What to buy

[Kong]

Well, at the end of March, I think I am going to be in the market for a new machine, but I don't know what I want. I currently have an 05 500 Sportsman, that servers me very well. It will do anything I ask it too, and I never feel short on power.

I am debating on getting an 850 Touring, or a Rzr. I don't think I want to waste the money for the 900, I don't need anything that fast. I am on the fence if the Rzr will be as much fun as the 4 wheeler. I am also worried I might be a little cramped up in it once I get it away from the dealer.

For those who have ridden both, is the Rzr as much fun to ride as a Sportsman, or will it turn into a hopped up dune buggy on big tires? Is the Rzr S worth the little extra over the standard model?

[bobx2]

I have driven an RZR about 1/2 mile on the trails. I did not care for it at all compared to my atv. Just seemed like driving a small Jeep. It seems they are also much more limited in where you can ride. Even if it fit through the 50" gate, there are trails I like to ride that you just couldn't do with a RZR. If there is any way you could drive one out on the trails before you make your decision, I would highly recommend it. I do however know a few people that own RZR's and love them. I guess it depends on where you like to ride. If 50" wide is not a concern I would go with the "S" model. I would look at the new 570 RZR as well. Reports are that there is very little performance drop off from the 800, and they are a bit cheaper as well.
Good luck in your hunt and let us know how it turns out.

[Kong]

That's the thing. Some of the trails I take off on, my 500 can barely fit. I think I would stay with the 800, I am a big guy, and if I took someone with me, I want a little more zip on the pedal. I might give that one or two trails up, if the rest of it is worth it.

Another thing I am curious about is the center of gravity on the newer models. I see some people going over stuff, I would not even attempt on my 05 model. Is the balance that much different? I know when you get a touring model, they have a longer wheel base, and can make it go up a steeper grade.

[bobx2]

The XP's have about a 3" longer wheelbase than the older model Sportsman atv's, as well as the fuel tank is mounted lower. Both of those greatly improve the stability of the machine.

[utvatv800]

we have both atv and rzr and the rzr is a blast to drive.

[shui5612]

depending on WHERE you drive, if its in the forest, id avoid the RZR unless you have more than 50" width...

the longer wheelbase DOES improve handling BUT, with a passenger, you probably wont be able to go the same slopes as without one (on a 2-up atv)
the centre of gravity (or CG) is "better" on the rzr as both passengers (considerably a big part of the weight) are sitting LOW and in the middle verses middle and rear on the 2-ups.
this being said, alot of people switch to utv's (rzrs) for the reason of comfort. you sit more comfortably, and have more options at hand, like cabs, heating in cabs and such.

consider the touring as a 2-up and no cargo or 1-up and cargo machine, where as the rzr has 2up always available and a big amount of storage(rear bed)

considering WHAT you are looking for, work? id say the atv is more versatile because of its size, but the RZR is more capable when surrounding arent limited.

trails? depends on the trail, take into consideration the fact that rzr might be more comfortable, but wont be as "fun" to some...

think aswell into the future, are you soon going to be 60 and end up wanting to move less, sit down, in that case the rzr is a better choice.
But if you are turning 32 next year, either will suit you....

there are alot of more options and points that can go out to both, pros and cons, but i wont state them all as it might get boring

again, what i have said makes the rzr seem to fly by the atv, but in reality, its only as fun as someone is willing to admit how fun it is...

hope i helped. and feel free to ask any questions concerning either, i have had afew chances to drive a rzr for afew days, and own an atv...

oh and P.S. i only own atvs for the reason that where i ride, it is sometimes less than an inch on both sides to spare, aswell as the price aspect, and things that id have to buy to accommodate it: like a trailer, find room in the garage, and so on.

[ray14sher]

I've been on both, you ride an ATV, you drive a RZR. There is a difference, which you want to do is up to you.

[DTH357]

If you want a touring,I have a 2012 850 I'll sell you for 9500.00.

[Kong]

Originally Posted by DTH357

If you want a touring,I have a 2012 850 I'll sell you for 9500.00.

That sounds like a good deal, but I am a month from having the funds to buy it, and I need to get a bigger garage to put everything in. If you still have it after the 8th of March, give me a shout.

shui5612, I think most of your points are spot on. There are some places, the my 500 barely fits. I love the look of Thor's, and I think it will fit my riding area around the house better. I do have tons of really cool places where the Rzr would be just fine, but if I just want to wake up and grab my son and go behind the house, I don't think it will work that well. Although, I might be open to keeping the 500 and getting the Rzr and have both on hand.

The big thing I am worried with the Rzr is my size. I am 6'4 and a big mac over 300 with a size 16 foot. Will I be able to manipulate the pedals while riding? I know it has a tilt wheel and adjustable seat, but as wide as my shoulders are, will I knock out my passenger on every bump, or bust my knee caps on the dash. Just hopping in one of the show room floor, does not tell me the whole story.

[Grassman]

Originally Posted by Kong

That sounds like a good deal, but I am a month from having the funds to buy it, and I need to get a bigger garage to put everything in. If you still have it after the 8th of March, give me a shout.

shui5612, I think most of your points are spot on. There are some places, the my 500 barely fits. I love the look of Thor's, and I think it will fit my riding area around the house better. I do have tons of really cool places where the Rzr would be just fine, but if I just want to wake up and grab my son and go behind the house, I don't think it will work that well. Although, I might be open to keeping the 500 and getting the Rzr and have both on hand.

The big thing I am worried with the Rzr is my size. I am 6'4 and a big mac over 300 with a size 16 foot. Will I be able to manipulate the pedals while riding? I know it has a tilt wheel and adjustable seat, but as wide as my shoulders are, will I knock out my passenger on every bump, or bust my knee caps on the dash. Just hopping in one of the show room floor, does not tell me the whole story.

You sound like a big guy, might be a little cramped on the RZR.