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With the Sportsman series selling more than 1 million units since 1993, Polaris has had plenty of time to get it right. The 2012 550 EPS has few changes over the 2011 model. The four-wheel independent suspension system is powered by a gutsy overhead cam engine, and the refined steering system allocates additional rider assistance at slower speeds while expending less at higher RPMs. Commanding the highest score of all the ATVs in the test, the Polaris won over every tester. The most common tester comments centered on the Sportsman's exceptionally smooth ride and extremely stable footprint, though some worried that the wide stance could prevent it from fitting into tight spots. Everyone felt the bike could stick to nearly any surface at any angle, thanks to the Active Descent Control, which kept the machine stable in steep situations. The power curve received kudos for its consistency and strength. "The value per dollar is highly competitive," said Wes Hudson. Specs
Price: $7,699
Dry Weight: 733 lb.
Suspension Travel (front/rear): 9 in./10.25 in.
Engine: SOHC, single cylinder, 4-valve, liquid-cooled
Displacement: 549cc
Fuel capacity: 5.25 gal. Test Results
Performance: A-
Design/Construction: B+
Durability: A-
Innovation: B+
Price/Value: A-
Overall: * * * * Price: $8,699 (polarisindustries.com) Polaris

There were multiple comments about the stiffness of the shifting handle, and the performance of the rear brake at high speed. "I found myself drifting a little when I applied the rear brake hard at high speeds," said Courtney. Specs
Wet Weight: 648 lb.
Suspension Travel (front/rear): 7.1 in./9.5 in.
Transmission: Yamaha Ultramatic with all-wheel engine braking
Engine: SOHC, single cylinder, 4-valve, liquid-cooled
Displacement: 558cc
Fuel capacity: 5.3 gal. Test Results
Performance: B+
Design/Construction: B+
Durability: A-
Innovation: B
Price/Value: A-
Overall: * * * * Price: $8,699 (yamaha-motor.com) Yamaha

The testing group enjoyed the trail performance of the two-up machine and found it highly capable in jagged terrain, even with the longer wheelbase. Compliments were given to the on-demand locking 4-wheel switch and the stable, assured ride. The power was responsive and the brakes had a firm feel, even with human cargo. "The shifting handle was the absolute smoothest of the bunch," said Krystal Hudson. A few issues crept up with the Cat, including increased noise levels at high speeds and a wider-than-expected turning radius. "The steering was not forgiving when overcorrected," noted Paul Pesta. Specs:
Dry Weight: 764 lb.
Suspension Travel (front/rear): 10 in./10 in.
Transmission: Automatic CVT with EBS
Engine: SOHC, single cylinder, 4-valve, liquid-cooled
Displacement: 545cc
Fuel Capacity: 5.3 gal. Test Results
Performance: B+
Design/Construction: B+
Durability: A-
Innovation: A-
Price/Value: B
Overall: * * * 1/2 Price: $9,799 (arctic-cat.com) Arctic Cat

Curb Weight: 644 lb.
Front Independent Suspension Travel: 6.7 in.
Rear Straight Axle Suspension: 6.9 in.
Transmission: ESP five-speed with reverse
Engine: OHV, single cylinder, 4-valve, liquid-cooled
Displacement: 475cc
Fuel capacity: 4 gal. Test Results
Performance: B
Design/Construction: B+
Durability: A
Innovation: B
Price/Value: B
Overall: * * * 1/2 Price: $7,699 (powersports.honda.com) Honda

Dry Weight: 704 lb.
Suspension Travel (front/rear): 7 in./9 in.
Transmission: CTV with engine braking
Engine: SOHC, V-twin, 8-valve (4 per cylinder), liquid-cooled
Displacement: 499.6cc
Fuel capacity: 4.3 gal. Test Results
Performance: A-
Design/Construction: B
Durability: B
Innovation: A
Price/Value: B-
Overall: * * * 1/2 Price: $10,149 (canamoffroad.com) Can Am

This speed demon is definitely not made just to carry bales of hay around the farm. The all-new 2012 Wildcat uses a 95-inch wheelbase and up to 18 inches of wheel travel. Combined with an electric differential lock, this monster will let you climb just about anything the machine will fit over. Outfitted with a dual exhaust system that puts out up to 95 horsepower, the mammoth 951cc V-twin engine is a blistering powerhouse that, combined with the 300-pound bed, will get your deer out of the woods and back to camp in a hurry. Price: $15,900 (arctic-cat.com) Arctic Cat





Dry Weight: 694.6 lb.
Suspension Travel (front/rear): 6.7 in./7.5 in.
Transmission: CVT with engine braking
Engine: SOHC, V-twin, 8-valve (4 per cylinder), liquid-cooled
Displacement: 749cc
Fuel capacity: 5 gal. Price: $9,999 (kawasaki.com) Kawasaki
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