Category:
All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV)
Segment:
Utility/Recreational Touring
Competitors:
Can-Am Outlander, Honda Foreman/Rubicon, Yamaha Grizzly, Arctic Cat TRV
Engine Type:
500cc class, liquid-cooled, EFI
Drivetrain:
On-Demand True AWD/2WD
Suspension:
Independent Front and Rear Suspension (IRS)
Seating:
Two-up touring capability
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Engine:
Description, operation, basic maintenance, troubleshooting
Fuel System:
EFI system overview, fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter
Drivetrain:
CVT transmission, AWD system, drive shafts, differentials
Suspension:
Independent front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, adjustments
Brakes:
Hydraulic disc brakes, brake fluid, bleeding procedures (basic)
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, ignition, lighting, starter motor, fuses
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, coolant type and capacity
Controls And Instruments:
Handlebar controls, dashboard indicators, warning lights
Chassis And Body:
Frame, body panels, racks, seating
Operation:
Pre-ride inspection, starting and stopping procedures, safe riding practices
Maintenance:
Fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication, tire pressure
Troubleshooting:
Common issues and basic diagnostic steps (e.g., starting problems, engine performance)
Storage:
Short-term and long-term storage recommendations
Safety Precautions:
General safety guidelines, protective gear recommendations
Depth:
Owner-level maintenance and operation. Does not include detailed internal engine or transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, or bodywork repair procedures requiring specialized tools.
Atv Safety Standards:
Conforms to ANSI standards
Braking System:
Hydraulic Disc Brakes (Front & Rear)
Drive Mode:
On-Demand True AWD/2WD for optimal traction
Lighting:
Dual 50W headlights, 35W taillight/brakelight
Rollover Protection:
N/A (ATV design)
Operator Safety:
Emphasis on protective gear and safe riding practices
Display:
Digital gauge cluster with speedometer, tachometer, odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge, AWD indicator, clock, gear indicator.
Traction Control:
Not present; relies on mechanical AWD system.
Connectivity Features:
N/A (no advanced electronic connectivity like Bluetooth or GPS from the factory for this model year).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 100 hours or 6 months (whichever comes first), 1000 miles
Air Filter Inspection:
Every 25 hours or monthly, clean as needed, replace as needed
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended every 100 hours or annually
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 100 hours or 6 months (PVT lubricant)
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2 years or 24 months
Brake Fluid Check:
Every 50 hours or quarterly
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 Synthetic ATV Engine Oil (API CI-4 rated or equivalent recommended)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 2.6 U.S. quarts (2.5 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze/coolant (Polaris recommends specific coolant)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid
Transmission Fluid Type:
Polaris PVT Lubricant (proprietary blend, specific part number required for purchase)
Common Wear Items:
Brake pads, drive belts (CVT), suspension bushings, wheel bearings
Potential Electrical Issues:
Stator or rectifier failures can occur with age, battery charging system issues.
Engine Performance:
EFI systems are generally reliable, but can be affected by fuel quality or sensor issues if not maintained.
Brand Focus:
Polaris is a leading manufacturer of powersports vehicles, known for its ATVs, UTVs, and snowmobiles.
Sportsman Lineage:
The Sportsman line has been a cornerstone of Polaris' ATV offerings, evolving to include various engine sizes and configurations, including touring models for extended comfort and passenger carrying.
Model Year Introduction:
The Sportsman Touring 500 was introduced to cater to riders seeking more comfort and the ability to carry a passenger. This specific 2008 model represents an iteration of that platform.
Atv Market Awards:
While specific awards for the 2008 Sportsman Touring 500 EFI are not readily documented, the Polaris Sportsman line consistently received praise for its utility, comfort, and off-road capability in its era.
Customer Satisfaction:
Generally positive for its intended use, with common owner feedback focusing on comfort and AWD performance.
