Polaris Sportsman 450 Vs 570 – A Mechanic’S Deep Dive For Work

Staring at two nearly identical ATVs on the showroom floor, trying to decide between the Polaris Sportsman 450 and 570, is a classic off-roader’s puzzle. They share the same frame, the same body, and much of the same DNA. It’s easy to get lost in the spec sheets and wonder if the price difference is really worth it.

Here at FatBoysOffroad, we get it. We’ve wrenched on both, ridden both, and helped countless folks make this exact choice. We promise to cut through the marketing noise and give you the real-world, in-the-dirt breakdown you need to pick the right machine for your budget, your property, and your adventures.

In this ultimate polaris sportsman 450 vs 570 guide, we’ll dive deep into the engine differences, compare their real-world performance on the trail and around the farm, discuss long-term maintenance, and highlight the common problems you might face. By the end, you’ll have the confidence to roll the right Sportsman into your garage.

Engine and Performance: The ProStar Power Difference

Let’s get straight to the heart of the matter. The single biggest difference between these two quads is what sits under the seat. Both use Polaris’s reliable ProStar engine, but the displacement and tuning set them worlds apart.

The Sportsman 450 H.O. Engine

The Sportsman 450 H.O. (High Output) is powered by a 500cc single-cylinder engine that churns out a respectable 33 horsepower. Don’t let the “450” name fool you; it’s a capable motor that shares its architecture with its bigger brother.

On the trail, this engine is smooth and predictable. It has enough low-end grunt for most farm chores and light trail riding. It’s an incredibly easy engine to manage, making it a fantastic choice for new riders or those who don’t need blistering top-end speed.

The Sportsman 570 Engine

The Sportsman 570 boasts a 567cc single-cylinder ProStar engine, bumping the power output up to 44 horsepower. That 11-horsepower jump is the single most compelling reason to upgrade, and you feel it everywhere.

The 570 has a much snappier throttle response. It accelerates harder, climbs hills with less effort, and feels significantly more lively. If you plan on riding with heavier loads, tackling aggressive terrain, or just enjoy a more spirited ride, the 570’s power is a clear advantage.

Polaris Sportsman 450 vs 570: The On-Paper Spec Showdown

While the engine is the main event, a few other key specifications differ between the base models. These differences can have a real impact on how you use your ATV. This section serves as your quick-reference polaris sportsman 450 vs 570 guide to the numbers that matter.

Towing Capacity: The Sportsman 450 is rated to tow 1,350 lbs. The Sportsman 570, thanks to its extra power, gets the same 1,350 lbs rating. This is a point of parity, showing the strength of the shared chassis.
Rack Capacity: Both models share the same rack capacities: 90 lbs on the front and 180 lbs on the rear. Perfect for hauling gear, coolers, or tools.
Suspension: Both ATVs feature a MacPherson Strut front suspension with 8.2 inches of travel and a Dual A-Arm Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) with 9.5 inches of travel. This setup provides a comfortable and stable ride on rough terrain.
Ground Clearance: A crucial spec for off-roaders. Both the 450 and 570 offer a generous 11.5 inches of ground clearance, allowing you to clear rocks, logs, and ruts with confidence.

As you can see, beyond the engine, these machines are remarkably similar. The decision truly comes down to power and price.

Real-World Use Cases: Which Rider Are You?

Specs are one thing; how these machines perform in the real world is another. Let’s break down who each ATV is best for. This is where you can find some crucial how to polaris sportsman 450 vs 570 decision-making tips.

For the Utility User and Property Owner

If your primary use is hauling firewood, checking fence lines, or plowing a small driveway, the Sportsman 450 is an absolute workhorse. Its smooth power delivery makes it easy to control at low speeds, and it has plenty of torque for pulling a small utility trailer.

The benefits of polaris sportsman 450 vs 570 in this scenario lean toward the 450. You save money upfront, and the slightly better fuel economy (though marginal) adds up over years of use. The power is more than adequate for 90% of property management tasks.

For the Trail Rider and Weekend Warrior

This is where the Sportsman 570 really shines. That extra horsepower makes trail riding significantly more fun. Exiting corners, blasting up hills, and powering through mud bogs is simply more exciting on the 570.

If you ride with friends who have more powerful machines or enjoy exploring challenging terrain, you will appreciate the 570’s capabilities. The extra power means the engine isn’t working as hard to maintain speed, which can arguably reduce long-term strain.

For the New Rider or Budget-Conscious Buyer

The Sportsman 450 is one of the best entry-level full-size ATVs on the market. It’s not intimidating, the power is manageable, and it’s built on a proven, full-size chassis. You get a highly capable machine without the higher price tag and more “jumpy” throttle of the 570.

It provides a safe platform to learn the fundamentals of off-roading without feeling underpowered like some smaller, youth-oriented models.

Long-Term Ownership: A Polaris Sportsman Care Guide

Both the 450 and 570 are built on the same platform, which means they share maintenance schedules and potential weak points. Following some polaris sportsman 450 vs 570 best practices will keep your machine running strong for years.

Routine Maintenance You Can DIY

Staying on top of basic maintenance is the key to reliability. Here’s what you should be doing regularly:

Engine Oil & Filter: This is the lifeblood. Use the recommended Polaris PS-4 oil. Check it before every ride and change it according to the manual’s service interval—sooner if you ride in very dusty or wet conditions.
Air Filter: The ProStar engine needs to breathe clean air. Inspect and clean your air filter often. A clogged filter robs power and can let damaging dust into your engine. We recommend a quality foam filter oil like Maxima FAB-1.
CV Boots: The rubber boots protecting your CV joints are vulnerable. After every ride, give them a quick inspection for tears or punctures. A torn boot lets in dirt and water, quickly destroying the joint. A tube of Shoe Goo can be a great trail-side temporary fix.
Fluid Levels: Regularly check your coolant and brake fluid levels. Low coolant can lead to overheating, a common issue if the radiator gets caked in mud.

Common Problems with Polaris Sportsman 450 vs 570

No machine is perfect. Over the years, we’ve seen a few recurring issues on this chassis. Being aware of them can save you a headache down the road.

Bushing Wear: The factory A-arm bushings are a known wear item. You’ll notice this as excessive play in the wheels. When it’s time to replace them, consider upgrading to aftermarket Delrin or oil-impregnated bronze bushings for much longer life.
Battery Location: The battery is located low in the chassis, making it susceptible to water and mud. Ensure your terminals are clean and coated with dielectric grease to prevent corrosion.
Voltage Regulator: Some models have experienced issues with the voltage regulator failing, leading to charging problems. If your battery keeps dying despite being in good health, this is the first component to test with a multimeter.

Sustainable & Eco-Friendly ATV Practices

Being an off-roader means being a steward of the land. A few simple steps can make your riding more eco-friendly polaris sportsman 450 vs 570. Always pack out what you pack in, stay on designated trails to prevent erosion, and perform regular maintenance.

A well-tuned engine burns cleaner and is more efficient. Properly dispose of used oil and coolant at an auto parts store or local recycling center. A clean, leak-free machine is not only reliable but also better for the environment you’re out there to enjoy.

The Bottom Line: Making Your Final Decision

So, after all this, which one should you buy? The choice in the polaris sportsman 450 vs 570 debate comes down to an honest assessment of your needs and budget.

Choose the Sportsman 450 H.O. if:

You primarily use it for work around your property.
You are a new rider or prefer a smoother, more predictable powerband.
Your budget is a primary concern, and you want the best value for a full-size ATV.

Choose the Sportsman 570 if:

Trail riding is your main passion, and you crave more performance and fun.
You often carry heavy loads, ride at higher elevations, or plan to add larger tires.
The extra cost is within your budget, and you don’t want to regret not having the extra power later.

Ultimately, you can’t make a bad choice here. Both are fantastic, reliable machines built on a legendary platform. The best advice is to be honest about how you’ll ride 90% of the time and choose the engine that best matches that reality.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Polaris Sportsman 450 vs 570

Is the Polaris Sportsman 570 worth the extra money over the 450?

For most people who enjoy spirited trail riding, yes. The 33% horsepower increase is immediately noticeable and transforms the machine’s character from a pure utility quad to a highly capable recreational vehicle. If you’re strictly using it for yard work, the 450 is more than enough and the savings are worth it.

What are the biggest complaints about the Polaris Sportsman 570?

Some common complaints across the platform (which includes the 450) are premature A-arm bushing wear and a sometimes-jerky throttle at very low speeds. Both of these can be addressed with aftermarket solutions like upgraded bushings and, in some cases, a quality ECU tune or throttle controller.

Can the Polaris Sportsman 450 keep up with a 570 on the trails?

In tight, technical, low-speed trails, a good rider on a 450 can absolutely keep up. Where the 570 pulls away is on open stretches, long hill climbs, and deep mud or snow where raw power is needed to spin the tires and maintain momentum.

Are there any differences in the 4×4 system between the 450 and 570?

No. Both the Sportsman 450 and 570 use the same excellent Polaris On-Demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system. It’s one of the best in the industry, engaging the front wheels automatically when the rear wheels slip and reverting to 2WD when traction is restored for easier steering.

No matter which machine you choose, you’re getting a key to a world of adventure and capability. Do your maintenance, ride smart, and respect the trails. Get out there and have some fun!

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Thomas Corle

Founder & Automobile expert at FatBoysOffroad

Automobile expert and off-road enthusiast, sharing in-depth knowledge of vehicles, gear, and adventures. Helping readers make smart decisions and enjoy the thrill of off-roading safely and confidently.