Vehicle Segment:
Recreational/Utility ATV, 2-Up Touring
Target Audience:
Off-road enthusiasts, riders who value comfort for two, utility work, trail riding.
Key Competitors:
Can-Am Outlander MAX, Arctic Cat Thundercat, Yamaha Grizzly (in its touring configurations).
Touring Focus:
Extended chassis for comfortable passenger seating, passenger handholds, and potentially a higher weight capacity for two riders.
Engine Power:
500cc class engine known for a good balance of power and usability.
Suspension Design:
Independent suspension on all four wheels (IRS) for enhanced ride comfort and ground clearance.
Engine Systems:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, piston, crankshaft, valve train, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, starting system, exhaust system.
Transmission Systems:
Automatic transmission (PVT - Polaris Variable Transmission) disassembly, assembly, maintenance, troubleshooting, drive clutch, driven clutch, belt replacement.
Drivetrain Systems:
All-wheel drive (AWD) system, front differential, rear differential, drive shafts, U-joints, CV joints.
Chassis Systems:
Frame inspection and repair, suspension (front and rear), steering system (handlebars, tie rods, steering shaft), braking system (hydraulic disc brakes, master cylinders, calipers, brake lines, pads).
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (stator, voltage regulator), lighting system (headlights, taillights, brake lights), ignition switch, starter solenoid, relays, fuses, sensors, instrument panel, diagnostic codes.
Bodywork And Accessories:
Body panel removal and installation, seating, racks, storage compartments, fenders, headlights, taillights.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, air filter cleaning/replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, lubrication points, belt inspection/replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common issues, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), electrical testing, fuel system testing, compression testing.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for engine rebuilds, transmission repairs, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement.
Assembly Disassembly:
Complete guides for disassembling and reassembling major vehicle components.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostics and electrical system repair.
Digital Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable, allowing for quick location of specific information.
Printability:
Printable pages for workshop use.
Print Quality:
High resolution, ensuring clear text and diagrams.
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download - PDF)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download - PDF)
Engine Type:
4-Stroke, SOHC, Single Cylinder
Displacement:
499cc (30.4 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
93.5 mm x 71.5 mm (3.68 in x 2.81 in)
Cooling System:
Liquid-Cooled
Ignition:
Electronic Ignition
Horsepower Estimated:
36 hp @ 6500 rpm (Approximate, varies slightly by year/tuning)
Torque Estimated:
31 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (Approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline, 87 Octane Minimum
Fuel Capacity:
4.1 gal (15.5 L)
Transmission Type:
Automatic Polaris Variable Transmission (PVT) with Engine Braking
Gear Selection:
High, Low, Neutral, Reverse, Park
Optional Transmission:
N/A (Single transmission option for this model)
Drive System:
On-Demand True All-Wheel Drive (AWD) / 2WD
Clutch System:
Heavy-duty belt, dual-clutch system for engagement and disengagement.
Rollover Protection:
N/A (ATVs are not typically rated by NHTSA/IIHS for rollovers like cars; emphasis is on operator responsibility and proper use).
Traction Control:
On-Demand True All-Wheel Drive (AWD) enhances traction and stability.
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear.
Engine Braking:
Standard on PVT transmission, aids in downhill control.
Lighting:
Dual 50W headlights, dual brakelights/taillights.
Ergonomics:
Designed for rider and passenger comfort, including padded seats and handholds.
Operator Training:
Manual emphasizes safe operation, protective gear (helmet, goggles, gloves, boots, long sleeves/pants), and responsible riding practices.
Instrument Cluster:
Digital instrument cluster typically includes speedometer, odometer, trip odometer, tachometer, high-beam indicator, neutral indicator, reverse indicator, oil temperature warning, battery voltage, and AWD indicator.
Parking Brake:
Hand-operated parking brake lever, often integrated with the gear selector. Some models might have a foot-actuated parking brake.
Throttle Control:
Thumb throttle for precise acceleration control.
Diagnostic Ports:
Diagnostic connectors for accessing fault codes and live data via Polaris diagnostic tools.
Oil Change Interval Engine:
Every 100 hours or 6 months, whichever comes first. Check manual for specific details.
Air Filter Maintenance:
Inspect every 25 hours, clean/replace as needed. More frequent in dusty conditions.
Spark Plug Service:
Inspect and gap every 50 hours, replace as needed. Refer to manual for correct plug type and gap.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Consult manual; typically inspected periodically and changed at longer intervals or based on operating conditions.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years or as recommended by the manual.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or as recommended by the manual.
Engine Oil Type:
Polaris Synthetic 10W-40 (or equivalent API SG, JASO MA rated oil)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.1 quarts (2.0 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Polaris recommends specific coolant or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Refer to manual; some Polaris models use specialized PVT fluid or a specific transmission oil blend. Do not use standard ATF.
Common Wear Items:
Drive belt wear (especially with aggressive riding), brake pad and rotor wear, suspension bushings, wheel bearings.
Potential Electrical Issues:
Battery charging system (stator, regulator) can be a point of failure over time; electrical connector corrosion.
Engine Performance Variations:
EFI systems can sometimes require recalibration or sensor cleaning; potential for carbon buildup in older engines.
Manufacturer History:
Polaris Industries Inc. is a long-standing American manufacturer of powersports vehicles, founded in 1954, known for its innovation in ATVs, snowmobiles, and motorcycles.
Sportsman Lineage:
The Sportsman line is Polaris's flagship ATV family, known for its ruggedness, comfort, and versatility. The 500cc engine has been a core offering for many years, with 'HO' denoting 'High Output' for improved performance. The 'Touring' designation signifies models designed for two riders.
Production Period:
The Polaris Sportsman 500 HO Touring model was a prominent offering in the late 2000s and early 2010s, preceding the introduction of the larger displacement ProStar engines in some touring models.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in the United States by Polaris.
Industry Awards:
Polaris ATVs, including the Sportsman line, have historically received positive reviews and awards from outdoor and powersports publications for their performance, reliability, and features, though specific awards for the 2010-2011 Touring model might be dated.
Consumer Ratings:
Generally well-regarded for its capability and comfort for two-up riding. Owner reviews often cite its utility and smooth ride.
Safety Certifications:
Meets applicable industry safety standards for ATVs. Operator safety is paramount and emphasized in manual.
