However, the engine is set longitudinally in the chassis and is managed by Honda’s PGM-FI engine mapping system. Side-by-sides are typically hard things to compare. Arctic Cat’s base Wildcat Trail is $11,999, but it’s powered by a DOHC, eight-valve twin with more than 60 horsepower. We’d prefer doors to the 570’s nets, but that’s part of how Polaris sells this RZR for about the same price the machine cost in 2008. Polaris once again has many more of these sport/racing models than Honda does. The range selector is a little stiff, but other than that, it makes driving as easy as the automatic-transmission family car. It only offers 5.9 inches of travel in the front wheels, 5.9 inches of travel in the back wheels and 8.5 inches of ground clearance overall which just really is not all that much. We mentioned how the Pioneer 500 does a fantastic job at giving low rpm-torque and that due in part to how the engine is mounted within the vehicle. Both Honda and Polaris offer four-seater selections for these models as well as deluxe editions. The ranger 1000 has 18.6 gallons of cabin storage space, 25 percent thicker seats, and an extra 5 inches of room for entry and exit of the vehicle and up to 8 cupholders. All Rights Reserved. 8 AM - 6 PM CST (M - F).

The good news is that extra firmness lets an aggressive driver push the machine harder than if it were set up plush for the driver alone.

Few companies have side-by-sides that compare to Polaris’s innovation, selection, and quality. Again, there are several aftermarket sources, including your Polaris dealer, who would love to sell you some doors.

The Ranger 1000 has a towing capacity of 2,500 pounds and a cargo box capacity of 1,000 pounds so it definitely outperforms Honda’s Pioneer 1000 in that regard. The drivetrain in this side-by-side is pretty nice utilizing a 3 option system comprised of 2WD, 4WD, and 4WD with differential lock. Honda does something really different with their side-by-sides that I love and that is giving the option between an automatic (AT) and manual (MT) transmission. The Talon 1000X Fox Live Valve side-by-side has an awesome suspension system. The Ranger 500 is the class leader in these categories and can tow up to 1,500 pounds and the cargo box on this side-by-side can carry up to 500 pounds of cargo. The smooth, quiet, powerful engine makes the 570 a joy to drive, and the cabin noise level is so low it’s easy to talk to your riding buddy. This suspension gives the side-by-side 7.9 inches of travel in the front and 9.1 inches of travel in the back with right around 10.7 inches of ground clearance overall.