Polaris Sportsman 550 Specs and Review 2022

Polaris Sportsman 550: For Polaris, there are options that are the rule of the road. 

This is particularly true for this model, the Polaris Sportsman 550 – another version of the acclaimed Sportsman range of vehicles. 

With four years left remaining until the Sportsman 500’s last production year The American company has already launched the updated version 549-cc to customers.

The Polaris Sportsman 550 is a sport-utility quad that is part of Polaris the most popular ATV collection. 

The successor to the legendary Sportsman 500, the vehicle has the same advanced features:

EFI, the EPS system, The Lock & Ride(r) mechanism, and PVT transmission. Consumers have the option of choosing between basic, Limited Edition, and the X2 trims.

Avant-garde design such as a longitudinally-mounted engine along with convertible trims and features are just a few of the major features that are offered by the Polaris Sportsman 550. 

Learn more about how this trusted machine took the market for sport-utility to the next level.

Updated and New

Since the Sportsman lineup’s introduction in 1997, Polaris has been busy creating innovative innovations for its sport-utility ATVs year in and year. 

As you might think, the ATV’s capabilities weren’t the only ones to be on receiving the benefits. 

Along having the quad equipped with Electronic Power Steering, a tilting cargo bed and gun scabbards Polaris also upgraded its motor from 499 to 549 cm3 and made it mounted transversely.

In comparison to its predecessor, in comparison to its previous model, the Sportsman 550 has a slimmer midsection and a wider seat that has 4.0 inches of cushioning. 

The floorboards are also fully-floured which provide extra comfort for long hikes and help reduce the loss of power.

The body panels are more durable and come in a variety of colors, which secured the vehicle’s well-thought-of ergonomics. 

In terms of the suspension, two A-arms were replaced by MacPherson struts that were on all fours. 

While this does not result in the most comfortable ride, it does provide the perfect balance between the action of cornering and comfort for the rider.

Polaris Sportsman 550 Specifications and Features

Engine and Lubrication

All trims and models years The Polaris Sportsman 550 shares the identical ES550PLE engine. 

The engine in question can be difficult to maintain and requires regular checking of the levels of oil, particularly when you use the quad all year round. 

Since it is the Sportsman has fuel injection, making sure that your fuel is free of contaminants and keeping excess fuel from filling up the bottom of the crankcase is important.

Polaris Sportsman 550 XP / XP EPS
Engine Type	4-stroke, SOHC ES550PLE engine
Cylinder Arrangement	Single-cylinder
Carburetion System	Electronic Fuel Injection w/ 42-mm injector
Engine Cooling	Liquid cooling
Engine Fuel	Unleaded gasoline of at least PON 87/RON 91 rating, containing < 15% MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether), < 10% ethanol, or < 5% methanol (E-85 fuel is not permitted)
Fuel Capacity	20 L/5.25 US gal – XP; 17 L/4.5 US gal – XP EPS
Bore x Stroke Ratio	96.6 x 75 mm (3.80 x 2.95 in)
Compression Ratio	9.6:1
Starting System	Electric
Displacement	549.7 cm³ / 33.5 in³
Maximum Power	42 hp/42.6 PS (31.3 kW)
Top Speed	55–62 mph (88.5–99.8 km/h) – owner’s claim, stock
Lubrication	Wet sump
Engine Oil & Quantity	1.9 L (2 US quarts) of PS-4 Plus Performance (2W-50 Synthetic)

Drivetrain

A dual-range, automatic Polaris Variable Transmission with reverse handles power, and a Cardan driveshaft (with an H/L/N/R/P-style gearshift pattern) provides force to your ground.

The initial versions of the Sportsman 550 offered selectable dual driveline options but later included a third choice – one called VersaTrac Turf Mode – actuated by a three-position AWD thumb switch that is located in the right-hand side of the handlebar. 

The Polaris exclusive Engine Braking System (EBS) and Active Descent Control (ADC) enhance the vehicle’s powertrain and enhance its handling on different terrains.

Polaris Sportsman 550 XP / XP EPS
Transfer, Transmission Type	PVT (Polaris Variable Transmission), automatic
Gearshifting	H/L/N/R/P
Drive System	Shaft drive – Cardan (front wheel); Belt (engine/transmission)
Drive Ratio (F/R)	3.8:1 / 3.7:1
Gear Ratio	Low – 5.034:1 / Reverse – 4.508:1 / High – 2.693:1

Ignition

Similar to its 500-class counterparts as well, like its 500-class siblings, Sportsman 550 models each have different ignition timings (revert to the service manual for details). 

Trims equipped with EPS feature a 30-amp main fuse that is on top of additional fuses that a basic model has.

The YTX14AHL or the YTX14AH -BS battery (view at Amazon) is a perfect fit for the quad. It is possible to choose traditional batteries, but certain owners prefer gel-based or maintenance-free models. 

Be sure to check the recommendations of the manufacturer prior to purchasing a replacement battery and be sure not to charge it too much in order to prolong the life of the battery.

Polaris Sportsman 550 XP / XP EPS
Ignition	Electronic Fuel Injection
Ignition Timing	13° ± 3° BTDC @ 1,350 RPM (warm engine)
Spark Plug, Gap	NGK BKR6E, 0.9 mm (0.035 in) Torque spec: 12-15 Nm (9-11 ft-lb – new); 23-27 Nm (17-20 ft-lb – already used)
Alternator Type	Triple-phase alternator
Rated Output	490 W @ 1,350 RPM (peak @ 630 W)
Fuse	20 Amp (main, lights, EFI, drive, spare); 10 Amp (switch, accessory) – XP 30 Amp (EPS); 20 Amp (main, lights, EFI, drive, spare); 10 Amp (accessory) – EPS
Battery	12V, 12 Ah/(10 Hr) battery, YTX14AH-BS/YTX14AHL-BS formats
Battery Dimensions (L x W x H)	134 x 89 x 166 mm (5.31 x 3.50 x 6.56 in)

Brakes and Tires

The standard and limited-edition trims come equipped with 26-inch circular tires in both the front and back. 

Wheel design, however, is a different matter. Basic models came with steel wheels older models, while later versions had 8-spoke casting aluminum wheels (view the rims on Amazon) as well as LE trims came with camo-stamped steel wheels. 

Hydraulic discs for all 4 wheels, as well as parking brakes, give the four-wheeler’s stopping power. 

Contrary to other Polaris ATVs the manufacturer recommends using only the use of DOT4 brake fluid for assembling or servicing brakes. 

Be careful not to fill the master cylinder as it could cause accidents due to brake drag or lock-up.

Polaris Sportsman 550 XP / XP EPS
Wheel Composition	Steel
Front Tire, Pressure	Terrathon or Maxxis M9805 AT26 x 8-14, 48.3 kPa (0.40 Kgf-cm2, 7 psi)
Rear Tire, Pressure	Terrathon or Maxxis M9806 AT26 x 10-14, 34.5 kPa (0.35 Kgf-cm2, 5 psi)
Front Rim Size, Offset, Bolt Pattern	14×6 / 4+3 – 4/156
Rear Rim Size, Offset, Bolt Pattern	14×8 / 4+3 – 4/156
Front Brake Type	Single-control hydraulic disc, All-wheel
Rear Brake Type
Auxiliary Brake	Foot-activated hydraulic disc, Rear wheel

Suspension

Despite the different wheelspin, clearance to the ground, and length of the vehicle There are no adjustments to the rear wheel’s distance for all trims: base and deluxe models Touring, 2-ups, or.

 The four-wheeler’s 7-foot radius of turning and large 14-inch rims allow for better cornering as well as more stable rides. 

The front suspension features an adjustment for the fork’s preload. There is no rebound or compression damping, both for the rear and front.

Polaris Sportsman 550 XP / XP EPS
Frame Type	Steel, tubular
Toe-Out	0 – 3 mm (0 – 1/8 in)
Ground Clearance	295 mm (11.6 in) / 285 mm (11.3 in – Touring, X2)
Wheelbase	1,346 mm (53 in) / 1,448 mm (57 in – Touring, X2)
Turning Radius	2.13 m (6.99 ft – unloaded)
Front Suspension Type, Travel	Independent dual A-arms w/ adjustable fork preload, 230 mm (9.2 in)
Rear Suspension Type, Travel	Progressive-rate dual A-arms w/ dual shocks, 260 mm (10.2 in)

Dimensions & Capacities

Models like the Touring or X2 model are a bit longer because of their two seats and also have a slightly higher seating height. 

Naturally, they will weigh more, specifically the X2 models as they have the capacity of a cargo bed that is 400 pounds.

 All other aspects, such as the width, payload, and trailer hitch capacity, are the same for all models.

Polaris Sportsman 550 XP / XP EPS
Length	2,110 mm (83.2 in); 2,198 mm (86.5 in – Touring)
Width	1,210 mm (47.6 in)
Height	1,290 mm (50.8 in); 1,479 mm (58.2 in – X2, including backrest)
Seat Height (Unloaded)	940 mm (37 in); 908 mm (35.8 in – Touring)
Dry Weight	331 Kg (730 lbs – XP); 337.5 Kg (744 lbs – XP EPS); 350 Kg (772 lbs – Touring); 362 Kg (799 lbs – X2)
Front Storage	55 Kg (120 lbs)
Maximum Weight Capacity	261 Kg (575 lbs)
Carrier Capacity (F/R)	54 Kg (120 lbs) / 109 Kg (240 lbs – includes tongue weight)
Tongue Weight	68 Kg (150 lbs)
Towing Capacity	680.4 Kg (1,500 lbs) / 386 Kg (850 lbs – up to 15° grade) / 810 Kg (1,786 lbs – unbraked trailer)

Exterior & Lighting

The frame of Polaris Sportsman 550 is a Gen IV type and has an opaque black matte finish with a plastic body material that is available in a variety of colors. 

Limited-Edition Sportsman 550s were offered with one of two colors: Pursuit(r) Camo or Mossy Oak(r) New Break-Up(TM) brand camo (for the Browning Limited Edition).

 The range only had one flash of brightness and that was with the 2012 model being available in Orange Madness.

Polaris Sportsman 550 XP / XP EPS
Colors6	Magnetic Metallic, Pursuit Camo, Sunset Red, Indy Red, Sage Green, Boardwalk Blue, Blue Fire, Solar Red
Instrumentation	Clock, tachometer, trip odometer, speedometer, hour meter
Indicator Lamps	Standard (temperature warning light)
Fuel Gauge	Standard
Switches, Controls	The main key, headlight, 4×4 & engine stop switches, mode/reverse override button
Headlight	Dual-beam Halogen, 12V 50 W x 1 on headlight pod Single-beam Halogen, 12V 50/50 W x 2 on bumper
Brake Light/Taillight	12V 27/7 W x 1

On-Demand(TM) AWD/WD Drive System

It is activated by either a three-position or two-position thumb switch on the right side of the handlebar The exclusive feature from the company allows for the front wheels to engage automatically when the rear wheels lose traction and disconnect when the reverse occurs.

The base models have only 2WD and 4WD choices to pick from the Touring/X2 trims feature an adjustable lockable differential that works along with the “Turf” setting. 

This single-wheel option is great for riding on slick surfaces, and lawns. AWD is ideal for slippery mud, slow-crawling sections as well as deep snow.

Active Descent Control

A safety precaution for the Polaris Sportsman 550, this feature lets engine braking be applied to all four wheels as the vehicle is on a descent. This feature is available on premium trims and X2 models.

Polaris 550 Sportsman Price

Based on the models year as well as for trim The MSRP for this model Polaris Sportsman 550 ranges from $7,299 to $9,499 including the Limited and Touring Edition models carrying the highest cost.

Trims with EPS are typically more expensive by $1000 more than standard or base versions. However, the Pursuit(r) Camouflage trim prices start at $7,699.

To help you For your reference, here’s a complete listing of prices for the entire range of Sportsman models in the 550 range, without performance modifications as well as custom parts and accessories like radios/speakers snowplow, or Super ATV 3500-lb ATV Black Ops winch kit (view at Amazon).

Standard Trims

Year – Trim	List Price	Average Retail
2009 Sportsman 550 (EFI)	$7,499	$2,630 – $3,460
2009 Sportsman 550 (EFI, EPS)	$8,199	$3,045 – $4,005
2010 Polaris Sportsman 550 (Base)	$7,299	$2,985 – $4,290
2010 Sportsman 550 (Camouflage)	$7,699	$3,150 – $4,145
2010 – 2011 Sportsman 550 (EPS)	$8,499	$3,470 – $5,260
2010 – 2013 Sportsman 550 X2	$8,999	$3,650 – $5,400
2010 – 2014 Sportsman 550 (Touring, EPS)	$9,299	$3,770 – $5,815
2011 Polaris Sportsman 550 (Base)	$7,499	$3,255 – $4,325
2011 Sportsman 550 (Pursuit Camouflage)	$7,899	$3,410 – $4,490
2012 – 2013 Polaris Sportsman 550 (Base)	$7,699	$3,415 – $4,650
2012 – 2014 Sportsman 550 (EPS)	$8,699	$3,840 – $5,575
2012 Sportsman 550 (Orange Madness)	$9,099	$4,030 – $5,305
2012 – 2013 Sportsman 550 (Pursuit Camouflage)	$8,099	$3,590 – $4,835

Special Trims

Year – Trim	List Price	Average Retail
2010 Sportsman 550 (Hunter LE, EPS)	$9,199	$3,740 – $4,920
2011 Sportsman 550 (Browning LE)	$9,299	$4,005 – $5,270
2012 – 2014 Sportsman 550 (Browning LE)	$9,499	$4,200 – $5,925
2013 Sportsman 550 (LE, EPS)	$9,299	$4,200 – $5,525

As you can see in the above table As you can see in the table above, as you can see in the table above, 550-cc Sportsman quads are able to hold their value quite well. 

Although trade-in prices range from $2,630 to $5 925 auction listings are between the $1400-$6,250 range. 

The majority of resales that are found online are intriguing modeled in 2014, while 2009 trims are rarer.

In general, the median asking price for second-hand models (in good working order) is in the range of $3,000 to $3500. Sportsman 550s priced below $3,000 are trimmed that are standard equipped with EFI however, they do not have EPS. 

These lower-end quads are typically heavy-used ranchers that have a minimum of 700 hours of use and 5 000 miles. 

However, the ones that cost more than $3500 typically come with EPS, numerous utility items, and are typically in good condition. 

If you’re lucky enough, you might find a Sportsman X2 complete with a grill guard, snowplow kit (view on Amazon) as well as front storage.

Whatever the price, be sure to thoroughly inspect the four-wheeler for damages or wear on the bodywork or mechanical parts. 

Find out about the car’s history. Be wary of used 4x4s that begin with a jump, or with visible smoke when they are running the engine if you do not wish to shell out for a major overhaul.

Performance Negatives Restricted Top-End Speed

Although the majority of owners say the fact that their Polaris Sportsman 550 can hit the 62-mph mark many off-roaders are unhappy about the difficulty of reaching this speed on their four-wheelers. In reality, this is normal.

 Due to the age of the vehicle in addition to the fact, not a lot of it (in the original form, with only one previous owner) remains in existence with the highest speed, the estimates could differ. 

Take into account the driver’s selection of equipment, monster truck tires, and that massive polycarbonate glass, and you’re certain that the vehicle will be slower. A glazed belt also can affect the top of the line.

Harsh Clutch Engagement

Although it isn’t a definitive definition of the 4×4, this description is a precise description of the Sportsman’s clutch’s engagement when driving through muddy as well as other similar terrains. 

It is important to note that this isn’t only the case for vehicles that are secondhand. The roughness of how the clutch engages is the main reason mechanically-inclined owners perform mods on their clutch assembly – ranging from a simple spring mod to the use of a complete clutch kit.

Other issues that are known to occur include problems with starting, misfiring, excessive heat, and wear of the drive belt and wear, this Polaris Sportsman 550 service manual gives step-by-step directions on how to fix these issues. However, the best method to ensure the longevity that your unit will last is to prevent. 

Keep track of your scheduled maintenance and give your vehicle a complete wash after each ride, practice caution, and do a ton of research prior to buying aftermarket parts or performing modifications for your bike.

About Polaris

Polaris Inc. is an American company that is renowned for its revolutionary innovations like Electronic Fuel Injection and Independent Rear Suspension (IRS). 

It is credited with pioneering the field of snowmobiles and this Polaris Sportsman 550 maker traces its roots to making agricultural equipment.

 It wasn’t until 1956 when the American firm really made its name by launching the 1956 Sno Traveler. Polaris has not stopped since then, and the Textron, Inc. acquisition was a catalyst for the company’s growth. 

Today, Polaris is an established important participant in the ATV market that continues to design, manufacture and sell off-road motorcycles and off-road vehicles to be used for recreation and utility.

Final Conclusion Polaris Sportsman 550 Review

A trailblazer with a track record and trailblazer, the Polaris Sportsman 550 continues to be a top choice for enthusiasts and for reasons that are well-founded. 

Its world-class features and multi-functional trims let the sport-utility ATV keep its relevance despite the emergence of racers of 450cc and huge bore monsters.

With the option of driving line modes with a sensible design and bodywork, as well as a solid engine the Sportsman is still able to beat the most powerful of the modern quads. 

The classic 4×4 is associated with outstanding handling and a pleasant ride. It’s an absolute must-have for any off-roader.

Are Polaris Sportsman 500 any good?

The Sportsman 500 H.O. is a high-quality ATV by any standard. It has yet to do anything it wasn’t designed to do. And, just like most Sportsman owners, it will work every week and be ready for play any weekend.

What year did Polaris Sportsman 500 come out?

The Revamped Best-Seller In response to complaints from customers that the quad felt underpowered, Polaris introduced the 2001 Polaris Sportsman 500. Engineers upgraded the original power engine to a High Output motor with this model.

How fast is a 2004 Polaris Sportsman 500?

Registered. Dbmachine stated that 55 mph is the average speed of a GPS receiver.

How many HP is a sportsman 500?

32 HP

What horsepower does the Polaris Sportsman 500 have? The maximum power output for the 1999 Polaris Sportsman 500 is 32HP (or 18 WHP). This is slightly lower than the Polaris Sportsman 500 HO’s 33.00 HP (24.1kW). Due to the 500’s extra weight, this is expectedly lower.

Which is better ATV Honda or Polaris?

Honda is well-known for its reliability, ease of use, smooth ride, comfort, and skill. The Polaris glides better than the glass on rough terrain, has great power, an excellent EBS system, and is exceptionally comfortable to ride.

Is a Polaris Sportsman a good quad?

The 450’s power and handling are excellent if you want an all-around ATV to handle small to medium-sized hunting properties. It is well-built and has excellent ground clearance (11.5 inches), so it was able to handle all the ruts on our property.

Is Polaris Sportsman automatic?

Sportsman has the best-selling 4×4 ATV ever. Unbeatable performance. Legendary handling and ride.

What years did they make the Polaris Magnum 500?

About the Polaris Magnum 500

The 500-class machine was launched in the market between 1999 and 2002. It was intended to be an experimental vehicle. Polaris wanted to test it against the FourTrax Foreman TRX450.

Is a 2006 Polaris Sportsman 500 fuel injected?

Trims. All ’06 Sportsman 500s came with the fuel-injection engine. They also had the excellent handling and rugged aesthetics of an All-Wheel Drive locking differential.

How much weight can a Polaris Sportsman 500 pull?

This ATV weighs 696 lbs. and can hold 4.1 gallons of regular, unleaded gasoline. The front rack can carry 90 lbs. and the rear rack 180 kg. This ATV can pull 1,225 lbs.

How do you remove the battery from a Polaris Sportsman 500?

You will need to remove the splash shield from the right front tire and the left side panel to access it. The battery for the 2010 Sportsman Touring 500, all Sportsman Touring models 2007-2009, and all Sportsman X2 models 2007-2009 is located under the fuel tank. To access it, remove the right-side panel.

How much is a Polaris 550 Sportsman?

Polaris 550 Sportsman Price

The MSRP of the Polaris Sportsman 550 varies depending on trim and model year. The Touring and Limited Edition models have the highest prices. The EPS-equipped trims cost approximately $1,000 more than the standard or base versions.

Is Polaris Sportsman automatic?

Sportsman has the best-selling 4×4 ATV ever. Unbeatable performance. Legendary handling and ride.

Where is the battery on a Sportsman 500?

To access it, you will need to remove the splash shield and left side panel from the right front tire. The battery for the 2010 Sportsman Touring 500, all Sportsman Touring and Sportsman X2 model years 2007-2009 is. Access it by removing the right panel.

Polaris Sportsman 550 FAQ

1. What year did the Polaris 550 come out? The 2012 Polaris Sportsman Traveling 550EPS was designed to satisfy the needs of two-up tourers looking for a comfortable, half-liter ATV that is both tame and capable of handling rough terrain. However, it does not compromise performance.