The 2009 Polaris Sportsman 500 series represented Polaris's robust offering in the mid-size utility ATV segment, known for its versatility and off-road capability.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Competed with models from brands such as Can-Am (Outlander 400), Yamaha (Grizzly 450), Honda (FourTrax Foreman 4x4), and Kawasaki (Brute Force 300/400).
Key Features
Features Of Vehicle:
• 500cc engine for ample power
• Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) for superior ride comfort and handling
• On-Demand True All-Wheel Drive (AWD) for excellent traction
• Locking front differential
• Versatile platform catering to utility, trail riding, and farm work
• EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection) for improved throttle response, cold starts, and fuel efficiency
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (e.g., Polaris PS-4 Extreme, or equivalent)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
Automatic (PVT - Polaris Variable Transmission)
Drive System:
Shaft Drive
Drive Modes:
2WD / AWD (On-Demand True All-Wheel Drive with automatic engagement)
Gear Selection:
High, Low, Neutral, Reverse, Park
Features
Clutch System:
Primary and Secondary Clutch System (often referred to as Arctic Cat's P85/P90 or similar Polaris designs for this era)
Final Drive Fluid:
Polaris AGL Plus Synthetic Gearcase Lubricant (or equivalent API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 gear oil)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length Approx:
83 in. (210.8 cm) - Varies slightly by model
Width Approx:
46 in. (116.8 cm) - Varies slightly by model
Height Approx:
47 in. (119.4 cm) - Varies slightly by model
Weights
Dry Weight Approx:
660 lbs (299 kg) - Varies slightly by model
Ground Clearance Approx:
11.25 in. (28.6 cm)
Cargo
Rack Capacity Front:
100 lbs (45 kg)
Rack Capacity Rear:
200 lbs (90 kg)
Towing
Towing Capacity:
1500 lbs (680 kg)
Wheels Tires
Front Tire Size:
25x8-12 (or 26x8-12 for some models)
Rear Tire Size:
25x10-12 (or 26x10-12 for some models)
Wheelbase Approx:
50.5 in. (128.3 cm) - Varies slightly by model
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Safety Ratings:
ATVs are not typically subjected to the same formal crash testing ratings as passenger vehicles. Safety depends heavily on rider skill, adherence to trail etiquette, and proper protective gear.
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
• On-Demand True AWD for enhanced traction
• Locking front differential for extreme conditions
• Engine braking (via PVT system)
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
• Rollover Protection (ROPS - Roll Over Protective Structure) not standard on most ATVs of this era, but aftermarket options may exist.
• Integrated fenders and bodywork offer some protection.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment Features:
Basic instrumentation: speedometer, odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge, engine hour meter, AWD indicator. No advanced infotainment systems typical of modern vehicles.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Primarily mechanical systems for traction control (AWD, locking diff). No electronic driver assistance features like ABS or traction control in the automotive sense.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
None.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 100 hours or 6 months, whichever comes first (verify in manual).
Air Filter Cleaning:
Inspect every 50 hours or 3 months, clean or replace as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 100 hours or annually.
Clutch Inspection:
Inspect sheaves and belt for wear every 100 hours or annually.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Typically every 200 hours or 12 months (verify in manual).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-50 Synthetic (recommended, refer to manual for specific Polaris part number or SAE grade)
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (e.g., Polaris PS-4 Extreme or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid (verify in manual)
Known Issues
Common Problems:
• Drive belt wear/failure (common on all CVT systems if abused or worn)
• Water pump seal leaks (potential issue with age/usage)
• Starter solenoid issues
• Fuel pump relay failures (on EFI models)
• Rear differential bushings/bearings wear (especially with heavy use or improper maintenance)
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Polariss Heritage:
Polaris Industries, founded in 1954, is a U.S.-based manufacturer renowned for its snowmobiles, ATVs, UTVs, and motorcycles. They have a long history of innovation in the powersports industry.
Model Evolution
Sportsman Evolution:
The Sportsman line has been a cornerstone of Polaris's ATV business, evolving significantly over the years. The 500cc engine has been a popular choice, offering a balance of power and usability across various models and years.
Production
Production Location:
Polaris ATVs are primarily manufactured in the United States (e.g., Roseau, Minnesota; Spirit Lake, Iowa).
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Awards And Recognition:
Polaris Sportsman models consistently received positive reviews and awards from powersports publications for their performance, comfort, and utility in their respective model years. Specific awards for the 2009 500 model may vary but it was generally well-regarded in its class.
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