UTV Buying Guide
SIM | 07/07/2020
Shopping for a UTV is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. There is a seemingly endless amount of options. With so many models and features to explore, where do you even start?
Here at Southern Illinois Motorsports, we strive to make your life easier. We've created the following side-by-side buyer's guide to help aid your search. If you have questions or want to shop UTVs for sale, head over to our powersports dealership in Carbondale, Illinois!
Decide The Purpose Of Your UTV
Many side-by-sides are made with a specific use in mind. They offer the features and specifications needed to excel at certain tasks. Think about the ways you'll use the UTV and the types of models that will best match.
If you'll be tackling property maintenance tasks, look for:
- high towing and hauling capacity
- enough storage space to transport your tools and materials
- comfortable seating for those long work hours
If you'll be enjoying recreational riding, seek out:
- high speed potential so you can enjoy adrenaline rushes
- more compact frames that can fit width-restricted trails
- high ground clearance so you can plow over obstacles on the trail
If you'll be using the UTV on hunting trips, consider:
- a quieter running model so that the engine doesn't scare game away
- a camouflage exterior to help the side-by-side blend in
Decide The Passenger Capacity
Next, think about how many people will be riding in the UTV. Maybe you want to bring along extra hands to help with a project. Maybe you want to take your family for a thrilling ride. Whatever the situation, figure out how many seats the side-by-side needs to offer. Models can fit anywhere from two to six riders, so make sure to get a model with enough seats for everyone.
Consider The Terrain
Next, factor in any unique challenges to the terrains you'll be exploring. For example, maybe you want to explore muddy or sandy areas. Get a model made with those terrains in mind.
Or maybe you want to explore rocky areas. Get a model with high ground clearance. That way, the UTV can cruise over the obstacles without getting damaged.
Consider Extra Safety Features
Every side-by-side will come with standard safety features. But you may want to get even more. Common safety upgrades include windshields, side doors, and a full cab enclosure. These can help protect you from hazards during the ride, such as kicked-up debris or low-hanging branches. They also add extra protection in the event of a crash.
We recommend all riders invest in extra safety features. New riders often make mistakes as they learn how to ride, which can create increased safety threats. Experienced riders take on more challenging trails, which can pose more serious safety threats. Whatever your experience level is, you can benefit from getting extra safety features.
Decide What Accessories To Get
There are plenty of accessories that improve the enjoyment of a UTV ride. For example, you could get a hard or soft top roof. It'll protect riders from unrelenting sun, rain, and so on. That way, you can still hit the trail when the weather is less-than-ideal. Spend some time researching side-by-side accessory options, then include the ones you want to get into your budget.
Ready to shop side-by-sides for sale? Check out the selection at Southern Illinois Motorsports. If you aren't sure which model to get, let our expert staff help. Simply tell us about your budget and lifestyle so that we can suggest the models that best meet your needs. We proudly serve those in St. Louis, Missouri, as well as Murphysboro and Marion, Illinois!