Polaris redesigns ATV The flagship of Polaris's 19-model all-terrain vehicle (ATV) lineup, the Sportsman 500, sports a bigger engine and other functional improvements for 2001.

The most noticeable change on the Sportsman, still priced at $6,999, is its larger, 499-cc, liquid-cooled, four-valve, four-stroke engine that provides 20% more power. The power plant isn't new to Polaris, because it's the same model that powers the Sportsman's sport cousin, the Scrambler 500. To go with this power, the company improved the Sportsman's handling on rough terrain by upgrading the steering geometry and components. And the single-lever, all-wheel hydraulic disc brakes now have a new master cylinder, heat-treated discs and improved pads for longer life.

Shifting into ranges (high, low, reverse) has been improved on this automatic, four-wheel, independent shaft drive machine. The clutch has also been improved for better low-end pulling power. The cover that houses the belt has been redesigned to eliminate past problems with cover melting and belt slipping. And for 2001, an unlimited lifetime "installed" belt warranty is standard.

Other standard features include an independent rear suspension; an automatic dual-sensing (torque and speed) Polaris variable transmission with engine braking system; a thumb-switch, engage-on-demand, true 4-wd MacPherson strut front suspension; and an 11-in. ground clearance. For uses that require crossing water, the automatic transmission has added protection that makes water intake no longer a problem.

New tools for the Sportsman 500 include front-mount and pull-behind brush and finishing cut mowers, sweepers, turf aerators, electric implement lift for plows, racks and storage and a tire machine. For more information, see your local dealer, call 800/765-2747.

Haul big machinery safely It weighs 18,000 lbs., yet the updated Trail-Eze Wideside machinery trailer can haul up to 60,000 lbs. of heavy machinery overall, or 30,000 lbs. on its double-drop deck platform. The Wideside features pullout 3- x 5-in. tubes set on 16-in. cross member spacings to increase width to the required 13 ft. needed for hauling combines safely and legally. The trailer features a sloping rear end to allow better clearance for tractor drawbars or for low-clearance machines. Price range: $35,000 to $40,000.

The company's TE70SA Sliding Axle trailer handles a 70,000-lb. load (distributed from front to tail). The slide axle allows the bed to tilt hydraulically to a 7 1/2 angle. This offers a low approach and departure angle for low-clearance machinery. Air ride suspension and hydraulic and remote winches come standard. Trailer weight is 16,500 lbs. Price range: $35,000 to $45,000. Contact Trail-Eze Trailers, Dept. Apply superscript *, Box 1188, Mitchell, SD 57301, 800/232-5682.

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