavy work, all day, every day, I&39;d probably get the air cooled Honda Utility (Rancher?) . I&39;d trade the cushy ride, true 4X4, and power of the Sportsman for the Honda reliability and simplicity.
Posted by: Specta
The SP 500 is a great ATV, but every comparison I have ever read that put a SP500 and a Rubicon to work, rate the Rubicon on top and the SP500 as being the "sportier" of the two. Reconranger is correct, the Rincon is not a "utility" oriented ATV, it is the "SUV" ATV. It is a lot closer to a sport ATV than a utility. Driving around your farm pulling a trailer or mower or what ever, I don't think an IRS will ride so much smoother it would really matter. The faster you go the smoother the IRS gets, at very low speeds it is no big deal.
Posted by: JohnO
Just a little practical farm experience:
The towing abilities of any quad are pretty miniscule compared to most any other farm vehicle. If you think of it as a glorified dirt bike, you'll be pleasantly surprised. If you think of it as a smaller jeep, you'll be disappointed. Nor can they control much of a load - it's more than just getting a loaded trailer moving, you gotta turn and stop, too. If you don't, the results can be painful.
IRS vs live axle - The IRS machines are good enough today that I just couldn't see buying a live axle for work if the ground is rough. Even if you don't get hung up, my last live axle quad just beat me to death riding down a rocky trail. My IRS Arctic Cat is a cadillac in comparison. There's a fatigue factor - if you're fighting the machine, you don't work so well when you get there.
IRS squatting under a load - if you've properly loaded a trailer, there shouldn't be much tongue weight. If you haven't, then you need to repack your trailer, not change your rear suspension. Too much tongue weight will leverage weight off of the front wheels on even a live axle quad, which means you lose steering ability, without much warning. With a heavy load behind, that can lead to real trouble.
I was looking for a quad to get me across my hilly/rocky/hardwood forest farm, to haul firewood and tools. Ended up with an Arctic Cat 500i with 5 spd manual transmission, and have never regretted the choice. Best ground clearance, torquey engine, manual transmission, and not a lot of fancy electronics to crap out. Had it two years, 900 miles, hauled a lot of trailers loaded with cut hardwood over some pretty rough trails, and it's still going strong. And the IRS hasn't given me a moment's problem.
Posted by: BigBadScrambler
SInce you are on the farm, I would suggest seriously looking into the Polaris 500 ATP and the Ranger. They may be better suited for farm use than the Sportsman due to their straight axel, rear diff lock as well, a dump bed, and plenty of storage for extra gear.
Posted by: BigBadScrambler
Quote
Originally posted by: RhinoOffRoad
heh......all it takes is one test drive to answer that one! the polaris diesel is loud. im not talking about annoying loud...im talking m16 with no ear plugs loud and im not exaggerating at all. i started to take one out for a test drive but turned around about as fast as i started out. i just couldnt take that level of noise and im not an old prude by any means. ive ran open headers on my big block dragsters for all my life, but i couldnt tolerate 2 minutes on the diesel sportsman. it literally felt like someone was driving a screwdriver into your ear drum on each stroke.
Exactly! Not only was it extremely loud, but it was SLOW as all hell!!! But it was never marketed towards recreational riding. It was designed to be used by farmers and construction companies with a fleet of other diesel vehicals, so that they could use the fuel that they already had available to them. If Polaris could quiet that thing down some, and add a turbo for more power then it would be a great pulling machine. Naturally asperated diesels are really slow and dont make a whole lot of power. A turbo would really wake that motor up....BUT....it would sky rocket the price
Posted by: BigBadScrambler
No what a second there buddy. By "True 4wd", that means that ALL 4 tires spin, not the rear and 1 of the fronts, then the other front. That is what is meant by "True 4wd" The Polaris uses an "On demand AWD", which means that when the rear tires slip 1/5 more than the front, then the fronts engage. This system has worked very well for many years. It reduces steering effort and unnessacery stress on the drivetrain
Posted by: SHOTGUN
Try all makes as all are nice machines.
from what you decribed you are looking for,
I would think 4x4 on the fly is a must,
I would think differencial lock is a must, again on the fly.
if your pulling heavy loads braking is a must, EBS?
for handleing heavy loads, weight of machine would be a factor.
If you didn't want to add $$ after purchase, take a look at what comes stock for tires.
Power would be a big factor for heavy loads, 500 vs - 700's
Reability should be hugh factor.
Long term, will it be worth anything 5 years from now.
Most important, service and dealer. Find a dealer you know and trust, he can help you or hurt you.
good luck.
Posted by: reconranger
The Rincon is no work quad. It is aimed straight at the recreational rider, and I don't think Honda even pretends it is anything else. The Foreman 450 is the quintessential work machine in the Honda lineup. Or, the Rubicon (Rubicon not Rincon....to many R's) if you need more horsepower (but a more complex machine!).
I have just never been able to warm up to anything in the Polaris lineup. Their designs just seem so contrived. Like some sled builders decided to make a thing with 4 wheels, and didn't think it out real well.
Posted by: reconranger
A point to consider. The Foreman 450 is only $300 MSRP more than the 400. For the little bit of extra money, you get a bigger engine, selectable 2wd/4wd, new limited slip front diff., and a little more suspension!
Posted by: reconranger
Another thing to think about. If you are mostly putting around at slow speed, you may want to go water cooled rather than air cooled!! At least the water cooled will have a fan that will kick in when things get hot.
Posted by: lax
All the info above is good, but a IRS suspension squats in comparison to a solid axle machine thus eliminating any ride qualitys that an IRS is designed for when hooked up to a trailer. Ground clearance is another issue, some manufactures take the measurement at the bottom of the pegs, steering, or frame. Also does the machine have dual a- arms for front suspension this can make a differance in the strength of a machine as far as overloading a front rack. One of the most important things to me is resale value after 2 or 3 years of work. Test ride whatever you may be interested in and due the same with comparable models from the competition. A good salesman would have no problem with loading a trailer up with some weight and let you tool around the parking lot if the really believe in their product
Posted by: lax
Quote
Rhino, PLEASE START A POST OF THIS IN A FORUM SOMEWHERE!! Yo are so right about every word you just said!!!!! Honda gained its "GREAT" reputation from the past whereas Polaris gianed its "POOR" reputation from the past as well! NOwadays I think Honda, Yamaha, Zuki, Kawi and Polaris are all about the same in Quality if all manufactured here in America!!
So are you saying that honda's reliability has dropped down to the standards of the other manufactures?
Posted by: 2TV
For an ATV you plan to just keep on the farm and use for heavy work, the Polaris should be at the top of your check out list. They are probably the best right out of the box for this type of usage because they are heavier than most of their competitors (and certainly the Hondas) so they will be the best at general towing chores. They also deliver a plush ride, better than most other brands. If you are looking for maximum towing capacity you should get one of the bigger models. A 500 will tow a lot but a 600 will tow more. Theoretically a 700 would do even better but I&39;ve heard some people say they like the performance of the 600 better than the 700…
Posted by: 2TV
It really depends on how heavy “heavy” is. In my experience with my IRS Grizzly, I do a lot of heavy pulling (seasonally), mostly dragging logs, and I have had no problems. I&39;ve mowed with it too but I wouldn&39;t consider my 628 lb mower a “heavy” towing job at all. The heaviest rolling load I&39;ve pulled is probably when I towed a dead Chrysler Minivan for about 200 yards (all up hill, starting on a gradual incline with a steeper section at about the half way point. One time a roll-back brought a car along this same path and had one heck of a time getting up that steeper section, he finally made it after several attempts at backing up and getting a faster run at it). When I was towing the minivan I had the Grizzly in low range and 4 wheel lock for maximum traction. The Grizzly did do a little “bucking” at times and this was probably due to the IRS suspension.
I have had no trouble dragging logs, and I&39;ve pulled logs as big as the grizzly could move without digging holes with the tires and going nowhere (if that happens I have to cut the log shorter). I don&39;t use a log arch either, just a chain around the log & attached to the hitch (which I&39;ve broken twice doing this and each time I&39;ve made strengthening repairs).
However there is no denying that a quad with a solid rear axle would do the job more efficiently, but the IRS design will give you a smoother ride when you are not towing. Also as Rhino pointed out you do have to worry about extra stress on the CV joints that are part of the IRS design. Towing on a regular basis would shorten their useful life and you may find yourself replacing them more frequently than if you weren&39;t using it for a towing vehicle. That being said I think the largest Polaris models will be able to handle tow loads higher than my Grizzly because if nothing else do to the weight of the quad. Plus the largest Polaris models have more weight, HP and torque than the largest solid axle Hondas available right now. So again it comes down to how heavy is “heavy” if your choice is limited between Polaris and Honda.
Oh, and about the water cooled point, theoretically this should be an important feature especially at slower speeds where air cooling isn&39;t as efficient. However in my experience during my mowing sessions (several hours at a time) using my air-cooled 600 Grizzly that was eventually replaced with my liquid cooled 660 Grizzly, both machines over-temp lights would come on after the same amount of time (generally several hours of mowing in warm temps), but the liquid cooled engine is probably running cooler on average than the air cooled one and that&39;s better for engine longevity. I never tried adding any of those cooling agents to the cooling system yet, one day I plan to try that and that may make a difference…
Posted by: NLWarrior01
Quote
Originally posted by: RhinoOffRoad
all these polaris recommendations are based in brand loyalty and are what i consider to be bad advice. you clearly stated that you need a machine for "heavy farm work". you dont buy an IRS machine for "heavy" work. for heavy work you want a solid rear axle that will stand up to work far better than cv joints in an IRS setup.
What you say about the IRS makes sense. Afterall, the hitch attacment is on the axel assembly .. for a solid axel, that means the axel is carrying the weight of the trailer tongue all across the memeber. On an IRS system, the side axes are indpendent of the differential where the hitch is attached and therefore the tongue weight actually compresses the suspension.
Posted by: NLWarrior01
Quote
Originally posted by: REVHIGH
Of all the manufacturers, for some reason it seems that the Polaris owners are the most rabid in promoting their brand of machine. Whether or not it's the right machine for the person or not.
I think it's a plot amongst polaris owners to flood the market with quads like their own .. that way when things start to go wrong there's an ample supply of quads for spare parts JUST KIDDING ..
I personally like the polaris quads. They always seem to be very powerful for the displacement when compared to other atv brands .. Take the pred. for instance (I know, this is a utility quad post) which can hang with a Raptor / DS650 which are 160CC's bigger ...
Just proof that size doesn't matter that much I guess LOL
Again tho .. with respect to the IRS system and heavy loading, the last posts make total sense.
Posted by: markie
If you buy the honda the 450 is a killer work machine,and honda has really droped the price on it since the rubicon and rincon came out.In utah you can pick one up for 5500 out the door. when you say working on a farm it reminds me of a picture of a grizzly with one of those 25gal crop dusters on the rear rack boy talk about rear end sag.The same duster on a foreman hardly even sags the rear end.One thing polaris dose that I like on there irs is make the shocks ajustable so you can stiffen them up for work. The only thing about my old forman was the ruff ride but for around the farm that shouldent matter.
Posted by: markie
I agree the atp would be a good farm machine and work machine thats what it was made for I have a polaris 700 and i like if for the trails. The atp would be great for the farm and the dump bed would be good for hay.
Posted by: markie
I have a polaris 700 and you can't fool me about your sportsman 500 squating.I had a foreman 450 and I think you could haul more on the rear rack on it than the sp 500,the honda rear ends are stiff and ride likean old buggy but they will haul lots of weight.the atp looks like it would haul alot with its solid rear end.Polaris ebs sucks they need to make all 4 wheels engage , I would hate to go down a hill with a trailer hooked up to my 700 with polaris's ebs [scary].
Posted by: markie
I think arctic cats are great,I have the 2001 400 the things a mountain goat its a better work machine than my polaris 700.My 400 has the semi ebs rear end works great.
Posted by: RedGoblin
This is has probably already been said by more than one person but I saw the thread title and couldn't resist. For plan old reliability, hard work and quality: Honda is best on earth, truly. That Honda will outlast a Polaris over and over and over. Solid fact, I don't care what anyone else tells you. There's my 2 cents.
Posted by: Swizzler
I think that I made a terrible mistake when I got rid of my Polaris SP500 and bought a Honda Rubicon. I likle my Honda and it has never let me down in the 18 months that I have had it but I must say that the Polaris was a much better built machine. I can't pull loads now like I used to with my Polaris. The Polaris IRS was much more stable and didn't squat under heavy pulling conditions like the Rubicon does. Generally, I think the Polaris was a better build and much stronger utility ATV. I'm going to sell my Rubicon to my neighbor and buy an ATP soon. This ain't brand loyalty or anything like that - just an old farmer who knows a good workhorse when I see one. I think the Rubicon is a sissy-boy's workhorse.
Posted by: REVHIGH
Meyer
Check out the 'need advice' thread a few lines down.
REV
Posted by: REVHIGH
Absolutely right Rhino! It seems very few people know this. Although IRS is currently the 'rage', it's not always best for all uses. IRS squats under load, scrubs tires during compression and rebound, is known to be less stable (twitchy) at high speed, and slides much less readily (if that;s important to you). Lots more moving parts, CV's, etc. Think about what you need and make your own decision based on those facts. Solid rear axle is what you want for heavy work. I wouldn't be a bit surprised 2-3 years from now if solid rear axle is again back in favor. These manufacturers have to keep you buying every 2 - 3 years.. Now it''s IRS, next solid, next IRS, etc.
Of all the manufacturers, for some reason it seems that the Polaris owners are the most rabid in promoting their brand of machine. Whether or not it's the right machine for the person or not. Not that it's wrong, but it always seems that way. Personally I think all the machines these days are very good, but they usually excell in one thing or the other.
One thing I can tell you ... when someone tells you something like ' there's only one machine for you and that's XYZ machine', stay far away from that advice. I think a lot of the Polaris owners are touchy and self promoting because there's so much Polaris bashing in the industry in general, and they feel that they have to defend their purchase. I'm not saying it's right or wrong, it just seems that way. The only thing I don't like about the Polaris is the EBS, other than that, I think it;s a great machine ... I almost bought one.
REV
Posted by: REVHIGH
I for one have found that my ACT suspension on my AC500 is very strong, and seems to be the best mix between IRS and single shock swingarm. I for one have no real interest in IRS until they get a lot better than they are now. In my opinion they still need to do a lot of geometry work to eliminate the extreme tire scrubbing and squatting that is so prevalent in the industry today.
So far, the only IRS that kind of makes sense to me is the one on the Bombardier Outlander. It's A-arms are independent front to rear rather than ACROSS the vehicle, as in the current crop if IRS's. This eliminates all tire scrubbing, and squat is also minimized. The current race between manufacturers for ground clearance numbers and suspension travel will change very soon I think. I think we're going to see a change to that (Bombardiers Outlanders) design in the next few years, and then all these guys who are extolling the current IRS systems are gonna have to sell their machines and get the new and improved IRS.
If you haven't seen it, check out the suspension on the Outlander. It makes a whole lot more sense than the lateral IRS's, except of course it's biggest downfall is that it doesn't look like a little Hummer from the rear, whidh is what everyone seems to want. LOL
REVHIGH !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: REVHIGH
Hey Rhino,
Have you seen the suspension on the Outlander?? What do you think??? I'd be interested in your opinion. I never ridden one, but it sure looked like a good idea. Have you been on one?
REV
Posted by: REVHIGH
I thought the Bomb IRS looked like it might work. Not sure how it would have a lack of gc though.
I never heard the 10X tire wear claim, but I know that the others cause scrubbing. I think over the next couple years IRS will be refined to the point that it will be state of the art. And that doesn't mean chasing big clearance or articulation numbers. But then the marketing geniuses will decide that they're not reliable or something and switch back to swing arm. Gotta find some reason to make people buy every 3 years right??
REV
Posted by: REVHIGH
Rhino,
I hear you about Honda reliability. Their cars were at one time top of the bunch. Now they're good, but no where like before. I have a 92 Acura Legend with 204,000 miles and it's as good today as it was the day I bought it in 95 with 23000 on it. The motor has never been touched, the transmission is untouched, it;s got the original exhaust front to rear, and it still gets 22mpg and doesn't use a drop of oil. The A/C has never been recharged. The only thing I've done to it other than oil and filter changes is timing belts every 90K, and I just put half shafts in in the last 6 months. Thats it for 204000 miles. I had a 96 Accord and it was junk compared to the legend. Now even Acuras are rebadged Hondas. My legend was a unique car (meaning not a Honda platform of the time). Like all corporations, make it cheaper, lighter, faster, and let the customer deal with the fallout.
Rant over ... LOL
REV
Posted by: REVHIGH
One thing that hasn't been discussed (I don't think) is tongue weight. THat is what will cause an IRS bike to squat, simply towing or dragging will have less of an effect on squatting than tongue weight, which will actually 'squash' the suspension on an IRS bike, and will simple push the tires down on a solid axle machine.
REV
Posted by: KatyBirdChaser
As far as the IRS on a true worker.
Lets look at streetable vehicles.
My 2003 Jeep liberty has a nice ride on the Highway. It has a IFS and a solid rear axle. Decent on trail, horrible when pushed.
My 1983 Wagoneer has Front and rear solid axles with leaf springs, it will climb a tree in low range first gear.
Independent suspensions are a new technology for people that want smoother rides for thier part time fun off road.
If you look at any "real" off highway vehicles, they will be fitted with solid axle configurations.
Its just the way it is.
Posted by: KatyBirdChaser
true but.....
You dont see hummers out running with the real OHV's.
Tough truck and real truck competitions are full of open class vehicles but you never see hummers involved.
Why is that?
They just cant do everything build OHV's can.
Stock yes, they are great but who runs their rigs stock?
And remember, we are talking about the real hummer, not the wannabe H2
Posted by: Chilly
I was looking specifically for a work oriented atv when I bought my Foreman, and I wanted rock solid reliability, and I think belts belong on pants.. now that I've wound the Polaris' folks springs a little tighter, let me say I'm just poking fun at you, at least about the pants bit.
Seriously, the 400 really surprised me with it's capabilities. I was wondering if it would have enough power to haul both myself and the GF over a rough logging trail. No problem at all. We regularly hook up the trailer the atv normally rides on, load it with fencing gear (posts, rails, barbed wire, tools, you name it), load ourselves and a lunch on board, and head off to do a day of fencing. I'd guess the total weight would be in the vicinity of 350 pounds on the bike itself, plus a towed weight approaching 800 pounds. That's going across fields that are soft in the spring and fall, and rough from hoofprints and rocks. Again, no problems. The 400 (last year available is 2003) has a super low first gear for slow work, or heavy hauling, great bottom end torque, relatively low centre of gravity for side-hill work (something I've grown quite fond of on rough trails too) It does have shortcomings, I'll admit that. You have to shift gears.. the hardship is terrible..lol. The suspension is short travel, and stiff. Nice cushy seat though. I don't think it'll do 60 mph.. I don't need to go that fast. Something else to consider, 850 pounds tow rating is a number, leaning toward the safe side. If I recall, there are maybe 2 ATVs that are designed for carrying more than 1 person. How many of us carry double? Enough said about numbers.
I agree that the Rincon and Rubicon aren't suited for work particularly well, it's why I chose the 400. If I could have found a 350 Rancher (US model) , or even a 450 Foreman for what I paid for the 400 Foreman I probably would have bought one, but I didn't.
As a trail machine, I'd rate the 400 Foreman quite a way below the Rincon, Rubicon, and most other newer ATV's. As a working machine that also can do a variety of things reasonably well, I'd rate it number one on the market.
Posted by: TellicoGrizz660
The 4x4 system on the Polaris is alot better than the Honda 4x4 system!! All 4 tires turn on the Polaris where as the Honda could sometimes 3 wheel its way around!!! The Polaris will pull heavier loads than the Honda will!! The polaris also has IRS(so does the Rincon, but with no low range and pulling things all the time, I'd go with polaris) But both dealers will bash the other to get your money!! Personally I think the Rubicon with the low range, but not IRS, or the Sportsman 500 will DEFINATELY get the job done!!! Reliability is truly in the owners control MOST of the time!!
Posted by: TellicoGrizz660
Quote
Originally posted by: REVHIGH
Absolutely right Rhino! It seems very few people know this. Although IRS is currently the 'rage', it's not always best for all uses. IRS squats under load, scrubs tires during compression and rebound, is known to be less stable (twitchy) at high speed, and slides much less readily (if that;s important to you). Lots more moving parts, CV's, etc. Think about what you need and make your own decision based on those facts. Solid rear axle is what you want for heavy work. I wouldn't be a bit surprised 2-3 years from now if solid rear axle is again back in favor. These manufacturers have to keep you buying every 2 - 3 years.. Now it''s IRS, next solid, next IRS, etc.
Of all the manufacturers, for some reason it seems that the Polaris owners are the most rabid in promoting their brand of machine. Whether or not it's the right machine for the person or not. Not that it's wrong, but it always seems that way. Personally I think all the machines these days are very good, but they usually excell in one thing or the other.
One thing I can tell you ... when someone tells you something like ' there's only one machine for you and that's XYZ machine', stay far away from that advice. I think a lot of the Polaris owners are touchy and self promoting because there's so much Polaris bashing in the industry in general, and they feel that they have to defend their purchase. I'm not saying it's right or wrong, it just seems that way. The only thing I don't like about the Polaris is the EBS, other than that, I think it;s a great machine ... I almost bought one.
REV
Don't forget that you all say the Polaris since its IRS can't pull loads real well!!! I HIGHLY suggest you all go to the Atv pulls and see which ones usually win!!! POLARIS!! I own all Yamaha and definately love their machines!!!! But I can definately admit the Polaris quads will out-pull any yamaha or Honda or Kawi, ALL in stock form ANYDAY!!! Though the Bombardiers can definately hold there on as well!
Posted by: TellicoGrizz660
Quote
Originally posted by: REVHIGH
I for one have found that my ACT suspension on my AC500 is very strong, and seems to be the best mix between IRS and single shock swingarm. I for one have no real interest in IRS until they get a lot better than they are now. In my opinion they still need to do a lot of geometry work to eliminate the extreme tire scrubbing and squatting that is so prevalent in the industry today.
So far, the only IRS that kind of makes sense to me is the one on the Bombardier Outlander. It's A-arms are independent front to rear rather than ACROSS the vehicle, as in the current crop if IRS's. This eliminates all tire scrubbing, and squat is also minimized. The current race between manufacturers for ground clearance numbers and suspension travel will change very soon I think. I think we're going to see a change to that (Bombardiers Outlanders) design in the next few years, and then all these guys who are extolling the current IRS systems are gonna have to sell their machines and get the new and improved IRS.
If you haven't seen it, check out the suspension on the Outlander. It makes a whole lot more sense than the lateral IRS's, except of course it's biggest downfall is that it doesn't look like a little Hummer from the rear, whidh is what everyone seems to want. LOL
REVHIGH !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
My family has 2 Bombardier XP watercraft and they are wonderful but I'd never sell my Yami's for a Bomber!!! Gotta have that diff-lock and the Yamaha written on the side!! I can buy new tires to get ground clearance!
Posted by: TellicoGrizz660
Quote
Originally posted by: RhinoOffRoad
Quote
Originally posted by: RedGoblin
For plan old reliability, hard work and quality
although i also recommend the honda for this application, youre mistaken about honda reliability. back in the 80s when atc/atvs were imported, honda built an awesome reputation for reliability that they still bank off of today. in reality, hondas are built here now by regular joe 6 pack just like yamahas, kawasakis, etc. and they are no more or less reliable anymore than any of them. everybody builds reasonably dependable machines today. polaris quality has come a long way since '99 and they are no more or less reliable than anybody else either.
Rhino, PLEASE START A POST OF THIS IN A FORUM SOMEWHERE!! Yo are so right about every word you just said!!!!! Honda gained its "GREAT" reputation from the past whereas Polaris gianed its "POOR" reputation from the past as well! NOwadays I think Honda, Yamaha, Zuki, Kawi and Polaris are all about the same in Quality if all manufactured here in America!!
Posted by: TellicoGrizz660
Quote
Originally posted by: Doctorturbo
Quote
It will squat under heavy loads, but so will a straight axle with the same weight.
Thats not true. An IRS has the hitch attachment point on the center section of the machine (it's sprung). This will "squish" the suspension. With a straight axle, the attachment point is on the axle. When this is done, there is nothing to squish (it's unsprung).
Quote
Another thing to think about. If you are mostly putting around at slow speed, you may want to go water cooled rather than air cooled!! At least the water cooled will have a fan that will kick in when things get hot.
Thats a really good point!!!!!!!!! Another plus for a water cooled quad.
I know the Rancher has a fan that kicks in when it gets hot and its not water cooled!
Posted by: TellicoGrizz660
Quote
Originally posted by: lax
Quote
Rhino, PLEASE START A POST OF THIS IN A FORUM SOMEWHERE!! Yo are so right about every word you just said!!!!! Honda gained its "GREAT" reputation from the past whereas Polaris gianed its "POOR" reputation from the past as well! NOwadays I think Honda, Yamaha, Zuki, Kawi and Polaris are all about the same in Quality if all manufactured here in America!!
So are you saying that honda's reliability has dropped down to the standards of the other manufactures?
Sad to say but YES! IMO I think Honda and Yamaha are about the same when it comes to reliability!!!
Posted by: TellicoGrizz660
Quote
Originally posted by: KatyBirdChaser
As far as the IRS on a true worker.
Lets look at streetable vehicles.
My 2003 Jeep liberty has a nice ride on the Highway. It has a IFS and a solid rear axle. Decent on trail, horrible when pushed.
My 1983 Wagoneer has Front and rear solid axles with leaf springs, it will climb a tree in low range first gear.
Independent suspensions are a new technology for people that want smoother rides for thier part time fun off road.
If you look at any "real" off highway vehicles, they will be fitted with solid axle configurations.
Its just the way it is.
Rock Crawling "HYBRID" jeeps use straight front axels because of the gearing the axels run and most importantly the "STRENGTH" of the axel overall, to much to break and to expensive to maintain!!! THATS WHY you see straight axels on "REAL" off high way vehicles!!! Look at the Humvee 1, its IRS all the way around and stock for stock will go further than ANY stock manufactured vehicle to date!!!!
Posted by: TellicoGrizz660
Quote
Originally posted by: BigBadScrambler
SInce you are on the farm, I would suggest seriously looking into the Polaris 500 ATP and the Ranger. They may be better suited for farm use than the Sportsman due to their straight axel, rear diff lock as well, a dump bed, and plenty of storage for extra gear.
Stay out of it BigBad!
Posted by: TellicoGrizz660
BigBad or any other Polaris owner, what ever happen to that Polaris Deisel quad??????? Did it not sell to well?? I was gonna say, I bet it was the "GREATEST" puller of all time!
Posted by: TellicoGrizz660
Quote
Originally posted by: KatyBirdChaser
true but.....
You dont see hummers out running with the real OHV's.
Tough truck and real truck competitions are full of open class vehicles but you never see hummers involved.
Why is that?
They just cant do everything build OHV's can.
Stock yes, they are great but who runs their rigs stock?
And remember, we are talking about the real hummer, not the wannabe H2
First I did say Humvee "1"! Second, how many people have STOCK 4x4 vehicles as compared to modified????? They may add tires or stuff to make it look good, but its FACT bro, the Humvee is quite the 4x4 when compared to other vehicles, even some modified ones!!! Point is you can buy BOTH off the showrrom floor!
Posted by: TellicoGrizz660
Quote
Originally posted by: markie
I think arctic cats are great,I have the 2001 400 the things a mountain goat its a better work machine than my polaris 700.My 400 has the semi ebs rear end works great.
How did Artic Cat get into the mix??? Last I remembered it was between Honda and Polaris and Polaris will DEFINATELY outwork the Cats!
Posted by: Doctorturbo
meyer712 let me first say that I agree with all of the above posts.
Now let me say that I bought my WORK quad last year. I checked out ALL brands. And I do mean checked them out. The dealer close to me sold the big 5. This was nice because I could see all of them side by side. I work with my quad so I needed everything you do and maybe more. What did I buy? A Bombardier traxter 500. Go look at one. You will see the difference in build, between that and the Honda anyway. The Polaris is a very nice machine and that would be my second choice. They are heavy and built very nice, just like Bombardier. I'm not knocking Honda. I own several of their products and love them. To give you an example. Just look at the brakes of the Honda and then look at the Bombardier or Polaris. See the difference? Look at the frame. See the difference?
If you want a "tractor type" quad then I would buy a traxter. If you want something for play and some work then I would think about the Polaris.
I thought about this again and you said "heavy farm work". So I will take that back and ONLY buy a traxter!!!!
Thats my 2 cents!!!!!!!
Posted by: Doctorturbo
Quote
It will squat under heavy loads, but so will a straight axle with the same weight.
Thats not true. An IRS has the hitch attachment point on the center section of the machine (it's sprung). This will "squish" the suspension. With a straight axle, the attachment point is on the axle. When this is done, there is nothing to squish (it's unsprung).
Quote
Another thing to think about. If you are mostly putting around at slow speed, you may want to go water cooled rather than air cooled!! At least the water cooled will have a fan that will kick in when things get hot.
Thats a really good point!!!!!!!!! Another plus for a water cooled quad.
Posted by: Sod
Quote
Originally posted by: meyer712
I am at odds as to what to get for heavy farm work. I don't plan on trail riding but still want a smooth ride across the field. The Honda dealer naturaly slammed the Polaris 500 saying that it as 25 grease fittings and is belt driven. I was also told that the Polaris is constantly breaking down. I can't find anything in consumer reports for ATV's. Honda prices are about $1500 more than the Polaris 500. Which way to go?? I want something that is not going to break down in a year or two. HELP!!! I also would like to be able to go through the deep Wisconsin snow and put a plow in it as well. Pulling hay wagons around as well as a drag so I need power and four wheel drive is a must for muddy fields.
First of all, the Polaris has only 3 grease fittings. You site smooth ride, towing capacity,ability to get through deep snow and snow plowing as your priorities for this machine. With the Honda line-up you would need to look at the Rincon in order to get the IRS which is a must for a smooth ride and the ability to get through deep snow. However, you also need towing capacity and the Honda Rincon is only rated for 850#. The Honda Rincon is also one of the most (is not the most) expensive utility machine on the market. The Polaris 500HO has the IRS and rides like a Cadillac. It also has more ground clearance that the Rincon which will help get you through deeper snow. The Sportsman has a rated towing capacity of 1250# which is about 50% more than the Rincon. The Sportsman has true 4wd as compared with the Rincon with 3.5wd. The true 4wd is a huge advantage when pushing a snow plow and driving in deep snow. The Sportsman 500HO is probably the very best ATV in the Polaris line-up. The Sportsman has a bullet proof motor which has been on the market for quite a few years. Polaris now has a lifetime warranty on the drive belt. If you keep it in low range when you are working it, you will never have a problem. The Rincon doesn't even have a low range. I would encourage you to look at the drive train components on both machines. You will find that the Polaris is built much heavier than the Honda. The Polaris fits your needs much better than the Honda.
The Rincon however, is a great machine. Honda makes great products! Honda is know for great reliability. If you decide to buy one, I am sure that you will really enjoy it.
Go for the Polaris - - - it is the better machine for what you are looking for. When you get around to buying a Snow Plow, be sure to check out the Polaris "Glacier Plow". It take 30 seconds to take it off or put it on!
Posted by: meyer712
I am at odds as to what to get for heavy farm work. I don't plan on trail riding but still want a smooth ride across the field. The Honda dealer naturaly slammed the Polaris 500 saying that it as 25 grease fittings and is belt driven. I was also told that the Polaris is constantly breaking down. I can't find anything in consumer reports for ATV's. Honda prices are about $1500 more than the Polaris 500. Which way to go?? I want something that is not going to break down in a year or two. HELP!!! I also would like to be able to go through the deep Wisconsin snow and put a plow in it as well. Pulling hay wagons around as well as a drag so I need power and four wheel drive is a must for muddy fields.
Posted by: meyer712
Thanks for this information. I am leaning toward the Polaris. But will look at the traxter as well. I am new to the ATV thing and know little to nothing about them. I do appreciate the assistance. I also plan on researching further, This web forum is a big help. I am glad I stopped by to gather information from so many knowledgeable people. I appreciate good solid information from experienced owners, saves me time in research.
Posted by: xhalin
buy a honda. It wont ride as smooth as a polaris thats for sure. However, 10 years from now you will still be using the Honda and most likely have only spent money for normal maintenace.
Posted by: HonDan
Why has nobody mentioned the "Polaris: True four wheel drive myth"?
When in 4x4 mode, the front tires on a Polaris only engage if the back wheels slip, and when the back wheels stop slipping, the front ones disengage. Now, I realize that the 4x4 system on the Hondas is only limited slip, 3 1/2 wheel drive but it would seem to me that when when you want to shift to 4x4 that "absolute" 3 1/2 wheel drive would be better than "only if my back tires slip 4 wheel drive", especially for towing.
Just my opinion, though....
Posted by: cdarrell
Take it form someone that uses 500 ho all most daily on a farm it is great.I have been useing it since 2001 with no trouble what so ever.I pull a 6 by 10 foot trailer sometimes loaded down awesome.My 500ho has 4000 miles on it with no brake downs steal has the same brakes on it Ah yeah i think but I am not sure that when you pull something heavy with a straight axle as you pull out the swingarm spring will start to collaspe lowering the hight of your seat sometime makeing the rear fender all most touching the tires.The irs can swat to the point of a straight axale thats it.Hope that helps I own a 700sp and it is even better.
Posted by: Hondaatc4ever
Honda is the best.They will take you through hell and back. Read some magazines, do some research, and ask people about the life span of Honda atvs. They will outlast any Polaris atv.
