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| 2008
Polaris Sportsman 800 EFI Twin Utility
ATV |
Next up was the Sportsman 800 EFI twin, which
received a 10% increase in power from last year
that made quite a noticeable difference, especially
in acceleration. The 800 also has better throttle
response than previous models. “The Sportsman
800 is also equipped with on-demand all wheel
drive just like the 400,” Laskin pointed
out. “For 2008 we added an engine breaking
system that works on the back wheels, which
is standard for all out Sportsman models now,”
Gary concluded. The fuel capacity was increased
to 6 gallons that provides a trip range of 100
miles with rider and passenger on board, which
is perfect for hunters and adventure riders
looking to travel deep into the back country.
Another usable feature is the reverse overdrive.
“You just push a button and you get full
throttle in reverse. I got into a situation
where it came in handy during or test ride.
I just pushed the button and got all the power
I needed,” said Kostman.
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The Sportsman 800 EFI and the Sportsman 500
EFI are both very functional as utility ATVs,
or weekend play toys. Their composite racks
have large flat surfaces for holding larger
equipment for a day at work or a day on the
trails. If the weather changes for the worse,
Polaris has incorporated large weather tight
storage compartments under the front composite
racks. These can be accessed by simply turning
two twisting latches.
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| 2008
Polaris Sportsman 500 X2 AWD Utility ATV |
Polaris has had 2-Up ATVs for a few years, and
for 2008 they made some user-friendly upgrades
to make their 2-passenger touring models one of
the most comfortable and capable 2-ups on the
market. The seats have been redesigned with better
support and passenger comfort. “We made
the seat flatter so the passenger can move around
a little more and we made the backrest on the
passenger seat bigger. It’s the biggest
on the market so the passenger not only feels
comfortable, but secure as well,” said Laskin.
The rear handholds are made from a flexible vibration
damping rubber that can be grasped from three
positions. Rear footrests have adjustable risers,
so they can be customized to fit different sized
passengers. Polaris has also strived to give these
machines true touring capabilities not just in
rider comfort but also in power, handling, and
functionality.
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2008
Polaris Sportsman 500 & 800 Touring
Model |
“I was really surprised at how well these
2-up ATVs handled,” noted Kostman. “Even
with two larger riders on board, Polaris’s
Sportsman touring models inspire confidence
in the rider and passenger even in off-camber
and uneven terrain.” The Sportsman 2-up
models are the perfect way to share the beauty
of Mother Nature, with plenty of storage, power,
comfort, and fuel for an enjoyable ride. This
model will provide a wonderful experience for
both rider and passenger.
Polaris builds some of the toughest ATV’s
in the industry. Supplying the United States
Military is a true test for Polaris’s
quality and durability. Whether you are in need
of a capable trail machine or a week day work
horse, with more standard equipment than your
loaded truck, Polaris has a 2008 Sportsman model
that is sure to fit the bill.
