For model year 2009, Polaris introduced the all-new Sportsman XP and saw the Sportsman XP 850 become the No. 1 Big Bore ATV. Model Year 2010 saw the Sportsman XP features added to the 2-Up line, and a redesigned Scrambler, Trail Blazer and Trail Boss. For 2011, Polaris continues to update models in the Sportsman line and build upon its success of introducing models that are not only innovative, but appeal to a wide variety of ATV enthusiasts.
“We have made significant changes to more than 90 percent of our ATV line up during the last two model years,” said Matt Homan, vice president and general manager of Polaris’ Off-Road Division. “For Model Year 2011, we’ll continue the trend of redesigning our product line to ensure we have the hardest working, smoothest riding ATVs in the industry.”
The Sportsman 500 H.O. continues to be the best-selling automatic 4x4 ATV of all time and for 2011, along with Sportsman 800 EFI, Sportsman Big Boss 6x6 800 and Sportsman Touring 500 H.O., Polaris is updating both the style and functionality. The models will feature an aggressive new front end style that raises the front radiator, gives a smaller appearance, is less-bulky, and improves handling and sight lines for the driver. As part of the redesign, the Sportsman 400 H.O. will rejoin the rest of the value line in the restyled chassis.
The Sportsman 800 EFI, Sportsman 500 H.O., Sportsman Touring 500 H.O. and Sportsman 400 H.O. also have an improved drive train with a quieter, more efficient transmission for smoother operation. The Sportsman 800 EFI will see an improved weight bias due to the engine being moved rearward more than three inches. The new engine placement results in a lighter steering effort and better handling.
These models include a new Lock & Ride front rack that can be replaced with a Lock & Ride accessory box for additional storage (the box is standard on the Sportsman 500 H.O. , Sportsman 500 H.O. Touring and Sportsman 800 6x6). A new Lock & Ride-ready rear rack, a raised and angled radiator for improved mud protection, new front lights, and a lower winch mount for better self extraction also increase the functionality of these hard working ATVs.
The Sportsman XP 850 and 550 took the industry by storm in 2009 as machines built for Xtreme Performance, and Polaris continues to add features that make the Sportsman XP 850 and 550 models even better. For 2011, the Sportsman XP 850, Sportsman 550, Sportsman Touring 850, Sportsman Touring 550 and Sportsman X2 550 will have improved engine braking with more user-friendly engagement, improved splash protection and a new vinyl seat for less slip. All 850cc models also will receive a new engine coupler for added durability. The Sportsman XP 850 and 550 will see an approximate 12-pound weight reduction, feature in-mold plastic and camouflage models will have the new Polaris Pursuit pattern developed with hunters in mind. The Sportsman XP 850 EPS/550 EPS and Touring models also will feature paint and have 16-percent more fuel capacity for longer range.
For the 2010 Model Year, Polaris used the Sportsman XP chassis for its 2-Up line for added comfort, a smoother ride and superior performance. For 2011, Polaris has a new rear suspension on both the Touring and X2 models for increased rear travel (10.25 in/26 cm) and new features for better passenger comfort. The Sportsman Touring 850 EPS and 550 EPS models are equipped with an improved and removable passenger seat with additional stability and security, a new rear seat comfort ride system with improved shock and spring control, and standard, removable Lock & Ride passenger hand guards. For the occasional one-up rider who wants additional hard working capability from their ATV, both the passenger seat and lock & ride hand grips can be removed and replaced with a PURE Polaris storage box that takes the place of the removable passenger seat for added rack capacity when riding 1-Up. The versatile Sportsman X2 550, with its 400-pound capacity rear dump box that goes from 1-Up work mode to 2-Up play mode in three easy steps, also receives a new, more comfortable passenger seat design with almost 21 percent more foam for added comfort and durability. To work harder, the unit has improved box latching that was redesigned with a pull-strap for easier dumping.
All Sportsman XP 850 and 550 models will continue to offer the features that made them award-winning including an 850cc, twin EFI engine, a 549cc single EFI engine, both longitudinally-mounted engines for improved ergonomics, exclusive anti-kickback steering with a dual A-arm front suspension, Rolled Independent Rear Suspension and On-Demand True All-Wheel Drive.
Along with the models mentioned above, Polaris will continue to offer the Outlaw 525 IRS, Outlaw 525 S, Scrambler 500 4x4, Trail Blazer 330 and the Trail Boss 330. The Phoenix 200 has been upgraded to a transitional youth model for ages 14 and up. This includes speed limiting to 20 mph/32.2 kph as delivered, 30 mph/48.3 kph intermediate, 38 mph/61.2 kph unrestricted.
Limited Edition models include an Orange Madness Sportsman XP 850 EPS, Browning Edition Pursuit Sportsman XP 850 EPS and Sportsman 550 EPS, Sportsman Touring 850 EPS Super Graphite Metallic, and a Sportsman X2 850 with VersaTrac.
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