Segment:
Premium All-Terrain/Utility ATV
Target Audience:
Outdoor Enthusiasts, Hunters, Farmers, Recreational Riders
Key Competitors:
Can-Am Outlander, Yamaha Grizzly, Arctic Cat Thundercat
Distinguishing Features:
Versatile X2 design with convertible passenger seat, powerful V-twin engines, Polaris's AWD system.
Versatility:
Convertible passenger seat/cargo bed for dual-purpose use.
Powerplant:
Choice of 700cc or 800cc High-Output EFI V-Twin engines.
Suspension Travel:
Class-leading suspension travel for superior ride quality and terrain handling.
Braking:
Powerful 4-wheel hydraulic disc brakes for reliable stopping power.
Primary Coverage:
Complete Service and Repair Procedures
Secondary Coverage:
Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Maintenance
Estimated Page Count:
400-600 (Typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)
Manual Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital Format (PDF)
Engine:
700cc and 800cc EFI V-Twin Engines
Transmission:
Automatic PVT (Polaris Variable Transmission) with Engine Braking
Drivetrain:
On-Demand AWD, 2WD, ADC (Active Descent Control)
Suspension:
Front: MacPherson Struts, Rear: Independent Long-Travel
Brakes:
Hydraulic Disc Brakes (Front and Rear)
Electrical:
Ignition, Charging System, Lighting, Instrumentation, EFI Control Module
Fuel System:
Fuel Injection System (EFI), Fuel Pump, Injectors
Cooling System:
Liquid-Cooled Engine, Radiator, Fan
Chassis Frame:
Durable Steel Frame Construction
Bodywork:
Body Panels, Fenders, Racks, Storage Compartments
Steering:
Rack and Pinion Steering
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plugs, Belt Inspection
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Charts, Common Problems, Solutions
Engine Repair:
Top-End Rebuild, Bottom-End Rebuild, Valve Adjustments
Transmission Repair:
PVT Service, Belt Replacement, Gearbox Maintenance
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring Diagrams, Component Testing, EFI System Analysis
Suspension Service:
Shock Absorber Adjustment, Bushing Replacement
Brake Service:
Brake Pad Replacement, Fluid Bleeding, Caliper Service
Fuel System Service:
Injector Cleaning, Fuel Pump Testing
Cooling System Service:
Coolant Flush, Thermostat Replacement
Bodywork Repair:
Panel Removal/Installation, Fender Repair
Depth:
Comprehensive (From basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls)
Diagnostic Level:
Advanced EFI System Diagnostics, Error Code Interpretation
Rebuild Level:
Full Engine and Transmission Rebuild Procedures
Engine Type:
V-Twin, 4-Stroke, SOHC, 8-Valve
Horsepower 700:
Approx. 50 HP
Horsepower 800:
Approx. 60 HP
Torque Peak:
High Torque Delivery for Towing and Off-Roading
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane Rating 87 or higher recommended)
Cooling Method:
Liquid-Cooled
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition
Transmission Type:
Automatic PVT (Polaris Variable Transmission) with EBS (Engine Braking System)
Gear Selection:
High, Low, Neutral, Reverse, Park
Optional Transmission:
N/A (Standard PVT)
Drive Modes:
2WD / On-Demand AWD
Engine Braking:
Standard EBS for controlled descents.
Atv Safety Standards:
Meets ANSI standards for recreational ATVs.
Braking System:
4-wheel hydraulic disc brakes with parking brake.
Engine Braking:
EBS for controlled descents.
All Wheel Drive:
On-Demand AWD for enhanced traction.
Lighting:
Dual headlights and a taillight/brake light for visibility.
Instrumentation:
Digital display for speed, RPM, fuel level, gear indicator, etc.
Roll Over Protection:
N/A (ATV design inherently requires rider skill and caution)
Instrument Cluster:
Multi-function digital display (speedometer, tachometer, odometer, trip meter, fuel, gear indicator, AWD indicator, clock, etc.)
Lighting Technology:
Halogen headlights for primary illumination, LED taillight/brake light.
Descent Control:
Active Descent Control (ADC) system for improved downhill control.
Diagnostic Port:
On-board diagnostics system for EFI troubleshooting.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 100 hours or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Inspection:
Every 50 hours or 3 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically every 1,000 miles or 1 year.
Belt Inspection Replacement:
Inspect every 100 hours, replace as needed or per manual recommendation.
Engine Oil Type:
Polaris Synthetic 0W-40
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.6 US quarts (2.5 Liters)
Coolant Type:
Polaris Premium Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid
Common Wear Items:
Drive belts, suspension bushings, wheel bearings.
Potential Efi Concerns:
Occasional sensor issues or fuel delivery problems if maintenance is neglected.
Transmission Maintenance:
Regular PVT cleaning and belt inspection is crucial for longevity.
Brand Origin:
Polaris Industries Inc., founded in 1954, known for powersports vehicles.
Sportsman Lineage:
The Sportsman line has been a cornerstone of Polaris's ATV offerings, evolving through multiple generations.
X2 Introduction:
The X2 variant, introduced in earlier generations, offered unique utility with its convertible seating/cargo.
Production Location:
Minnesota, USA (Primary Manufacturing)
Market Impact:
The 2008 models represent a mature iteration of Polaris's successful large-bore ATV platform.
Atv Of The Year:
While specific awards for the 2008 model may vary, Polaris Sportsman models have consistently been recognized for performance and utility in industry reviews.
Consumer Satisfaction:
Generally high, attributed to power, versatility, and ride comfort.
Emission Standards:
Meets relevant EPA emission standards for ATVs of its era.