UTV Buyer's Guide... Part 2!

Welcome back to the MASSFX UTV Buyer’s Guide! Last week we covered the more work related UTVs. Now we’re going to go over the recreational UTV class. On a side note, we will probably start referring to these as a SXS (Side-by-Side) since that is what most of the UTV world refers to these UTVs as. Two of the biggest differences between the side-by-sides in this class are engine size/power and suspension. These vehicles are built for speed so they need to have great suspension to handle all that the rider will put it through. So let’s get started!

We’ll follow last week’s pattern and start with Polaris. They have been making the RZR since 2007 and it does nothing except get better year after year. Their newest models have engines that can put out as much as 168 HP, now that’s a lot of ponies! The new RZR Dynamix Edition even has an intelligent suspension system that adjust itself as you’re driving. There are so many options and packages that Polaris offers with the RZR. This allows the rider to find a vehicle that is suited for them and their needs. When asked what the best SXS is, most people will say the RZR, and for good reason. In fact, in 2016 RideNow Powersports had three different models of the RZR as their number one, two and fourth best sellers. Polaris has definitely been leading the recreational SXS pack over the past few years; however, the following vehicles are going to show that they can hang in with the best of them.

Next we’ll move on to the Can-Am Maverick X3. This vehicle is going to make even the most loyal Polaris owner think twice before buying another RZR. Their bread winner, the Maverick X3 Max X RS Turbo R, puts out a whopping 172 HP. This vehicle goes 0-60 MPH in just 4.4 seconds, which is unprecedented in the SXS world. This vehicle also features a very ergonomic cockpit with plenty of handholds and 4-way adjustable seats. The only downside to the Maverick is the price point; however, if price is not a problem then definitely give this vehicle a look!

Another popular SXS on the market is the Kawasaki Teryx. The Teryx may not be the biggest and baddest SXS on the block but it can still handle just about anything you can throw at it. It’s equipped with a 783cc V-twin engine that offers up to 47 lb-ft of torque. The suspension makes for a smooth and comfortable ride thanks to the Fox Piggyback Shocks. The Teryx is built to dominate the trails with its tight turning radius and EPS. The Teryx may not be most people’s first option when looking for a SXS; however, it shouldn’t be counted out completely.

The last SXS we’ll review is the Yamaha YXZ 1000R. This vehicle is built for the sole purpose of being a sport SXS. The YXZ has a 998cc DOHC inline three-cylinder engine that just screams speed! It also has a 5-speed manual transmission that gives the driver more of a true driving experience. This transmission is also more efficient than most automatic CVTs. There is too much new technology that Yamaha has packed into this YXZ to write about in one paragraph. You just need to go drive it for yourself and feel the difference!

Here is a list of links to view photos and more specs of the vehicles we covered in the article.

Polaris RZR: https://rzr.polaris.com/en-us/

Can-Am Maverick X3: https://can-am.brp.com/off-road/maverick-x3.html

Kawasaki Teryx: https://www.kawasaki.com/category/sidexside

Yamaha YXZ 1000R: https://www.yamahamotorsports.com/pure-sport-side-by-side/models/yxz1000r

We hope this helped you decide which SXS to look at or even consider options you hadn’t thought about yet. Now it’s up to you to decide!

Remember, the quicker you get behind the wheel of SXS, the quicker you can start Doing Fun Right.