Overview of the Polaris Sportsman 850 Performance
When it comes to tackling the great outdoors, the Polaris Sportsman 850 stands tall among its competitors. This beast of a quad bike is not just about looks; it packs a punch when it comes to speed and acceleration. Riders often find themselves drawn into the thrilling experience of pushing this machine to its limits. Let’s dive into what makes the Sportsman 850 a favorite among quad enthusiasts.
Top Speed and Acceleration
The Polaris Sportsman 850 is known to reach impressive speeds. While exact figures can vary based on conditions, riders can expect the following performance metrics:
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Top Speed (mph) | 65 |
| Top Speed (km/h) | 104 |
| 0-60 mph (seconds) | 5.8 |
| 0-100 km/h (seconds) | 6.2 |
These figures are not just numbers; they represent the thrill of hitting the throttle and feeling the rush. But remember, several factors can influence these performance metrics.
Factors Affecting Acceleration and Top Speed
- Weight of the Rider: Heavier riders may experience slightly slower acceleration due to added weight. The Sportsman 850 is designed to handle a good load, but physics still applies.
- Terrain Type: The type of surface you’re riding on plays a significant role. Smooth, hard-packed trails will yield better speeds compared to muddy or loose gravel paths.
- Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, or wind can all affect performance. Wet surfaces can reduce traction, leading to longer acceleration times.
- Tire Pressure: Properly inflated tires can enhance grip and handling, directly impacting acceleration and top speed.
- Modifications: Aftermarket upgrades can either enhance or hinder performance. A well-tuned engine can significantly increase both speed and acceleration.
Road Surfaces and Their Impact
The surface you’re riding on can make or break your experience. Here’s a quick rundown of how different surfaces affect the Sportsman 850:
- Asphalt: Smooth and fast, this surface allows for maximum speed and quick acceleration. Ideal for those who want to feel the power of the Sportsman.
- Hard-packed Dirt: Great for off-road enthusiasts, this surface provides decent grip and allows for good speed, but watch out for loose patches.
- Mud: Fun but tricky. The Sportsman 850 can handle mud, but expect slower acceleration and reduced top speeds as the tires struggle for grip.
- Sand: A challenging surface that can bog down even the most powerful quads. Acceleration will suffer, but with the right technique, the Sportsman can still perform admirably.
In summary, the Polaris Sportsman 850 is a powerhouse that delivers impressive top speeds and acceleration when conditions are right. Understanding the factors that influence performance can help riders maximize their experience on this incredible machine.
Speed Comparison with Competitors
When considering the Polaris Sportsman 850, it’s essential to see how it stacks up against its competitors in the quad bike market. The world of ATVs is crowded, and each model has its own strengths and weaknesses. Let’s break down how the Sportsman 850 fares in terms of maximum speed and acceleration to 100 km/h (62 mph).
2020 Polaris Sportsman 850 Top Speed
The Polaris Sportsman 850 boasts a top speed of approximately 65 mph (104 km/h). This makes it a formidable contender in the ATV world. However, how does it compare to other popular models?
- Can-Am Outlander 850: This rival also reaches a top speed of about 65 mph (104 km/h). While they share similar speed capabilities, the Outlander is often praised for its acceleration.
- Yamaha Grizzly 700: The Grizzly can hit around 62 mph (100 km/h). Although slightly slower, its torque delivery is impressive, allowing it to accelerate quickly despite the lower top speed.
- Kawasaki Brute Force 750: This beast can reach speeds of 70 mph (113 km/h), making it the speed champion among these models. However, its acceleration isn’t as sharp as the Sportsman 850.
Acceleration to 100 km/h
The Polaris Sportsman 850 can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in about 6.2 seconds. This is a respectable time, especially when considering the weight and size of the machine. Here’s how it compares:
- Can-Am Outlander 850: Similar to the Sportsman, it can achieve 0-100 km/h in around 6.0 seconds, giving it a slight edge in acceleration.
- Yamaha Grizzly 700: This model takes approximately 7.0 seconds to reach 100 km/h, showcasing that while it’s a solid performer, it lags behind the Sportsman 850 and Outlander.
- Kawasaki Brute Force 750: The Brute Force can reach 100 km/h in about 6.5 seconds, making it a close competitor but still not quite as quick as the Sportsman 850.
Owner’s Experience
Owners of the Polaris Sportsman 850 often rave about its performance. Many highlight the exhilarating feeling of acceleration, especially when hitting trails or open roads. The quad’s handling is also a frequent point of praise, allowing riders to maneuver easily at high speeds.
However, it’s not all roses. Some users have pointed out that while the top speed is impressive, the Sportsman can feel a bit sluggish when fully loaded or on softer terrain. Riders looking for pure speed might find themselves wanting slightly more, especially compared to the Kawasaki Brute Force.
In summary, the Polaris Sportsman 850 stands out in the competitive landscape of ATVs, offering a balance of speed and acceleration that many riders appreciate. Whether you’re racing down a dirt path or cruising through the woods, this machine provides a thrilling experience that keeps enthusiasts coming back for more.