When you’re pushing your Polaris Predator 500 to its limits, you’ll need reliable nerf bars that won’t let you down. These essential accessories protect your feet and legs while enhancing your riding control and stability. With numerous options available, finding the perfect nerf bars can be overwhelming. Let’s explore three top-rated choices that have proven themselves in both competitive racing and recreational trail riding.
Polaris Predator 500 Nerfbars ATV Nerf Bars Silver Bars/Black Nets
If you’re looking to protect your Polaris Predator while enhancing its appearance, these silver nerf bars with black nets stand out for their superior build quality. Made from 1-1/4 inch extruded aluminum tubing, they’re both lightweight and durable.
You’ll appreciate the 1-1/2 inch wide netting, which offers more protection than standard 1-inch competitors. The bars sweep up from front to rear for better ground clearance and maintain a 50-inch maximum width to meet ATVA rules. They’re compatible with OEM heel plates and fender extensions, fitting 2003-2007 Predator models. The complete kit includes mounting hardware and installation instructions for both sides.
Best For: ATV riders seeking premium protection for their 2003-2007 Polaris Predator 500 who want superior build quality and wider protective netting than standard options.
Pros:
- Wider 1.5-inch netting provides better protection than standard 1-inch competitors
- Lightweight yet durable aluminum construction with upswept design for ground clearance
- Complete kit includes all mounting hardware and detailed installation instructions
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to basic nerf bar options
- Limited compatibility to only 2003-2007 Polaris Predator models
- Limited customer reviews available to verify long-term durability
Polaris Predator 500 Nerfbars Atv Nerf Bars Black Bars/Black Nets
Built with lightweight 1-1/4 inch extruded aluminum tubing, these Polaris Predator 500 nerf bars offer superior protection and stability for aggressive riders. The black bars with matching black nets feature an industry-leading 1-1/2 inch netting width, surpassing the standard 1-inch competitors offer.
You’ll appreciate the swept-up design from front to rear, maximizing ground clearance while staying within the 50-inch ATVA regulation width. Compatible with 2003-2007 Predator models, these bars work seamlessly with OEM heel guards and fender extensions. The complete kit includes mounting hardware, installation instructions, and all necessary components for both sides of your ATV.
Best For: Serious ATV riders seeking premium protection and stability for their 2003-2007 Polaris Predator 500 who want wider-than-standard netting and maximum ground clearance.
Pros:
- Wider 1.5-inch netting provides better foot protection than standard 1-inch competitors
- Lightweight aluminum construction balances durability with minimal weight addition
- Swept-up design maximizes ground clearance while maintaining ATVA compliance
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to basic nerf bar options
- Installation may require some mechanical expertise
- Limited compatibility to specific Predator models and years (2003-2007)
Tusk Comp Series Nerf Bars for Polaris Predator 500
The Tusk Comp Series Nerf Bars stand out as a premium choice for Polaris Predator 500 owners who demand superior strength and durability. These bars feature a robust 1 3/8 inch alloy tube construction with heli-arc welded joints, making them beefier than standard options.
You’ll appreciate the sleek black finish with matching black webbing, complemented by laser-etched logos on both sides. At 23 x 19 x 4 inches and weighing 8.3 pounds, they’re perfectly sized for your 2003-2007 Predator 500. With a stellar 4.8/5 rating from riders, these nerf bars deliver the protection you need while providing convenient passenger foot placement.
Best For: Serious Polaris Predator 500 riders seeking premium-grade protection and enhanced passenger comfort with a durable, professionally-finished nerf bar setup.
Pros:
- Superior strength with 1 3/8 inch alloy tube construction and heli-arc welded joints
- High-quality finish with laser-etched logos and black webbing
- Excellent user reviews with 4.8/5 rating from customers
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to standard nerf bars
- Limited compatibility (only fits 2003-2007 Predator 500)
- Heavier than basic nerf bar options at 8.3 pounds
Factors to Consider When Choosing Polaris Predator 500 Nerf Bars
When you’re shopping for Polaris Predator 500 nerf bars, you’ll want to evaluate several key aspects including the construction material’s durability, bar size, and mounting system compatibility. The bar’s design and weight will directly impact your ground clearance and riding performance, while net width options affect comfort and protection during aggressive maneuvers. You should also confirm the mounting hardware matches your specific model year and consider whether aluminum or steel construction better suits your riding style and terrain preferences.
Construction Material and Durability
Selecting durable nerf bars starts with understanding their construction materials and build quality. For your Polaris Predator 500, you’ll want to focus on lightweight extruded aluminum tubing that offers ideal strength without adding unnecessary weight. Look for bars with 1-3/8 inch diameter tubing, as this size provides enhanced rigidity and support during rough riding conditions.
Pay attention to the welding quality, specifically heli-arc welded joints, which deliver superior structural integrity compared to standard welding methods. You’ll also benefit from choosing nerf bars with protective finishes like anodized or brushed surfaces that resist corrosion and wear. When comparing options, consider those with thicker wall sections, as they’ll typically offer better longevity for frequent off-road adventures and provide better value for your investment.
Bar Size and Design
Making informed decisions about nerf bar dimensions and design features will considerably impact your Predator 500’s performance and safety. You’ll want to verify your nerf bars meet the ATVA-regulated width of 50 inches, which guarantees proper racing compatibility and ideal protection.
Choose bars with 1-1/2 inch netting width instead of the standard 1-inch design, as this provides better foot support during aggressive riding. Look for bars that sweep upward from front to back, maximizing your ground clearance for challenging terrain. The ideal construction should feature 1-3/8 inch alloy tubing, offering superior strength and rigidity while maintaining a reasonable weight. This combination of proper sizing and upswept design creates the perfect balance of protection, functionality, and performance for your Predator 500.
Weight and Ground Clearance
Weight and ground clearance represent two critical factors that directly impact your Predator 500‘s performance with nerf bars installed. You’ll want to explore options ranging from 8.3 to 12.31 pounds, as heavier bars can affect your ATV’s handling and agility. Look for designs that sweep upward from front to rear to maintain ideal ground clearance during off-road riding.
Choose nerf bars made from lightweight materials like 1-1/4 inch extruded aluminum tubing or reinforced alloy tubes, which offer durability without adding excessive weight. The bars should stay within the 50-inch maximum width requirement while providing adequate clearance for obstacles. Models featuring 1-1/2 inch netting width deliver enhanced safety without compromising your machine’s ground clearance, ensuring you’ll maintain strong performance in challenging terrain.
Mounting Hardware Compatibility
Mounting hardware compatibility presents an essential consideration when choosing nerf bars for your Polaris Predator 500. You’ll want to guarantee that the nerf bars you select come with all necessary mounting components and are specifically designed to work with your ATV’s OEM heel plates and fender extensions.
While most nerf bars include the required hardware for installation, it’s important to verify that these components match your specific model year. Pay attention to bars that sweep upward from front to rear, as this design can impact the mounting alignment. Before making your purchase, review the installation instructions to confirm that the mounting points align properly with your ATV’s frame. This verification step will save you time and prevent potential fitment issues during installation.
Net Width Options
Net width represents a essential factor when selecting nerf bars for your Polaris Predator 500. The Predator 500’s standard 1-1/2 inch netting width offers superior protection compared to the typical 1-inch options available in competing models.
You’ll find this wider netting particularly beneficial if you’re an aggressive rider, as it provides enhanced foot stability during sharp turns and challenging maneuvers. The broader surface area reduces the risk of your feet slipping off during intense rides, making it a significant safety feature.
If you’re planning to participate in racing events, you’ll need to verify that your chosen net width complies with competition regulations. Additionally, the 1-1/2 inch netting creates a more substantial appearance, contributing to your ATV’s overall aesthetic appeal.
Color and Style Options
When selecting nerf bars for your Polaris Predator 500, you’ll find a range of color and style options to match your personal taste. You can choose between classic silver bars with black nets or opt for an all-black design that creates a sleek, unified look. These bars feature an upward sweep from front to rear, which not only enhances your ATV’s appearance but also provides better ground clearance during rides.
The 1-1/2 inch netting width sets these bars apart visually from standard one-inch alternatives, giving your Predator a more robust and distinctive appearance. While considering your color choice, remember to factor in how the bars will complement your ATV’s existing color scheme. All options stay within the 50-inch ATVA regulation width, ensuring both style and competition compliance.