10 Things To Consider Before Modifying Your SXS
There is no doubt that modifying your side-by-side (SXS) is an exciting way to enhance its performance and personalize your vehicle. Whether you want better trail handling, additional safety features, or unique aesthetic touches, there’s a lot to think about before diving into the world of modifications.
If you’re someone who thrives on adventure and loves taking your UTV into uncharted territory, modifying your SXS becomes more than a performance upgrade – it’s all about improving your ability to explore the wild with confidence.
In this guide, we’ll cover 10 things to consider before modifying your SXS to help you make the right decisions for your ride.
Understanding Your SXS’s Current Capabilities
It’s essential to have a clear understanding of your SXS’s current capabilities before adding any modifications. Each vehicle comes with its own strengths and limitations based on its original design which includes suspension quality, engine power, and drivetrain setup.
One thing you absolutely can’t forget to do is check your owner’s manual for any manufacturer recommendations or restrictions to avoid overloading the suspension or straining engine components.
Another important step is to take your SXS for a few rides on rugged trails or sand dunes, so you can have a good idea of what your vehicle handles well and whether you should make any improvements.
You might also want to consider consulting with experts or professional tuners who can recommend modifications that complement your SXS’s strengths. Their expertise is invaluable, especially when you’re first starting out.
The bottom line is that modifying a machine without fully understanding its base performance can lead to unexpected results, potentially diminishing its efficiency or causing long-term damage.
The Importance of Setting a Budget
When modifying your SXS, the possibilities are nearly endless. You can upgrade your suspension system, boost engine performance, change tires, or improve your vehicle’s aesthetic appeal. However, with all these options comes one key consideration: cost.
Setting a budget early on helps you avoid overspending on modifications you don’t need. It also allows you to prioritize essential upgrades over cosmetic ones. You must have a realistic view of how much you’re willing to invest in your SXS and stick to that budget.
So, you must figure out your finances, but you can rest assured that modifications, such as new tires or suspension upgrades, can have a huge impact on your vehicle’s performance and are worth the investment. You should hold back on less important modifications, like lights or stereo systems, that can wait if you’re on a tighter budget.
Setting Yourself Up With Clutch Kit
Upgrading to an aftermarket clutch kit is a smart choice if you’re aiming for smoother gear transitions. These kits can adjust for various terrain types, so when you hit mud, sand, or rocky trails, you can handle it with ease.
A high-quality clutch setup means that you’ll have better speed and acceleration, making your ride more responsive while maintaining cooler operating temperatures to prevent the inevitable belt wear.
When purchasing a clutch kit, you should consider the specific terrain you frequent and the power demands of your UTV. It’s important to look for kits designed for off-road use, as they offer greater durability and temperature management.
You might also want to check if the kit includes features like adjustable weights and springs, allowing you to fine-tune performance to match your riding style.
Adjustable weights allow you to alter how quickly the clutch engages with the engine. Heavier weights engage the clutch faster, providing quicker acceleration, which is ideal for high-speed riding on flat terrain.
Springs, which control the clutch’s response and RPM engagement, also offer flexibility. Stiffer springs can increase your UTV’s RPM before the clutch engages, leading to a quicker throttle response, while softer springs engage at lower RPMs, providing smoother transitions for casual rides.
Choosing the Right Tires
One major modification you can make to your SXS is upgrading the tires. Tires are where your vehicle meets the terrain, so they directly influence performance, safety, and your riding experience.
You should consider the type of terrain you ride on most frequently. Do you tackle rocky trails, mud, sand, or hard-packed dirt? Each surface requires a different type of tire to ensure optimal grip and handling.
Tires specifically designed for mud, sand, or snow provide the grip and control necessary to safely navigate off-road environments. Mud tires feature deep, wide treads that can effectively dig into soft, muddy terrain to provide traction without getting clogged.
For desert rides, sand tires with paddle-like treads can help the vehicle float on top of the sand rather than sinking into it. And if you’re planning on taking your SXS out in the winter, snow tires often have aggressive treads with better grip on icy or snowy surfaces.
All-terrain tires provide a solid middle ground if you are a rider who frequently encounters various surfaces, while more specialized tires will enhance your SXS’s abilities in specific conditions. Remember, better tires often mean improved safety, so you don’t want to sacrifice quality to cut costs when choosing your wheels.
Enhancing Your Suspension
Suspension modifications are a popular upgrade for SXS owners looking to enhance performance and comfort. Manufacturers design stock suspensions for average use, but upgrading them can help with shock absorption, allowing for smoother rides over rough terrains.
Before making any changes, you need to think about how you use your SXS. Do you prefer casual weekend rides, or are you into high-speed desert races? If you frequently take your SXS on more demanding terrains, a high-performance suspension system will improve handling, reduce wear on other parts of your vehicle, and give you better control.
Boosting Engine Performance
Upping your engine performance is another popular modification for drivers who want more power. There are several ways to do this, from simple ECU tuning to more advanced turbocharging and exhaust modifications.
However, it’s important to recognize that increasing engine power places more demand on other parts of your SXS. Your cooling system, transmission, and brakes must have the capability to handle the extra power.
To keep your engine cool while maximizing its performance, you could add a new intercooler. Intercoolers create a cooler, denser air charge, which is especially useful when heading to warm climates. Optimized UTV intercoolers can ensure your engine runs efficiently in the desert or extreme heat.
It’s easy to get carried away with horsepower—as you shop, you need to remind yourself to balance performance upgrades with durability and safety. Unless you have a lot of knowledge about engine upgrades, you should only hire experienced professionals to make the modifications. They’ll know how each part will interact with the rest of the vehicle.
Fuel Injectors To Rev Your Engine
Upgrading the fuel injection system is the best way to make your engine perform at its best. Fuel injectors play a crucial role in delivering the right amount of fuel to your engine. If your engine isn’t receiving what it needs, this system should be the first thing you inspect for potential improvements.
An important tip is to select high-performance fuel injectors that fit your engine’s specifications. Injectors that are too large can flood the engine, harming efficiency and causing damage, while those that are too small may restrict power.
Elevate Your Adventure With a Lift Kit
Installing a lift kit is a fantastic way to get your UTV ready for more challenging off-road escapades. Raising your vehicle’s height makes your ride look impressive and increases ground clearance, protecting the undercarriage from potential damage and opening space for larger tires.
When choosing a lift kit, there are various options available, from body lifts that raise the vehicle’s height without altering suspension geometry to suspension lifts that improve handling and off-road capability. Suspension kits often include components like shocks and struts for improved ride quality, so it’s worth exploring those options.
Don’t forget that a lift kit may alter your vehicle’s center of gravity, which can impact handling. To counterbalance this, consider upgrading other components like sway bars and shocks to maintain stability. You’ll also want to have the right alignment and wheel adjustments after installation for a smooth, safe ride.
Safety First: Consider Protective Gear
When modifying your SXS, it’s important not to overlook safety. Side-by-side vehicles are fast and capable of conquering treacherous terrain, making safety equipment non-negotiable. Before making any modifications, you need to ensure they’re fun, safe, and worthwhile additions to your ride.
Modifications can significantly alter your UTV’s handling and performance, so it’s crucial to strike the right balance between thrill and safety. Adding harnesses, roll cages, and reinforced bumpers can provide additional protection, especially if you like pushing your SXS to its limits.
You should also always consider passenger safety. Proper seats, harnesses, and helmets can protect everyone in your vehicle if the unexpected happens. Modifications that focus on safety are investments that pay off in peace of mind.
Aesthetic Modifications: Personalizing Your SXS
While performance and safety should take precedence, personalizing the aesthetic of your SXS can make it feel like your own. You can get creative with LED light bars, custom wraps, and stylish accessories that give your ride a distinct look that reflects your personality.
However, balance is key here. Aesthetic modifications should complement the SXS without compromising its functionality. Take overly large or decorative bumpers, for example—they might make your vehicle stand out, but they could also affect the vehicle’s clearance and weight distribution.
Weight Distribution and Its Impact
Every modification you make to your SXS adds weight. Adding a winch, upgrading tires, or installing a roll cage all have weight implications. This additional weight can affect your SXS’s balance and handling, particularly in rough terrain or at high speeds.
Before making modifications, it’s crucial to think about how weight distribution will impact your SXS’s center of gravity and stability. If you’re unsure, consult with a professional or fellow enthusiast who has experience modifying their vehicles.
Sorting out the weight distribution isn’t a step you want to skip. Proper weight distribution will keep your SXS performing well and reduce the risk of rollover accidents or damage to the suspension system.
Legal Considerations for Modifying Your SXS
While it’s fun to enhance your SXS’s performance and appearance, you can’t forget about the legal side of things. Depending on where you live, you may face restrictions surrounding certain modifications, especially if you use your SXS on public roads.
Lift kits, exhaust modifications, and certain types of lighting may not be street-legal in your area. So, you should always check local laws and regulations before making changes to your SXS.
Finding the Right Parts and Accessories
Lastly, sourcing the right parts and accessories for your SXS will give your modifications the greatest chance for success. Choosing high-quality, reputable brands may cost more, but you’ll enjoy better durability and performance over time.
The first step is to carefully evaluate which aftermarket parts and accessories will best suit your vehicle. Aftermarket options provide incredible variety, but not every part is necessary or compatible with your UTV’s setup.
Choosing the right components can make a huge difference in performance and longevity, and rushing into purchases without proper consideration may lead to unnecessary spending or mechanical problems.
When shopping for parts, you may find yourself swayed by cheaper options, but cutting corners can lead to poor results or the need for more frequent replacements. It’s best to splurge on high-quality parts so that the cost of replacements doesn’t hit you in the wallet later on.
Online forums, user reviews, and fellow SXS enthusiasts can provide valuable insight into which brands and parts are the best fit. Whether upgrading your suspension, tires, or engine components, always look for reliability and positive feedback from others in the community.
Modifying your SXS can take your off-road experience to the next level, but it’s essential to approach any adjustments with a plan in mind. Understanding the 10 things to consider before modifying your SXS will help you make the most of your upgrades.
Whether adding new tires, boosting engine performance, or making your SXS look more personalized, each modification should make your riding experience that much better. When you’re ready to make your SXS uniquely yours, visit our website to find high-quality side-by-side aftermarket accessories. At DRT Motorsports, our products empower you to make modifications that are functional and long-lasting.