And when you pick up the pace, the Sportsman offers unsuspected performance for such a beefy ATV. It absorbs bumps, holds its ground and carves out corners like a sport model, so much so that you forget you’re riding a sturdy workhorse. And to get you over obstacles, the Sportsman benefits from greater ground clearance than the old version with the MacPherson struts. The 14-inch wheels and AWD system, with low and high ranges and a constant mode, also play a key role here.

Although this ATV inspires instant confidence, do take the time to familiarize yourself with its impressive girth and weight. This baby tips the scales at 348 kg. Downhill, the Engine Braking System (EBS) and Active Descent Control (ADC) do a great job, though, taking you down in slow motion and making sure you have constant grip.

When you pick up the pace, the Sportsman offers unsuspected performance for such a beefy ATV. (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Moto123.com)

Singular seat
Equipment-wise, the Sportsman Touring features a revolutionary passenger seat equipped with an adjustable suspension system: this is the most comfort available in this segment. The battery is now located in front, and the exhaust is better protected. The cargo rack is made out of a new thermoplastic material that’s more resistant to scratches and UV rays. The Sportsman also includes several small storage compartments offering a total of 3 litres of cargo space.

Super innovative, nimble and more stable than anything else in its class, the Polaris Sportsman Touring 550 EPS takes its sport utility job very, very seriously. This is a reassuring, efficient and comfortable machine for long trail rides with that special someone.

Big thanks to Nor-Sport St-Jérôme

Plus
Best utility chassis in the industry
Efficient engine and CVT
Innovative seat suspension system
Thermoplastic storage boxes

Less
Very heavy