During my search for a new SxS for both hunting and fun trail riding, I test drove a Zforce 800 today. I believe a 500 would fit me perfectly.

So I have 3 dealers within a 50 mile radius (salt lake area) but they have fairly poor google reviews. My biggest concern is needed to use the warranty or extended warranty and the dealer not going to bat for me and I'm stuck with costly fixes.

Would you recommend I stick with a Yamaha or Polaris?

If you don't fix things yourself I would go with the most reputable dealer. But you want the reputable SERVICE department, sales can be great parts dept can be great but it is the service department that makes a difference.

I would suggest regardless of brand you visit the service departments, forget the fancy marketing & google reviews.

Get inside the shop & see what is really going on, then make your own real life choice.