Segment:
Premium utility All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV)
Target Audience:
Ranchers, hunters, recreational riders requiring versatility and carrying capacity.
Key Competitors:
Can-Am Outlander Max, Yamaha Grizzly, Arctic Cat Thundercat.
Feature 1:
Versatile X2 design allowing for a second passenger or cargo bed.
Feature 2:
Powerful Polaris SOHC V-twin EFI engines (700cc and 800cc).
Feature 3:
On-demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system.
Feature 4:
Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) for superior ride quality.
Feature 5:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for reliable starting and performance in varying altitudes.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, tuning, fuel system, ignition system, lubrication.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (PVT - Polaris Variable Transmission), belt maintenance, clutch service, gearcase maintenance.
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, driveshafts, differentials, CV joints, final drive.
Brakes:
Hydraulic disc brake system (front and rear), brake fluid replacement, caliper service, pad replacement, bleeding procedures.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, starter system, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, ignition system, EFI components, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment.
Steering:
Steering column, tie rods, steering linkage, Power Steering (if equipped).
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, throttle body, fuel tank.
Cooling System:
Radiator, cooling fan, coolant, thermostat.
Bodywork:
Body panels, fenders, racks, seating, storage compartments.
Chassis:
Frame integrity, component mounting, general chassis inspection.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, lubrication points, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle components and systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and electrical system repairs.
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed instructions for removing and reinstalling all parts and components.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair and maintenance tasks.
Torque Specifications:
Accurate torque values for all fasteners and critical components.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete and detailed electrical wiring schematics for all systems.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive from basic user maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics.
Engine Type 700:
Polaris 700cc SOHC 4-stroke V-twin EFI
Engine Type 800:
Polaris 800cc SOHC 4-stroke V-twin EFI
Bore Stroke 700:
Approx. 83mm x 64.4mm (Varies slightly by specific engine iteration)
Bore Stroke 800:
Approx. 93mm x 73mm (Varies slightly by specific engine iteration)
Horsepower 700:
Approximately 50-55 HP (estimated, varies with tuning and conditions)
Horsepower 800:
Approximately 55-60 HP (estimated, varies with tuning and conditions)
Torque 700:
Approximately 45-48 lb-ft (estimated)
Torque 800:
Approximately 50-53 lb-ft (estimated)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as per manual, typically 87 or higher)
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled
Transmission Type:
Automatic Polaris Variable Transmission (PVT) with Engine Braking
Gears:
High, Low, Neutral, Reverse, Park
Optional Transmission:
N/A (Standard Automatic PVT)
Clutch System:
Dual-drive clutches and driven clutches for continuous variable ratio.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Polaris AGL Synthetic Gearcase Lubricant or equivalent SAE 10W-40 Synthetic Engine Oil (Consult manual for precise specification for gearcase).
Length:
Approx. 95.2 inches (241.8 cm)
Width:
Approx. 47.7 inches (121.2 cm)
Height:
Approx. 47.5 inches (120.7 cm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 733 lbs (332 kg) for 700 EFI; Approx. 747 lbs (339 kg) for 800 EFI (varies by configuration).
Gvw:
Not typically specified in lbs, but refers to gross vehicle weight including rider and cargo.
Front Rack Capacity:
75 lbs (34 kg)
Rear Rack Capacity:
150 lbs (68 kg) in cargo mode; 300 lbs (136 kg) when in flatbed mode (X2 specific).
Towing Capacity:
1500 lbs (680 kg)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 50.5 inches (128.3 cm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 11.25 inches (28.6 cm)
Safety Certification:
ATV Safety Institute (ASI) recommended.
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear, engine braking.
Drive System:
Polaris On-Demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD) for enhanced traction.
Seating:
Ergonomic seating for 1 or 2 riders (X2 model).
Lighting:
Dual 50W headlights, 35W brake light/taillight.
Operator Protection:
Handlebar and handguards for protection.
Infotainment System:
Basic instrumentation cluster: Speedometer, odometer, trip meter, tachometer, fuel gauge, engine hour meter, AWD indicator, 2WD/4WD indicator, high/low gear indicator, oil pressure light, engine warning light, battery voltage indicator.
Traction Control:
None (Relies on mechanical AWD and tire grip)
Connectivity Features:
None
Oil Change Interval:
Every 100 hours or annually, whichever comes first (Consult manual for specific Polaris synthetic oil recommendations).
Filter Replacement Interval:
Air filter: clean/inspect every 25 hours, replace as needed. Oil filter: replace with oil change.
Spark Plug Interval:
Inspect every 100 hours, replace as needed (Consult manual for correct NGK spark plug part number).
Belt Inspection:
Inspect PVT belt for wear and damage every 50 hours. Replace as necessary.
Engine Oil Type:
Polaris PS-4 5W-50 Full Synthetic 4-Cycle Engine Oil or equivalent JASO MA certified 5W-50 synthetic.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.0 quarts (1.9 L) with filter change (Consult manual for exact capacity).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid
Coolant Type:
Polaris Premium All-Season Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors.
Common Issue 1:
PVT Belt Wear: Regular inspection and replacement of the drive belt is crucial for proper operation and to prevent damage to clutches. Early models may have had less robust belt compounds.
Common Issue 2:
EFI System Sensitivity: While EFI is reliable, issues with fuel pumps, injectors, or sensors can arise, often requiring diagnostic tool access. Check for clogged fuel filters.
Common Issue 3:
Suspension Bushing Wear: On high-mileage units, suspension and steering bushings can wear, leading to play and reduced handling precision. Regular greasing and inspection are key.
Common Issue 4:
Cooling System Overheating: Ensure the radiator is clean, the fan is operating correctly, and coolant levels are maintained. Thermostat failure can also cause overheating.
Brand Origin:
Polaris Industries Inc., founded in 1954, a pioneer in snowmobiles and ATVs.
Sportsman Lineage:
The Sportsman line has been a cornerstone of Polaris' ATV offerings, known for its utility and ruggedness. The X2 variant introduced significant versatility with its convertible cargo/passenger system.
Production Location:
USA (Roseau, Minnesota and other Polaris manufacturing facilities).
Model Placement:
2008 represented a continuation of the successful second-generation Sportsman platform, featuring robust engine options and the innovative X2 configuration.
