How To Choose the Right Side-by-Side for Trail Riding
Off-road riding has steadily grown since the inception of powersports. However, its popularity has surged over recent years, and for good reason. While ATVs and motorcycles still riddle the outdoors, side-by-sides (SxS) are establishing themselves as the heart of backcountry exploration, offering unique social experiences for those who love adventure.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to side-by-sides, selecting the ideal vehicle for the various landscapes you might encounter—dunes, desert, rock gardens, and woods, to name a few—can make all the difference. Discover how to choose the right side-by-side for trail riding to ensure you make the best choice for your excursions.
What Is Trail Riding?
Trail riding involves off-road navigation through marked and unmarked pathways, often across challenging terrain like dense alpine forests, technical rock gardens, and arid slippery wastelands. It demands a vessel that can handle rough conditions while providing a safe, comfortable experience.
Because of their versatility, capability, and capacity for gear and passengers, side-by-sides have become the go-to option for this pastime. They extend the boundaries of the wildlands we can explore while offering enough space to bring our loved ones along. But with so many types and styles available, how do you choose the right one?
Understand Your Needs
Before you start exploring different SxS models, it’s important to understand your specific needs. Are you looking for a vehicle that can handle more rugged routes? Do you want extra seating for family and friends? Or perhaps your performance preferences are focused on speed and handling?
Identifying your priorities will help you narrow the choices and ensure that your selection aligns with your riding goals. Better yet, you can try to find opportunities to test a variety of UTVs and SxS prior to your purchase—dealerships often host demo rides so customers can do exactly this. Alternatively, you can enjoy a more independent excursion with an off-road outfitter who either rents the brand you’re interested in or offers guided tours.
Keep Your Skill Level in Mind
If you’re new to off-roading or aren’t accustomed to handling that sort of power-to-weight ratio, long-distance suspension travel, and the exposure of most recreational and sport side-by-sides, then it’s imperative that you consider your skill level when shopping for your new rig. Even the 50 to 60 horsepower range is substantial enough to cause precarious situations.
If you don’t understand the depth of lean your vehicle can manage through turns, then the experience can become quite uncomfortable, if not dangerous. Now that rigs with 100hp and higher are available on the market, the need for thoughtful selection and driver education is that much more important.
It’s best to start with a lower cc than you think is necessary, then build up your confidence from there. If you’re not careful and take on too much horsepower with little experience, things can go south, and fast. This is also a reasonable argument for utilizing the aforementioned tour or rental service.
Take It for a Test Drive
Be sure to take your potential UTV for a test ride before committing to the buy, and keep in mind the seven S’s: stopping, starting, stability, smoke, speed, slippage, and sound. Noting these factors should give you a solid feel for the vehicle’s true condition and function. Your observations can also help you catch red flags before exchanging money.
Consider Key Features
There are several key features to take into account when choosing the right side-by-side for trail riding. Here are the most important elements you should consider:
Terrain
When picking a UTV, your go-to riding spot should be a major factor; you should ensure your side-by-side is equipped to handle the type of terrain that you encounter most frequently. Different terrains, such as rocky paths, muddy trails, and sandy dunes, require specific features.
If you’re hitting tight, rocky, winding trails, a narrower rig with proper torque, a strong skid plate, and the appropriate clearance will be your best bet. However, in wide-open deserts or dunes, a smaller vehicle might be less optimal than one with more top end power, length, girth, and greater suspension travel. In this case, a SxS with serious speed, stability, and maneuverability can maximize your fun.
Usage
Some UTVs are designed with a focus on towing and hauling, while others are for cruising, crawling, mudding, and sight-seeing. Then there are those built with velocity at its core. All serve specific purposes, and a few of them serve multiple.
For utility-focused tasks, you’ll need a UTV designed with practical features like higher towing and storage capacity, functions like a hydraulic bed, and maybe even an enclosed cab so you can stay active all year long. It’s best to look for models with customizable accessories, durability, and reliability, as well as a high payload capacity and strong drivetrain.
If your priority is action, there are certain side-by-sides designed to deliver performance at top speeds, whether on smooth dirt paths or rugged, uneven terrain. These UTVs come with formidable motors, advanced suspension systems, responsive steering, and various technological features, making them ideal for exciting adventures.
Suspension
Suspension is a crucial factor that affects how your SxS performs on trails. A good suspension system absorbs shocks from rough terrains, providing a smoother and more comfortable ride. Look for vehicles with adjustable suspension settings to tailor the ride quality to your needs.
Tires
Your choice of tires can dramatically influence your trail riding experience. Tires designed for off-road use are essential for maintaining traction and stability on uneven surfaces. Consider the type of tread pattern that best suits the trails you’ll be riding on, whether it’s mud, rocks, or sand, to make an informed choice.
Also, keep in mind that bigger tires offer increased ground clearance, better traction, and improved capability on rugged trails or in deep mud. This makes them perfect for more advanced riders who want to venture into tough off-road conditions. However, these tires can be heavier, which may reduce acceleration and put more strain on the engine.
On the other hand, smaller tires provide better maneuverability, quicker acceleration, and stability in situations that larger tires might be too much for, especially on tight trails or uneven terrain. While they offer less ground clearance, their lighter weight makes them easier to handle, particularly for beginners or in areas with lots of slow obstacles.
Power
Power is another critical consideration when choosing a SxS. Depending on your riding style—whether you prefer leisurely rides on flat trails or aggressive climbs on mountainous paths—and the specific trails you plan to conquer, you’ll need an engine that offers sufficient power and torque.
More powerful engines provide the muscle necessary to tackle steeper inclines and rougher terrains, allowing for a smoother and more enjoyable ride. Extra power can enhance your side-by-side’s overall performance, making it easier to accelerate quickly on challenging trails or effortlessly navigate obstacles. When selecting your vehicle, consider how often you encounter demanding terrain to ensure you choose an engine that matches your adventure aspirations.
Seating Capacity
Ensuring adequate seating capacity is essential if you plan to ride with family or friends. Side-by-sides come in different configurations, from two-seaters to four-seaters and even six-seaters. Choose a model that will accommodate the number of passengers you intend to take on your adventures.
Cargo Space
Cargo space is another key factor to keep in mind when choosing the right side-by-side for trail riding. Depending on your adventures, you may need ample storage for gear, supplies, or recreational equipment.
SxS vehicles typically offer various storage options, such as built-in cargo beds, racks, or compartments, to maximize space for coolers, tools, or camping gear. A well-designed cargo area enhances convenience and ensures you have everything you need for a day on the trails.
Additionally, sufficient cargo space aids in organization and weight distribution, improving handling and stability on rough terrains. Assessing your loading needs is essential to finding a side-by-side that fits your trail riding plans.
Safety Features
Off-road environments can pose unpredictable challenges, so it’s essential to invest in a vehicle designed with safety in mind. Features like roll cages, seat belts, and safety nets can significantly reduce injury risk during accidents or rollovers. Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) and traction control improve stability on slippery or uneven terrain, enhancing overall vehicle control.
It’s also important to consider safety measures like headlights and taillights for visibility in low-light conditions. By selecting a side-by-side with strong safety features, you can protect yourself and your passengers while gaining confidence to tackle any trail.
If you’re planning to take your UTV on outdoor adventures, make sure it has a built-in GPS to keep you from getting lost. While your phone might have GPS capabilities, it won’t help much if the battery dies while you’re out in the woods. A built-in GPS has your back when you need it.
Budget for the Right SxS
When it comes to investing in a side-by-side, there are a lot of things to take into account so you can set a reasonable budget. You not only need to consider the initial purchase price but also the costs associated with maintenance, upgrades, and accessories.
It’s important to prioritize the most important features and look for models that offer the best value for your money. UTV prices can fluctuate depending on the brand, model, and extra features. For a basic model, you might spend around $10,000. But if you’re eyeing a high-end UTV loaded with all the latest tech, the cost could easily exceed $30,000.
You should also keep in mind that unless you live in a place where you can legally plate your UTV, you’ll need a way to transport it. This means you’ll have to set aside a budget for a trailer, which can cost a pretty penny. And you’ll have to make sure your tow vehicle can handle the load of whatever you decide to bring home.
Explore Top SxS Models for Trail Riding
If you are wondering about popular SxS models, we have you covered. This is a list of top picks—each known for its performance, durability, and user satisfaction—that cater to various trail riding needs:
- Polaris RZR XP 1000: This model is known for its power and agility, making it perfect for tackling challenging terrain.
- Can-Am Maverick X3: This option offers excellent suspension and handling, making it ideal for rough trails.
- Yamaha YXZ1000R: This SxS is great for both beginners and experienced riders because of its reliability and comfort.
- Honda Talon 1000R: This vehicle’s durability and ease of handling make it a versatile choice for various trail conditions.
- Kawasaki Teryx KRX 1000: This SxS is known for its robust build and excellent off-road capabilities.
Understand the Importance of Maintenance and Upgrades
To keep your SxS in top condition, regular maintenance is essential for optimal performance and longevity. This involves routine checks on critical components like the engine, suspension, and tires to ensure everything functions properly. Timely oil changes and filter replacements are also crucial to maintaining engine health and efficiency.
In addition to regular upkeep, consider upgrading specific components to enhance your vehicle’s performance and adaptability. For instance, installing high-quality aftermarket tires can improve traction and handling on various terrains.
It’s also wise to consider the availability of spare parts for your selected model. If there is a need for repairs, easy access to replacement parts can save you time and hassle. Purchasing a model with readily available parts ensures smoother maintenance and quicker fixes, keeping you on the trails longer.
Furthermore, adding a winch can be invaluable for recovery situations, giving you peace of mind during your off-road adventures. Regularly evaluating and upgrading your SxS will enhance your riding experience and ensure your vehicle remains reliable in challenging conditions.
When picking out your UTV, don’t forget about creature comforts and accessories. They might not be crucial for durability, but they definitely make a difference in your ride. Things like enclosed cabs, heating, A/C, comfy seats, windshields, and work lights can really upgrade your experience. Just make sure any accessories you choose, especially aftermarket ones, fit your needs and your ride.
Choosing the right side-by-side for trail riding involves considering various factors like terrain, suspension, tires, power, and seating capacity. By understanding your needs and prioritizing key features, you can find a vehicle that enhances your off-road adventures. Don’t forget the importance of regular maintenance and thoughtful upgrades to keep your SxS performing at its best.
Ready to explore the top upgrade options for your SxS? Check out DRT Motorsports’ selection of RZR Turbo R parts today. We can help you elevate your riding experience to new heights.
