Segment:
Mid-size to Large Bore ATV Segment
Competitors:
Polaris Sportsman series competes with models from Arctic Cat (e.g., 500 TRV), Can-Am (e.g., Outlander 500), Honda (e.g., Foreman 500), Kawasaki (e.g., Brute Force 500), Suzuki (e.g., KingQuad 500), Yamaha (e.g., Grizzly 550)
Model Focus:
The 2009 Sportsman 500 range represents a robust and versatile platform for utility and recreational off-roading, known for its independent rear suspension and powerful engine.
Versatility:
The Sportsman 500 platform is renowned for its versatility, capable of handling trail riding, utility tasks, and off-road exploration.
Benefit To Owner:
Essential resource for owners to perform DIY maintenance, understand system operations, and execute repairs accurately, saving time and money on professional service.
Major Systems:
• General Information
• Maintenance
• Engine
• Fuel Injection System
• Body
• Steering
• Suspension
• Clutch System
• Final Drive
• Transmission
• Brakes
• Electrical System
Specific Models Coverage:
Includes dedicated sections for 500 EFI X2 and Touring Quadricycle variants
Wire Diagrams:
Includes detailed wire diagrams for electrical troubleshooting and repairs.
Maintenance Operations:
Detailed procedures for all maintenance tasks
Component Identification:
Component identification and location for all major parts
Unit Repair:
Step-by-step unit repair procedures
Troubleshooting:
Implied through detailed repair procedures and component diagnostics
Engine Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Fuel System Service:
Procedures for fuel injection system diagnosis, cleaning, and component replacement.
Suspension Geometry:
Information on steering and suspension component inspection, adjustment, and replacement.
Clutch Maintenance:
Service and replacement procedures for the Polaris Variable Transmission (PVT) belt and clutch components.
Final Drive Repair:
Maintenance and repair for the transmission, differential, and driveshafts.
Brake System Service:
Detailed procedures for hydraulic brake system maintenance, bleeding, and component replacement.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Comprehensive diagnostic procedures for all electrical systems, including lighting, ignition, and starting.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, covering maintenance, repair, and service specifications
Diagnostic Procedures:
Includes electrical system diagnostics and wire diagrams for troubleshooting
Technical Specifications:
Service specifications for all covered components and systems
PDF Quality:
High-quality PDF, suitable for printing
Searchability:
Likely searchable PDF text, enhancing ease of finding information.
Printability:
All pages are printable
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Paper Quality:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Engine Type:
4-Stroke Single Cylinder (Liquid-Cooled)
Displacement:
499cc (Exact displacement may vary slightly between H.O. and EFI models, but generally around 499cc)
Bore X Stroke:
Approximately 92mm x 75mm (typical for this engine family)
Horsepower:
Estimated 30-35 HP (Varies by exact model and tuning, H.O. generally slightly higher)
Torque:
Estimated 27-30 lb-ft (Varies by exact model)
Efi Models:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) system for improved throttle response, cold starting, and fuel efficiency.
Carbureted Models:
H.O. (High Output) models may feature a carburetor (e.g., Mikuni BSR42) for certain configurations, though EFI became dominant.
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled with fan assist
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition (CDI)
Starting System:
Electric Starter
Transmission Type:
Automatic (Polaris PVT - Polaris Variable Transmission)
Drive Modes:
High, Low, Neutral, Reverse, Park
Clutch System:
Durable belt-driven CVT with centrifugal clutch and driver/driven pulleys.
Final Drive:
Shaft drive with front and rear differentials (often with AWD engagement).
Pvtfail Safe Oil:
Specific Polaris PVT Fluid or equivalent API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (Check manual for exact specification as variants exist)
Atv Safety Standards:
Designed to meet industry standards for ATVs, though formal crash ratings like automobiles are not applicable.
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes (typically front and rear).
Parking Brake:
Integrated parking brake mechanism.
Lighting:
Dual headlights, tail light, brake light for visibility.
Ergonomics:
Ergonomically designed controls and seating position for rider comfort and control.
Infotainment Features:
Basic instrumentation cluster (speedometer, odometer, fuel gauge, indicator lights). No advanced infotainment systems typical of cars.
Atv Assist Features:
Features like Engine Braking System (EBS) on some models, Active Descent Control (ADC) on select 4x4 variants, and Automatic All-Wheel Drive (AWD) engagement.
Connectivity Features:
No on-board connectivity or smartphone integration. Focus is on mechanical and electrical functionality.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 100 hours or 6 months, whichever comes first. (Refer to manual for precise interval based on usage).
Air Filter Inspection:
Frequent inspection recommended, especially in dusty conditions. Cleaning/replacement as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended every 12 months or as per manual, typically around 200-300 hours.
Engine Oil Type:
Polaris Premium 4 Synthetic 0W-40 or equivalent API SG, JASO MA certified 4-stroke motorcycle oil.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.3 U.S. quarts (2.2 liters) with filter change. (Confirm in manual).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors (e.g., Polaris Brand Antifreeze).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.
Differential Fluid Type:
Polaris Demand Drive Fluid or equivalent SAE 75W-90 GL-5 Gear Lubricant for front differential. Rear differential uses specific gearcase oil, often same as transmission fluid or specified separately.
Common Wear Items:
Drive belts (PVT), wheel bearings, tie rod ends, ball joints, brake pads are common wear items subject to replacement based on usage and conditions.
Electrical Connectors:
Occasional issues with corroded electrical connectors due to exposure to elements, emphasizing the importance of the electrical section and wire diagrams in the manual.
Polarishistory:
Polaris Industries, founded in 1954, has a long history of innovation in snowmobiles and has since expanded significantly into the powersports market, including ATVs, motorcycles, and military vehicles. The Sportsman line has been a cornerstone of their ATV offerings for decades.
Sportsman 500 Lineage:
The Sportsman 500 has evolved significantly since its introduction, consistently receiving updates in engine technology, suspension, ergonomics, and features. The 2009 models represent a mature iteration of this popular platform, with EFI becoming a standard feature on many variants.
2009 Updates:
The 2009 model year saw continued refinement of the EFI system and other components, building upon the reliable foundation of previous Sportsman 500 generations.
Manufacturing Location:
Polaris vehicles are primarily manufactured in the United States, with significant production facilities in Minnesota and Iowa.