10 Essential UTV Accessories for Newbies
When you’re ready to take your UTV side by side to the next level, side accessories are where the real fun begins. Whether you’re rolling in a Can-Am or another top brand, the right upgrades can transform your machine from basic to beast. UTV side accessories aren’t just about looking good—they’re about making your ride safer, more comfortable, and better suited for the type of work or play you love. From heavy-duty recovery gear to advanced lighting solutions, there’s a world of options to explore. Think about the terrain you’ll be tackling and the goals you have for your UTV. With the right side accessories, you can customize your vehicle to fit your needs, whether you’re hauling gear, hitting the mud, or just cruising with friends. Upgrading your UTV isn’t just an investment in your machine—it’s an investment in every adventure you’ll have out on the trails.
Introduction to UTV Side Accessories
So, you are new to UTVs, or are semi-experienced and searching for the best UTV accessories to add to your ride. You came to the right place. This article is specifically crafted for new and semi-experienced UTV owners who want to get the most out of their vehicles. We’ll focus on the most essential and best UTV accessories that you can order today, with an emphasis on improving safety, comfort, and performance.
UTVs are fun, but you will soon find that some accessories are vital to ensuring a great day on the trails, and overall providing you with a much better off-roading experience. Many UTV accessories are designed to enhance performance, increase safety, and elevate comfort levels. Custom UTV accessories are available for a variety of different makes and models, so you can find the perfect fit for your specific vehicle.
Continue reading to see the 10 Most-Essential UTV Accessories for Newbies...
Summary: Most Essential UTV Accessories for Performance, Safety, and Comfort
Before diving into the full list, here’s a quick summary of the most essential UTV accessories every new or semi-experienced owner should consider for improved performance, safety, and comfort:
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Skid Plates: Protect your UTV’s undercarriage from rocks and debris.
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Upgraded Tires: Enhance traction and handling on various terrains.
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Winches: Essential for recovery in tough situations.
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LED Light Bars: Improve visibility during night rides or in low-light conditions.
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Mounted Fire Extinguisher: For added safety in case of fire hazards.
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Tire Inflator & Repair Kit: Quickly address flats and keep rolling.
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First-Aid Kit: Be prepared for minor injuries on the trail.
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Spare CVT Belt & Tools: Prevent being stranded due to belt failure.
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Portable Jump Starter: Get back on the trail if your battery dies.
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UTV Tool Kit: Handle on-the-go repairs and adjustments.
These accessories are designed to enhance performance, increase safety, and elevate comfort levels, ensuring you get the most out of every ride.
Essential UTV Accessories for Beginners
1. UTV Wheel Chock Tie Down Kit
When it comes to essential UTV accessories for beginners, the UTV Wheel Chock Tie Down Kit should not be overlooked. This kit is designed to keep your UTV securely in place during transport, providing peace of mind and preventing potential damage. The wheel chocks lock your UTV's front wheels into position, preventing any lateral movement. Coupled with heavy-duty tie-down straps, this kit ensures your UTV remains stable and safe, even on bumpy trails or while towing.
2. Mounted Fire Extinguisher
Second on our list is none other than a fire extinguisher with a mount. This is for some added peace of mind on the off chance that your UTV begins overheating, or worse, catches on fire. Although UTVs are undeniably thrilling, and that five-point harness gives a great impression of safety, UTV fires are more common than you would like to believe. From 2013 to 2018, RZR had more than 10 recalls for fire safety hazards. Go ahead and do yourself, family, and friends a favor now, and invest some money into a fire extinguisher. Although it is technically rare, this is one of those “better safe than sorry” situations.
MUST READ: 8 Best Fire Extinguishers for Off-Road
3. Tire Inflator & Repair Kit
Minor Flat tire? No problem. UTV tires often see more debris than other vehicles, and with more debris comes a higher chance of tire punctures. A flat tire can completely ruin a good trail ride, and with the right tools you can prevent that. Invest some money into a tire repair kit and a tire inflator gauge, so that you can plug and air-up your flat and be back on the trail with little to no time wasted.
4. Global Positioning System - GPS
Gone are the good ole' days of trail maps, it is time to get yourself a quality GPS. These days, most GPS producers – like Garmin – have trails and other areas mapped out in their Global Positioning System database. This is especially helpful if you plan on driving further out into unincorporated areas, where it is best to have a reliable navigation system on hand in the off chance that you find yourself lost.
5. Winch or Recovery Kit
In a tough spot? Install a winch to connect to another vehicle and lift your UTV out! Installing a winch is a common recommendation for UTV owners, as it is essential for recovery in sticky situations. Although expensive, winches are very versatile recovery tools. If you are on your own and do not have another vehicle to attach to, simply combine the winch with a tree saver strap, and use any nearby rock or tree to do the job. For enhanced safety and durability during tough trail situations, pair your winch with a reinforced front bumper. If a winch does not fit your current budget, pick up a more affordable recovery kit. Essential recovery gear also includes carrying:
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A spare drive belt
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An axle
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Tire plugs
6. UTV Wrist Restraints
Rollovers are common, and in some cases, extremely dangerous. The damage to your UTV is one problem, but damage to your body? No Bueno. UTV Wrist Restraints keep your arms inside of the vehicle during a rollover, preventing the risk of breaking, or worse, completely losing your arm in the process. Yes, it can really happen, and a set of heavy-duty wrist restraints are considered a must-have for any serious UTV owner. Protect yourself, your family, and friends when you invest in this accessory.
Listed below are some tragic stories related to rollover accidents and missing limbs:
7. Complete First-Aid Kit
Speaking of UTV accidents, we would not recommend taking your UTV out without having a First-Aid Kit readily available for immediate action. Accidents do happen, and it can often take a while for medical assistance to reach you, especially when you are in a more remote area. Invest in a quality First-Aid Kit and feel more confident on the trail that you are properly prepared for the worst-case scenario.
8. Spare Tire & CVT Belt
If a puncture cannot be solved with the above-mentioned tire repair kit, be sure to always have a spare tire on hand. Also, we highly recommend carrying a spare CVT belt, as well as the tools necessary to change it if needed. Your UTVs CVT belt is the lifeline for your trail ride, if it breaks, you will be left stranded. Learn how to replace the belt on the go for an uninterrupted ride.
9. Portable Jump Starter
This one is kind of obvious. If your UTV battery dies, you would better hope you packed a Portable Jump Starter. This simple tool is a lifesaver when you need it the most. Not only is it affordable, but you can find many different sellers on sites like Amazon, or often in-store at your local off-road shop.
10. On-The-Go UTV Tool Kit
When it comes to UTVs, you will always find the need to tighten something or make a few general adjustments. For whatever reason, most (if not all) UTV brands do not include a UTV Tool Kit with the sale of each vehicle. Strange right? Do yourself a favor and begin researching the many different tools and sizes you may need to fit your new UTV, trust us, it will come in handy later! We highly recommend the Rhino USA UTV Tool Roll Bag for just $46.90!
Beyond the essentials, lighting upgrades are another key area for enhancing your UTV experience.
Lighting and Visibility with Light Bars
If you’ve ever found yourself riding after dark or in foggy conditions, you know how important good lighting is for your UTV. Upgrades like light bars can make a world of difference, turning night into day and helping you spot obstacles before they become a problem.
There’s a variety of light bars to choose from, including hard-wired LED options that offer powerful, energy-efficient lighting for any type of ride. Don’t forget about nerf bars, which not only protect your UTV’s sides but can also help with visibility by keeping your path clear of brush and debris.
When you’re shopping for lighting upgrades, consider the size and shape that best fits your UTV and the type of riding you do most. With the right lighting and visibility accessories, you’ll be ready to tackle any trail, no matter how dark or challenging it gets.
Comfort and Convenience for Side by Side Enthusiasts
Long days on the trail are a lot more enjoyable when your UTV is set up for comfort and convenience. Upgrades like harnesses keep you secure during rough rides, while roofs and windshields shield you from the sun, rain, and flying debris.
If you want to get even more out of your machine, consider adding a clutch kit—this upgrade can improve engine braking and help your transmission last longer, especially if you’re tackling tough terrain. Don’t overlook the little things, either: side by side accessories like storage boxes, cup holders, and organizers can make a big difference in how much you enjoy your time behind the wheel.
With the right combination of comfort and convenience upgrades, your UTV will feel like a home away from home, whether you’re out for a quick spin or a full day of work and play.
Final Tips on UTV Accessories and Side Accessories
With so many UTV side accessories and upgrades on the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the choices. The good news? There are plenty of options to fit every budget and riding style. Start by focusing on the essentials—recovery gear like winches and nerf bars—then add comfort and convenience features as you go.
Don’t worry if you can’t buy everything at once; take your time, shop around, and read reviews to find the best fit for your UTV. Visit your local shop or favorite online store to see what’s new, and don’t be afraid to ask other riders for tips on what works best. Remember, the right side accessories can make your UTV safer, more comfortable, and a lot more fun. So get out there, make some upgrades, and enjoy every ride—your next adventure is just around the corner!
FAQ
What does UTV stand for?
UTV stand for Utility Terrain Vehicle, however, it can also stand for Utility Task Vehicle. UTV's are also referred to as side-by-sides or SXS for short.
What is the best UTV?
It is tough to decide which UTV is the absolute best as some people are looking for different features, prefer different brands, or have a different budget. However, we recommend the Can Am Maverick X3 and Polaris RZR as our favorite UTV's, so make sure to read our in-depth comparison of the two.
Custom UTV accessories are available for a variety of different makes and models.
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