Side by Side Off Road Vehicle Guide for Beginners

Why More Americans Are Choosing a Side by Side Off Road Vehicle

The side by side off road vehicle has quietly become one of the most popular outdoor machines across the United States. Whether you’re exploring desert trails in Utah, navigating forest service roads in Colorado, or hauling gear on rural property, these vehicles are no longer niche—they’re mainstream.

In North America alone, the UTV market accounts for roughly 45% of global demand, and more than 70% of owners use their machines for both work and recreation. That hybrid use case—utility plus adventure—is exactly why the side by side off road vehicle stands out.

But here’s the reality most beginners run into: choosing one isn’t simple.

Between engine sizes, terrain compatibility, seating options, and safety features, the decision can quickly feel overwhelming. Many riders either overbuy (too much machine) or underbuy (not enough capability), leading to frustration later.

That’s where a structured approach matters.

Mars helps simplify the off-road experience with practical solutions designed for real riders—especially those who want gear and setups that actually work in the field, not just on paper.

What Is a Side by Side Off Road Vehicle?

Definition

A side by side off road vehicle—often called a UTV (Utility Task Vehicle) or SxS—is an off-road machine designed with:

• Side-by-side seating (typically 2–6 passengers)

• A steering wheel instead of handlebars

• Foot pedals for acceleration and braking

• A roll cage for safety

Unlike traditional off-road vehicles, the side by side off road vehicle is built to balance comfort, control, and capability. It’s essentially the bridge between rugged work equipment and recreational adventure vehicles.

UTV vs ATV

Understanding the difference between a side by side off road vehicle and an ATV is critical before making any decision.

For beginners and families, the side by side off road vehicle is usually the better choice due to its stability and versatility.

Why Side by Side Off Road Vehicles Are So Popular in the U.S.

Key Use Cases

The rise of the side by side off road vehicle isn’t random—it’s driven by how Americans actually use them:

• Trail riding (≈73%)
  Weekend exploration, national parks, and off-road trail systems

• Farm & property work (≈40%)
  Hauling tools, towing equipment, daily utility

• Hunting & outdoor trips
  Quiet access to remote areas

• Camping & overlanding
  Pairing perfectly with off-road trailers and mobile setups

If you’re already into camping, you’ll notice a natural overlap. Many riders combine a side by side off road vehicle with rugged trailers for extended trips.

Market Trends

The data backs it up:

• Over 60% of off-road vehicle sales now come from UTVs

• Recreational use accounts for more than half of ownership

• Demand is growing fastest in states with strong outdoor cultures (Utah, Arizona, Colorado, Texas)

Another key trend: overlanding integration.

More users are pairing a side by side off road vehicle with off-grid camping setups. If you’re exploring that route, this deep dive on Overlanding Travel Trailer USA Guide gives a solid overview of how vehicle + trailer systems work together.

How to Choose a Side by Side Off Road Vehicle

Choosing the right side by side off road vehicle comes down to clarity—not specs alone.

Step 1 – Define Your Use

Before anything else, ask:

• Are you riding trails on weekends?

• Working on land or a farm?

• Hunting in remote terrain?

• Planning multi-day overlanding trips?

Each use case changes what kind of side by side off road vehicle you actually need.

Step 2 – Engine & Power

Engine size determines performance—but more isn’t always better.

• Under 600cc → light utility, basic trails

• 600–800cc → balanced performance

• 800cc+ → best for aggressive terrain

For serious off-road conditions, most riders prefer an 800cc+ side by side off road vehicle for better torque and climbing ability.

Step 3 – Seating Capacity

• 2-seater → lighter, more agile

• 4-seater → better for families or groups

Keep in mind: more seats = more weight, which affects handling.

Step 4 – Terrain Compatibility

Not all side by side off road vehicles are built the same.

• Sand → requires power + wide tires

• Rocky terrain → needs high clearance + suspension

• Forest trails → compact size matters

This is where many beginners go wrong—they buy based on looks instead of terrain.

Step 5 – Safety Features

Never compromise here.

Essential features include:

• Roll cage protection

• Seat belts (or harness systems)

• Stability control

• Good braking system

Safety is especially important if you’re traveling in remote areas or pairing your vehicle with camping gear.

Side by Side Off Road Vehicle Checklist

Before buying or using a side by side off road vehicle, run through this checklist:

• ✔ Roll cage protection

• ✔ 4WD system

• ✔ Adequate ground clearance

• ✔ Strong cargo capacity

• ✔ Reliable lighting system

• ✔ Terrain-specific tires

For extended trips, your setup doesn’t stop at the vehicle.

Many experienced riders combine their vehicle with proper gear systems.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced riders make these mistakes when choosing a side by side off road vehicle:

Only Focusing on Horsepower

More power doesn’t always mean better performance—especially if your terrain doesn’t require it.

Ignoring Your Primary Use Case

Buying a trail-focused machine for farm work (or vice versa) leads to constant compromises.

Overlooking Terrain Needs

A vehicle that works in the desert might struggle in dense forests.

Skipping Safety Considerations

This is one of the biggest long-term regrets among new owners.

Real Use Cases

Trail Riding

A side by side off road vehicle shines in trail environments.

• Easy handling

• Great for families

• Ideal for weekend exploration

Farm & Work Use

Many U.S. landowners rely on these vehicles daily.

• Hauling tools

• Transporting supplies

• Covering large properties efficiently

Typical load capacity ranges between 1,000–1,500 lbs, making the side by side off road vehicle incredibly practical.

Hunting & Outdoor Exploration

For hunters and backcountry explorers:

• Quiet operation

• High mobility

• Access to remote areas

FAQ

What is a side by side off road vehicle?

A side by side off road vehicle is a multi-passenger off-road machine with a steering wheel, pedals, and side-by-side seating, designed for both work and recreation.

Is a UTV the same as a side by side?

Yes. UTV (Utility Task Vehicle) is the most common term, while “side by side off road vehicle” describes the seating layout.

What is the best use for a side by side off road vehicle?

It depends on your needs:

• Trails → recreation

• Farm work → utility

• Overlanding → adventure

Are side by sides good for beginners?

Yes. A side by side off road vehicle is generally safer and easier to control than an ATV, making it ideal for beginners.

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Right Side by Side Off Road Vehicle

Choosing the right side by side off road vehicle comes down to three priorities:

• Your primary use

• The terrain you ride on

• The safety features you need

Everything else is secondary.

As off-road travel continues to grow across the U.S., more riders are building complete systems—not just buying a vehicle, but creating a full outdoor setup that includes trailers, gear, and off-grid capability.

Mars focuses on making off-road adventures more comfortable and practical—helping riders move beyond basic trips into real, usable exploration.