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An 850cc engine's raw power turns tough trails into thrilling adventures. The 2022 Polaris Sportsman 850 has proven its worth in terrains of all types. This machine shows why serious trail riders choose it as their go-to ATV. It handles steep inclines and muddy paths with ease.
The Polaris 850 Sportsman stands out as a sophisticated trail companion. Smart features complement its impressive power. Our hands-on experience with the 850 Sportsman revealed design elements that make riding more comfortable and controlled. Weekend warriors and dedicated trail enthusiasts will appreciate how this ATV combines power, technology, and reliability. The 2022 Polaris Sportsman 850's unique features set it apart from other ATVs.
Our team tested the heart of this machine - the ProStar 850cc twin-cylinder engine that delivers an impressive 78 horsepower [1]. This powerhouse features a single overhead cam design with four valves per cylinder and ensures optimal performance on trails of all types [2].
The engine's capabilities include:
- Dual-balanced shafts for smooth power delivery
- Electronic Fuel Injection with 40mm throttle bodies
- Altitude-independent performance
- Clean fuel burn technology [3]
The Polaris Sportsman 850's advanced suspension system makes it stand out from the crowd. The rolled Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) works great with its 10.25 inches of rear travel [2]. A four-degree rearward suspension angle provides better bump absorption and reduces acceleration squat [3]. The front suspension's 9 inches of travel works seamlessly with preload-adjustable shocks at all four corners [2].
This ATV's Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system is a game-changer. Tests show it delivers 30% more power assist than leading competitors [3]. The variable assist feature impressed us the most. The steering becomes lighter at lower speeds and makes the machine exceptionally easy to handle in technical terrain [1]. This feature is a great way to get better control through boulder fields or mud holes, especially when you have cargo loaded [2].
Anti-kickback steering combined with sophisticated suspension design creates a ride that makes the Sportsman 850 feel much lighter than it is [2]. The steering might feel a bit too soft at high speeds, but this trade-off delivers exceptional control during technical trail riding and utility work [1].
Our extensive trail testing of the Polaris Sportsman 850 showed its unique versatility on terrain of all types. Let's look at how this machine takes on different trail challenges.
The Sportsman's 12-inch ground clearance makes a huge difference on rocky paths [4]. Its curved A-arms give great obstacle clearance that makes it substantially easier to direct over tough rock formations [1]. The machine handles tussocky and rocky terrain without getting high-centered - the biggest problem with lower-riding ATVs [1].
The Sportsman 850 conquers muddy conditions with ease, even with its 900-pound weight [1]. The machine excels in mud thanks to:
- Superior weight distribution through specialized tire design
- Excellent low-end torque for steady progress
Forest trails create unique challenges. The Sportsman 850 comes ready to tackle them with heavy-duty front and rear bumpers that are a great way to get through dense brush [1]. The stable and smooth ride quality stands out, especially when you have steep or uneven terrain [1]. The independent suspension system offers 9 inches of front travel and 10.25 inches at the rear. It absorbs trail irregularities with ease [1].
The machine's stability on side-hills matches that of much pricier vehicles [1]. The responsive electronic power steering creates a riding experience that feels both secure and easy to use, whatever trail conditions we face.
The Polaris Sportsman 850's digital interface showcases its tech prowess. We spent a lot of time learning about these features that boosted our riding experience.
The 7-inch touchscreen display stands at the heart of the Sportsman's tech suite and comes with amazing customization options [5]. The gage screen became our go-to feature that shows key information such as:
- Vehicle speed and RPM
- Fuel level and engine temperature
- Engine hours and trip meter
The 3-Mode Throttle Control System revolutionizes the way you ride. Performance mode packs aggressive power with minimal throttle input. Work mode delivers smoother acceleration when you need precise control. Standard mode hits the sweet spot for everyday trail riding with its balanced throttle response [6].
Bluetooth integration proved its worth with versatile features. We paired phones and headsets at the same time [7] and enjoyed music streaming and call handling through the display. The Group Ride feature stood out as it lets riders text each other even without cell service [8].
The RIDE COMMAND system became our trusted trail companion with GPS navigation covering over a million miles of verified trails [9]. Navigation works offline, which kept us on track in remote areas [9]. The system's glove-touch compatibility let us make quick adjustments without removing our protective gear [9].
Your Polaris Sportsman 850 is already a great machine, but the right accessories can make it exceptional. We tested many add-ons to find what works best on serious trails.
Polaris teamed up with PRO ARMOR to create protective features that merge naturally with the Sportsman 850 [10]. The Ultimate Trail edition comes with heavy-duty front and rear bumpers [1]. We love that the front bumper has a plug-and-play light bar setup - it's a great way to get better visibility when riding at night [1].
The Sportsman 850's storage options stood out to us. The machine has:
- Front sealed storage compartment with easy-access latches
- Gasket-sealed rear tool compartment
- Reinforced cargo racks with steel anchor points [1]
The Lock & Ride® system makes a big difference. You can quickly add storage accessories without losing any durability [11]. Hard-case trunks keep your gear safe from weather, while soft bags give flexible storage options based on your trail needs [11].
Must-Have Aftermarket Add-ons
Our testing showed that some aftermarket additions improve trail performance by a lot. Rigid® lighting products work perfectly with the Sportsman's electrical system [10]. Serious trail riders should get upgraded tires for better traction and a strong winch system. A 3,500-pound capacity winch handles most recovery situations well [1].
Pro Armor's protective gear and specialized storage solutions made our trail-riding better than ever. These accessories protect your machine and let you take on longer, tougher adventures [10].
Take on any challenge with the 2022 Polaris Sportsman 850! Explore our selection of new and used models and find the perfect ATV for work or play. Shop now!
The 2022 Polaris Sportsman 850 showcases what modern ATV engineering can achieve. We put this machine through its paces on challenging trails and found it delivers outstanding performance with its powerful 850cc engine, sophisticated suspension system, and smart technology integration. This ATV handles rocky paths, muddy trails, and forest terrain with equal confidence.
Its 7-inch touchscreen display and RIDE COMMAND system lift the riding experience beyond simple navigation. The Sportsman 850's price tag might seem high to some riders, but its versatility and reliability make it worth every penny for dedicated trail enthusiasts.
We were impressed by how this ATV stays nimble despite its bulk, thanks to its excellent power steering and suspension configuration. The steering feels soft at high speeds, but this creates superior handling on technical trails that riders will value. The Sportsman 850 strikes a perfect balance between raw power, smart technology, and trail-ready toughness that will benefit riders for years.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. What is the engine capacity of the 2022 Polaris Sportsman 850?
The 2022 Polaris Sportsman 850 is equipped with a ProStar 850cc twin-cylinder engine that delivers an impressive 78 horsepower.
2. What are some key features of the Sportsman 850's suspension system?
The Sportsman 850 features an advanced suspension system with Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) offering 10.25 inches of rear travel and 9 inches of front travel. It also has preload-adjustable shocks at all four corners for optimal performance on various terrains.
3. How does the Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system benefit riders?
The EPS system provides 30% more power assist than leading competitors and features variable assist, which makes steering lighter at lower speeds. This enhances maneuverability in technical terrain and when the ATV is loaded with cargo.
4. What type of display does the Sportsman 850 have?
The Sportsman 850 features a 7-inch touchscreen display that offers customization options and shows essential information such as vehicle speed, RPM, fuel level, engine temperature, and more.
5. Does the Sportsman 850 have Bluetooth connectivity?
Yes, the Sportsman 850 has Bluetooth integration that allows pairing of phones and headsets simultaneously. This enables features like music streaming and call handling through the display.
6. What is the RIDE COMMAND system?
The RIDE COMMAND system is a GPS navigation feature that offers over a million miles of verified trails. It works offline and is glove-touch compatible, making it practical for riding in remote areas.
7. What kind of storage options does the Sportsman 850 offer?
The Sportsman 850 comes with a front sealed storage compartment, a gasket-sealed rear tool compartment, and reinforced cargo racks with steel anchor points. It also features the Lock & Ride® system for quick installation of various storage accessories.
8. How does the Sportsman 850 perform in different trail conditions?
The Sportsman 850 demonstrates exceptional versatility across various terrain types. It handles well on rocky paths thanks to its 12-inch ground clearance, performs admirably in muddy conditions despite its weight, and offers a stable and smooth ride on forest trails.
9. What are some recommended aftermarket accessories for the Sportsman 850?
Recommended aftermarket accessories include Rigid® lighting products, upgraded tires for improved traction, and a robust winch system with a 3,500-pound capacity for recovery situations.
10. Is the 2022 Polaris Sportsman 850 suitable for both recreational and utility use?
Yes, the Sportsman 850 is designed to excel in both recreational trail riding and utility work. Its powerful engine, advanced suspension, and smart features make it versatile enough to handle a wide range of tasks and riding conditions.
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