Overview
Most utility machines offer toughness and ruggedness, and the 2013 Polaris Sportsman Big Boss 6×6 800 delivers both in abundance. Built primarily for tasks that require serious load capacity and off-road stamina, this six-wheel ATV is designed for farmers, ranchers, and outdoor enthusiasts who push machines to their limits. Its large displacement engine, durable chassis, and six-wheel drive system make it a standout choice for demanding work or challenging terrain.
This model features a 760cc V twin liquid-cooled engine with electronic fuel injection, providing reliable power for hauling, towing, or traversing tough terrain. The continuously variable transmission with a 6×6 driveline ensures smooth power delivery and superior traction, even on loose or uneven ground. Its suspension system incorporates front McPherson struts and independent double A-arms at the rear, offering a good balance between comfort and stability when carrying heavy loads or navigating rough trails.
The Big Boss 6×6 isn’t aimed at casual riders or those seeking a recreational ATV. Instead, it’s built for users who prioritize utility and dependability over speed or agility. With a weight of just over 1,000 pounds and a ground clearance of 10.5 inches, it can handle thick brush, muddy paths, or rocky conditions with ease. Notably, Polaris has equipped this model with hydraulic disc brakes on both ends, ensuring strong stopping power where it counts most.
What sets this model apart within Polaris’s lineup is its six-wheel drive system, which enhances traction and load-carrying capacity beyond traditional four-wheel ATVs. While it commands a higher price point, its ability to tackle serious work and rough environments makes it a compelling option for those who need a machine that can do both heavy lifting and off-road excursions on the toughest terrain.
Performance & Powertrain
Pull up the throttle and the 760cc V Twin engine delivers a significant punch, providing enough power for demanding utility tasks and trail work alike. Its liquid cooling system keeps engine temperatures in check during long hours of heavy use, preventing overheating even when hauling loads or navigating tough terrain. The fuel-injected system ensures consistent throttle response and reliable starting in various conditions, which proves especially helpful when working across rough or remote environments.
Paired with a continuously variable transmission, the Big Boss 6×6 offers smooth, automatic power delivery without the need for shifting. This setup is ideal for operators who prioritize ease of use over manual control, making it suitable for extended workdays where focus is better directed on the task rather than the bike’s operation. The CVT’s ability to optimize engine power to match terrain and load means you can climb hills, tow trailers, or carry gear without feeling sluggish or over-revving.
The 6×6 driveline enhances traction and stability, allowing this machine to handle steep inclines, loose terrain, and soft ground with confidence. Power is distributed evenly across all six wheels, minimizing slip and maximizing grip in challenging environments. This drivetrain configuration shifts the machine from purely recreational to serious utility, making it suited for work on farms, large properties, or off-road job sites where extra traction is a necessity and not just a bonus.
Suspension & Handling
Working a full day on rugged trail conditions puts the suspension components of the Polaris Sportsman Big Boss 6×6 800 to the test. Its front suspension uses McPherson Struts with 8.2 inches of travel, providing enough cushion to absorb bumps and uneven terrain without sacrificing steering precision. The rear suspension employs independent double A-arms with 6.1 inches of travel, which helps maintain tire contact on rougher surfaces and keeps the rider more comfortable over long, uneven rides.
Braking responsibilities fall on hydraulic disc brakes at both the front and rear, offering strong stopping power suited for the demands of work and trail riding. Hydraulic discs respond quickly and resist fade better than drum setups, which is crucial when descending steep inclines or carrying heavy loads. This system ensures the machine remains predictable and responsive during high-stress situations.
The tire selection complements the suspension and braking setup well. The front tires are Kenda 25 X 8-12s, and the rears are Kenda 25 X 11-12s-both designed with deep treads to grip dirt, mud, and loose gravel. These tires balance traction and durability, making the Big Boss 6×6 reliable on loose surfaces and in muddy conditions. The combination of suspension travel, brake strength, and tire grip means this machine can handle demanding terrains while maintaining rider confidence and control.
Dimensions & Ergonomics
At 9.33 feet long and 8 feet wide, this machine offers enough room for stable handling while still fitting within a typical truck bed for easy transport. Its 48-inch height makes it accessible for a range of rider heights but still tall enough to provide a commanding view over obstacles.
- Wheelbase of 79.5 inches contributes to stability during heavy loads and rough terrain.
- Ground clearance of 10.5 inches helps navigate uneven surfaces without scraping.
- Dry weight of 1,060 pounds ensures a substantial feel on the trail without being overly burdensome to tow or move around.
- Seat height of approximately 34 inches makes it manageable for shorter riders, while taller users can still find comfort.
- With a 5.3-gallon fuel capacity, it can cover considerable distances between stops, supporting longer outdoor excursions.
These dimensions and ergonomic features combine to create a machine that balances stability, ease of use, and comfort, making it suitable for utility work or trail riding where quick, confident handling matters most.
Notable Features
If you’re planning to tackle tough off-road tasks or haul heavy loads, you’ll want to know about the upgrades that set this model apart from its base competitors or prior versions. One key difference is the addition of a Liquid-cooled V Twin engine with 760cc displacement, providing a noticeable boost in power and ride smoothness under load. This engine setup delivers more consistent performance across a variety of terrains compared to smaller or air-cooled options found on less expensive models.
Another standout feature is the inclusion of a Fuel Injected fuel system. This technology improves cold-start performance, offers better throttle response, and enhances fuel efficiency, especially when working in remote locations where fuel quality or availability might be inconsistent. For users who spend long days in the field, this can translate into fewer stops and more productive work hours. Additionally, the CVT transmission combined with a 6×6 driveline ensures this unit can deliver power smoothly to all wheels, providing superior traction and control on uneven or slippery surfaces.
Beyond the powertrain, this model offers a handful of convenience and durability enhancements. While the base model might keep things minimal, this version typically features added accessories like heavy-duty wheels and tires designed for rougher terrain, along with easier-to-reach controls and ergonomics suited for extended use. These features contribute to a more comfortable, efficient experience without adding unnecessary complexity or cost. these upgrades make this model a strong choice for serious work or adventurous exploration where reliability and performance matter most.
Pricing & Value
If you’re planning to tackle tough terrain or haul heavy loads, you’ll want to know that the 2013 Polaris Sportsman Big Boss 6×6 800 carries an MSRP of $9,999. This price positions it squarely in the mid-range of Polaris’s utility lineup, aimed at serious outdoor workers rather than casual riders or those seeking the most budget-friendly option.
Compared to other six-wheel models and Polaris’s standard Sportsman series, this Big Boss 800 is priced higher than the two-wheel drive models and entry-level four-wheelers, but it offers a unique combination of six-wheel traction and increased payload capacity. The package justifies the cost if you need the extra stability and load-carrying ability that six-wheel drive brings. However, for recreational riders or those new to off-road riding, the price might seem steep relative to simpler, less expensive quad options that handle similar terrain with fewer features.
This model slots into Polaris’s lineup above the base Sportsman 850 and below the more specialized utility models with added features or larger engines. The next trim level up usually adds premium features like electronic power steering or upgraded suspensions, but it also pushes the price significantly higher. Conversely, stepping down to a simpler two-wheel drive or smaller displacement model reduces cost but sacrifices the six-wheel traction advantage and payload capacity that define the Big Boss 800.
At its price point, the Big Boss 6×6 800 is not a bargain, but it offers a distinct value for users who need serious utility and off-road capability in demanding environments. For heavy-duty work and rugged terrain, it delivers the features and performance expected, making it a fair investment for its target audience. Casual or occasional riders might find better value in less expensive models that fit lighter workloads or recreational use more comfortably.
Final Thoughts
Anyone running challenging off-road terrain or working in rugged outdoor environments will appreciate the 2013 Polaris Sportsman Big Boss 6×6 800’s unique six-wheel traction and load-carrying ability. Its design is built to handle demanding conditions with a focus on durability and load distribution, making it an ideal choice for farmers, ranchers, or serious trail riders who need a machine that can carry heavy gear and navigate rough paths.
This machine’s most defining trait is its six-wheel drive system, which provides exceptional stability and traction across loose or uneven surfaces. This feature sets it apart from standard four-wheel ATVs, giving users confidence when tackling mud, snow, or steep inclines. It’s a tool that emphasizes utility over sport-oriented agility, and that trade-off should be clear to potential buyers.
However, the Big Boss 6×6 800 isn’t the best fit for riders seeking speed, agility, or a lightweight experience. It’s a workhorse designed for heavy-duty tasks, not trail racing or quick maneuvering. Price-wise, it sits at a premium for a utility ATV, which might deter casual riders or those on a strict budget. Resale values tend to favor models with broader appeal or more recent features, so consider that if long-term ownership is a priority.
For those needing a rugged machine that can reliably move large loads in difficult terrain, this Polaris offers a clear advantage. If your work or recreational needs align with heavy-duty off-road hauling or traversing challenging environments, it’s a compelling option. But if you’re after high speed, nimbleness, or a lower price point, look elsewhere for a machine that better matches those priorities.
Tech specs
Engine
Transmission
Suspension
Brakes
Tires
Dimensions
Tags and taxonomy
Compatible parts for the 2013 Polaris Sportsman® Big Boss® 6x6 800
Selected from this machine's own specification, not a generic list. Check any of it against the table above.
- ClassUtility ATV
- Drive6X6
- Front tire25x8-12
- Dry weight1060 lb
- Winch and mountSynthetic and steel line kitsShop on Amazon
- Plow kitBlade, mount and push tube. Needs the four wheel drive on this machineShop on Amazon
- Tires25x8-12Front tire size fitted from the factoryShop on Amazon
- BatteryReplacement and AGM upgradesShop on Amazon
- Oil and filter kit760ccFull service kitsShop on Amazon
- Loading ramps2000 lbRated above the 1060 lb dry weightShop on Amazon
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