The Polaris Predator 500 is one of the most sought-after ATVs since it’s made with the latest technology in the ATV industry, and its state-of-the-art suspension, handling, and power output make it a hit with riders of all levels. It is undeniably one of the best-rounded four-wheelers of its time.
Are you looking for an ATV that was built for the racing crowd? Look no further than the Polaris Predator 500. This article will cover everything you need to know about the Predator 500.
Contents
About the Polaris Predator 500
The Predator 500 is a 415 lb, 41 HP ATV that offers skilled riders adequate power and smooth performance. Polaris industries manufactured it from 2003 to 2007. Thanks to its design and functionality, it won the hearts of many racing enthusiasts and a slew of accolades, including the Sport ATV of The Year Award.
This ATV was specially designed to be track-ready and trail tough. It features several stock high-performance parts like strong aluminum Douglas rims, sturdy Maxxis Razr tires, polyethylene skid plate, braided stainless steel brake lines, and a Chromoly axle.
The Polaris Predator 500 is termed as a sport four-wheeler and comes with a top speed of 73mph in stock condition. It boasts smooth performance and plenty of power at a pocket-friendly price. This ATV is equipped with an adjustable suspension and aluminum shocks to suit your riding style and different terrains.
This sport ATV also has tighter gear ratios that improve acceleration and make shifting gear easy. There are several high-performance Predator 500 parts available to customize your ride better. If you’re looking for a used ATV, visit a Polaris ATV dealer and have a ride with the Polaris Predator 500.
Polaris Predator 500 Specs & Features
Engine
At the heart of the Polaris Predator 500 is a four-stroke, liquid-cooled DOHC single-cylinder engine. It comes with a bore of 99.2 millimeters and a stroke of 64.6 millimeters. The engine has a displacement of 499 cubic centimeters, delivered by a 42 millimeters Mikuni BSR carburetor. It has a compression ratio of 10:8:1 and a fuel tank capacity of 12.5 liters/3.3 gallons.
Ignition
The Polaris Predator 500 comes with an electronic Capacitor Discharge Ignition (CDI) system and auxiliary recoil pull starter for backup. If you’ve run out of power in the middle of nowhere, you can jumpstart your ATV.
Tires
The Predator 500 uses the Maxxis Razr PR 20 X 11-9 rear tires and Maxxis Razr PR 21 X 7-10 front tires with aluminum wheels.
Drivetrain
Behind the Predator 500 engine, you have a five-speed, manual shift transmission, including a reverse gear and a 520 O-ring chain drive. This is a manual ATV only. The later models have tighter gear ratios that make shifting feel effortless.
Brakes
This ATV relies on dual hydraulic front disc brakes and single hydraulic rear disc brakes. Both braking systems have single bore calipers. The 2004 and 2005 models came with “racing-type” steel braided brake lines for enhanced performance.
Suspensions
The predator 500’s front suspension has a double A-arm with Fox podium shocks and 10-inch of travel. It has a non-link Swing-arm with a single-shock, solid-axle rear suspension with 11-inch of travel. 2005 models and above have dual rear shock absorbers.
Weight capacity
This vehicle has a dry weight of 415 lbs, and the GVWR can go up to 645 lbs.
Top speed
The Polaris Predator 500 has a respectable top speed of 73 MPH in stock condition. However, the top speed may vary due to wind, altitude, road condition, rider weight, maintenance, and other factors.
Some riders attested to exceeding 73 MPH. Depending on the modifications done on the ATV, how fast you reach the top speed would differ. This could mean a lot if you are racing on the trail.
Pricing
Although the Polaris Predator 500 doesn’t come up for sale often, when they do, they are affordable. You can expect the Predator 500 to cost between $3,000 and $6,000, depending on the condition of the ATV and the model year.
Known Issues
The comfort level of this ATV is a great downside. This is because it’s designed for the racing environment. It isn’t designed to be sat on for long hours of the ride. Most riders use it when standing up. Therefore, Polaris didn’t put much effort into the seat’s design.
Additionally, the earlier models lack reverse gear. Although this isn’t a great downside in a racing environment, it’s a major detriment to older ATVs since later models have the reverse gear.
Conclusion
The Polaris Predator 500 is an affordable, powerful, and great racing companion. If you’re looking for a reliable, older ATV that has readily available parts, this is a great choice.
