i just picked up another 570 a few days ago, but this one is non power steering and i dont regret it. i figured since they are in the same class, it would be perfect to compare it to my kingquad 500 non ps. i have owned more quads and bikes than i can remember and have ridden plenty of others. the quads in this class in my opinion produce enough performance for any situation i'll encounter and sip gas on top of it. anyway, heres my 1st impressions comparing the two:
ergonomics: the polaris sits a tad higher, but has much higher handlebars. the seat is much plusher on the polaris. the seat on the suzuki is more like a sport quads, which isnt bad. if i had to pick, its close, but id go with the sportsman
shifter: the kingquad wins here. its much smoother and goes in the right range the 1st time thanks to the gated pattern. the polaris does have park though and has gotten smoother over the years.
display: both are very nice. the suzuki dash is all digital, the polaris is all digital save the speedo. the polaris dash has more features so it wins
handling: i cant give a definitive answer, but the suzuki steers a bit easier at slow speed, but the polaris isnt hard to steer. the kingquad does push at speed when you turn the bars and i dont think the polaris exhibits that trait.
suspension: so far the kingquad isnt as plush. polaris did with 4x4 suspension that honda did with sport quad handling with the 250r and thats design it right the 1st time and it seems everybody is still playing catchup. the kingquad rides great though, just a little stiffer
power: i have not ran the sportsman too hard yet, but have the kingquad. according to its speedometer i topped out at 64mph. i will have to test both in a 100 yard dash and top speed with gps. the suzuki runs more like a carbureted engine, more "organic" feeling. the sportsman runs great too, but seems a bit more linear, like a fuel injected engine usually runs. if i had to guess, the sportsman would win a race and seems to have more low end, but it wouldnt be a slaughter
braking: both have good brakes, but the polaris has more feel at the lever, probably because of the braided lines the polaris has. pus the rear brake on the suzuki is a wet brake and they are known to lack feel, but but are maintenance free. in sticky situations though, id still rather seperate brakes like the kingquad
conclusion (for now): both are great quads. i just got rid of a 850 sportsman. the 570 doesnt feel any less powerful down low, turns a lot sharper, has a better top headlight adjuster, more storage, the belt will be easier to change and more. i like the 570 better than the 850. better than the kingquad though? i will have to ride both more extensively
