So, you’ve got a Polaris Predator 50. It’s a tough little machine, a perfect gateway for a young rider into the world of off-roading. But you’ve probably noticed it’s… well, a little on the slow side. You find yourself asking, “Is this all it’s got?” and wondering what the true polaris predator 50 top speed really is.
You’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions we hear at FatBoysOffroad. That factory-set speed is there for a very good reason—safety. But as a rider grows in skill and confidence, you might want to unlock a bit more of what this ATV can do.
I promise this guide will give you the full breakdown. We’ll cover the stock top speed, exactly where the factory restrictors are hidden, and a step-by-step walkthrough on how to safely adjust them. We’ll also dive into the common problems that can slow your quad down and the best maintenance practices to keep it running strong. Let’s get that little Predator living up to its name.
What is the Actual Polaris Predator 50 Top Speed?
Right out of the box, a brand new Polaris Predator 50 is governed to a top speed of about 10-15 mph. For a first-time rider, this is the perfect speed to learn throttle control, steering, and braking without things getting out of hand.
Polaris intentionally designed it this way. The benefits of this limited top speed are purely about safety and creating a controlled learning environment. It gives parents peace of mind and allows young enthusiasts to build a solid foundation of riding skills.
However, once those restrictors are removed, the story changes. A fully de-restricted Predator 50 can typically reach speeds of 25-30 mph. That’s a significant jump, turning it from a backyard crawler into a proper little trail machine that can keep up with bigger quads on mellow terrain.
Understanding the Built-In Speed Restrictors
Polaris uses a few simple but effective methods to limit the Predator 50’s power. Before you can work on improving the polaris predator 50 top speed, you need to know what you’re looking for. These are the three main culprits holding your machine back.
The Throttle Limiter Screw
This is the simplest and most common restrictor on youth ATVs. It’s a long screw located on the throttle housing on the handlebars. Its job is to physically stop the throttle lever from being pushed all the way in.
By limiting how much the throttle can open, it limits how much fuel and air enter the engine, thus limiting speed. This is often the first and easiest adjustment you can make as a rider’s skill level progresses.
The Exhaust Restrictor Plate
Tucked away inside the exhaust system is a small metal plate or washer. It’s typically located right where the header pipe bolts to the engine cylinder. This plate has a small hole in the center, which dramatically restricts the flow of exhaust gases out of the engine.
Think of it like trying to exhale through a tiny straw. An engine needs to “breathe” to make power, and this little washer effectively suffocates it, keeping power and speed low. Removing it is a key step in this polaris predator 50 top speed guide.
The CDI Rev Limiter Jumper
The most “technical” restrictor is an electronic one found in the CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) box. This is the brain of your ATV’s ignition system. Polaris includes a jumper wire (often a single green wire that plugs back into the CDI harness) that tells the box to limit the engine’s maximum RPMs.
No matter how much you open the throttle or how clear the exhaust is, this limiter will prevent the engine from revving high enough to reach its true top speed. Unplugging this jumper is like taking the digital handcuffs off the engine.
A Step-by-Step Polaris Predator 50 Top Speed Guide to De-Restriction
Ready to get your hands dirty? Here’s how to polaris predator 50 top speed can be safely increased. Follow these steps carefully, and always prioritize safety over speed. Remember, once you do this, the ATV will be significantly faster.
Safety First: Before you start, ensure the ATV is on a level surface, the engine is cool, and the parking brake is set. It’s also a good idea to disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent any electrical mishaps.
Adjust the Throttle Limiter Screw
This is the easiest adjustment. Locate the screw on the side of the thumb throttle assembly. Using a wrench or pliers, you can turn the screw outwards (counter-clockwise) to allow the throttle lever more travel. You can adjust this incrementally as your rider gets more comfortable.
Remove the Exhaust Restrictor Plate
You’ll need a basic socket set for this. First, remove the exhaust heat shield to get access to the header pipe bolts. Carefully unbolt the two nuts holding the header pipe to the engine cylinder. As you pull the pipe away, look inside the end of the pipe—you should see the small washer. Simply pull it out. Pro Tip: It’s one of the most important polaris predator 50 top speed tips to install a fresh exhaust gasket when you bolt the header back on to prevent exhaust leaks.
Disconnect the CDI Rev Limiter
Find the CDI box. It’s usually a small black box located under the seat or front plastics. Look for a single, often green, wire that comes out of the wiring harness and plugs right back into a separate port on the same harness. Simply unplug this wire. You can tape the end to keep it clean in case you ever want to re-restrict it.
Test and Tune
After reassembling everything, it’s time for a test ride in an open, safe area. The ATV will sound different and be much more responsive. Pay attention to how it runs at full throttle. If it seems to bog down or run rough, you may need to re-jet the carburetor to a slightly larger main jet to compensate for the increased airflow. This ensures the engine gets enough fuel to prevent running lean, which can cause damage.
Common Problems That Rob Your Predator 50 of Top Speed
Sometimes, a lack of speed isn’t about restrictors. Poor maintenance can be a major factor. If you’ve de-restricted your quad and it still feels sluggish, these are the common problems with polaris predator 50 top speed you should investigate.
A Dirty Air Filter
This is the number one power-robber on any off-road machine. A clogged air filter starves the engine of air, making it run rich and sluggish. Pull the filter out, clean it with a designated filter cleaner, and properly re-oil it.
Clogged Carburetor Jets
If the ATV has been sitting, old fuel can turn to varnish and clog the tiny passages inside the carburetor, especially the main jet. A thorough carb cleaning can work wonders for restoring lost power.
Worn Clutch or Drive Belt
The Predator 50 uses a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). If the internal clutch rollers are worn or the drive belt is slipping, the engine can be revving high, but that power isn’t making it to the wheels. Inspect these components for wear.
Incorrect Tire Pressure
It sounds simple, but it’s true. Underinflated tires create a huge amount of rolling resistance, forcing the little engine to work much harder. Check the tire pressure before every ride and set it to the manufacturer’s specification (usually around 3-5 PSI).
Polaris Predator 50 Top Speed Best Practices for Maintenance
A well-maintained machine is a fast machine. Adopting a solid maintenance routine is the best way to ensure consistent performance and longevity. This is your essential polaris predator 50 top speed care guide.
- Clean the Air Filter: After every few rides, especially in dusty conditions. This is non-negotiable.
- Check the 2-Stroke Oil: The Predator 50 is a 2-stroke, meaning it requires oil to be mixed with the fuel (or in a separate reservoir) for lubrication. Never let it run low.
- Inspect the Spark Plug: A fouled or worn spark plug creates a weak spark, leading to poor performance. Check it periodically and replace it if it looks dark and oily or the electrode is worn down.
- Chain Care: Keep the drive chain clean, lubricated, and properly tensioned. A tight or dry chain robs power.
- Brake Check: More speed requires more stopping power. Regularly inspect the brake pads and fluid to ensure they are in perfect working order.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Riding Practices
Being a responsible off-roader means thinking about our impact. While a 50cc two-stroke isn’t a poster child for green energy, you can still adopt some sustainable polaris predator 50 top speed practices.
A properly maintained engine is a more efficient engine. Keeping your air filter clean and your carburetor tuned ensures the fuel is burned as completely as possible, which reduces emissions and improves fuel economy. Using a high-quality, low-smoke 2-stroke oil is another great step.
Beyond the machine itself, practicing eco-friendly polaris predator 50 top speed riding means staying on designated trails to prevent erosion and respecting wildlife. The goal is to leave the trails in better condition than we found them for the next generation of riders.
Frequently Asked Questions About Polaris Predator 50 Top Speed
How fast does a stock Polaris Predator 50 go?
A stock, factory-restricted Polaris Predator 50 has a top speed of approximately 10 to 15 miles per hour, designed for the safety of young and beginner riders.
Is it safe to de-restrict a Predator 50?
Safety is entirely dependent on the rider’s skill, maturity, and the riding environment. De-restricting the ATV will make it 2-3 times faster. It should only be done under strict adult supervision for a rider who has demonstrated competent control of the machine at its lower speeds.
Do I need to re-jet the carburetor after removing the restrictors?
It is highly recommended. Removing the exhaust and airbox restrictions allows the engine to breathe much more freely. To prevent a lean fuel condition (too much air, not enough fuel), which can cause engine damage, you should install a slightly larger main jet in the carburetor.
What tools do I need to de-restrict my Predator 50?
You only need basic hand tools. A good socket set (8mm, 10mm, 12mm are common), a set of wrenches, and a screwdriver will be sufficient for the entire process.
Will de-restricting my ATV void the warranty?
Yes, almost certainly. Modifying the engine and exhaust systems from their factory specifications is typically grounds for voiding any remaining manufacturer’s warranty. Keep this in mind if you are working on a newer machine.
Unlocking the true potential of the Polaris Predator 50 is a rewarding project that can extend the life of the ATV as your young rider grows. By understanding the systems, working carefully, and always putting safety first, you can transform this little quad into a capable and exciting trail machine.
Wrench smart, ride safe, and enjoy the ride!
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