A Polaris RZR XP Turbo S is parked on a desert surface.
How is UTV Width Measured? -

How is UTV Width Measured? – A Compressive Guide 2024

I measured my Polaris RZR XP Turbo S’s width by placing a tape measure from the outside edge of one tire to the other, ensuring it was parallel to the ground.

UTV (Utility Task Vehicle) is a versatile off-road vehicle used for transportation and hauling in various industries, including agriculture, construction, and recreation. By measuring the Width of a UTV, you can determine whether it will fit in a particular space or be suitable for a particular application. To accurately measure the Width of a UTV, ensure that the tires are correctly inflated and that the vehicle is on a level surface. So how exactly you can measure the width of UTV? What’s the most appropriate way of measuring UTV width? 

The Width of a UTV is typically measured from the outside edge of one tire to the outside edge of the opposite tire. If you are looking for then click on this website Best UTV Neck Brace- A Complete, Unbiased Buyer’s Guide 2024. This measurement includes any fenders or other exterior accessories that may be attached to the vehicle. Additionally, ensure measuring the Width of the UTV at its widest point, which may vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle. Various tools can be used to measure the UTV width, such as calipers, tape, and digital measuring tools. These tools have their advantages and limitations depending on the UTV’s size, shape, and accessibility. 

Now, to measure the UTV width using calipers, the tool is positioned perpendicular to the UTV’s width and gently squeezed until the jaws touch both sides. The measurement is read from the caliper’s scale and repeated multiple times to ensure accuracy.

Tape measures are used by placing one end on one side of the UTV and extending it to the other, ensuring it’s parallel to the ground. The measurement is read from the tape measure’s scale, and multiple measurements are taken and averaged for accuracy.

Moreover, Digital measuring tools use laser or ultrasonic technology to provide accurate measurements. They are positioned perpendicular to the UTV’s width and provide a digital reading of the measurement. Multiple measurements are taken and averaged for accuracy.

Table: Combination of Overall Width, Wheelbase Width, and Track Width of UTVs

A Polaris RZR XP Turbo S is being driven through a dirt gravel road.
UTV ModelOverall Width (inches)Wheelbase Width (inches)Front Track Width (inches)Rear Track Width (inches)
Polaris RZR XP Turbo S 72906463.5
Can-Am Maverick X3 Turbo 721026464
Yamaha YXZ1000R 6490.660.660.6
Honda Talon 1000R 6487.66464
Kawasaki Teryx KRX 1000 68.198.86464

In some cases, the Width of a UTV may be listed in the vehicle’s owner manual or specifications, but it is always a good idea to measure the Width yourself to ensure accuracy. 

When I used calipers to measure the width of my UTV, I positioned the tool perpendicular and read the scale after squeezing the jaws against the tires.

Polaris RZR XP Turbo S UTV measure

What are the Factors That Affect UTV Width?

A Polaris RZR XP Turbo S is parked on a dirt surface in front of a warehouse.

The Width of a UTV is an important measurement that can affect its stability, maneuverability, and ease of transportation. While measuring the Width of a UTV is a relatively simple process, several factors can affect the Width of a UTV. 

  1. Tire size
  2. Intended use
  3. Suspension system
  4. Accessories
  5. Wheel Offset

In this section, you will take a closer look at some of the factors that can affect UTV width:

1. Tire Size

Polaris RZR XP Turbo S tire

The size of a UTV’s tires can significantly impact its Width. Generally, UTVs with larger tires have a wider stance than smaller ones. Now, this is because the distance between the outermost points of the tires is more significant with larger tires.

However, the size of the tires is crucial. The increased tire size has the more ground clearance for sure. But it can affect stability as they tend to be heavy.

Table: UTV Width Increase by Tire Size

Tire SizeWidth Increase (inches)
28-inch0
30-inch1
32-inch2
34-inch3

I made sure my Polaris RZR XP Turbo S was on a level surface with correctly inflated tires before measuring its width with a digital measuring tool.

Polaris RZR XP Turbo S side by side measure

2. Intended Use

A Polaris RZR XP Turbo S is being driven through a dirt and dusty road.

The intended use of a UTV can also affect its Width. UTVs designed for heavy-duty work may have a wider stance than those designed for recreational use. 

This is because work UTVs need to be stable and have a higher weight capacity, while recreational UTVs need to be more maneuverable and able to navigate tight spaces. However, the intended use can also affect the UTV’s performance off-road. 

UTVs designed for heavy-duty work may be more stable and provide better traction. Still, they may also be less maneuverable and have a higher center of gravity, which can affect stability.

Table: Optimal UTV Width Ranges for Different Intended Uses

Intended UseOptimal UTV Width Range (inches)
Trail Riding50-64
Rock Crawling60-72
Sand Dune Riding72-86
Hunting and Utility50-64

Measuring the rear track width of my Polaris RZR XP Turbo S, I noted it was 63.5 inches.

Polaris RZR XP Turbo S measurement

3. Suspension System

Polaris RZR XP Turbo S Suspension System

The suspension system of a UTV can also affect its Width. UTVs with wider suspension systems tend to have a wider stance than narrower ones. 

This is because the Width of the suspension system determines the distance between the outermost points of the UTV’s tires. However, the suspension system can also affect the UTV’s performance off-road. 

UTVs with a wider suspension system may provide a smoother ride and better handling on rough terrain. Still, they may also be less maneuverable and have a higher center of gravity, which can affect stability.

Table: UTV Width Increase by Suspension System Type

Suspension SystemWidth Increase (inches)
Stock0
Mid-Travel2-4
Long-Travel4-6
Extended Travel6-8

4. Accessories

A blue Polaris RZR XP Turbo S

The accessories that are added to a UTV can also affect its Width. 

For example, UTVs with wider roofs, windshields, or bumpers may have a wider stance than those without these accessories. 

This is because the Width of the accessories adds to the overall Width of the UTV. However, the accessories can also affect the UTV’s performance off-road. 

UTVs with wider accessories may be more stable and provide more protection, but they may also be heavier and have a higher center of gravity, which can affect stability.

Table: UTV Width Increase by Accessory Type

AccessoryWidth Increase (inches)
Wheel Spacers1-2
Fender Flares2-4
Doors2-4
Bumpers1-2

By extending a tape measure across the widest point of my UTV, I found the width to be 72 inches.

A Polaris RZR XP Turbo S is being driven through a dusty trail.

5. Wheel Offset

Polaris RZR XP Turbo S Wheel Offset

The wheel offset which is distance from wheel center, and the mounting surface of UTV is crucial while determining vehicle stability. UTVs with a larger wheel offset have a wider stance than those with a smaller one. 

A larger wheel offset moves the wheels further from the UTV’s frame. However, the wheel offset can also affect the UTV’s performance off-road. 

UTVs with a larger wheel offset may be more stable and have better handling on rough terrain. Still, they may also be less maneuverable and have a higher center of gravity, which can affect stability.

Table: UTV Width Increase by Wheel Offset

Wheel OffsetWidth Increase (inches)
00
+1 inch1
+2 inches2
+3 inches3

I found the front track width of my Polaris RZR XP Turbo S to be 64 inches.

A Polaris RZR XP Turbo S is being driven through a gravel road. In the background there are mountains and beautiful blue sky.

Why is UTV Width Important?

Polaris RZR XP Turbo S front view

The Width of a UTV is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a vehicle, and it affects the vehicle’s stability, maneuverability, and transportation. Here are some reasons why UTV width is essential:

  • Maneuverability: When one rides a UTV, the width of UTV matters a lot. That’s why in vehicle specs the width of UTV is so much highlighted. The smaller width makes it to go through any narrow trails.
  • Stability: Now, it is crucial part because a UTV is a vehicle which has high chances of rollover. The width of UTV if wide, can prevent that by balancing the forces.
  • Intended Use: If you are a farming person or use UTV for heavy tasks and carrying lots of load, then it is recommended that you have the wider width UTV. However, if you are adeventurer then you should have narrower UTV.
  • Regulations: The Width of a UTV is regulated in some areas, and some states restrict the maximum Width of UTVs that can be used on public roads and trails. Awareness of these regulations and ensuring your UTV complies with them is essential.
  • Transportation: It is clear that if your UTV has less width then more UTVs can be transported saving the cost.

Thus, By choosing the correct Width for your UTV, you can ensure that it performs optimally and provides you with years of reliable service.

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I measured the overall width of my Polaris RZR XP Turbo S and confirmed it was exactly 72 inches.

Polaris RZR XP Turbo S front angle view.

UTV Dimensions: Overall Width, Wheelbase, Front and Rear Track Width by Popular Brands

A Polaris RZR XP Turbo S is parked on a dirt surface.

UTV width can be measured in several ways, including overall Width, wheelbase width, and track width. The given  table shows you the different measurements for a selection of UTV models:

Note: The measurements may vary depending on the year and specific model of the UTV. These tables provide a general idea of UTV width measurement.

When I checked the wheelbase width of my Polaris RZR XP Turbo S, it came out to be 90 inches.

A Polaris RZR XP Turbo S is being driven through a gravel road.

Conclusion

Conclusion #1 Multiple factors that affect UTV’s width

A Polaris RZR XP Turbo S is being driven through a desert road.

The Width of a UTV is a critical measurement that affects the vehicle’s stability, maneuverability, and transportation. Moreover, measuring the Width of a UTV is a straightforward process that involves measuring from the outside edge of one tire to the outside edge of the opposite tire. 

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It’s done also while ensuring that the tires are correctly inflated, and the vehicle is on a level surface. Factors affecting UTV width include tire size, suspension system, wheel offset, and accessories. 

Conclusion #2 Check for local laws and regulations

When choosing a UTV, it is essential to consider and run a check on local regulations and laws regarding UTV width. By taking the time to research and consider all these factors, you can select a UTV that is well-suited to your needs and will provide you with years of reliable service.

FAQs

How does UTV width affect stability?

A wider UTV has a lower center of gravity, which makes it less likely to tip over, providing more stability when driving on uneven terrain or steep inclines.

How can I ensure accuracy when measuring UTV width?

It is vital to ensure the tires are correctly inflated and the vehicle is on a level surface when measuring UTV width. Measuring the Width at the widest point is also crucial for accuracy.

Can UTV width vary by make and model?

Yes, the Width of a UTV may vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle.

Are there any regulations regarding UTV width?

Some states restrict the maximum Width of UTVs that can be used on public roads and trails. Awareness of these regulations and ensuring your UTV complies with them is essential.

Can I find the UTV width listed in the owner’s manual?

In some cases, the Width of a UTV may be listed in the owner’s manual or specifications.

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About Bharat Suthar

I am an author and principal creator of OffRoadingUTV.com. I like riding UTV in mountains and Terrain, Also I try to share all the real life experience here in the site.I am really dedicated to write about my experience. I love doing all the outdoor activity including dirt biking and hiking

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One comment

  1. Chart columns listed as a Track dimension is wrong. Data shown is Width. “Track” is wheel centerline to centerline.

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