Many are familiar with current utility ATVs that are all about styling, size, and tech features. But before the advent of these sophisticated behemoths, there were four-wheelers like the 2007 Polaris Sportsman 800 that boasted ruggedness, functionality, and brute force. This classic was among the trailblazers during its time. And recently, its presence in the off-roading scene is making a comeback.
The 2007 Polaris Sportsman 800 is a larger-displacement version of the world’s first EFI-enabled ATV. It is the 4th installment of the 760-cc lineup and features 54.8 hp (40.3 kW), a V-Twin Liberty™ engine, and On-Demand™ AWD. The Sportsman 800 was available in Standard, XP, and Deluxe trims.
This article covers the lowdowns and praiseworthy qualities of the 2007 Polaris Sportsman 800. As a bonus, I have included the most common problems associated with the four-wheeler (especially with EFI versions).
So whether you want to know more about your weekend warrior or are in the process of buying one, read on and get better acquainted with this classic 4×4.
About the 2007 Polaris Sportsman 800
In 2004, Polaris released the Sportsmans 800 in the market – “the biggest, most powerful, most technically advanced 4×4 available.” The firm continues with this legacy three years after, with the launch of the 2007 Polaris Sportsman 800 line.
While the bad boy’s perks are nothing new, they are still downright impressive and a tough act to beat – even by market standards.
The spread of trims the lineup offers is diverse, with consumers being able to choose a base model, an XP (2-Up) for pillion riding, or an EFI-equipped wheeler for more convenient cold starts and more efficient fuel consumption.
Special-edition models are also available for those who would want an ATV with a little bit of character.
It may not be the quickest, but it sure is one of the most powerful 4x4s in its class. Plus, its low-end grunt and off-roading capabilities are simply undeniable! In terms of usability, the quad does not disappoint.
Signature footwells, a winch mount, and carrier racks scream utility, while its shift sequence is one of the most logically laid out patterns in a work-oriented ATV. Driving may sometimes not feel as slick and precise as its more expensive counterparts. But it is the best option when things need to get done – like hunting, plowing, or doing ranch work.
2007 Polaris Sportsman 800 EFI Specs & Features
Engine
The 2007 Polaris Sportsman 800 is brought to life by a four-stroke, liquid-cooled twin-cylinder (EH076OLE013) Liberty™ engine. It has a bore-stroke ratio of 80 x 76.5 mm (3.15 x 3.01 inches), while the compression ratio is set at 10.0:1.
Piston displacement is 760 c3 (46.4 in3), delivered by EFI with a 40-mm throttle body, multi-port semi-sequential injection, and a Bosch MSE 1.1B controller.
This fuel system reportedly improves gas mileage by at least 15%. It is coupled with either dual-pipe silencer exhausts on Deluxe trims or a single-pipe silencer exhaust (view on Amazon) on Standard iterations.
Overall, the above engine configuration lends to the following performance figures:
| Description | Performance Figure |
|---|---|
| Top Speed | 57–70 mph (91.7–112.7 km/h) |
| Horsepower (at crankshaft 95/1/EC) | 54.8 hp (40.3 kW) @ 6,000 RPM** |
| Maximum Torque | 70.2 Nm (7.2 kgf-m, 51.8 ft-lbf) @ 4,800 RPM** |
| Fuel Economy (average) | 10–20 mpg (11.8–23.5 L/100 km, unverified) |
Fuel & Lubrication
The quad’s fuel tank capacity is 15.6 L (4.1 USgal) of regular leaded or unleaded gasoline with a minimum PON 87/89 rating (oxygenated). Gasohol variants with no more than 5% MBTE, 10% ethanol, or 5% methanol are generally permitted for Polaris ATVs – although methanol-free fuel is preferred.
The engine oil requirement is 1.9 L (2.0 US qts) of Polaris Premium 0-40W All Season Synthetic Oil or its equivalent. For top performance, only use variants with a minimum API grade of SJ or higher (without molybdenum additives and meeting JASO T903 MA/MB or ACEA standards). More importantly, never substitute or mix oil brands.
Drivetrain
A drumshift gearbox with an H-L-N-Rev-Park gearshift pattern controls the Polaris Sportsman 800. Standard EFI trims are equipped with Polaris Variable Transmission and Deluxe ones with added EBS and Active Descent Control (ADC).
Primary drive is made possible via a Hilliard-type clutch assembly, while the final drive is transmitted to the rear wheel by a belt (view on Amazon, compatible with part 3211113). The standard air intake can be attached to a plastic water snorkel for serious off-roading, which makes for light steering and works well with On-Demand™ AWD offered on all EFI trims.
For stock transmission gear ratios, refer to the table below:
| Description | Gear Ratio |
|---|---|
| Low | 7.49:1 |
| Rev | 5.11:1 |
| High | 2.70:1 |
| Front Drive | 3.82:1 |
| Rear Drive | 3.10:1 |
Ignition & Electricals
The ignition system is a DC-CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) with electronic advance and an auxiliary recoil starter. Ignition timing is 13° BTDC @ 1,200 RPM.
A 500 W @ 6,000 RPM triple-phase alternator serves as its charging system, while a 12V, 30Ah YIX30L-BS battery (view on Amazon) – with assembled dimensions of 166 x 126 x 175 mm (6.56 x 5.00 x 6.88 inches) – powers lighting and electronic accessories.
Lastly, an RC7YC spark plug with a 0.9-mm/0.035-inch electrode gap is responsible for spark ignition.
Lighting assembly and fuse details are below:
| Lighting | Wattage |
|---|---|
| Pod | 30 W |
| Grill | 27 W x 2 |
| Brake | 8.26 W |
| Tail | 26.9 W |
| Worklights (Deluxe only) | 13 W x 2 |
| Fuse | Rating |
|---|---|
| Fan, Harness | 20 A |
| ECU | 15 A |
| Instrument cluster, Voltage regulator | 6 A |
Tires & Brakes
Depending on trim, the front steel wheels are equipped with either Polaris PXT or Titan tires measuring 26 x 8-12 at the front and 26 x 11-12 at the back. Both knobbies are tubeless and require a cold-tire pressure of 34.5 kPa (0.35 kgf/cm2, 5 psi).
For standard Sportsmans, tires mount on steel wheels. Meanwhile, Deluxe trims have tires that mount on cast aluminum rims.
As for brakes, features like EBS and ADC that complement factory front-and-rear dual hydraulic discs are included in Deluxe trims. Base models have the same braking system but without special add-ons.
The quad’s tire-and-wheel assembly is already sufficient – with tires that can be swapped out for a full set of Maxxis Bighorn Radials (view on Amazon) in case of wear or damage.
Suspension
Enclosed in the Sportsman’s Spirit chassis are front MacPherson Struts with 8.2 inches (208.3 mm) of travel and a progressive-rate independent rear suspension with coil-over shocks and 9.5 inches (241.3 mm) of travel.
This suspension design works well with the four-wheeler’s 11.25-inch/286-mm ground clearance, 76-inch/6.-foot turning radius, and 50.75-inch/1,289-mm wheelbase. Overall, the quad’s suspension geometry makes for its straightforward handling mannerisms and impressive off-roading capabilities.
Dimensions & Capacities
Overall dimensions of standard, Deluxe, and international EFI trims are 2,057 x 1,168 x 1,194 mm (83 x 46 x 47 inches – L x W x H), with a seat height of 864 mm (34 inches). Dry weight is 349.3 Kg (770 lbs.), while curb mass is approximately 353.2 Kg (778.7 lbs.).
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) is 553 Kg (1,220 lbs.) – a combination of 778-lb wet weight, 300-lb front-and-rear rack capacity, plus rider/passenger weight and accessories. Towing and hitch tongue capacities are 680 Kg (1500 lbs.) and 68 Kg (150 lbs.), respectively.
Exterior
The 2007 Polaris Sportsman 800 consists of a black-colored steel frame and plastic body material in Sunset Red, Stone Beige, and Mossy Oak “New Break Up” brand pattern. Aside from a special paint job, XP (2-Up) and Deluxe models have cast aluminum rims, EBS, ADC, rear work lights, and a 2,500-lb winch like SuperATV Black Ops 2500-lb Winch Kit (view on Amazon).
All models come standard with front and rear fenders, hand grips, front and rear composite racks, handlebars, full floorboards, a full-length skid plate, a standard brush guard, and a CV boot cover.
Its instrument cluster includes a digital gauge (view on Amazon), analog speedometer, odometer, tachometer, tripmeter, fuel gauge, hi-temp/low-beam lights, DC outlet, AWD indicator, and gear indicator.
Polaris Sportsman 800 Value
| Year – Model – Trim | List Price | Retail/Trade-In Values |
|---|---|---|
| 2007 Polaris Sportsman 800 (EFI) | $8,399 | $2,640 – $3,475 |
| 2007 Sportsman 800 Deluxe (EFI) | $9,099 | $2,965 – $3,900 |
| 2007 Polaris Sportsman 800 XP (2-Up, EFI) | $9,299 | $3,175 – $4,175 |
| 2007 Sportsman 800 XP (Browning Hunter Edition) | $9,499 | N/A |
| 2007 Sportsman 800 (Mossy Oak Camouflage) | $8,799 | $2,605 – $3,430 |
| 2007 Sportsman 800 (Stealth Black) | $8,799 | $2,785 – $3,665 |
| 2007 Sportsman 800 XP (2-Up, Stone Beige) | $8,799 | N/A |
| 2007 Sportsman 800 XP Deluxe (2-Up, EFI) | $9,999 | $3,390 – $4,460 |
| 2007 Sportsman 800 XP (2-Up, Sunset Red, EFI) | $10,199 | $3,390 – $4,460 |
The original MSRP for the 2007 Polaris 800 Sportsman ranged from $8,399 to $10,199 (see above table). Current auction listings likewise show a competitive price range between $2,456 and $6,995. You can find most resale units in good working condition on Smart Cycle Guide, although tons of sites post secondhand Sportsmans.
From what I have seen online, no Sportsman 800 is being sold for parts (this is good news!). But if you are quite particular with your secondhand purchases, prepare to shell out at least $3,500 for this old thumper.
Pre-loved quads have an average of 2,648 – 4,332 miles, with XP (2-Up) and EFI-equipped models selling for much higher than standard ones. They usually come with an aftermarket windshield, snow plow, 4,500-lb winch, LED flood lights, gun scabbards, a Bison brush guard, and a clean title.
These units may require minor mechanical or cosmetic mods (your discretion, really). However, expect minor vandalism, cosmetic damage, and rough idling – sometimes, the foot brake pedal may not work – if you score a deal for less than $3,000.
2007 Polaris Sportsman 800 EFI Problems
The 800-cc EFI-equipped Sportsman is not necessarily problematic. However, it has some unwelcome proclivities (which I honestly assume has more to do with its age and upkeep than its design). But since EFI trims are the most widespread iteration of the Sportsman 800 in the used market, it would make sense to look more closely into some of its reported problems.
That said, let us go over the top issues associated with the ATV in this section:
- Flimsy winch mount
- Front/rear springs fail prematurely or begin to sag quickly
- Fuel pump either gets hot and stops working (until cooled) or quits altogether
- Fuel venting problem, fuel gauge flashing empty for no reason
- Hot air from the radiator and around the exhaust exits at the right ankle (no reports of scalding as of this writing)
- Ignition coil wire harness or connector pulled too tight, causing stress on the connector and a no-spark issue
- Improper TPS adjustment from the factory or dealership
- Oil leak due to warped plastic breather
- Overheating due to a clogged radiator, corrosion of 25A self-resetting circuit breaker/fuse, or warped impeller on the water pump (has more to do with a poorly maintained cooling system and isolated issues than EFI)
- Substandard sealing of the clutch cover and the clutch backing plate causes water to seep through the quad’s clutch/belt system
- TBAP wiring – once wires separate from the connector, they either stop functioning or melt the connector
- The exhaust runs very close to plastics, causing the latter to melt
- Unusual/unexplained battery drain
From this non-exhaustive list, it is pretty evident that problems linked to the quad are similar to what Sportsman owners experience on other iterations. There is not any item that comes across as exclusive to EFI models.
If there is any takeaway from this list, it would be that Sportsman 800s have certain areas impacted with problems more often than others. These include fuel, air intake, cooling, and electrical systems.
About Polaris
Polaris Inc. is a Fortune-500 industrial corporation responsible for the advent of automatic transmission, Independent Rear Suspension (IRS), Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), and breakthrough four-wheelers like the 2007 Polaris Sportsman 800.
Founded by Edgar Hetteen in the ’50s, Polaris went from pioneering snowmobiles to entering the world of marine vehicles and ATVs to being acquired by Textron Inc. in 1968. The acquisition lasted almost two decades until Wendel, Jr. and his team bought back the company from Textron in 1981.
Conclusion – 2007 Polaris 800 Sportsman
Overall, the 2007 Polaris Sportsman 800 is a solid machine with capabilities and potential that stay true to its lineage. It may be perceived as rough around the edges by today’s standards, but that makes it endearing and special.
There is no mid-sized quad today that you can throw around and enjoy without worrying about a broken panel or having to hydro-coat it the next day.
Personally, I love how the Sportsman 800 is imperfectly perfect. And once you get your hands on one, you will understand how it successfully achieved that equilibrium between work and fun.
Kris is an avid off-roader and outdoor enthusiast who loves to brave the elements and take on challenging terrain. He also enjoys sharing his passion and knowledge with others so that they, too, can appreciate the ride.
About Kris