Side-By-Side Buying Guide
Buying a UTV (also known as a side-by-side) is an exciting experience, but with so many models to choose between it is easy to get overwhelmed. What features do you absolutely need, which are nice to have, and what is the best way to fit everything into your budget?
The experts at The Sports Center have created this buying guide outlining the right questions to ask to make your side-by-side buying experience as stress-free as possible. To look at UTV models or get more information, consider visiting our dealership in Perry, Georgia. We are proud to serve the nearby communities of Macon and Albany.
How Much Do I Want To Spend on a UTV?
Your first step should always be to make a budget. Establish a price range for your side-by-side and stick to it. Any model beyond the spending limit you set for yourself is off the table.
To give you an idea, a new model with fairly basic features usually costs around $10,000. More advanced models can go up to around $20,000 if you buy them new. If your budget is tight, consider purchasing a pre-owned side-by-side. Used UTVs cost less because their value has depreciated over time. With enough searching, you can find many used models that have been well-maintained and are in like-new condition.
How Many Passengers Will I Have?
Depending upon how you plan to use your side-by-side, you may need to fit quite a few people onto the vehicle. Some people use their UTVs to transport helpers to a project site, while others like to take their families on trail rides. When looking at UTVs, try to figure out how many people you will have to accommodate on a typical trip.
Most side-by-sides are built to fit between two and six people. When deciding the number of seats, try to strike a balance. Too many seats is money misspent on passenger capacity that rarely gets used. Having too few seats means taking multiple trips whenever you want to go anywhere. Figure out what you need, and go from there.
Where Will I Take the Side-by-Side?
A standard side-by-side is able to travel across compact dirt, but if you want to do more exploring, find a model that’s up for it. For example, rocky terrain can scrape the bottom of a standard side-by-side and cause extensive damage. If you plan to spend a lot of time off-road, a UTV with high ground clearance can pass over obstacles without a scratch.
How Will I Use the Side-by-Side?
If you know how you are going to use the UTV, you can pick out which features to prioritize. Farmers will want a model that is compact enough to fit through fence gates and barn doors. Hunters should consider finding a side-by-side with a camouflaged paint job. Landscapers should focus on finding a model with enough storage space to transport tools and materials. If you can articulate how you want to use your UTV, it will be that much easier to find the perfect match.
If you’re ready to shop side-by-sides for sale, visit The Sports Center in Perry, Georgia to view our models and talk with our staff. We are proud to serve central Georgia, including nearby Warner Robbins and Columbus.