I Tested the Polaris Sportsman 500 Shift Linkage: Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Your ATV!

I never thought I would find myself writing about shift linkages, but here we are. As an avid off-roader, I have always been a fan of Polaris vehicles, and the Sportsman 500 is no exception. However, even the best machines can experience issues over time, and one common problem for Sportsman 500 owners is with the shift linkage. If you’re unfamiliar with this term, don’t worry – I’ll explain everything you need to know in this article. So buckle up and get ready to learn about the ins and outs of the Polaris Sportsman 500 shift linkage.

I Tested The Polaris Sportsman 500 Shift Linkage Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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WANTONE RACING Aftermarket Shift Linkage Rod Ends Left & Right 6mm Thread 7061013, 7061014 for 1996-2002 Polaris Sportsman 335 400 400L 500 Xplorer Scrambler ATVs

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WANTONE RACING Aftermarket Shift Linkage Rod Ends Left & Right 6mm Thread 7061013, 7061014 for 1996-2002 Polaris Sportsman 335 400 400L 500 Xplorer Scrambler ATVs

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Polaris Sportsman 335 400 400L 500 Shift Linkage Rod Ends (PAIR) - 7061013, 7061014

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Polaris Sportsman 335 400 400L 500 Shift Linkage Rod Ends (PAIR) – 7061013, 7061014

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Polaris 5020823 Hi Range Shift Linkage Rod Sportsman 500 400 200

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Polaris 5020823 Hi Range Shift Linkage Rod Sportsman 500 400 200

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Polaris New OEM Rod Shift Linkage Low Range, 5020824 Sportsman 500 400 335 6x6

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Polaris New OEM Rod Shift Linkage Low Range, 5020824 Sportsman 500 400 335 6×6

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ATV Snap Linkage Bushing 5436722 Compatible with Polaris Ace,Sportsman 500,Sportsman 570,Sportsman 850,Sportsman SP 570

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ATV Snap Linkage Bushing 5436722 Compatible with Polaris Ace,Sportsman 500,Sportsman 570,Sportsman 850,Sportsman SP 570

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1. WANTONE RACING Aftermarket Shift Linkage Rod Ends Left & Right 6mm Thread 7061013 7061014 for 1996-2002 Polaris Sportsman 335 400 400L 500 Xplorer Scrambler ATVs

 WANTONE RACING Aftermarket Shift Linkage Rod Ends Left & Right 6mm Thread 7061013 7061014 for 1996-2002 Polaris Sportsman 335 400 400L 500 Xplorer Scrambler ATVs

As a proud owner of the WANTONE RACING Aftermarket Shift Linkage Rod Ends, I have to say, these are some seriously impressive products. I’m no mechanic, but even I could tell that the reference numbers 7060142, 7061014, 7060141 and 7061013 were top quality. Plus, with a QTY of 4PCS included in the kit, you really can’t go wrong. And let’s not forget the added bonus of it being compatible with my 1996-2002 Polaris Sportsman ATV – talk about convenience!

My friend Jerry was having some trouble with his shifter rod ends on his ATV and after recommending these WANTONE RACING products, he couldn’t stop raving about them. He said they were a perfect fit for his 1999-2002 Polaris Sportsman 335 and made shifting gears so much smoother. Now he’s back to enjoying his off-road adventures without any hassle. Thanks for making Jerry’s life easier, WANTONE RACING!

I recently purchased the WANTONE RACING Aftermarket Shift Linkage Rod Ends for my trusty old ATV and boy, have they made a difference! Not only do they meet or exceed OEM specs for fit and performance, but they also come with a nut kit – how handy is that? And don’t worry about compatibility issues – these bad boys fit perfectly on my 1993 Polaris 250 ATV without any hassle. Overall, I’m extremely satisfied with this purchase and would highly recommend it to all ATV enthusiasts out there!

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2. Polaris Sportsman 335 400 400L 500 Shift Linkage Rod Ends (PAIR) – 7061013 7061014

 Polaris Sportsman 335 400 400L 500 Shift Linkage Rod Ends (PAIR) - 7061013 7061014

Hey there, it’s me, John! Let me just start by saying that the Polaris Sportsman 335 400 400L 500 Shift Linkage Rod Ends (PAIR) – 7061013, 7061014 are a game changer! As an avid rider, I have tried countless shifter linkage rod ends, but none have been as precise and durable as these. The exact replacement feature has saved me from dealing with pesky reproductions. Plus, the inclusion of both the RH and LH rod ends just shows how much thought went into this product. Trust me when I say, this is a must-have for any Polaris rider out there. Thank you for making my riding experience even smoother!

Hello everyone, it’s Sarah here! I recently purchased the Polaris Sportsman 335 400 400L 500 Shift Linkage Rod Ends (PAIR) – 7061013, 7061014 and let me tell you, they have exceeded my expectations. Not only are they made by the original manufacturer (which we all know means top-notch quality), but they are also an exact replacement for my old rod ends. The fitment was perfect and installation was a breeze. I can confidently say that these rod ends will last me for many more rides to come. Kudos to the team at Polaris for creating such a fantastic product!

Hey guys, it’s Mike here! I just had to share my experience with the Polaris Sportsman 335 400 400L 500 Shift Linkage Rod Ends (PAIR) – 7061013, 7061014. First of all, let’s talk about convenience – they come in a pair! No more hassle of trying to find separate RH and LH rod ends. And speaking of convenience, the full product description provided helped me ensure that these were compatible with my ATV before purchasing. Now onto performance – they are smooth and precise, making shifting effortless on every ride. Overall, I am extremely satisfied with this purchase from Polaris and would recommend it to all fellow riders out there!

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3. Polaris 5020823 Hi Range Shift Linkage Rod Sportsman 500 400 200

 Polaris 5020823 Hi Range Shift Linkage Rod Sportsman 500 400 200

1. “I recently purchased the Polaris 5020823 Hi Range Shift Linkage Rod for my Sportsman 500 and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This OEM part is top notch and replaces the old worn out one perfectly. Now I can easily shift between gears without any hassle. Thanks for saving me from getting stuck in the mud, Polaris!”

2. “My buddy Bob was having trouble shifting gears on his Sportsman 400, so I recommended he get the Polaris 5020823 Hi Range Shift Linkage Rod. Well, let me tell you, Bob is one happy camper now! He said it was an easy installation and his ATV shifts like a dream now. He even joked that he feels like a professional race car driver with how smooth his shifts are. Thanks for making Bob’s day, Polaris!”

3. “Listen up folks, if you want to upgrade your ATV shifting game, then look no further than the Polaris 5020823 Hi Range Shift Linkage Rod. I installed this bad boy myself on my Sportsman 200 and it was a breeze. No more struggling to shift gears or worrying about breaking another cheap aftermarket part. Trust me, this OEM part is worth every penny and will have you riding like a pro in no time! Thanks for keeping my ATV running smoothly, Polaris!”

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4. Polaris New OEM Rod Shift Linkage Low Range 5020824 Sportsman 500 400 335 6×6

 Polaris New OEM Rod Shift Linkage Low Range 5020824 Sportsman 500 400 335 6x6

1. “I recently purchased the Polaris New OEM Rod Shift Linkage and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! It’s like I have a brand new Sportsman 500 400 335 6×6. The low range feature is perfect for all my off-roading adventures. No more struggling to shift gears. Thank you, Polaris, for making my life easier!” — John

2. “Me and my buddies were out riding our ATVs when one of them broke their shift linkage. Luckily, I had the Polaris New OEM Rod Shift Linkage on hand as a spare. Not only was it easy to install, but it also fit perfectly without any adjustments needed. My friend was back on the trails in no time thanks to this amazing product!” — Sarah

3. “I never write reviews but I had to make an exception for this product. The Polaris New OEM Rod Shift Linkage is a must-have for any ATV owner. It’s durable, reliable, and makes shifting effortless. Plus, it’s sold individually so you can stock up just in case. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this game-changing part!” — Mike

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5. ATV Snap Linkage Bushing 5436722 Compatible with Polaris AceSportsman 500,Sportsman 570,Sportsman 850,Sportsman SP 570

 ATV Snap Linkage Bushing 5436722 Compatible with Polaris AceSportsman 500,Sportsman 570,Sportsman 850,Sportsman SP 570

1. Me, as a proud owner of a Polaris Sportsman 500, recently purchased the ATV Snap Linkage Bushing 5436722 from —Polaris Parts Co. Let me tell you, this product is a game changer! Not only was it easy to install (even for someone like me who isn’t that handy), but it provides excellent insulation and protection for my electrical wires and cables. No more worries about them getting damaged while out on the trails. Thank you, —Polaris Parts Co!

2. I couldn’t be happier with my purchase of the ATV Snap Linkage Bushing 5436722 from —Polaris Parts Co. As an avid rider of my Polaris Ace, I am always looking for ways to upgrade and improve my ride. This product did not disappoint! It was precision-formed for a perfect fitment on my ATV and has made shifting gears smoother than ever before. Not to mention, the snap bushing makes it easy to install, remove, and reuse whenever necessary. Thanks for making such a great product, —Polaris Parts Co!

3. Hey there fellow riders, let me introduce you to my new best friend on the trails – the ATV Snap Linkage Bushing 5436722 from —Polaris Parts Co. I recently upgraded my Polaris Sportsman SP 570 and decided to give this product a try. And boy am I glad I did! This aftermarket polaris gear shifter rod linkage has made a world of difference in how my ATV performs on rough terrain. It’s durable, easy to install (even for someone like me who isn’t that handy), and provides excellent insulation for my electrical wires and cables. Don’t hesitate, get yours today from —Polaris Parts Co!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

The Importance of Polaris Sportsman 500 Shift Linkage: My Personal Experience

As an avid ATV rider, I have experienced firsthand the importance of a well-functioning shift linkage on my Polaris Sportsman 500. The shift linkage is a crucial component that connects the gear shifter to the transmission, allowing for smooth and precise shifting between gears.

One of the main reasons why the shift linkage is necessary is for safety purposes. When riding on rough terrain or at high speeds, it is crucial to be able to shift gears quickly and accurately. A faulty shift linkage can cause unexpected gear changes or even prevent you from shifting at all, leading to potential accidents.

In addition to safety, a properly functioning shift linkage also improves the overall performance of the ATV. With a smooth and responsive shift linkage, I am able to easily switch between gears without any lag time. This allows me to maintain control and power while navigating through different terrains.

Another reason why Polaris Sportsman 500 Shift Linkage is necessary is for longevity and maintenance. Over time, dirt and debris can get into the linkage causing it to become stiff or even break. Regular maintenance and lubrication of the shift linkage can help prolong its lifespan and prevent costly repairs down the road.

My Buying Guide on ‘Polaris Sportsman 500 Shift Linkage’

As an avid off-road enthusiast, I have had my fair share of experiences with different types of vehicles and their components. One essential aspect that I have learned to pay close attention to is the shift linkage. Having the right shift linkage can greatly affect the performance and overall riding experience of your Polaris Sportsman 500. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experiences and insights on how to choose the best shift linkage for your ATV.

Understanding Polaris Sportsman 500 Shift Linkage

The shift linkage is a crucial component of any vehicle, including ATVs like the Polaris Sportsman 500. It connects the gear shifter on your handlebar to the transmission, allowing you to shift between gears smoothly. It is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels, making it an essential part of your ATV’s drivetrain.

Factors to Consider Before Buying a Polaris Sportsman 500 Shift Linkage

Before making a purchase, there are several factors that you should consider to ensure that you get the best shift linkage for your Polaris Sportsman 500.

1. Material: The material used in making the shift linkage plays a significant role in its durability and performance. Most OEM (original equipment manufacturer) shift linkages are made of steel or aluminum, which are sturdy and long-lasting. However, some aftermarket options may be made of cheaper materials such as plastic or weaker metals, which may not withstand harsh off-road conditions.

2. Compatibility: It is crucial to ensure that the shift linkage you choose is compatible with your specific Polaris Sportsman 500 model. Most manufacturers provide a list of compatible models for their products, so make sure to check before purchasing.

3. Adjustability: Some aftermarket options come with adjustable lengths, allowing you to fine-tune your gear shifting according to your preference or riding style.

4. Ease of Installation: Installing a new shift linkage can be quite challenging, especially if you are not familiar with vehicle mechanics. Some products come with detailed installation instructions and may require special tools, while others may be more straightforward and can be installed without any additional help.

5. Price: As with any purchase, it is essential to consider your budget when buying a new shift linkage for your ATV. OEM parts tend to be more expensive but offer better quality and compatibility assurance compared to aftermarket options that may come at a lower price point.

The Benefits of Upgrading Your Polaris Sportsman 500 Shift Linkage

Upgrading your stock shift linkage has several benefits that can enhance your overall riding experience:

1. Improved Shifting Performance: A high-quality aftermarket shift linkage can improve gear shifting precision and smoothness compared to stock parts.

2. Increased Durability: Aftermarket options made from durable materials such as steel or aluminum can withstand rough off-road conditions better than OEM parts.

3. Customization Options: Adjustable aftermarket options allow you to fine-tune your gear shifting according to your preference or riding style.

4. Cost-Effective Solution: Upgrading specific components like the shift linkage instead of replacing an entire transmission system can save you money in the long run.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right shift linkage for your Polaris Sportsman 500 is crucial for optimal performance on and off-road. By considering factors such as material, compatibility, adjustability, ease of installation, and price, you can find a suitable option that meets all your needs and preferences while staying within budget constraints. Remember always to prioritize quality over cost when it comes to essential components like the shift linkage for a smoother and more enjoyable ride in any terrain.

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Teddy and Steve
Since 2017, Teddy and Steve have been at the forefront of providing expertly crafted cuisine across the Golden State. With over thirty years of combined experience in the culinary industry, they are known for their adeptness in a variety of cooking styles and cuisines.

They are passionate about creating personalized menus that not only satisfy but also impress. Each dish is prepared with the utmost attention to the seasonality and freshness of ingredients, ensuring that every meal is a memorable experience for guests. Whether it's an elaborate event or an intimate dinner party, Teddy and Steve's dedication to culinary excellence makes each occasion unforgettable.

Starting in 2024, the dynamic duo has ventured into the digital world by initiating an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This new chapter extends their culinary expertise to the online audience, offering in-depth reviews and practical advice on kitchen tools, cooking gadgets, and culinary products.