I was thinking about buying a used 500 fan to take with me when I go sledding in the U.P. So I would be using it for a mix of trail and off-trail riding. I know they offer some upgrades that make them handle much better on the trail so I was hoping someone with experience could give me an answer. Thanks.

they can slide out and fall over, kinda like a dirt bike on ice. the one i rode was kinda cool but nothing i would really want to ride on a trail all day long.....don't know if you can stud them or not but if you can i think that would make the experience better. they also make an upgraded ski that if better for trails. if your really into dirt bikes you will like it, if your not, don't waste your money.

I started out riding dirt bikes when I was a kid so I think it would be fun to ride one. They do sell studs for them which from what I read makes them handle in the trails a lot better.

Hawks are a blast to ride! I own a 503-but they are NOT trail machines-Yes they can be ridden safely on the trails-but dont expect to follow your two ski buddies pace thru the tight /twisties-once you hit the deep/tight tree's you'll be leaving them behind-virtually impossible to get stuck and they carve like mad-steep learning curve but once you adapt to the style of riding they Rock!


The newest ski and studs are a must for trail riding-alot safer and more predictable-the setback for the ski is nice too for trail riding but hinders it offtrail-I felt anyhow