Introduction to the 2023 Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail

The 2023 Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail is a top-of-the-line utility ATV designed to offer unmatched performance and versatility for off-road enthusiasts. This model is built to cater to a wide range of users, from recreational riders to ranchers and hunters, who require a reliable and capable all-terrain vehicle. For this model year, Polaris has incorporated several notable updates and enhancements to ensure that the Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail remains a standout option in the utility ATV segment.

With its robust features and cutting-edge technology, the 2023 Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail is equipped to tackle the toughest trails and work tasks with ease. Whether it’s navigating through rough terrain or hauling heavy loads, this utility ATV’s powerful performance and durable construction make it a reliable companion for demanding outdoor activities. Polaris has designed the Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail to deliver exceptional handling, comfort, and convenience, setting a new standard for utility ATVs in the industry.

Additionally, the 2023 Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail is packed with advanced features and capabilities that cater to the diverse needs of riders and workers. From its versatile transmission system to its robust hitch and winch setup, this model offers unmatched versatility and functionality. The attention to detail and thoughtful engineering that Polaris has put into the Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail make it a standout utility ATV that continues to raise the bar for performance, reliability, and innovation.

Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail: A Unique Position in the Polaris Lineup

The Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail, introduced in 2021, holds a special place within the Polaris lineup as a versatile and powerful utility ATV. Positioned as a flagship model within Polaris’ range, the Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail is designed to cater to the needs of ATV enthusiasts who seek a perfect balance between performance, practicality, and advanced features.

This model’s distinctive characteristics include a robust Polaris Variable Transmission (PVT) and a continuously variable (CVT) transmission type, providing seamless power delivery and enhanced maneuverability across diverse terrains. Furthermore, its standard rear hitch with a receiver type, along with a winch and roller fairlead, exemplify its unmatched utility and off-road capabilities.

Price and Value of the 2023 Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail

When it comes to the 2023 Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail, enthusiasts are naturally keen to understand its pricing and value proposition. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of the standard model stands at $13,399, accompanied by a 6-month limited warranty. This introductory price point positions the Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail as a competitive offering within the utility ATV segment.

ModelPrice
2023 Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail (Standard)$13,399

Engine Specifications and Performance

The 2023 Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail is equipped with a ProStar™ parallel twin engine that delivers exceptional performance and durability for off-road use. With a 4-stroke engine type and a liquid cooling system, this powerhouse is designed to withstand the demanding conditions of trail riding, providing reliable power delivery and consistent performance.

Featuring 78 horsepower and 850cc displacement, the Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail offers impressive power and torque, making it well-suited for challenging terrains. The 11:1 compression ratio and fuel-injected carburetion system further enhance its performance, ensuring responsive acceleration and efficient fuel delivery for extended off-road adventures.

SpecificationValue
Engine TypeParallel Twin
Capacity850cc
Horsepower78 bhp
TorqueResponsive

Transmission System and Benefits

The 2023 Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail comes equipped with a standard Polaris Variable Transmission (PVT) that offers exceptional performance both for utility work and off-road adventures. This transmission is a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) type, providing seamless power delivery and smooth acceleration across varied terrains.

The CVT transmission in the 2023 Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail also features Hi / Low Range and Reverse functionality, further enhancing its utility and off-road capabilities. The shaft primary drive for both front and rear wheels ensures robust power distribution, allowing the vehicle to tackle demanding tasks and challenging trails with ease.

SpecificationValue
Transmission TypeContinuously Variable (CVT)
Hi / Low RangeYes
ReverseYes
Primary Drive (Front Wheel/Rear Wheel)Shaft / Shaft

Driveline Configuration and 4×4 Capabilities

The driveline configuration of the 2023 Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail is engineered to provide exceptional 4×4 capabilities and versatile handling across various terrains. The driveline brand, On-Demand™, offers selectable 4X2 and 4X4 modes, allowing the rider to seamlessly transition between different driveline setups based on the terrain and traction requirements. The driveline system provides two selectable modes, ensuring optimal power distribution and traction for conquering challenging off-road conditions.

Equipped with a standard limited slip differential and rear differential lock, the Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail delivers enhanced off-road capability and superior handling in rugged environments. The limited slip differential, located at the rear, ensures improved traction and stability, while the differential lock provides added support for conquering steep inclines and challenging obstacles. These driveline features empower riders to confidently navigate diverse terrains with precision and control.

SpecificationValue
Driveline BrandOn-Demand™
Driveline TypeSelectable 4X2 / 4X4
Number Of Driveline Modes2
Rear Unlocking DifferentialNo
Rear Solid AxleNo
Limited Slip DifferentialStandard
Limited Slip Differential LocationRear
Differential LockStandard
Differential Lock LocationRear

Dimensions and Technical Specifications

SpecificationValue
Length (in/mm)83.3 / 2114
Width (in/mm)47.6 / 1209
Height (in/mm)50.8 / 1289
Wheelbase (in/mm)53 / 1346
Ground Clearance (in/mm)12 / 305
Dry Weight (lbs/kg)864 / 392
Payload Capacity (lbs/kgs)575 / 261
Towing Capacity (lbs/kgs)1500 / 680
Fuel Capacity (gal/l)5.3 / 19.9
Engine Displacement to Weight (cc)0.98

Understanding the dimensions and weight specifications of the 2023 Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail is crucial in comprehending its usability and performance across various scenarios. The ATV boasts a length of 83.3 inches, a width of 47.6 inches, and a height of 50.8 inches, providing a compact yet robust frame suitable for navigating diverse terrains. With a wheelbase of 53 inches and a ground clearance of 12 inches, the ATV exhibits exceptional stability and off-road prowess. Moreover, its dry weight of 864 lbs and a payload capacity of 575 lbs ensure a balanced power-to-weight ratio, contributing to its overall performance and versatility.

Exterior Design and Visual Appeal

The Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail is a masterclass in exterior design, blending rugged functionality with striking visual appeal. At the heart of its design is the robust frame, engineered to withstand the rigors of off-road trails while providing a solid foundation for the ATV’s various functional elements. The frame’s strategic placement of structural components ensures optimal weight distribution, enhancing both stability and maneuverability.

In addition to its structural prowess, the Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail offers a range of color options, allowing riders to personalize their experience. Whether it’s the commanding presence of Onyx Black or the vibrant allure of Sunset Red, the color choices not only add to the ATV’s visual appeal but also make it easily recognizable on any terrain. Furthermore, the built-in functional elements, such as the rear hitch and standard winch, seamlessly integrate into the design, emphasizing both form and function.

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Steering Features and Handling Performance

The 2023 Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail comes equipped with a power steering system, providing the rider with effortless handling and control in both utility and off-road settings. The power steering system enhances maneuverability, making it easier to navigate through tight trails and perform tasks with precision in utility applications.

When riding off-road, the power steering system reduces steering effort, allowing the rider to focus on conquering challenging terrains without experiencing fatigue. This system contributes to the Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail’s exceptional handling characteristics, ensuring a smooth and responsive ride in various conditions.

Suspension System and Ride Comfort

The Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail features an independent double A-arm suspension system with specific specifications for the front and rear suspensions. The front suspension type is independent double A-arm with a non-adjustable fork preload and rebound damping. It does not have a central suspension strut or stabilizer bar, as well as no steering damper. On the other hand, the rear suspension type is also independent double A-arm, constructed with steel and non-adjustable rebound damping, equipped with two rear shock absorbers. The front and rear travel measures 9 inches and 10.3 inches, respectively, offering substantial wheel travel to absorb impacts from rugged terrains.

SpecificationValue
Front Suspension TypeIndependent Double A-Arm
Front Adjustable Fork Pre-LoadNo
Front Adjustable Rebound DampingNo
Front Central Suspension StrutNo
Front Stabilizer BarNo
Steering DamperNo
Rear Suspension TypeIndependent Double A-Arm
Rear Suspension MaterialSteel
Rear Adjustable Rebound DampingNo
Number Rear Shock Absorbers2
Air AdjustableNo
Front Travel (in/mm)9 / 229
Rear Travel (in/mm)10.3 / 260

Wheels and Tires for Off-Road Performance

SpecificationValue
Tire BrandDuro
Front Tire Size27 X 9-14
Rear Tire Size27 X 11-14
Tire TypePower Grip
Recommended UsesOff-road, Trail Riding

When it comes to off-road performance, the Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail comes equipped with Duro Power Grip tires. The front tire size is 27 X 9-14, and the rear tire size is 27 X 11-14, providing ample ground clearance and stability. These tires are specifically designed for off-road and trail riding, offering excellent traction and durability in challenging terrains, including mud, rocks, and uneven surfaces. The Power Grip tread pattern enhances the vehicle’s ability to navigate through various off-road conditions, ensuring reliable performance and control.

Braking System and Safety Features

The Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail is equipped with a hydraulic disc braking system, featuring hydraulic disc brakes both at the front and rear. This advanced braking setup ensures precise and responsive braking performance, allowing riders to maintain control and stability in diverse trail conditions, from steep descents to challenging terrains. The hydraulic disc technology offers consistent and reliable braking power, enhancing the safety and confidence of users during their off-road adventures.

Furthermore, the engine braking feature adds an extra layer of safety by automatically utilizing the engine to slow down the vehicle when descending steep slopes, reducing the reliance on the hydraulic disc brakes and preventing potential skidding. This comprehensive braking system not only delivers impressive stopping power but also contributes to overall safety and control, ensuring a secure and enjoyable riding experience for users of the Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail.

SpecificationValue
Front Brake TypeHydraulic Disc
Rear Brake TypeHydraulic Disc
Engine BrakingStandard

Towing and Cargo Capacity

The 2023 Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail is designed to handle a range of utility tasks, and its towing and cargo capacities play a crucial role in supporting these applications. When it comes to towing, this model boasts a towing capacity of 1500 lbs (680 kgs), making it adept at hauling heavy loads. Equipped with a standard rear hitch type of receiver and a winch from Polaris, this ATV ensures secure attachment and controlled towing. The 1.25-inch (3.2 cm) hitch size and 3500 lbs (1587.6 kgs) winch weight further enhance its towing capabilities, providing reliability and strength for utility tasks.

In terms of cargo capacity, the 2023 Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail offers a payload capacity of 575 lbs (261 kgs), allowing users to transport substantial loads with ease. Its dimensions, including a length of 83.3 inches (2114 mm), width of 47.6 inches (1209 mm), and height of 50.8 inches (1289 mm), provide ample space for carrying cargo. Additionally, the ATV’s ground clearance of 12 inches (305 mm) ensures it can navigate rugged terrain while carrying heavy loads, further emphasizing its utility-centric design.

SpecificationValue
Towing Capacity (lbs/kgs)1500 / 680
Rear Hitch TypeReceiver
Hitch Size (in/cm)1.25 / 3.2
Winch Weight (lbs/kgs)3500 / 1587.6
Payload Capacity (lbs/kgs)575 / 261
Dimensions (LxWxH in/mm)83.3 x 47.6 x 50.8 / 2114 x 1209 x 1289
Ground Clearance (in/mm)12 / 305

Seating and Comfort Features

The Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail is equipped with a one-piece vinyl seat designed primarily for the driver. The seat material provides a good balance of durability and comfort, ensuring that riders can enjoy extended periods of trail riding without discomfort. While the seat is not adjustable or foldable, it features standard specifications that cater to the rider’s ergonomics. With a seat height of 37 inches (940 mm), the positioning allows for a comfortable and natural riding posture, contributing to overall rider comfort and control.

As for passenger accommodations, the Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail focuses on providing a secure and comfortable riding experience for the driver’s companion. While the seat is designed for a single rider, the overall design and seat positioning also take into consideration the comfort and safety of the passenger. The attention to detail in seat design and materials extends to the overall riding experience, ensuring that both the rider and passenger can traverse trails with enhanced comfort and confidence.

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Dashboard and Instrumentation

The Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail is equipped with a comprehensive dashboard and instrumentation system designed to provide the rider with essential information and controls for a seamless riding experience. The display and instrumentation features play a pivotal role in enhancing the rider’s control and monitoring of the vehicle, ensuring optimal performance and safety.

  • Speedometer: The vehicle is equipped with a precise speedometer that allows the rider to monitor the speed in real-time, ensuring safe and efficient navigation through varying terrains.
  • Tachometer: The inclusion of a tachometer provides the rider with crucial engine RPM information, enabling them to optimize throttle control for enhanced performance and fuel efficiency.
  • Fuel Gauge: The vehicle features a fuel gauge that allows the rider to easily monitor the fuel level, ensuring uninterrupted rides by timely refueling.
  • Temperature Gauge: With a dedicated temperature gauge, the rider can stay informed about the engine temperature, preventing overheating and potential damage to the vehicle.
  • Speedometer: The vehicle is equipped with a precise speedometer that allows the rider to monitor the speed in real-time, ensuring safe and efficient navigation through varying terrains.
  • Tachometer: The inclusion of a tachometer provides the rider with crucial engine RPM information, enabling them to optimize throttle control for enhanced performance and fuel efficiency.
  • Fuel Gauge: The vehicle features a fuel gauge that allows the rider to easily monitor the fuel level, ensuring uninterrupted rides by timely refueling.
  • Temperature Gauge: With a dedicated temperature gauge, the rider can stay informed about the engine temperature, preventing overheating and potential damage to the vehicle.
  • Storage Options and Utility Features

    When it comes to the 2023 Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail, storage and utility features are abundant, catering to the diverse needs of ATV enthusiasts. The vehicle boasts a range of storage options, including racks and compartments, each designed to enhance its versatility for various tasks. These features are not just add-ons but essential components that make the Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail a truly utilitarian vehicle.

    The racks on the Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail provide ample space to carry gear, tools, and equipment, with a capacity that meets the demands of off-road adventures and work applications. In addition, the integrated compartments offer secure storage for smaller items, ensuring they are readily accessible when needed. These storage options not only expand the ATV’s functionality but also contribute to its adaptability across different scenarios, from recreational outings to demanding work environments.

    SpecificationValue
    Rack Capacity100 lbs
    Compartment Capacity5 gallons

    Lighting System and Visibility Enhancements

    The Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail is equipped with an advanced lighting system that significantly enhances visibility and safety during low-light conditions. The headlight and taillight types, along with their specifications, play a crucial role in ensuring optimal illumination and improving overall visibility for the rider.

    • LED Headlights for superior brightness and energy efficiency
    • Taillights designed to maximize visibility in various low-light conditions
  • LED Headlights for superior brightness and energy efficiency
  • Taillights designed to maximize visibility in various low-light conditions
  • Convenience Features of the Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail

    The Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail is equipped with a range of convenience features that significantly enhance the user experience for both daily use and utility tasks. These features are designed to provide practical benefits and make operating the vehicle more efficient and enjoyable.

    • Digital controls for seamless operation
    • USB charging ports for electronic devices
    • Onboard tool storage for easy access to essential equipment

    The digital controls integrated into the Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail allow users to effortlessly manage various vehicle functions, promoting a more intuitive and user-friendly operation. Additionally, the inclusion of USB charging ports enables riders to conveniently power their electronic devices, ensuring connectivity and accessibility during extended rides. Moreover, the onboard tool storage feature enhances practicality by providing easy access to essential equipment, thereby streamlining maintenance and repair tasks.

    Mounting Options and Custom Attachments

    The 2023 Polaris Sportsman® 850 Ultimate Trail offers a variety of mounting options and custom attachments that significantly enhance the vehicle’s functionality. From plow mounts to cargo carriers, the vehicle is designed to accommodate a range of accessories, allowing users to customize their ATV based on their specific needs and activities.

    • Plow Mounts
    • Cargo Carriers
  • Plow Mounts
  • Cargo Carriers