Polaris is the premium brand for ATVs and UTVs. This is mainly due to the design, quality and performance of the various models. The wide range of models means that there is always an option for you, such as the Polaris Sportsman 450 models. This excellent ATV offers good driving comfort and is capable of great performance. If you’re looking for the top speed of this model, here’s what you need to know:
The top speed of the Polaris Sportsman 450 models is electronically limited. The factory set top speed for the Sportsman 450 is 55/58 mph. The Sportsman 450 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 12 seconds.
These numbers have been collected through spec sheets as well as watching the many YouTube videos where the Polaris Sportsman 450 is driven fast. This way, you can be sure we haven’t just collected the theoretical data, but also checked how the Sportsman 450 performs in practice.
Additionally, we’ll give you 10 suggestions on how to ramp up your Polaris Sportsman 450 and increase the top speed, so read on!
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Top Speed Polaris Sportsman 450
The Polaris Sportsman is one of the popular ATV models in the Polaris range. Not only because of its engine, but also because of its functionality, quality and driver comfort.
The 2018 to 2023 Polaris Sportsman 450 features a 499cc Prostar 4-Stroke SOHC single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine giving 33 horsepower. The bike has a factory-restricted top speed of 55 to 60 mph across the model years. The Sportsman 450 can blast from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 12 seconds.
See the video below for a top speed test of a Polaris Sportsman 450.
The top speed that can be reached depends, among other things, on the headwind and the surface. On tarmac, the top speed is higher than on a dirt road. The top speed in the video is equal to the limited and factory set top speed of 55 – 60 mph.
Also read: How To Bypass The Polaris Speed Limiter?
Sportsman 450 Topspeed Compared To Other Polaris Models
Curious to see how fast the 450 is compared to other Polaris Sportsman models? The table below gives you a quick overview of the different top speeds. Keep in mind that these numbers are averages of the factory specs, as well as several speed tests, found on YouTube.
| Sportsman | Top Speed (mph) |
|---|---|
| 450 | 55 |
| 500 | 63 |
| 570 | 63 |
| 850 | 66 |
| 1000 | 70 |
As to been expected, the Sportsman 1000 has the fastest top speed in the Sportsman range.
How To Make Your Polaris Sportsman 450 Faster?
By ramping up the engine and engine related parts, the Polaris Sportsman 450 will definitely reach a higher top speed. However, keep in mind that the UTV is not designed for this, which can cause more wear and tear, resulting in more frequent maintenance.
If you still have factory warranty on your Sportsman 450, I advise against ramping it up. Making changes to your Polaris could void the warranty, meaning if you run into any major issues, you’ll likely have to pay for those yourself. So, first check your warranty before you make the alterations.
There are several ways to make the Polaris Sportsman 450 faster, (but remember, this is at your own risk) including:
Also read: 7 x Most Common Polaris Sportsman 450 Problems!
1. Use Better Fuel
Change to higher octane fuel to easily and quickly enhance the speed of your Sportsman 450. You can improve your engine’s performance by using fuel with a higher-octane rating. The fuel burns more thoroughly, increasing fuel efficiency while lowering corrosion of the mechanical parts of your fuel system.
You will notice the performance differences even if the better mileage isn’t obvious. You will spend a little bit more on it than the regular fuel, but when you press the gas, you will feel the difference. Due to their desire for a more significant boost than what is on offer at a gas station, many owners choose to enhance the octane level in their fuel themselves
You may simply add a little bit to the gas in your Sportsman 450 and rock it back and forth to mix it. To make sure your measurements are precise, you can pre-mix it in a gas can before putting it in the gas tank.
2. Engine Control Module Tuning
The engine control unit (ECU) of the Polaris Sportsman 450 sets the machine’s top speed. An ECU tune-up is a great way to improve your Sportsman 450’s performance. It is cheap and significantly increases the speed of your bike. It is possible to reflash or remap the ECU to remove the speed restrictions, increase the RPM, and increase the power.
You can also turn off the speed limits with an aftermarket ECU flash. Thus, you may enhance speed on your Polaris Sportsman 450 by either installing an ECU tuner so you can make the necessary modifications or having the ECU tuned by experts. You can change characteristics like the speed limitation and rpm restriction by attaching an ECU tuner to the electrical system of your bike.
Some riders alter the radiator fan’s temperature setting for on/off to maintain a low engine temperature. You may also modify the fuel curve and ignition timing to regulate the amount of gasoline given at specific RPMs and advance the timing. It can considerably improve throttle response and acceleration.
An ECU tune-up involves a lot of risks. You should hire a professional to do the installation since if you are inexperienced, you risk damaging your Sportsman 450. An expert tune-up may cost about $400.
3. Get a Clutch Kit
You may increase the top speed and acceleration of your Polaris Sportsman 450 by installing an aftermarket clutch assembly. While the kit adjusts your RPM curve to maximize optimum power, the proper upgrade may allow you to boost your top speed and acceleration. New springs and weights that change the timing and speed of the clutch self-adjustment are frequently included in clutch kits.
Clutch kits may be easily adjusted to different riding styles, riding situations, and engine adjustments. Better acceleration and throttle response, higher top speeds, torque, and power, and less belt slippage and heat buildup, which prolongs belt life, are all benefits of using a clutch kit. You can get a clutch kit for a Polaris Sportsman 450 for around $229.00 to over $419.00.
4. Install High-Flow Air Filters
You should regularly check and clean your air filter. A blocked air filter limits the airflow that can reach the engine and causes your engine to suffocate or choke when driving. You can also substitute A high-flow air filter for your factory air filter. Since many years ago, K&N has been manufacturing some of the most outstanding air filters in practically any Powersports or automotive application.
Increased airflow to the engine is made possible by the upgraded intake; more air-fuel mixture translates to a higher power. It is one of the simplest ways to boost your machine’s performance. The price range for K&N high-flow air filters is $29.87 to $129.99.
5. Upgrade the Exhaust
A popular way to increase the performance of your quad is to upgrade the exhaust on the Polaris Sportsman 450, although the exhaust improvement can be time-consuming. The ability to evacuate more air allows the engine to pull in more air. When coupled with a high-flow air intake system, this setup performs well.
If you are unable to replace the entire exhaust system, starting with the headers, a performance slip-on exhaust is a great alternative. The slip-on muffler is the most widely used technique because it enables you to replace your factory muffler with a frequently lighter one. These systems also have cores that provide far larger exhaust flow rates than the significantly baffled stock systems.
You get more power from the performance slip-on exhaust, but not as much as from a full-performance exhaust system. Consider pairing the slip-on or full systems with a high-flow intake system for more robust performance.
Usually, performance exhaust systems are shaped like cones and gradually get bigger or have greater diameters than stock exhaust systems. More air can flow through the engine thanks to it. Power and speed are both increased by the richer air-fuel mixture. The price range for slip-on mufflers is between $144.94 and $349.96.
6. Adjust the Valves
If you modify them to a smaller clearance within the range advised by the manufacturer, you will slightly lengthen the valve opening’s duration, boost power, and achieve higher RPM. The engine can generate more power at lower RPMs with a greater clearance.
7. Fuel Injection Tuning
After improving the intake, exhaust, or both, you want to enhance the fuel delivery to get the most out of your engine’s performance. The fuel injection systems call for specialized programmers to enrich your fuel system. Dynojet is a pioneer in fuel injection systems for power sports vehicles. The Dynojet Power Commander V is a popular product that can fit into your ATV’s current wire harness.
You can use it to precisely control the gasoline delivered to your engine to provide the most power possible. Power Commander V tuner for Polaris Sportsman 450 costs $429.99.
8. Install a Nitrous Kit
Fitting a nitrous kit can give your Polaris Sportsman 450 a speed boost. There are different nitrous setups, including wet and dry. Choose a setting that makes you feel safe. Many riders opt for the kits to increase speed because they are simple to install or operate.
9. A Big Bore Kit
Installing a big bore kit may result in a significant performance improvement. The acceleration speed will increase along with the top speed. In essence, you are expanding the cubic capacity of your engine. With most larger bore kits, you will need to replace the piston and cylinder with larger sizes. More air, fuel, and the mixture will enter the combustion chamber, which will improve the performance of your Sportsman 450. You can get a Big bore cylinder kit for $458.91 and upwards.
10. Correct Tire Size, Weight, and Pressure
If you want a higher top speed, use a larger tire. If you want to accelerate more quickly, go with a larger tire. Larger tires turn with more force, but go farther per revolution. Depending on the terrain, tire pressure might affect performance. When riding in sand or snow, a lower tire pressure helps you go faster, whereas a higher tire pressure is more beneficial on flat, hard ground.
Furthermore, your quad’s speed typically suffers from the popular setup of steel wheels with large, heavy mud tires. Consider obtaining lightweight aluminum rims and decent performance tires if you want to speed up your Sportsman 450 depending on your playground or hobby, select the appropriate tire size.
Featured image:Polaris ORV Media
