SXS Accessories To Maximize Your Off-Road Experience
Nothing beats the thrill and adrenaline of tackling rugged terrains in a side-by-side (SXS) vehicle. That’s why the right accessories aren’t just extras—they’re essential for pure off-road fun.
From functional add-ons to protective upgrades, the right gear will prepare your SXS for whatever challenges the trail throws its way. Read on to discover some of the top SXS accessories to maximize your off-road experience.
Camera Relocation Kit
Visibility is a critical factor when navigating rough trails. A camera relocation kit enhances your ability to see obstacles and terrain changes, especially in tight or tricky spots.
Many SXS vehicles come equipped with backup cameras, but their factory placement doesn’t always offer the best angles to see. Relocating the camera to a more strategic position, such as higher up the roll cage or further back, provides a wider field of view of what’s behind and better coverage to avoid unnecessary impacts, veering off the road, or other unforeseen issues.
If running cables through your SXS seems like a hassle, a wireless system can make installation easier while still giving you the visibility boost you need. Traditional wired setups can be tricky to install, especially on vehicles with custom modifications or enclosed cabins.
This minor change proves invaluable when reversing through dense forests or rocky trails. You can monitor your surroundings more effectively, avoiding hazards that could damage your SXS or, worse, leave you stranded.
Intrusion Bar
Safety is paramount in off-road driving, and an intrusion bar is a critical accessory for reinforcing your SXS’s structural integrity. These bars help keep you and your passengers safe by minimizing the risk of cabin deformation during rollovers or collisions.
Constructed from high-strength materials like steel or aluminum, intrusion bars are lightweight yet incredibly durable, providing an added layer of protection without compromising performance.
Along with their safety benefits, intrusion bars offer a mounting point for other accessories, such as lights or cameras. You should look for options that allow for easy customization, offering built-in mounting points for harnesses, grab handles, or even additional reinforcement bars. Their sleek design integrates seamlessly with your vehicle’s frame, maintaining its aesthetic appeal while delivering top-notch functionality.
If you plan on participating in off-road races or events, an intrusion bar may be required to meet safety regulations. Investing in one now ensures your SXS is competition-ready while keeping you safer on the trails.
Lighted Mirror Set
A lighted mirror set combines traditional side and rearview mirrors with integrated LED lighting, offering dual functionality. These mirrors illuminate your surroundings, making it easier to navigate low-light conditions.
The LED lights are tucked inside the mirrors' housing, providing a clean and streamlined look. They’re weatherproof and impact-resistant, ensuring they perform well in harsh off-road environments.
Adjustable mounting options allow you to position the mirrors for optimal visibility, accommodating different driver heights and preferences. Beyond practicality, a lighted mirror set adds a touch of style to your SXS, giving it a polished and modern appearance.
You’ll want to obtain high-lumen LEDs with adjustable beams, durable shatter-resistant glass, and weatherproof housing to withstand tough terrain. Bonus features like turn signals, Bluetooth, or dimmable lights are added perks.
Front Winch Bumper
Getting stuck is an inevitable part of off-roading, but with a front winch bumper, you can tackle any sticky situation. These bumpers accommodate a winch, which can pull your vehicle out of mud, sand, or snow. These bumpers also provide extra protection for the SXS’s front end, shielding it from rocks, branches, and other trail hazards.
Front winch bumpers typically consist of heavy-duty materials like steel or aluminum, providing durability without adding excessive weight. Many models also feature additional mounting points for accessories like LED light bars or tow hooks, enhancing their versatility.
Rock Guards
Your SXS's undercarriage takes a beating on rough trails, but rock guards can help minimize damage and keep your vehicle in top condition. You can mount these sturdy panels along the sides of your SXS, acting as a barrier between the vehicle and sharp rocks, tree stumps, and other obstacles.
Rock guards protect critical components like the chassis, suspension, and exhaust system by deflecting debris and preventing direct impact. High-quality rock guards typically consist of materials like steel, aluminum, or UHMW plastic, which offer excellent durability and resistance to impact. Some designs even feature textured surfaces for added grip when stepping in or out of the vehicle.
In addition to their protective benefits, rock guards can enhance your SXS’s appearance, giving it a rugged and aggressive look. For off-road enthusiasts who tackle challenging trails regularly, this accessory is an essential investment in performance and protection.
Skid Plates
While rock guards protect your SXS’s sides, skid plates shield the undercarriage from damage caused by rocks, logs, and uneven terrain. These plates cover key areas like the engine, transmission, and fuel tank, keeping your vehicle operational even in the harshest conditions.
Skid plates are particularly important for off-roaders who enjoy technical trails with steep climbs, sharp descents, and plenty of obstacles. Without them, the undercarriage is at risk of serious damage from rocks, logs, and uneven terrain.
Modern skid plates consist of materials like aluminum or UHMW plastic, striking the perfect balance between toughness and weight. They’re easy to install, with pre-drilled holes and bolt-on mounting systems. Some skid plates have drain holes for easier maintenance, allowing you to clean your SXS without removing the protective panels.
Passenger Grab Handle
Off-road adventures can become bumpy, and a passenger grab handle gives your co-pilot something sturdy to hold onto during the ride. This accessory provides additional stability and comfort for passengers, especially when navigating rough terrain or taking sharp turns. Mounted securely to the dashboard or roll cage, grab handles can withstand the jolts and vibrations of off-road driving.
Grab handles are made from tough materials like aluminum or high-strength plastic, so they can take the beating of off-road adventures. Some models feature ergonomic grips with padding or rubberized coatings for added comfort.
ABS Hood Scoop
An ABS hood scoop enhances your SXS’s look and improves its performance by increasing airflow to the engine compartment. Good airflow keeps the engine cool, especially on long, hot rides or tough conditions. A hood scoop channels fresh air into the engine bay, reducing the risk of overheating and improving efficiency.
ABS plastic is a popular material for hood scoops due to its durability, lightweight properties, and resistance to harsh environmental conditions. Many hood scoops are easy to install, with adhesive mounts or bolt-on systems that require minimal modifications to your vehicle.
Besides the practical perks, hood scoops give your SXS a sportier, more aggressive vibe. If you’re into off-roading and want something that looks great and works well, this accessory is a solid upgrade.
DRT Motorsports: Quality UTV Parts and Accessories
Outfitting your SXS with accessories to maximize your off-road experience allows you to tackle the most challenging terrains with confidence and ease. From a camera relocation kit that improves visibility to skid plates that protect your vehicle’s undercarriage, these upgrades will prepare you for any adventure.
Investing in quality UTV parts and accessories from DRT Motorsports is the key to maximizing your time on the trail. Visit our online shop today to find the perfect upgrades for your vehicle model.