The Ultimate Guide to Side by Side UTV Widths for Riders
Why UTV Width Matters for Riders
Are you wondering how wide is a side by side utv? The width of a Side by Side UTV is more than just a number; it affects performance, trail compliance, and overall usability. Here's a quick guide to UTV widths to address your immediate search intent:
- 50 inches: Narrow models ideal for ATV trails.
- 60-65 inches: Common width for most models, balancing stability and maneuverability.
- Over 65 inches: Wider models designed for open terrain and utility tasks.
Side by side UTVs are gaining popularity due to their versatility. Whether you need a vehicle for recreational fun or heavy-duty work, these machines can handle it all. They are larger and more powerful than traditional ATVs, making them suitable for both rough trails and work environments.
My name is Robert Resz, founder of Rad UTV Parts. With years of off-roading experience, I understand how wide is a side by side utv can make or break your trip. From compact trails to wide-open spaces, I've encountered it all and am excited to share my insights with you.
How wide is a side by side utv terms simplified:
What is a Side by Side UTV?
A Side by Side UTV (Utility Terrain Vehicle), also known as a SxS, is a four-wheeled vehicle designed for off-road trips and work tasks. Unlike traditional ATVs where riders sit one behind the other, Side by Sides have side-by-side seating for two or more passengers. This design not only offers a more comfortable and sociable experience but also provides added stability and safety.
Seating Arrangement
In a Side by Side UTV, the seating arrangement allows passengers to sit next to each other, hence the name "Side by Side." This seating setup improves the driving experience, making it more enjoyable for outdoor activities and practical for work-related tasks. The extra seating space also means you can carry more passengers or gear, making these vehicles incredibly versatile.
Types of Side by Side UTVs
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Utility Side by Sides: Built for work, these models have a robust build, larger cargo beds, and more towing capacity. They are ideal for farming, ranching, or construction tasks. Utility Side by Sides can handle heavy loads and tough terrain.
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Recreational Side by Sides: Designed for fun and trip, these models focus on comfort, speed, and performance. They are perfect for trail riding, exploring nature, or enjoying a day out in the outdoors. Features often include improved suspension systems, comfortable seating, and even audio systems for an enjoyable ride.
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Sport Side by Sides: For those seeking an adrenaline rush, sport Side by Sides offer high performance and speed. They are lighter, faster, and designed for high maneuverability, making them ideal for racing or high-speed off-roading.
Common Uses
Side by Side UTVs are incredibly versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes:
- Outdoor Recreation: Hunting, fishing, trail riding, and exploring.
- Work Settings: Agriculture, property maintenance, construction, and public services.
- Sport: Racing and high-speed off-roading.
Their ability to steer rough terrains and tight spaces, coupled with increased cargo capacity and seating, makes them an efficient choice for many professionals and trip seekers alike.
Why Choose a Side by Side UTV?
The growing appeal of Side by Side UTVs stems from their versatility. They offer more seating capacity, better safety features, increased comfort, and improved utility compared to traditional ATVs. Whether you're looking for a vehicle for recreational use, sport, or work, there is a Side by Side UTV that fits the bill.
In the next section, we'll dive deeper into the standard dimensions of Side by Side UTVs, focusing on their width, length, and height. Understanding these dimensions is crucial for choosing the right UTV for your needs.
Standard Dimensions of Side by Side UTVs
When choosing a Side by Side UTV, understanding its dimensions is crucial. Let's break down the typical width, length, and height of these vehicles, and why these measurements matter for performance and usage.
Width Range
The width of Side by Side UTVs generally falls between 50 inches to 65 inches. Some specialized models, especially those designed for high performance or specific work tasks, may be wider.
- 50 inches: Ideal for narrow trails and dense forests. Provides better maneuverability.
- 65 inches: Offers more stability and comfort, better for open spaces and high-speed conditions.
Length and Height
Length: Typically ranges from 105 inches to 135 inches. Longer UTVs can carry more passengers and cargo but may be less nimble.
Height: Usually between 72 inches and 78 inches. Taller models can offer better ground clearance but may be harder to store.
Importance of Dimensions
Trail Compliance
Many off-road trails have width restrictions to protect the environment and ensure safety. Knowing your UTV’s width ensures you can access your desired trails without any issues.
Stability
Wider UTVs are generally more stable, especially on rough terrain or at higher speeds. This can be a significant safety factor, reducing the risk of tipping over.
Maneuverability
Narrower UTVs excel in tight spaces and technical trails. They are easier to steer through dense forests or narrow paths.
Transportation and Storage
The dimensions of your UTV also affect how easily you can transport and store it. Wider and taller models might require special trailers and more storage space.
Comparison with Traditional ATVs
Compared to traditional ATVs, Side by Side UTVs are generally wider and offer a more stable ride due to their larger footprint. This added width provides more room inside the vehicle, allowing for side-by-side seating and additional cargo space. However, the increased size can be a limitation in very narrow trails or tight spaces, where a traditional ATV might have an advantage.
Understanding these dimensions helps you choose the right Side by Side UTV for your specific needs, whether it's for work, recreation, or sport.
In the next section, we'll explore the importance of UTV width in terms of performance and usage, diving deeper into how these dimensions affect your riding experience.
How Wide is a Side by Side UTV?
When asking "how wide is a side by side UTV," the answer varies based on the model and its intended use. Generally, Side by Side UTVs have widths ranging from 50 inches to 65 inches. Some specialized models can be even wider.
Standard Widths
50 Inches: UTVs with a width of 50 inches are perfect for narrow trails and dense forest paths. They offer superior maneuverability, making them ideal for technical terrain where space is limited.
65 Inches: These models provide more stability and comfort, especially at higher speeds or on rough terrain. They are better suited for open spaces and high-performance activities.
Specialized Models
Some UTVs are designed for specific tasks or high-performance needs and can exceed the standard width range. These specialized models might be used for desert racing, dune bashing, or heavy-duty work tasks. For instance, certain high-performance models have a width of 64 inches, providing excellent stability and performance.
Performance and Usage
Trail Regulations
Many off-road trails have width restrictions to protect the environment and ensure safety. Knowing the width of your UTV is crucial for trail compliance. For example, in Wisconsin, UTVs must be 65 inches or narrower to be legally registered.
Stability
A wider UTV generally offers more stability, which is essential for safety, especially on uneven terrain or at high speeds. This reduces the risk of tipping over, providing a more secure ride.
Maneuverability
Narrower UTVs excel in tight spaces and technical trails. They are easier to steer through dense forests or narrow paths, making them ideal for certain types of off-roading.
Practical Example
Consider a high-performance model that is 64 inches wide. It offers excellent stability and performance but might be too wide for some trails with strict width limits. On the other hand, a model that is narrower at 60 inches can be more versatile for various trail conditions.
Key Points
- 50 inches: Best for narrow trails and technical terrain.
- 65 inches: Offers better stability and comfort, ideal for open spaces.
- Specialized models: Can exceed 65 inches, designed for specific high-performance needs.
Understanding the width of a Side by Side UTV helps you choose the right vehicle for your specific needs, whether it's for trail riding, work tasks, or high-speed trips.
In the next section, we'll dive deeper into the importance of UTV width in terms of performance and usage, and how these dimensions affect your riding experience.
Importance of UTV Width in Performance and Usage
Trail Compliance
UTV width is crucial for trail compliance. Many trails have width restrictions to protect natural resources and ensure safety. For example, some trails allow only UTVs that are 50 inches or narrower. This restriction helps prevent damage to the environment and keeps the trails safe for all users.
Wisconsin is a state with strict width regulations. UTVs must be 65 inches or narrower to be legally registered. Knowing your UTV's width ensures you can ride on designated trails without breaking the law.
Stability
A wider UTV generally offers more stability. This is especially important on rough or uneven terrain. Wider models, like those that are 64 inches to 72 inches, provide a lower center of gravity, reducing the risk of tipping over. This stability is crucial for safety, particularly at higher speeds or during sharp turns.
Maneuverability
Narrower UTVs excel in maneuverability. They can steer tight spaces and technical trails more easily. UTVs that are 50 inches wide are perfect for dense forest paths and narrow trails. They offer superior agility, allowing riders to tackle challenging terrains with ease.
Transportation and Storage
UTV width also affects transportation and storage. Narrower UTVs fit more easily on standard trailers and in garages. For example, a 50-inch UTV is easier to transport on a 5' x 12' trailer compared to a wider model. This convenience can save time and effort when moving your UTV from one location to another.
Comparison with Traditional ATVs
Traditional ATVs are generally narrower than UTVs. This makes them more nimble but also less stable. UTVs, with their side-by-side seating and wider stance, offer more stability and comfort. They are better suited for carrying passengers and cargo, making them more versatile for both recreational and work purposes.
Key Points
- Trail Compliance: Ensures you can ride legally on designated trails.
- Stability: Wider UTVs provide better stability, reducing the risk of tipping.
- Maneuverability: Narrower UTVs are more agile, ideal for tight trails.
- Transportation and Storage: Narrow UTVs are easier to transport and store.
- Comparison with ATVs: UTVs offer more stability and versatility compared to traditional ATVs.
Understanding the importance of UTV width helps you choose the right vehicle for your needs, ensuring a safe and enjoyable riding experience.
Next, we'll explore some popular Side by Side UTV models and their widths to help you make an informed decision.
Popular Side by Side UTV Models and Their Widths
When choosing a side-by-side UTV, knowing the width is crucial as it affects everything from trail access to stability. Below are some popular models along with their widths to help you decide which UTV best fits your needs.
Polaris RZR XP 1000
Width: 64 inches
The Polaris RZR XP 1000 is a top pick for those who crave speed and stability. Its 64-inch width provides excellent stability, especially on rough terrain. This model is ideal for high-speed desert racing and offers a thrilling ride with its powerful engine and off-road capabilities.
Can-Am Maverick Trail 1000
Width: 50 inches
For those needing a UTV that fits narrow trails, the Can-Am Maverick Trail 1000 is an excellent choice. At just 50 inches wide, it complies with most trail width restrictions, making it highly versatile. This model is ideal for recreational use in dense forests and narrow paths, with impressive handling in tight spaces.
Honda Pioneer 1000-5
Width: 63 inches
The Honda Pioneer 1000-5 is slightly narrower at 63 inches, offering a good balance of stability and maneuverability. It's designed for both work and play, making it perfect for trail riding, light off-road use, and utility tasks. It provides a comfortable ride while offering plenty of power and reliability.
These models showcase a range of widths and performance capabilities, helping you find the perfect UTV for your specific needs. Whether you need a narrow model for tight trails or a wider one for stability at high speeds, there’s a UTV that fits the bill.
Factors Affecting UTV Width
When considering how wide a side-by-side UTV is, several key factors come into play. Let's break them down:
Suspension
The suspension system significantly affects the width of your UTV. Long travel suspension kits can add several inches to the overall width, enhancing stability and ride comfort. These kits are popular for desert and dune riding, where a wider stance helps maintain control at high speeds.
Wheels and Tires
Upgrading to larger wheels and tires can also increase your UTV's width. While these upgrades improve traction and ride quality, they can push your UTV beyond the trail width limits. Always measure your vehicle after any wheel or tire modifications to ensure compliance with trail regulations.
Aftermarket Modifications
Adding accessories like portal gear lifts can add up to four inches per side, as mentioned in the research. These modifications not only boost your UTV's height but also its width, affecting trail access and transportation needs.
Long Travel Kits
Long travel kits are designed for those who need extra suspension travel. These kits can make your UTV up to 72 inches wide, offering more stability and better performance on rough terrains. However, this added width can limit your trail options and make the vehicle more challenging to transport.
Snow Tracks
Installing snow tracks can also increase the width of your UTV. While they provide excellent traction in snowy conditions, they can add significant width, making it difficult to fit on narrow trails or into standard trailers.
Portal Gear Lifts
Portal gear lifts add width by extending the wheel hubs outward. This modification is popular for those needing extra ground clearance and torque. However, it’s crucial to remember that this will make your UTV wider, potentially restricting trail access.
Understanding these factors will help you make informed decisions about your UTV's width, ensuring you get the best performance while complying with trail regulations. Next, we'll answer some frequently asked questions about UTV widths to help you further.
Frequently Asked Questions about Side by Side UTV Widths
What side-by-sides are 50 inches wide?
Side-by-sides that are 50 inches wide are designed to fit on most ATV trails, which often have a maximum width restriction of 50 inches. These narrower models are perfect for tight trails and dense forests.
How wide is a full-size UTV?
Full-size UTVs generally range from 60 inches to 65 inches in width. These wider models provide more stability and comfort, especially in rough terrains.
60-inch UTVs offer a great mix of performance and maneuverability, while 65-inch UTVs provide even more stability and room for passengers and cargo. That some trails have width restrictions, so always check the regulations before heading out.
How wide of a trailer do you need for a UTV?
The width of the trailer you need depends on the width of your UTV. For most UTVs, a 6.5' x 10' trailer is sufficient. This size can accommodate UTVs up to 65 inches wide and provides enough length for most models.
For narrower UTVs, a 5' x 12' trailer might be a better fit, especially if you need more maneuverability when transporting. Always ensure that the trailer width is slightly more than your UTV's width to allow for easy loading and unloading.
Understanding the width of your UTV and the appropriate trailer size is crucial for safe and convenient transportation. Next, we'll explore the importance of UTV width in performance and usage.
Conclusion
Understanding how wide a side by side UTV is can make a big difference in your off-road experience. From navigating narrow trails to ensuring stability on rough terrains, the width of your UTV plays a crucial role in its performance and usability. Whether you're looking for a 50-inch model to fit tight trails or a full-size 65-inch UTV for added stability, knowing the dimensions helps you make an informed decision.
At Rad UTV Parts, we specialize in high-quality UTV accessories and parts. We offer a wide range of products, from wheels and tires to exhaust systems and clutches, all designed to improve your UTV experience. Our commitment to unbeatable prices and our Price Match Guarantee ensures you get the best value for your money.
If you're in the market for UTV accessories, check out our extensive selection. Our products are built to conquer the toughest terrains and come with a 30-day no-questions-asked return policy and no restocking fees. Plus, all products include a 1-3 year manufacturer warranty for your peace of mind.
Ready to upgrade your UTV? Visit Rad UTV Parts for the best accessories and unbeatable prices. Let's make your off-road trips even more thrilling!