Polaris->ke4818 has been supplying the U.S. Armed Forces with innovative ATV->ke5024 and LT-ATV transportation since the 1980s, and formed the Polaris Defense military division in 2005. The guys down at the factory designed the Sportsman MV 850 “TerrainArmor” Edition as a single-seat addition to their already extensive product line, which includes the Dagor ultra-light combat vehicle. Like the Dagor, the 850 is only available for purchase by the U.S. military and her allies.

Design

The factory espoused a 'form follows function' mentality when they set up this ride. Now I'm not saying that it's ugly, just saying that aesthetics were not high on the list of design priorities. This pragmatic approach leaves us with a decidedly utilitarian vehicle that looks kind of like a single-seat version of the old Jeep M38 and M38A1a (any M.A.S.H. fans out there?), with its boxy looks and cargo arrangement. One could consider this ATV to be a mule of sorts, capable of carrying one man (maybe two if one is on a litter) plus cargo fore and aft on the cargo decks, over terrain that would tax a mountain goat. A keyless ignition system allows for convenient use by multiple drivers without the hassle and aggravation of keeping up with extra keys.

Chassis

While creature comforts took a back seat during design, the factory did not completely neglect the driver. The dual A-arm front suspension limits the steering kickback felt by the driver, and a variable-assist power-steering system eases the control inputs necessary to keep on track. Together, these systems add up to reduced rider fatigue at the end of the day. Carrying capacity is impressive at a total of 600 pounds -- 200 up front, 400 in the rear -- and it's sure to carry as much gear as will physically fit onto the decks. A 3,000 pound winch in the front guard gives you the option of winching yourself (or someone else) out of tight spots. My favorite feature has to be the tires. Polaris designed the airless TerrainArmor tires to resist everything from rough terrain to enemy fire. According to Polaris, this tire design is so tough, it precludes the need for carrying a spare, even under the nastiest conditions.

Drivetrain

Polaris used its 850 cc, four-stroke, twin-cylinder SOHC engine to power this beast over hill and dale (and valleys and rocks.....you get the picture) with power to spare. In a move calculated to further reduce fatigue as well as the requisite off-road skills needed to handle the machine, the factory used an Active Descent Control (ADC) and Engine Braking System (EBS) that monitors and assists downhill braking at speeds below 15 mph. Plus the automatic transmission eliminates the need for clutch coordination and the on-demand AWD/2WD system gives riders the traction and flexibility they need to navigate the harshest of terrain.

He Said:

“This is a REAL ATV folks, much tougher (and tougher looking) than even the most robust civilian models out there. I live in four-wheeler country, and I would like one of these just to watch my neighbors drool in envy. Hey Polaris, how about a test ride, and paint it with RealTree camo before I pick it up, please!”

She Said

My wife and fellow writer, Allyn Hinton, says, "When I saw the Dagor, I said I wanted one. Now that I've had a look at this little ATV, I've decided I really want this instead. It's all military, so it is meant to be an animal. Those airless tires are amazing. I think I'd have to pull some stumps with this whether I needed to or not."

Specifications

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