Answered: Why are Side by Sides So Popular?
In 2017, the side by side, or UTV, market had a value of $4.12 billion U.S. dollars. And it's expected to grow by another 6.7% in the next 7 years.
Side by sides have been around since the 1970s, but they've clearly become more popular in the last few years.
What is it about these vehicles that have everyone racing to the nearest dealership? Read on to find out why the side by side has become everyone's must-have utility vehicle.
What is a Side by Side?
A side by side is a small vehicle that's designed to handle rough terrain. They have a steering wheel and can carry up to six people.
They're a happy medium between an ATV and a sport utility vehicle. They are also called UTVs, which stands for utility task vehicle or utility terrain vehicle.
The name "side by side" comes from the seat layout. These vehicles have two front seats that sit side by side.
More Affordable Than Sport Utility Vehicles
In the U.S., SUVs are a common vehicle choice. Not only do they fill the need for a regular vehicle, but they can also be taken off-roading. They're not cheap, though.
The base price of a 2019 Jeep Wrangler is $28,000, but upgrades can raise the price to $40,000 and above. Since this is a standard road-safe vehicle, you'll also have to pay for license registration fees and car insurance. These expenses can add thousands of dollars to the sticker price.
Even the most expensive UTVs are still cheaper than a basic Jeep. UTVs can range in price from about $6,000 to $25,000, depending on the seating capacity, engine size, and more. UTVs have a four-wheel drive and are designed to handle rough terrain like a Jeep, but they come at a fraction of the price.
Enjoy a Safer Ride
Compared to an ATV, a side by side is safer. A side by side is semi-enclosed and has a roll cage on top. If you roll over or hit something, you'll be more protected than you'd be on an ATV.
UTVs also have seatbelts. But, they're still open-air vehicles that don't have airbags. That's why you really need to invest in a UTV helmet for yourself and your passengers.
The Ride Will Be Comfortable
Because ATVs are designed with stiff suspension, they provide a dependable ride. An ATV feels very solid, but you'll also feel every rock and lump in the road. The stiff suspension has less grip, which means you can lose contact with the road if you hit a large bump.
In contrast, a side by side has a softer suspension. The soft suspension means that your tires will stay in contact with the ground. In other words, they'll have a better grip.
The flexible suspension also means it will be a smoother ride. You won't feel every single bump because the suspension will absorb it. You'll be able to focus on the scenery without getting jostled around.
UTVs are also easier to get in and out of than ATVs. If you have trouble with your back or hips, a side by side is the more comfortable choice.
Side by Sides Are Easy to Drive
UTVs are built like cars, which means that car drivers won't have a problem learning to drive a side by side. You won't have to waste time learning to drive your UTV; you can start driving it right away.
UTVs also benefit from having bucket or bench seats like you'd find in a car. These seats are more comfortable for long rides. You have to straddle an ATV seat, so your back and legs might get tired on long rides.
When it comes to learning how to use an ATV, there's a bit of a learning curve. It might feel familiar for motorcycle or scooter riders, but a car driver will have to learn the hand controls.
Room for Family and Friends
The side by side setup is popular with riders who want to take friends and family along. UTVs can carry between two to six passengers at once, depending on the model you choose.
You can explore rough terrain, give a tour of your property, or head to the campground restaurant with guests in tow. Plus, you'll know that your passengers will be safe.
ATVs can safely carry up to two passengers, but it's not very comfortable. Plus, it's nearly impossible to talk to your passenger since they're sitting behind you, just like on a motorcycle. And in many U.S. states, ATV helmets are required by law.
Between the helmets and the seat arrangement of an ATV, it can be difficult to talk or share a fun experience with your passenger. That's why they're better suited for solo riders.
Haul, Tow, or Carry Heavy Loads
A side by side is great for recreation, but it can do so much more than that. They're used by farmers, hunters, construction workers, military operations and more.
Many UTVs have a small truck bed in the back for carrying tools or supplies. UTVs are also great for towing equipment. Depending on the model, a side by side can tow at least several hundred pounds and even up to one ton.
Get Your Own Side by Side Today
Whether you want to go off-roading with your family or you need a practical vehicle for your farming operation, side by sides can do it all. Plus, they're comfortable, safe, and more affordable than an SUV.
If you're interested in a UTV, check out our complete side by side inventory.
