2006 [MY05-09] Polaris Sportsman 500, should you buy one?

Jezza's honest review of the "No Name" Polaris Sportsman 500 HO. Also, the first video in our new format.

[@timberray9572]

I have a 07 X2 model. These old machines still have the Fuji engine which is damn near indestructible. Mine has 7000miles on it and lives a pretty hard life hauling a 4x6ft trailer with firewood or plowing snow, I have had zero issues so far.

[@jeroenkleijheeg7201]

dank je wel voor het filmpje, ik heb net ongeveer de zelfde gekocht, je film zal me veel helpen. veel plezier met offroad rijden.

[@goodjerm]

i was just able to translate this, thanks for the comment and glad you found it useful.

[@RTOutdoors]

This is my personal favorite generation of Sportsman. They ride so dang good. Stock “back up” lights which are so handy…especially if you find yourself having to plow after dark. My only real negatives was the radiator placement and the smaller fuel capacity. I still regret selling my ‘08 all these years later

[@nalde4258]

Thanks for the review Jezza! Just bought a 2006 Sportsman 500 like yours but its X2 so I can take my wife on the trails, would love to see some maintenance videos on it! Got it with a plow as well as a wench excited to do work with it.

[@goodjerm]

I sold the 500 but I do have an older 400 named “Ruby Sue” that I’ll be doing a video on at some point. I’ll include some maintenance and things to watch out for when looking to buy these older units. The drivetrain and chassis are nearly identical so most of the steps are the same.

[@mytube3358]

Thanks for the heads up on those bolts. I just bought an 09 with 3000 miles on it. I don’t remember what the hours are. It’s going to be the workhorse on an acreage. So I’m trying to learn as much about it as I can. My first ATV.

[@goodjerm]

So you called it an ATV, but what state are you in?

[@mytube3358]

@@goodjerm Iowa. Is that a regional thing?

[@goodjerm]

@@mytube3358 it sure is. I have keeping track of different places and what they are called.

[@mytube3358]

@@goodjerm you know, now that I think about it. In my experience, living here and in Chicago, ATV and four wheeler are pretty well interchangeable. Quad is pretty much reserved for two wheel drives like banshees. When we have Coke syrup races at the Iowa State fairgrounds, you don’t hear anyone say four wheeler or ATV. Only quad.