Polaris Sportsman 500 H.O. Specs
by Shea Laverty
Founded in 1954, Polaris Industries is a well-known American manufacturer of snowmobiles and all-terrain vehicles. In 2011, Polaris released its Sportsman 500 H.O., an ATV with a high-output engine and many improved features over the previous year model. This ATV was designed with a wide range of riders in mind, including hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. Combining a powerful engine with a small frame, the Polaris 500 H.O. is an ideal workhorse for small loads in areas otherwise impossible to access with a full-sized vehicle.
Engine
The Sportsman 500 H.O. is equipped with a liquid-cooled 498cc high-output single overhead valve single-cylinder engine. This engine features a 40mm Mikuni carburetor and an electric starter. This engine's bore measures 92mm, and has a 75mm stroke. The compression ratio of this engine is 10.2 to one.
Transmission & Drivetrain
The 2011 Polaris Sportsman 500 H.O. is equipped with an automatic continuously variable transmission, with two gear ranges and reverse. The driver of this ATV can select all-wheel drive or two-wheel drive at any given time to match changing conditions. The engine is belt driven, and transmits drive power to engaged drive wheels via a drive-shaft.
Suspension & Brakes
The front wheels of the Sportsman 500 H.O. are equipped with independent MacPherson strut suspension with 8.2 inches of travel. The rear wheels feature steel dual A-arm independent rear suspension, with 9.5 inches of travel, preload adjustable shocks, and a stabilizer bar. All four wheels feature hydraulic disc brakes.
Wheels & Tires
The wheels on the Polaris Sportsman are made of stamped steel and measure 12 inches in diameter. The front tires are type 489 radials and measure 25 inches in diameter, and 8 inches in width. The rear tires are also type 489 radials and are 25 inches in diameter and 11 inches in width.
Dimensions & Capacities
The 2011 Polaris Sportsman 500 H.O. is 83 inches long, 48 inches wide and 48 inches high. The seat rides at about 33.75 inches, and the ATV clears the ground at 11.25 inches. The wheelbase measures 50.5 inches. The dry weight of this ATV is 696 lbs., and the fuel tank can carry 4.1 gallons of regular, unleaded gasoline. The front rack can hold 90 lbs., while the rear rack can hold 180 lbs. This ATV can tow 1,225 lbs. using a hitch, and can tow 1,786 lbs. using a brake-less trailer.
