I have had an overheating problem for a while. The temp. light comes on very quickly. I always have to be "that guy" that needs to stop on a trail ride and let my fan cool the engine down. It is very frustrating when on long trail rides. I have changed the coolant, spark plug, oil, and taken off the radiator guard and cleaned it really good. What else could this be?
UCF...Check to see if the water is circulating, check it cold remove cap let it run when it starts getting hot the thermostate will open and the water should cycle, If not you may need a water pump. You may also have a hose collapsing when it get hot under pressure.
a friend of mine had the same problem with the same ride. his was a bad senser.
jeff
It is most likely the sensor. I have a 2004 Sportsman 600 that had the same problem. They replaced the sensor, and I haven't had a problem since!!!