As a beginner sled im a Polaris fanatic so here it goes... The 700 xc sp should be a great sled if you have other buddies. It can stream down the trails without overpowering itself I'm sure it would do wheelies if you punched the throttle. It is a great mix of power so if you need the power it is there. Although it does burn gas like a 800 and sounds like a 800 to.