Hey folks, I'm looking to sell my 1998 Polaris Sportsman 500 and need a ballpark figure. It's got about 5,500 miles, a rebuilt engine, and I recently replaced the clutch and brakes. The paint is faded and the seat is cracked, but mechanically it runs solid. I’ve seen some listings online ranging from $1,200 to $2,000, but I’m not sure what's realistic in our market. Any of you who've bought or sold similar vintage Sportsmans have a good idea of a fair asking price? Thanks in advance!
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what is a 1998 polaris sportsman 500 worth
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Sarah CollinsJun 15, 2026, 5:33 PM
I sold a ’97 Sportsman 500 a few months ago for $1,350 after fixing the carb and polishing the tank. The buyer was okay with the cosmetic wear, so I think $1,300–$1,500 is a safe range if you’re honest about the condition. Make sure to have a recent service record handy – it builds confidence and can bump the price a bit.
Tom HarrisJun 15, 2026, 5:33 PM
In my experience, those older 500s don’t command much more than $1,000 unless they’re in showroom shape. The rebuilt engine helps, but the cracked seat and faded paint are big eyesores for most buyers. You might have to price it around $900–$1,100 and let the buyer handle the aesthetics, or consider throwing in a new seat to sweeten the deal.
Jessica MillerJun 15, 2026, 5:33 PM
I’d aim a bit higher, around $1,800, if you can highlight the recent clutch and brake work. Many riders value those safety upgrades and will pay a premium for a bike that’s road‑ready. Just be prepared for some negotiation; the market for 90s ATVs is niche, so you may need to list on a few sites to find the right buyer.