If you are looking to have some fun by hitting the desert, buying a UTV should be on top of your purchase list. With a UTV, you can spend the whole day having a blast in the desert. However, there is no shortage of UTVs on the market that does well in almost every kind of terrain and even in the desert.
But certain UTVs work better when it comes to performing to sand compared to the others. Hence, if you are looking for the best UTV for desert racing, you need to find out the best performer. Continue reading the post to find out the best UTVs for an amazing desert ride and other valuable information.
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What to consider before buying?
When you are looking to buy the best side-by-side for an epic desert ride, you should consider a few important factors. And, they could either break or make your decision. Choose one with a poor design and you won’t stay protected.
Or, choose the wrong engine and it won’t be fast enough to keep up with the competition. Below are the most important factors that you should consider when looking for a UTV for desert racing.
1. Brand
There are plenty of UTV manufacturers that you find around when looking to buy one. So, would you stick to buying the vehicle from a lesser-known brand like CFMoto? Or, stick with popular brands such as Polaris and Yamaha?
Keep in your mind that almost every brand makes reliable UTVs and there is no doubt about it. For many people, the brand becomes important when it comes to great customer service and warranty. However, your focus should be on buying a UTV that can deliver sheer performance for many years to come.
2. Engine
One of the important considerations when buying a UTV for desert riding is to make sure that it has a powerful engine. For an epic ride in the desert, you should look out for a UTV that has a 900 to 1000cc engine.
Remember that when you are maneuvering through sand, a 900cc engine is a must-have. UTVs with smaller engine capacity than what is recommended won’t provide you the required power to have a great ride. However, for explorers or farmers, an 800cc engine or even less can get the job done.
3. Transmission
It is another important factor that you should consider. The transmission system that comes with the UTV has a crucial role to play when it comes to providing the required torque. In general, you can have three options for transmission: sequential, dual-clutch, and variable transmission.
Although CVT transmissions are quite popular and most riders like to have them in their vehicles, it might not be the right choice for you. That’s because, if you like to shift gears more often, you have to choose something else. Hence, a clear understanding of the transmission system that you are going to buy.
4. Seats
Are you planning to explore the desert alone? Or, want to have fun with a partner by your side? When it is to UTVs, the possibilities are endless. The best part is that UTVs can even accommodate 4 to 6 people depending on their construction.
So, if you intend to ride the UTV along with your partner, a few friends, or even your family, make sure that the UTV has got multiple seat arrangements. That way, you can share everything with the members on board that comes your way while riding on sand. Or else, a one-seat UTV will be perfect for you.
The best side by side models for desert riding
There is no denying that UTVs work great on desert terrain apart from other areas as well. So, if you are planning to take an epic desert ride in a UTV, you would love the experience. While some UTVs are built to suit urban areas, some others are made to match the terrain that a desert provides. Take a look at some of the best UTVs for a desert ride.
1. Polaris RZR XP Turbo
If you seek an impressive off-road experience like riding in the desert, the Polaris RZR XP Turbo should be the right UTV for your needs. The amazing power of the vehicle is felt through its 168 horsepower engine. So, this UTV can compete with other UTVs in terms of power and speed.
The clutch alignment in this vehicle has improved along with the airflow as well. As such, it has a longer belt life that allows it to keep on going for longer. The UTV has guards and bumpers so that it can protect itself from different kinds of obstacles.
Overall, the Polaris RZR XP Turbo has all the features that you need for an ultimate desert ride. Moreover, the bucket seats make sure that everyone in the UTV is comfortable enough for the ride.
2. Yamaha YXZ 1000R SS SE
The sleek design in the Yamaha YXZ 1000R SS SE makes it eligible for the best desert UTV. The liquid-cooled 998cc engine delivers the necessary power for the UTV to maneuver through the dunes with little effort. When you are riding this side-by-side, you won’t be left behind when racing.
Because Yamaha is a reputable brand, you can expect the best craftsmanship that comes with this model. It means that you are going to have a lot of fun in the upcoming years. In addition, this side-by-side uses hydraulic discs to make sure that the vehicle stops after hitting the brakes.
Apart from having an impressive engine, the chassis isn’t left far behind. It features the most adjustable and agile design that you can find in other UTVs. The vehicle focuses more on ergonomics to attain a comfortable ride throughout the journey.
The cabin is spacious and the seats are arranged in a way to provide endless adjustability. The comfort that you derive while riding this UTV over sand is unmatched compared to other vehicles in its class.
3. Honda Talon Fox Live Valve 1000R
When it is about providing the user with lots of fun in pen spaces such as deserts, the Honda Talon 1000r comes first. This UTV is easy on the driver because of the automatic DCT transmission system. It features an impressive launch mode that gives the vehicle the necessary boost to keep it going.
As such, your competitors will be amazed when you cross the finish line extremely quickly at greater speeds. Take advantage of this UTV with a robust twin-cylinder 999cc engine that never fails to deliver sheer performance. From the chassis to the suspension system and everything that comes between this UTV has got you covered.
The 4+ link suspension system in the rear and the Fox Live Valve makes it stand out from the rest in its class. Two people can ride this UTV safely. The build quality of the UTV is such that it provides a lot of protection to both the driver and the passenger. That way, you can have fun and peace of mind at the same time.
Caring tips
Because every UTV is different, you should have a good look at the owner’s manual and pay heed to all the recommendations that will help your vehicle stay in good shape. Despite that, there are some common maintenance tasks that all UTV owners must know.
And, these are quite important when it comes to keeping your vehicle in great condition. However, if you are looking for more riding tips, you can have all the information here.
1. Check the oil level and oil filter
For a smooth performance of your UTV, you should check the oil level and the condition of the oil filter. While these are basic maintenance tasks, most UTV owners neglect them. Hence, check the oil levels and status of the oil filter every time before taking your UTV for a ride.
2. Check the air filter
Keep in mind that your UTV won’t perform better if it has a dirty air filter. You can have easy access to the air filter on UTVs. So, check it regularly. While checking the filter, check the condition of the filter box as well. And, clean it as well. That’s because it can accumulate debris and dirt over time.
3. Check the coolant level
Keep a close eye on the UTVs coolant level and add whenever required. However, you don’t have to check the coolant level before every ride. But whenever you are planning to stay in the desert a little more time, checking the coolant reservoir is crucial.
4. Check the brakes
A healthy braking system contributes to the UTV’s functionalities and ensures your safety. Hence, check the brakes regularly before every ride to know whether or not they are working.
5. Check the tires
Tires are what make the UTV help maneuver through rough terrains. Hence, if the tires are good, the UTV performs well off-roading. Check the tire pressure before taking it out on a ride. Besides, pay attention to the condition of the tires if you are driven the vehicle for some time and the tires have experienced much wear.
