Sporting ATV machines are becoming increasingly popular and that growth has ensured that consumers have wide and varied choice in the market.

One brand that is yet to really flourish in Australia is Polaris. Overseas Polaris machines are quite well regarded and receive many accolades and awards for their sporting prowess. Snow bunnies will already know of the Polaris brand as the US company is the world’s largest manufacturer of snowmobiles. They also have a healthy market share in the American PWC (jet ski) sector.

The Predator is already well regarded to be an absolute top performer but recent changes have been aimed at ensuring the Predator remains at the top of the pile. Easier shifting is one of the improvements for 2004 along with a slightly shorter swingarm and lighter weight. New bodywork adorns the angular flanks of the machine. Improved ball joints offer an extended service life and a new Troy Lee designed Limited Edition model has joined the line-up.

A liquid cooled 500cc engine is tuned for good power all through the rev range. The DOHC four-valve cylinder head is fed unleaded from a 12 litre tank via a 42mm Mikuni BSR carburettor.

One claim to fame for the Predator is the PRO (Polaris Rider Optimised) steering system. It utilises an innovative linkage system which positions the steering arm pivots in a way that is claimed to virtually eliminate bump steer. The front suspension also incorporates an anti-dive feature which along with helping to reduce front end dive, also helps to reduce rear wheel lift thus providing extra traction. The front shock absorbers are made by Fox and are fully adjustable.

The rear suspension is designed to reduce squat under power and offers 279mm of travel. The rear Fox shock offers eight compression adjustments and 36 rebound positions.

Maxxis provide the aggressive tyres which roll on new Douglas aluminium rims. The axles are chro-moly and braided lines help the triple disc braking system to bring the 187kg machine to a halt.

Not quite as light as the latest Japanese rockets and probably not with quite as much power as the new Yamaha and Honda 450s but if you are in the market for a sporting quad I would say the Predator wo0uld be worth a look. With similar pricing, and in some cases an even better warranty than some of the Japanese opposition, the Polaris is a tasty looking option that also has the go to match the show.

SPECS - Polaris Predator 500

• Engine: 499cc, single cylinder, liquid cooled, DOHC

• Induction: Mikuni 42mm BSR

• Starter: Electric

• Transmission: Five speed, manual clutch, manual shift

• Final Drive: Chain

• Seat Height: 813mm

• Dry Weight: 187kg

• Fuel Capacity: 12 litres

• Tyres: Front _ 21 x 7 - 10; Rear _ 20 x 11 – 9

• Suspension: Front _ Dual A arm with 254mm of travel and Fox adjustable gas shocks; Rear _ Swingarm with adjustable Fox adjustable gas shock

• Ground Clearance: 114mm

• Brakes: Front _ Dual discs; Rear _ Single disc

• Price: $12,390

• Warranty: Six month parts & labour