How Much Does a Side by Side Weigh? Key Considerations for Choosing the Right Model

When you're in the market for a side-by-side (SxS), understanding the weight of the vehicle is a crucial aspect that can often be overlooked. Whether you plan to use your SxS for recreational off-roading, work, or hauling, knowing how much does a side by side weigh is essential for making the right purchase. The weight of your side-by-side affects its performance, towing capacity, fuel efficiency, and even its ability to handle various terrains.

In this article, we will explore the factors that influence the weight of side-by-side vehicles, how weight affects performance, and what you should consider before choosing the right model for your needs.

The Influence of Weight on Side-by-Side Performance

The weight of a side-by-side plays a pivotal role in determining its overall performance. Whether you’re tackling challenging terrain or navigating through tight trails, the weight of the vehicle can impact your experience in the following ways:

1. Handling and Maneuverability

Lighter side-by-sides are typically easier to maneuver, especially in tight or technical terrain. A vehicle with less weight is more agile, making it ideal for trail riders who value quick handling and responsiveness. On the other hand, heavier side-by-sides offer more stability on rough, uneven surfaces. They perform better when navigating steep hills, deep mud, or loose gravel, as their additional weight provides more traction and control.

2. Towing Capacity

The weight of your side-by-side also impacts how much weight it can tow. Generally, heavier vehicles can carry larger loads without compromising safety or stability. If you plan on using your side-by-side to haul trailers, equipment, or other heavy loads, you’ll need a model with sufficient weight to handle these tasks.

3. Fuel Efficiency

Heavier vehicles typically consume more fuel because they require more power to move. If fuel efficiency is important to you, particularly for long-distance rides or when covering challenging terrain, it’s worth considering how the weight of the vehicle can impact your overall fuel consumption. Lighter models are often more fuel-efficient, but they may not have the power needed for hauling or towing.

4. Storage and Transportation

The weight of the vehicle can also affect how easy it is to transport. If you plan to load your side-by-side onto a trailer or into a truck bed, the weight will impact the type of equipment you need. Lighter vehicles are easier to load, requiring less towing power and smaller trailers. Heavier side-by-sides, however, require more robust transportation options to ensure safe hauling.

Average Weight of Side-by-Sides

While side-by-sides come in a range of weights, we can group them into several categories based on the type and intended use of the vehicle. Here’s an overview of the average weights based on vehicle types:

1. Sport Side-by-Sides (Under 1,200 Pounds)

Sport models are designed with speed and agility in mind. These vehicles are typically lighter, allowing for quicker handling and better performance on trails. Sport side-by-sides are ideal for those who want to enjoy an exciting off-roading experience with minimal weight holding them back.

• Average weight: 900 to 1,200 pounds

• Examples: Can-Am Maverick Sport, Polaris RZR 570

2. Recreational Side-by-Sides (1,200 to 1,500 Pounds)

Recreational side-by-sides are versatile, offering a blend of off-road capability, comfort, and utility. These vehicles often come with larger engines and more features than sport models, and while they may be slightly heavier, they still maintain an optimal balance between performance and convenience.

• Average weight: 1,200 to 1,500 pounds

• Examples: Yamaha Wolverine X4, Honda Pioneer 700

3. Utility Side-by-Sides (1,500 to 2,000 Pounds)

Utility-focused side-by-sides are built to handle tough work environments, with strong frames, large engines, and a higher payload capacity. These vehicles are generally heavier due to their focus on towing, hauling, and handling rougher terrain.

• Average weight: 1,500 to 2,000 pounds

• Examples: Polaris Ranger 1000, Can-Am Defender

4. Heavy-Duty Side-by-Sides (2,000+ Pounds)

For the most demanding tasks, heavy-duty side-by-sides offer significant towing capacity and payloads, making them ideal for commercial use, farming, or construction. These vehicles are the heaviest in the category, with larger engines, reinforced frames, and more features.

• Average weight: 2,000+ pounds

• Examples: Kawasaki Mule PRO-FX, Honda Pioneer 1000-5

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Side-by-Side Weight

The weight of a side-by-side isn’t just a number—it affects the vehicle's performance, practicality, and suitability for your specific needs. Here’s what to think about when choosing a side-by-side based on weight:

1. Primary Use

Think about how you plan to use the vehicle. If you need a side-by-side for leisurely off-roading with some friends, a lighter model might be the best choice for easier handling. On the other hand, if your goal is to haul materials, tow trailers, or perform heavy-duty work, you’ll need a heavier model capable of handling such tasks.

2. Terrain Type

The type of terrain you plan to tackle is another important consideration. For aggressive trail riding or navigating steep hills and rough surfaces, heavier vehicles provide the traction and stability needed. However, lighter models excel on smooth trails and flat ground, offering better speed and maneuverability.

3. Passenger and Cargo Needs

The number of passengers and amount of cargo you need to carry will impact the weight of the vehicle you choose. Heavier models are often designed with larger seating capacities and cargo space, making them more suitable for families or those who need to transport gear.

4. Towing and Payload Requirements

If you’ll be using the side-by-side for towing or carrying heavy loads, pay close attention to the towing capacity, which is often correlated with weight. Heavier models generally provide more towing power, so make sure to select a side-by-side that matches your hauling needs.

5. Transport and Storage

Consider how you'll transport and store the side-by-side. Heavier models will require more substantial trailers and towing equipment. Lighter vehicles are generally easier to handle when it comes to transportation, but if you’re traveling long distances, a heavier vehicle with added stability might offer more comfort and better control.

Conclusion

Understanding how much does a side by side weigh is an important factor in choosing the right UTV for your needs. The weight of a side-by-side affects performance, towing capacity, fuel efficiency, and even ease of transport. Whether you’re after a lightweight sport model for fast-paced trail rides or a heavier utility model for rugged work conditions, knowing the average weight of different UTVs will help you make the right choice.

Consider your intended use, the terrain you plan to ride, and the number of passengers or gear you’ll be carrying. By evaluating these factors, you’ll be able to select a side-by-side that offers the perfect balance of weight, performance, and utility.