For years, navigating trails, heading out for a hunt, or simply tackling chores around the property on my ATV meant wrestling with gear. Strapping things down awkwardly or trying to balance buckets just felt inefficient and risky. The constant worry of losing something important or having it shift dangerously was a major headache that absolutely needed solving; leaving it unaddressed meant wasted time, damaged equipment, and a less enjoyable (or even unsafe) ride. This problem made me seriously consider adding proper storage.
Anyone who uses an ATV regularly knows the struggle of hauling essentials. Whether it’s tools for a job, gear for hunting or fishing, supplies for yard work, or just provisions for a trail ride, you need a way to carry it securely and conveniently. Seeking a cargo solution is usually born out of necessity – the rear rack alone is often insufficient or impractical for many items. The ideal customer for a rear ATV cargo box is typically a Polaris Sportsman owner who needs to transport a moderate to large volume of items frequently but values the ability to quickly add or remove storage as needed. They might be hunters, utility users, or recreational riders who appreciate versatility. This type of open storage box might not be ideal for someone who needs completely watertight storage for sensitive electronics or documents, or for someone who doesn’t own a compatible Polaris ATV. If absolute waterproofing is paramount, you might look at fully sealed hard cases. If you don’t have a Polaris or specifically the Lock & Ride system, you’d need a universal mounting box. Before buying any cargo box, consider the needed capacity, how easily it mounts and removes, its durability, its resistance to weather, and crucially, its compatibility with your specific ATV model and any existing rack accessories.
- Expanded Storage: Includes one (1) Lock & Ride Open Cargo Storage Box, with 22 gallons of convenient storage to your ATV. Also includes 4 Lock and Ride Anchors and 4 plugs as needed to install.
- Easy Installation and Removal: Mounts effortlessly to the rear rack using Lock & Ride technology, compatible with rack extenders, utility rack, and gun mount. This box can also be easily removed,...
- Integrated Bucket Holders: Features two integrated 5-gallon bucket holders with grab handles for easy carrying and transport of cargo.
Unveiling the Product
The Polaris Lock & Ride Rear Open Cargo Storage Box for Sportsman ATV, OEM Part 2890877 is Polaris’s own solution designed specifically for their Sportsman line, promising to add significant, easily accessible storage. It’s essentially a robust, open-top plastic box built to integrate seamlessly with the Polaris Lock & Ride system. When you purchase it, you get the cargo box itself, along with four Lock and Ride Anchors and four plugs necessary for installation on compatible models. Compared to generic, strap-on cargo boxes, the main difference here is the OEM design and the speed and security of the Lock & Ride mounting. It’s built to fit like it belongs there, which is a big plus for many Polaris owners. This specific box is best for Sportsman owners who prioritize quick access and removal, and need flexible space for various items, rather than compartmentalized, fully sealed storage.
Here are some pros and cons based on my experience and feedback:
Pros:
* Effortlessly quick installation and removal via Lock & Ride.
* Generous 22-gallon open storage capacity.
* Integrated 5-gallon bucket holders are incredibly useful.
* Numerous tie-down points provide excellent cargo security.
* Very durable and strong plastic construction.
Cons:
* Not fully waterproof (only water resistant).
* May require removing stock tie-down points on some specific models (850/1000).
* Can make swinging a leg over the back rack slightly more challenging for some riders.
- 18 cubic foot (510 L) internal cargo capacity
- Functional rooftop cargo box provides 16 cubic feet of additional packing space
- Secure & protect your gear in this 18 cubic ft. HDPE plastic hard shell vehicle cargo carrier; high-capacity interior dimensions 57 L x 38 1/2 W x 17 3/4 H inches; aerodynamic design for fuel...
Attributes & Advantages
Having used this Polaris cargo box for a good while now, I can confidently say it’s changed how I use my ATV. The features aren’t just bullet points on a list; they translate directly into tangible benefits out in the real world.
Seamless Lock & Ride Integration
The headline feature, and arguably the most impactful for a Polaris owner, is the Lock & Ride technology. Forget fiddling with bolts, brackets, or generic U-bolts that scratch your rack. This system utilizes four specialized anchors that snap into place on the designated points on your Polaris Sportsman rack. Installing the cargo box for the first time took maybe five minutes, mainly aligning the anchors. After that, putting it on or taking it off is a matter of seconds. You simply push down the Lock & Ride plungers, seat the box, and pop them back up to lock it in. To remove, you press the plungers again and lift. This flexibility is huge. If I’m just zipping around the property without needing storage, I can pop the box off and save weight and space. If I’m heading out for a full day of work or hunting, I can attach it instantly. This convenience alone makes it a worthwhile investment for many Polaris users, streamlining the transition between different tasks or rides. It truly delivers on the promise of easy installation and removal.
Generous 22-Gallon Storage Volume
Twenty-two gallons of open storage might sound like just a number, but in practice, it’s a substantial amount of space. The open design is key here. While a lidded box might be better for keeping things bone dry, the open format of the Polaris Lock & Ride box is fantastic for bulky, oddly shaped items that wouldn’t fit through a smaller opening. I’ve hauled everything from chainsaw cases and fuel cans to multiple bags of feed or even large coolers. For hunting season, it swallows up blinds, decoys, and gear with room to spare. For trail riding, jackets, snacks, a small cooler, and recovery gear fit easily. The depth is good, preventing items from bouncing out easily, even over rough terrain. It completely eliminates the need to strap multiple individual items precariously onto the rack, consolidating everything into one secure area.
Integrated 5-Gallon Bucket Holders
This is one of those “why didn’t I think of that?” features that proves incredibly useful. The Polaris cargo box has dedicated cutouts on either side designed to perfectly cradle a standard 5-gallon bucket. They sit down securely, and the box even has grab handles integrated into these cutouts for easy carrying of the box or added points for securing things. I’ve used these countless times for carrying water, tools, or even just trash from a campsite. Having buckets locked into place like this prevents them from tipping or sliding around, which is especially important when carrying liquids or heavy tools. It’s a simple addition, but it significantly enhances the utility of the box for anyone who uses buckets regularly for work or recreation.
Twelve Convenient Tie-Down Locations
Beyond the primary storage area, this cargo box features 12 distinct tie-down points around its perimeter. These aren’t just random loops; they are strategically placed to allow you to secure a wide variety of items using bungee cords, straps, or netting. While the open box is great for loose items, having these points means you can strap down larger items that might sit on top of the box or extend beyond it, or simply add extra security to the contents within the box itself. For instance, I often use them to strap a shovel or an axe across the top, or to add a cargo net over a pile of gear to keep it from bouncing out on really bumpy trails. It significantly increases the versatility of the storage box, allowing you to adapt your hauling setup to whatever you need to carry.
Robust Durability and Water Resistance
Constructed from heavy-duty black plastic, the Polaris Lock & Ride box feels incredibly solid. It’s designed to withstand the rigors of off-road use, resisting impacts from branches and rocks. I’ve certainly bumped it, scraped it, and loaded it up heavily, and it shows no signs of weakening. One user even mentioned standing on the edge of the box, weighing over 200 lbs, without it flexing – that speaks volumes about its structural integrity. While it’s listed as “water resistant,” not “waterproof,” this means it will handle splashes, rain showers, and muddy trails without issue, keeping most contents reasonably dry. For items that absolutely cannot get wet, you’d still need to pack them in dry bags or sealed containers *inside* the box, but for general gear, the water resistance is more than adequate for typical use. It’s built tough, as you’d expect from an OEM accessory designed for trail use.
Sportsman Compatibility Note
It’s important to note the compatibility mention: installing this box on Sportsman 850 & 1000 models might require removing the stock moveable tie-down points. This isn’t a dealbreaker, but it’s something to be aware of. For my model, it fit like a glove with no modifications needed to the ATV itself, leveraging the existing Lock & Ride points. However, if you have one of the affected models, be prepared for this minor step. It’s also worth considering the height it adds to the rear rack; while the open top provides easy access, for some riders, particularly older individuals, swinging a leg over the seat and the box combined might be slightly more challenging than without any rear cargo. These are minor points but worth considering based on your specific ATV model and riding style.
Community Feedback
Having looked around online, it’s clear many users share my positive experience with the Polaris Lock & Ride Rear Open Cargo Storage Box. People frequently praise how incredibly easy it is to install once the Lock & Ride anchors are set up, often noting how quick removal is equally simple, allowing them to use the box only when needed. Many find the design well-thought-out, specifically mentioning the utility of the integrated bucket holders and the overall toughness and strength of the box, citing instances where it held up to heavy loads or even standing on it. While a few owners of specific models, like the Sportsman 850, noted minor fitment challenges requiring removal of stock parts, the overwhelming sentiment is that this storage box is a valuable, durable, and convenient addition to their Polaris ATV.
Concluding Thoughts
Dealing with unsecured gear on your ATV is not only frustrating but can also be unsafe, potentially leading to lost items or accidents on the trail. Solving this problem means having a reliable way to transport your essentials. The Polaris Lock & Ride Rear Open Cargo Storage Box stands out as a superb solution for Polaris Sportsman owners. Its Lock & Ride system offers unmatched ease of use, allowing you to add or remove 22 gallons of flexible storage in seconds. The integrated bucket holders and abundant tie-down points add practical utility, while the rugged construction ensures it can handle demanding conditions. If you’re tired of gear hassles and need a durable, convenient cargo option specifically designed for your Polaris ATV, click here to check it out.
Last update on 2025-08-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API