11 BEST
SAND SHOW PRODUCTS
ISSUE 90 NOV 2021
INTRODUCING
THE MAXXIS RAZR COMFORT AND TRACTION
XT
FOR OUR TALON 1000R
FEATURES: 2022 TERYX KRX LINEUP > YOUTH RZR 200 > YXZ1000R SS REVIEW
WOLVERINE® RMAX™4 1000
REIMAGINE EVERYWHERE. REIMAGINE EVERYTHING.
The all-new Wolverine RMAX 1000 lineup sets a new benchmark in the off-road world. Class-leading standard features include: a new 999cc parallel twin engine; aggressive tires; and an automotive-style cabin with unmatched comfort points. Features on select models include: high-performance FOX® iQS in-cab adjustable suspension; all-new D-Mode to optimize power delivery; and a dashboard-integrated Yamaha Adventure Pro. With the Wolverine RMAX 1000 lineup, experience the real world-tested Capability, Comfort and Confidence of Yamaha’s Proven Off-Road promise.
WOLVERINE® RMAX™2 1000
Visit YamahaMotorsports.com Professional riders on closed area. Side-by-Side models shown are recommended for use only by operators 16 years and older with a valid driver’s license. Always wear your seat belt, helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Yamaha recommends that all Side-by-Side riders take an approved training course. For Side-by-Side safety and training information, see your dealer or call 1-866-267-2751. Read the Owner’s Manual and the product warning labels before operation. Avoid excessive speeds and never engage in stunt riding. Always avoid paved surfaces and never ride on public roads. And be particularly careful on difficult terrain. Never ride under the influence of alcohol or other drugs; it is illegal and dangerous. ©2020 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved.
FREE DIGITAL
SUBSCRIPTION! WWW.UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
UTV Off-Road Magazine // Issue 90 // Nov 2021 Publisher: Bradley Howe - bradley@utvoffroadmag.com Editor-in-Chief: Lance Schwartz - Lance@utvoffroadmag.com
Feature Editor: Cody Hooper - cody@utvoffroadmag.com
Art Direction: Handsome Rabbit - handsomerabbit.com
Advertising Sales: Mary Hannah Hardcastle – mh@utvoffroadmag.com
The Collective R + D Katie Dudek - katie@thecollectiverd.com Ashley Roberts - ashley@thecollectiverd.com
Website Director: Eric Boughner - Information Technologies Contributing Editors: Greg Thomas
Contributing Photographers: Adam Campbell, Harlen Foley
UTV OFF-ROAD MAGAZINE® is published bi-monthly (6 times a year) by Howe Media, Inc. Reprinting in whole or by any means- electronic, graphic or mechanical, including photocopying or information storage and retrieval systems is forbidden without written permission from the publisher. WARNING: Certain action photographs depicted in this magazine are potentially dangerous. The drivers and vehicle occupants seen in our photos are experienced professionals. Do not attempt to duplicate any stunts. Wear a helmet and safety restraints while operating a Side-by-Side/UTV, and never drive beyond your capabilities. Do not drink and drive while operating a UTV. We also encourage you to “Tread Lightly” while respecting the outdoors and other outdoor enthusiasts. Use your head and enjoy the ride.
©Howe Media, Inc.
Stay connected with UTV Off-Road Magazine https://www.facebook.com/UTVOffRoadMagazine https://www.instagram.com/utvoffroadmagazine/ https://twitter.com/UTVOFFROADMAG
SUBSCRIBE ONLINE AT
UTVOFFROADMAG.COM AND HAVE THE LATEST ISSUE SENT DIRECTLY TO YOUR PHONE, TABLET OR COMPUTER
https://www.youtube.com/user/UTVOffroadMagazine www.utvoffroadmag.com
trust the experts Take your ride from standard to outstanding.
Save 10% on your first purchase! Scan the QR code to get started.
REVIEWS
02 402022 KAWASAKI TERYX 800 S LE 22 POLARIS RANGER SP 570 48 MAXXIS RAZR XT TIRES 64 02 66CAN-AM X3 AUXILIARY FUEL TANK YAMAHA YXZ1000R SS
A Wonderfully Balanced Sport Car Impressive Updates
More Creature Comforts & Sporty Handling
Adding Comfort & Control To Our Talon 1000R
Add 9 Gallons and 100 Miles To Your Maverick
FEATURES
12 22 KAWASAKI TERYX KRX LINEUP 18 22 POLARIS RZR 200 EFI 24 40 EASTERN SIERRA ADVENTURE 56 2021 SAND SPORT SUPER SHOW 68
22 YAMAHA WOLVERINE RMAX2 SPORT First Look
Base, Trail & Special Editions Sport Youth UTV
11 BEWST PRODUCTS SAND SHO ISSUE 90 NOV 2021
ODUCING
INTR IS N THE MAXX COMFORT ANDNTR10AC00TIO R LO RAZR FOR OUR TA
XT
> YOUTH RZR KRX LINEUP 2022 TERYX FEATURES:
48
0R SS REVIEW 200 > YXZ100
WARNING: Certain action photographs depicted in this magazine are potentially dangerous. The drivers and vehicle occupants seen in our photos are experienced professionals. Do not attempt to duplicate any stunts. Wear a helmet and safety restraints while operating a Side-by-Side/UTV, and never drive beyond your capabilities.
Exploring New Heights in the Commander XT 11 Cool Products
ON THE COVER
We mounted a set of new Maxxis RAZR XT treads on our Honda Talon 1000R and took on our favorite desert trails. Photo: Adam Campbell Photography
24
68
FROM THE EDITOR
September/October 2021 Edition
RAISING THE BAR BY LANCE SCHWARTZ
A
s our press date for this issue is rapidly approaching, we have our calendars, iPhone notifications, and computer smoke signals set for November 9th. If you aren’t already “in the know”, that’s the day Polaris and the rest of the offroad media can share the details about the all-new 2022 Polaris RZR Pro. Polaris aficionados should be super-pumped for the new arrival, as we’re sure this new RZR will raise the bar in both performance and comfort. The great thing about a company releasing a new product is the fact that it creates competition. When Company A releases a new product, you know Company B and Company C won’t be far behind. The competition to compete for your business pushes all of these companies to build a better mousetrap, so to speak. In the end, it all means better products for consumers, which translates to more miles and more smiles logged off-road for you and I! I was just talking with a friend the other day about the first press fleet Polaris RZR demo I got back in 2007. At that time, at least by today’s standards, factory “performance” machines weren’t really a thing. But, that original RZR sort of broke the mold for that segment of the industry. If you really wanted to pound an original RZR through the rough terrain fast, though, you had to open up your wallet and start shopping the web for parts. In fact, we completely
8 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
tore that RZR apart and added every single performance modification we could find, including long-travel suspension, race axles, full cage and harnesses, aftermarket seats, wheels and tires, full exhaust, fuel controllers, and the list went on and on. Even with the $15k+ in aftermarket parts, that heavily modded Polaris RZR 800 would have gotten absolutely spanked by pretty much everything coming out of a modern showroom. The amount of performance enhancements manufacturers have engineered into modern UTV’s over the last few years is absolutely mind-boggling! With the 2022 models beginning to hit showrooms, now might also be the best time to trade your current ride in. The value of used UTV’s is following the crazy path of the used truck and SUV market. With limited supply and high demand, you very well may never get more money for your used vehicles than now, which is great news. The bad news, however, is that current new vehicle production is limited, meaning the days of rebates and killer deals seem to be over...at least for now. If you are thinking about an upgrade, a trip to your local dealer is a great place to start. Whether you are headed into the end of the year in your trusty old UTV, or you’re rocking a brand new one, I hope to see you and your family out on the trails!
CARPE TERRA TREAD VICTORIOUSLY
THE NEW RAZR XT
SOCIAL TERRAIN
10 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
Oct/Nov 2021 Edition
MAKE SURE TO HASHTAG #UTVOFFROADMAGAZINE FOR A CHANCE TO BE FEATURED IN OUR NEXT ISSUE. Stay connected with UTV Off-Road Magazine https://www.facebook.com/UTVOffRoadMagazine https://www.instagram.com/utvoffroadmagazine/ https://twitter.com/UTVOFFROADMAG https://www.youtube.com/user/UTVOffroadMagazine www.utvoffroadmag.com
FIRST LOOK
YAMAHA
WOLVERINE RMAX 2 SPORT Featuring New Adjustable FOX 2.0 Shocks
WORDS & PHOTOS: PROVIDED BY YAMAHA
Y
amaha’s 2022 UTV Lineup is highlighted by the new high-performing, extremely capable Wolverine RMAX2 1000 Sport, based off of the best-in-class RMAX 1000 platform to further redefine the recreational SxS segment.
12 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
2022 YAMAHA WOLVERINE RMAX2 SPORT
E
UTV OFF-ROAD MAGAZINE 13
FIRST LOOK
“The Wolverine RMAX 1000 is redefining recreational off-roading by providing unmatched comfort, capability, and confidence-inspiring performance,” said Steve Nessl, Yamaha’s motorsports marketing manager. “This year, we’re expanding the Wolverine line with a new RMAX2 1000 Sport variation with added user-benefits, including another level of suspension adjustability for personalized handling and performance.”
Wolverine RMAX 1000 models are powered by an advanced 999cc twin-cylinder engine housed in an optimized chassis built for next-level capability, extreme terrainability, and remarkable rigidity in two- and four-seat configurations. Power and engine braking in the RMAX 1000 can be tailored for a variety of off-road situations with Yamaha’s D-Mode in LE, XT-R, and Sport models (pre-wired and available as a Yamaha Genuine Accessory in RMAX 1000 R-Spec versions) via the Yamaha Chip-Controlled Throttle (YCC-T) system. Yamaha’s D-Mode offers three power delivery settings to match the driver’s mindset and trail conditions: “Crawl” for smooth throttle control and full engine braking in slow-speed, technical driving situations, “Trail” with linear throttle response for a fun, relaxed ride with full engine braking, and “Sport” with a quick throttle response and optimized engine braking for an overall
14 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
2022 YAMAHA WOLVERINE RMAX2 SPORT
UTV OFF-ROAD MAGAZINE 15
FIRST LOOK
2022 YAMAHA WOLVERINE RMAX2 SPORT aggressive, fast-paced experience. To further match each unique terrain and driving style, all three D-Mode settings utilize the RMAX1000’s full engine power and 8,500 rpm redline. The new 2022 Wolverine RMAX2 1000 Sport brings a whole new level of performance to sportminded drivers, featuring new adjustable FOX 2.0 shocks designed to deliver quality damping feel at higher speeds, without sacrificing low-speed comfort. The new shocks include 24 clicks of highand low-speed compression adjustment, dual springs, and a crossover coupling for adjustable pre-load, offering a sportier handling feel with increased high-speed bottoming resistance. The RMAX2 1000 Sport retains its best-in-class 13.8-inches of ground clearance, 14.2-inches of front, and 16.9-inches of rear suspension travel for ultimate capability in nearly any terrain. In addition to new sport-inspired color, graphics, and seat cover design, the RMAX2 1000 Sport dons a “square” tire setup (same size front and rear) with new 30-inch GBC Terra Master 10-ply rated radial tires for versatile riding options and rugged durability. Featuring a unique asymmetrical design with each side different than the other, the Terra Masters offer contrasting ride and handling characteristics, depending on the setup. “Side A,” the stock setup, offers a larger void ratio with horizontal lugs for soft to intermediate terrain, increasing forward acceleration and enhanced braking. “Side B” offers a smaller void ratio with circumferential grooves for improved grip in the corners and a greater contact patch on intermediate to hard off-road surfaces. These tires are mounted on new 14-inch cast aluminum color-matched beadlock wheels – the first factory-installed beadlock wheels on a Wolverine – for a unique, durable, and functional design with aggressive styling. The 2022 Yamaha Wolverine RMAX2 1000 Sport is available in a new Team Yamaha Blue at $22,599 MSRP. See the full 2022 Yamaha UTV Lineup at www.utvoffroadmag.com. UTV OFF-ROAD MAGAZINE 17
FIRST LOOK
18 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
2022 KAWASAKI TERYX KRX LINEUP
TERYX KRX LINEUP
Base, Trail & Special Edition Models STORY & PHOTOS: PROVIDED BY KAWASAKI
F
or 2022, the Kawasaki Teryx KRX 1000 sport side x side lineup is back and ready to take on any adventure as some of the most durable and reliable machines in the sport side-byside category. In addition to the class-leading Teryx KRX 1000, Kawasaki will once again return with the Teryx KRX 1000 Trail Edition and Teryx KRX 1000 Special Edition models with factoryequipped accessories and special color and graphics to offer a broader selection for adrenaline-filled adventure enthusiasts.
UTV OFF-ROAD MAGAZINE 19
2022 KAWASAKI TERYX KRX LINEUP 2022 KAWASAKI TERYX KRX are available in three models:
2022 TERYX KRX 1000
2022 TERYX KRX 1000 TRAIL EDITION
2022 TERYX KRX 1000 SPECIAL EDITION
20 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
2022 KAWASAKI TERYX KRX 1000
The Kawasaki Teryx KRX 1000 sport side-byside is engineered for high adrenaline adventures and conquering tough terrain. Powered by a durable 999cc parallel twin engine, paired with a CVT transmission and centrifugal clutch, the Teryx KRX 1000 has the power to tackle a whoopedout trail and the torque to conquer technical rock crawling sections. It features on-the-fly electronically selectable 4WD and front differential lock as well as two power modes (Full and Low) that allow the driver to set power delivery to suit preference and conditions. A high-rigidity frame with integrated Roll Over Protection Structure (ROPS) positions the wheels as far apart as possible to provide a sure-footed stance, superb cornering and straight-line stability. Obstacles on the trail are soaked up by FOX 2.5 Podium LSC shock units, which combined with long suspension arms give the Teryx KRX 1000 the longest suspension travel in its class. Large 31-inch MAXXIS Carnivore tires were chosen to ride over small obstacles with greater ease, while 15-inch aluminum wheels feature bead-lock rims to hold the tires in place in off-road riding situations. A roomy cockpit features half doors and adjustable high-back bucket seats to deliver outstanding rider comfort no matter the terrain. A large all-digital instrumentation screen offers at-a-glance information to the driver including a CVT temperature readout and low voltage warning lamp. The roomy, rear carrier space is large enough to accommodate up to a 32-inch spare tire with a load capacity of 350 pounds. Every aspect of the Teryx KRX 1000 has been engineered with Kawasaki’s dependable, proven performance to outmuscle anything that stands between you and an adventure of a lifetime. The 2022 Teryx KRX 1000 is available in Lime Green / Metallic Onyx Black and Sunbeam Red / Metallic Onyx Black color schemes with an MSRP of $20,499.
Matt Burroughs Monster Energy's Championship winning
RT320
Can-Am X3 MAX
Sizes 28”- 35”
Race-ready, non-directional mixed terrain design 8-ply rated carcass is lightweight and features a wide contact patch High-mileage rubber compound for long life Our products are sold through authorized dealerships and online retailers through the exclusive distribution of Tucker Powersports. Ask OFF-ROAD your favorite vendor aboutUTV System 3MAGAZINE products.21
2022 KAWASAKI TERYX KRX LINEUP 2022 KAWASAKI TERYX KRX 1000 SPECIAL EDITION
The highly dependable and attention grabbing Teryx KRX 1000 Special Edition sport side-by-side features a high-grade, award-winning Hifonics® audio system bringing the “Power from the Gods” to the trails. Complete with 6.5” door speakers and a 12” subwoofer, it offers incredible sound that can be heard – and felt. The compact stereo unit is built into the center console, giving the dash a well-integrated appearance with a new LED screen. The unit is a Bluetooth®/AM/FM/ 600 watt five-channel stereo featuring a high-contrast color LED screen that can display album art. Apple Control enables compatible Apple devices to be controlled by the stereo. A WARN® VRX 45 Powersport Winch is fit as standard equipment and has 50’ of durable, aircraft grade 1⁄4" steel rope backed by a 4,500 lb. capacity. The 2022 Teryx KRX1000 Special Edition is available in a Turquoise / Metallic Onyx Black color scheme which includes a black base complemented by black a-arms and silver-colored suspension coil springs. High-impact graphics add to attention-grabbing styling that drivers will be happy to show off. The Teryx KRX 1000 Special Edition comes with an MSRP of $22,999.
22 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
2022 KAWASAKI TERYX KRX 1000 TRAIL EDITION
Built with the same high-performance features found on the Teryx KRX 1000, the Teryx KRX 1000 Trail Edition sport side-by-side comes equipped with both front and rear sport bumpers, as well as nerf bars on the sides, all of which add to the aggressive appearance while increasing protection to the vehicle from obstacles encountered on the trail. A KQR Sport Roof (featuring quick release capabilities) comes as standard equipment on the Teryx KRX 1000 Trail Edition and helps to shelter passengers from harsh weather and sun. It also features pre-configured mounts that allow for the addition of up to six accessory LED dome lights. A WARN VRX 45 Powersport Winch is fit as standard equipment and has 50’ of durable, aircraft grade 1⁄4" steel rope backed by a 4,500 lb. capacity. The Teryx KRX 1000 Trail Edition is available in a Fragment Camo Gray immersion graphics finish including ROPS, nerf bars, and a-arms finished in texture neon yellow and paired with silver-colored suspension coil springs to provide a high-contrast counterpoint to the black base coloring. High-definition graphics contribute to the no-nonsense styling. The 2022 Teryx KRX 1000 Trail Edition comes with an MSRP of $23,499.
WINTER IS COMING Don’t let the weather slow you down. The Kenda Klever X/T has a studdable design for winter snow and ice riding. When the snow melts, the proven tread pattern is ready to take on the muddy season. D.O.T approved and ready to go wherever your journey takes you.
by
UTV REVIEW FIRST LOOK
RZR 200 EF STORY/PHOTOS: PROVIDED BY POLARIS
Polaris brings innovation and advancement to the youth side-by-side category with the all-new 2022 Polaris RZR 200 EFI. The RZR 200 EFI, which starts at $5,899, replaces the popular RZR 170 EFI and establishes a new standard for youth riding thanks to exclusive safety innovations, including RIDE CONTROL featuring speed limiting, geofencing, and Helmet Aware technology – all controlled by the RIDE COMMAND app. “The RZR 200 EFI delivers kid-friendly performance with safety technology that parents will appreciate,” said Judson. “This is a product that can grow with young riders as they build more skill and confidence, instilling a sense of empowerment and freedom in the next generation of off-road enthusiasts.”
ALSO SEE: 2022 Polaris UTV Lineup Highlights 24 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
FI
2022 POLARIS RZR 200 EFI YOUTH UTV 2022 POLARIS YOUTH UTV HIGHLIGHTS: •
Youth RIDE CONTROL: Allows parents to control speed and set boundaries right from the RIDE COMMAND app, all while helping kids grow into the sport and increase their skill level.
•
Helmet Aware Technology: Ability to pre-set the vehicle’s controls when the Helmet Aware beacon is in and/or out of vehicle display range, preventing the vehicle from starting without helmets being worn.
•
Speed Limiting: Enables kids to ride at the appropriate speed for their age, experience and terrain. Max speed can easily be set right from the RIDE COMMAND app.
•
Geofencing: Helps keep kids in parameters by quickly setting and controlling ride boundaries and speed limits within and outside of the geofenced area.
•
Functional Display: Riders can clearly see their speed behind the wheel, while allowing parents to track speed when not in sight.
•
Helmets Included: RZR 200 EFI comes with two helmets and one Helmet Aware beacon.
•
180cc EFI Engine: Gives kids the power they need to manage varying terrain without falling behind and eliminates the engine choke for confident cold-starts.
•
Improved Off-Road Capability: Front dual A-arms, front and rear independent suspension with seven inches of travel, 24-inch tires and ten inches of ground clearance provide more capability to manage rocks and ruts, keeping the ride smooth and the machine moving.
•
Adjustable Seat and Tilt Steering: The driver’s seat slides and the steering wheel tilts to adjust to riders as they grow.
•
Standard Hard Doors: Allows kids to have the time of their lives while keeping them in and everything else out.
•
LED Headlights and Taillights: Improves rider visibility in low-light conditions to extend the day of riding and makes the vehicle more visible to others on the trail. Also equipped with a high-visibility flag.
•
Full-Line of Accessories: Add comfort and increased protection with front and rear bumpers, rock sliders, half and full windshield, roof, rear storage bag and Pro Armor wheels and tires. UTV OFF-ROAD MAGAZINE 25
OUR Y R O F E NLIN O E B I R C S SUB
L A T I G I D FREE RIPTION! C E N I S Z A B G A M SU D A O R F F TO UTV O G.COM A M D A O VOFFR T U . W W W
SUBSCRIBE ONLINE AT UTVOFFROADMAG.COM AND HAVE THE LATEST ISSUE SENT DIRECTLY TO YOUR PHONE, TABLET OR COMPUTER.
30x10.00R14 32x10.00R14 30x10.00R15 32x10.00R15 33x10.00R15
APACHE A/T ■
Steel belted radial construction
■
Rugged 8-ply-rated carcass
■
Our most technically advanced SxS offering
UTV REVIEW
28 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
2021 YAMAHA YXZ1000R SS SE
YZX
1000R SS SE Yamaha’s wonderfully balanced YXZ hits the mark for sports-car performance STORY: CODY HOOPER
PHOTOS: ADAM CAMPBELL
T
ake a look across the 1000cc non-turbo sport UTV segment, and you’ll find an incredibly broad array of options. There are CVT, DCT, and manual-transmission equipped UTVs. Some use A-arm rear suspension, some use trailing arms. They vary in size, too- the smallest and largest cars in the 1000cc Sport UTV class vary in wheelbase length by about a foot. Lastly, they all offer quite different driving experiences. This car in particular aims to provide one thing: “Pure Sport, All Performance”. “Superior pure-sport performance and drivercontrolled acceleration from this high-revving, highoutput inline-triple engine injects adrenaline into any adventure, from open deserts to tight woods.” – Yamaha UTV OFF-ROAD MAGAZINE 29
UTV REVIEW
The YXZ returns with two SE color choices this year, as well as a base and XTR trim. In total, four color combinations are available. We love the simplicity of this white and blue model, especially with the blue frame elements.
Yamaha’s rev-happy YXZ1000R is billed by the tuning fork crew themselves as having a no-compromise attitude towards sport UTV performance. For the most part, this is true, although the YXZ can also be a very comfortable long-distance UTV with just a few light modifications. The backbone of these statements are primarily directed at the method in which Yamaha chooses to send engine power to the Maxxis Bighorn M917-8PR tires. Rather than send power through a belt-driven continuously variable transmission, Yamaha gives you two options: a fully manual, three-pedal sequentially shifted five speed transmission or a paddle shift variant that includes a computer-actuated clutch. The latter of the two options is this: the 2021 YXZ1000R SS SE. Arriving in 2017, the YXZR SS, or Sport Shift, was created to bridge the gap between the racer crowd and the enthusiast. If road-going car sales are any indication, people don’t like to drive manual transmission cars much anymore. Yamaha knew that the three-pedal version of the YXZ1000R would have a very small market, so they invested heavily in making sure the SS version of their car worked brilliantly. In 2019, Yamaha released the second generation of the YXZ, bringing some large changes such as 30 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
relocating the radiator to the rear of the car, fitting it with larger brakes, changing the transmission gear ratios, and much more. Gen 2 YXZ1000R SS cars also received revised transmission and clutch tuning, which has turned the YXZ SS into an absolute weapon on the trail. Driving the YXZ1000R SS is just like driving a paddle-shift equipped sports car, although the YXZ lacks the programming to upshift itself. This is done entirely on purpose, as Yamaha tuned the transmission to be incredibly reliant on driver input to make its changes. It will downshift itself on heavy braking and return to first gear upon stopping, but the rest is up to the guy or gal in the driver’s seat. Pulls of the massive cast aluminum shift paddles crack off insanely quick shifts, allowing up or down movement between the gears even at wide open throttle. It will hold a gear to redline and stay there, which is exactly the way it should be. Hard shifts in the YXZ are audible and adrenaline rush-inducing, especially when the engine is singing north of 10,000 RPM. Bolted to the UTV industry’s most hardcore transmission is also its most hardcore engine: a naturallyaspirated, 10,500 RPM inline three-cylinder engine derived from Yamaha’s streetbike and snowmobile
RMAX YXZ1000R ADVENTURE 950SSSPORT SE 2021 CFMOTO YAMAHA ZFORCE expertise. It makes big torque for a naturally aspirated triple, but it takes some RPM to get there. Normal driving takes place above 4,000 RPM in the YXZ, so calling it subdued or quiet would be a lie. Yamaha does a good job of knocking out the drone of the YXZ’s engine, returning a nicely-tuned growl from the intake and a very subdued exhaust note. Aftermarket exhaust setups on the YXZ like the HMF Performance Series we tested here crank the YXZ’s audible euphoria to 11 – click that link for a sound byte! The dual overhead cam engine is incredibly stout. It has also amassed a cult following from the drag-racing crowd over the last 5 years, leading to cars north of 500 horsepower on fully-built engines.
Stock-engined cars with Yamaha’s GYTR accessory or other aftermarket turbo kits make north of 170 horsepower reliably, without eating its drivetrain. This car was designed for serious abuse, and it holds up well. Tallied up between the UTVOR staff, we have over 8,000 miles logged in multiple YXZ1000Rs, and we have never broken one of them. The most damage we have recorded were a couple bent rear sway bar links. To learn more about how the YXZ faired during our 3-year ownership stint with one, check out our long-term build review of our 2019 car here. For 2021, the only change to the YXZ comes in the form of color and shock options. Yamaha has eliminated the X2 shock from
the YXZ lineup, replacing all iterations with the 2.5-inch bodied Fox Podium RC2. These shocks feature high and low speed compression, rebound, spring preload, and spring crossover adjustment. They come beautifully tuned out of the box, only requiring adjustment if you add weight to the car. Drivers can fine-tune the car’s behavior easily with suspension adjustments, as the RC2s respond well to tuning changes. Ride quality is great, although it gets even better at speed. Yamaha’s YXZ1000R comes in a few flavors, but all of them feature the same interior trim. SE and XTR models now come with small in-cab LED lights positioned at the rear of the center console, which is an odd spot. They do offer The YXZ SE receives upgraded switches and pedals, enhanced underbody protection, a roof, and a rearview mirror to round out its paint and graphic upgrades. Here, you can see the ease of the YXZ’s drive mode switching.
While fairly unbolstered, the YXZ seat covers are insanely grippy. They hold you in very well, and the seating position is low and laid back. Yamaha’s paddles and gauge cluster are one of our favorite things about the car. Tilt steering moves the whole cluster, so it is always in clear view.
UTV OFF-ROAD MAGAZINE 31
2021 YAMAHA YXZ1000R SS SE
The heart of the beast is this all-aluminum inline three-cylinder engine. It makes massive power up high in the rev range, and a surprising amount of torque almost everywhere else.
Sacrificing bed space for cooling performance and balance was something that Yamaha’s engineers did not shy away from. The bed still retains four tie-down hooks, but works much better with an accessory storage box.
Long front A-arms allow the YXZ’s steering geometry to remain precise no matter where it is in its travel. Yamaha also fitted larger brakes to the 2019 and newer YXZ models. 32 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
diffused light inside the cab at night, but we would have preferred to see them mounted above the occupants on the cage somewhere. Yamaha’s stock seats are grippy but fairly unbolstered, leaving most of the occupant containment to the rest of the car’s interior surfaces. Luckily, the center console, door, and shoulder guards are all smooth and fairly soft to the touch, making the YXZ cab a nice place to spend time. Aftermarket seats and harnesses are a must to fully realize the YXZ’s handling potential. All of the controls are well within reach and feel highquality, including the electronic shifter on the center console. It makes 3-point maneuvers incredibly easy once you get the hang of operating the YXZ. On paper, the Yamaha’s “double-wishbone” front and rear suspension does not paint a correct image of how the suspension functions. Sure, the front is a true dual A-arm or double-wishbone setup, using extremely long arms for less camber and scrub change during its 16.2 inches of wheel travel. Out back, the rear arms are quite massive, more closely resembling a triangulated trailing arm than a doublewishbone. It provides 17 inches of suspension travel, and leaves you with some room under the skidplate at full bump. Yamaha wasn’t aiming to win any cargo capacity contests, especially since the 2019+ models lose half of the bed volume to the rear radiator and dual fan assembly. It’s a welcome tradeoff that can be remedied with some help from either GYTR or aftermarket storage solutions available to carry your gear and a spare tire. The rearward weight bias helps the YXZ keep its mass centralized, leading to laser-sharp steering precision and incredible stability. Interior storage is relegated to a center console box that will likely be taken up by a radio, stereo or other electronic equipment, and a decently sized glovebox. There is a tool kit and some other accessories under the passenger’s seat cushion, accessed by pulling up on the back of the seat base. Suspension performance from the 2021 YXZ1000R SS is stellar, exhibiting great body control and bottoming resistance. The YXZ is not what we would call plush, but it is very well-suspended. It rides stiffer than the KRX and about equal with Talon R,
ADVENTURE YAMAHA RMAXTOOLS THE2021 RIGHT Easily Access Your Valve Stems To Manage Your UTV’s Tire Pressure
PRO FILL AIR CHUCK TM
Part No. 08-0602
Adjust the Pro Fill Air Chuck for the best working angle
Pivoting angled head design
@motionpro
@motionprofans
Unique design allows you to reach difficult to access tire valves on ATVs and UTVs
Find your local dealer at MOTIONPRO.COM
UTV OFF-ROAD MAGAZINE 33
2021 YAMAHA YXZ1000R SS SE so not stiffly enough that it is uncomfortable. The YXZ’s damping characteristics keep it in the middle of its suspension stroke very well, which keeps the car stable and allows room for emergency bump absorption without upsetting the chassis too much. Drivers will love the fact that as you push the YXZ harder and faster down the trail, the ride quality gets even better. Nothing makes the YXZ happier than being thrashed like the budget rally car it is. The YXZ has an incredibly well-tuned suspension package from the factory that allows it to fly over jumps, bumps, and whoops without batting an eye. While the engine and transmission steal a lot of the limelight, it is really the YXZ’s
handling character that sets it apart from the field. The YXZ1000R turns with incredible precision and shows off a near-perfect chassis balance that is easy to control at the limit of traction. We spend almost 100% of our drive time with the YXZ in 4WD. It offers selectable 2WD, 4WD, and 4WD with Diff Lock, which are accessed via a rotary knob on the center console. In 4WD, small inputs to the steering wheel or brushing the brake pedal mid-corner get the YXZ to rotate out, and feeding throttle back in helps lock it down on a line and power out of the corner. It feels very light, reacting quickly to changes in direction commanded by the driver. After a few hours of seat time, you will feel like
A side view of the YXZ makes it easier to see why they handle so well. The weight of the entire engine, transmission, and driveline sits far forward of the rear axle, keeping the weight centered in the car.
The YXZ’s driving position and sightlines are fantastic. The unobstructed view out of the car is beneficial everywhere.
The McCracken Mine is home to yet another cabin in great condition – besides the obvious wear and tear from being left out in the elements, these buildings are well taken care of and house lots of interesting items to look at.
In 2WD, the YXZ is a drifting fool. It loves to slide, and also offers great grip while doing so.
34 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
IMMEDIATE DELIVERY NOW AVAILABLE! TRAVEL TRAILER
TRUCK CAMPER
NOW BOARDING, THE ULTIMATE SOCIAL DISTANCING MACHINE! OPTIONAL FEATURES INCLUDE:
Model 2075
Power Inverter – Run Conventional Lithium Batteries - Lightweight Cutting Edge Power With More Usable Appliances At All Outlets! (Select Travel Trailers) Capacity! (Select Travel Trailers)
Roof Mounted Solar Panels – Clean, Quiet Power Anywhere!
Control your environment while creating memories. Take control of your vacation with a Lance Travel Trailer or Truck Camper. All the comforts of home with the serenity, isolation and beauty the wilderness has to offer. An all-inclusive resort wherever you park! Model 2075
Make it a Lance. We are social distancing pros with 55+ years of experience building RVs. Unmatched quality achieved through composite construction and lightweight design with off the grid features keeping you powered up and connected with family and friends. Our dealer partners are open and ready to serve you in a safe environment! LIVE.LANCE.LIFE. Model 650
Lance Campers, social distancing since 1965. Visit lancecamper.com to locate your nearest Lance dealer and the RV of your dreams.
2021 YAMAHA YXZ1000R SS SE the world’s most precise driver, able to nail a line in any corner while hanging the tail out at high RPM. This car makes you feel like a hero. The YXZ is not without its faults, but most of them stem from sacrifices Yamaha made in the name of all-out sport performance. First, the fivespeed transmission cannot be easily adjusted for big changes in tire size like a CVT transmission can, so if you are going to run larger tires, you might as well add some power to it as well. It also lacks storage space in the cab and the bed, but this can be remedied with aftermarket bags and storage accessories just like with any UTV. The ride is fairly plush at low speeds, but the valving is definitely geared
more towards aggressive driving. Those looking to cruise around slowly would be much more comfortable in a car like Yamaha’s RMax 1000. There are more comfortable cars on the market. There are also faster ones, less expensive ones, and ones with far more suspension travel. The YXZ, however, does wear a crown in the UTV industry, and that is for being the most visceral. This is the most sophisticated-handling UTV you can buy, and is also the one that delivers the most raw, unfiltered driving experience available. If you truly enjoy driving and are willing to run the YXZ hard, this car delivers a dopamine rush at every corner, bump, and jump.
Sideways shenanigans in the YXZ can be had in 2 or 4WD. It feels incredibly stable when attacking uneven or off-camber corners.
The YXZ’s suspension gets plusher the harder you drive it. It produces impressive travel numbers on paper, but is even more impressive from the driver’s seat.
36 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
The YXZ’s 8 ply rated Bighorn tires are fantastic in almost every terrain imaginable. This tire is much stronger than Bighorns in the past, and has yet to give us any issues in our testing.
888.541.7223 | RUGGEDRADIOS.COM
2021 YAMAHA YXZ1000R SS SE
After 2019, the YXZ SS models got lower initial gearing, making them much more willing to climb. They still aren’t as easy to use as a CVT-equipped car in the steep, slow sections, but they are far more adept at hardcore climbing than one would think.
YAMAHA YXZ
1000R SS SE STEERING & SUSPENSION FRONT SUSPENSION
Independent double wishbone w/anti-sway bar, fully adjustable FOX® 2.5 Podium® RC2 Dual Spring shocks w/ adjustable crossover; 16.2-in travel
REAR SUSPENSION
Independent double wishbone w/anti-sway bar, fully adjustable FOX® 2.5 Podium® RC2 Dual Spring shocks w/ adjustable crossover; 17.0-in travel
ENGINE & DRIVETRAIN ENGINE TYPE
Liquid-Cooled, DOHC inline three-cylinder; 12 valves
DISPLACEMENT
998 cc
BORE & STROKE
80.0mm x 66.2mm
FUEL DELIVERY
Yamaha Fuel Injection (YFI); three 41mm Mikuni® throttle bodies
COMPRESSION RATIO
11:3:1
FUEL SYSTEM
DFI® with Two 50mm ETV Throttle Bodies
TRANSMISSION
Manual foot clutch; 5-speed sequential with reverse Final Drive On-Command; 3-way locking differential; selectable 2WD and 4WD with diff lock; shaft drive
DIMENSIONS OVERALL L x W x H
123.0 in x 64.0 in x 68.9 in
FRONT BRAKES
Dual hydraulic disc
WHEELBASE
90.5 in
REAR BRAKES
Dual hydraulic disc
MAX GROUND CLEARANCE
13.2 in
FRONT TIRES
29 x 9.00R-14 Maxxis® Bighorn® M917-8PR
TURNING RADIUS
236.0 in
REAR TIRES
29 x 11.00R-14 Maxxis® Bighorn® M918-8PR
FUEL CAPACITY
9.0 gal
WHEELS
Bead-lock Wheels
WET WEIGHT
1521 lb
WHEEL TRAVEL
Front 18.6 in, Rear 21.1 in
WARRANTY
6 Month (Limited Factory Warranty)
38 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
TURES
Check out these other issues!
SUBSCRIBE ONLINE AT
UTVOFFROADMAG.COM AND HAVE THE LATEST ISSUE SENT DIRECTLY TO YOUR PHONE, TABLET OR COMPUTER
FREE
FIRST RIDE
2022 KAWASAKI
TERYX 800 S LE
A mid-cycle refresh breathes life into Kawasaki’s smallbore recreational UTV STORY:CODY HOOPER
K
PHOTOS: KAWASAKI/DOUG HENRY
awasaki has been building the Teryx since the good ‘ol days, back when they aimed their sites somewhere between the Yamaha Rhino and Po-
laris RZR 800. It had two hallmarks- Kawasaki’s signature V-twin sound and their legendary durability. While it was a great rig to own, and incredibly fun to work with, it was far from sporty. Subsequent releases have brought more power, interior refinements, increases in storage, and even more seats. However, until the KRX 1000 was released, the Teryx 800 never received any meaningful suspension upgrades. That changes with the introduction of this submodel- the Teryx 800 S LE.
40 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
2022 KAWASAKI TERYX/TERYX4 800 S LE
UTV OFF-ROAD MAGAZINE 41
FIRST RIDE
2022 KAWASAKI TERYX 800 S LE REVIEW HIGHLIGHTS: • Great sounding engine • Tons of cargo space • Kawasaki reliability • Supple ride, especially for the tame travel numbers
42 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
2022 KAWASAKI TERYX/TERYX4 800 S LE
Engine
While the Teryx 800 S’ engine and transmission are identical to the standard car’s in both 2 seat and Teryx4 (4 seat) trims, it is worth noting that you will certainly get to enjoy the engine more with the added stability of the S model. The Kawasaki’s single overhead cam V-twin is still one of the bestsounding engines on the market, although it is far from the fastest. Our butt dyno puts this somewhere in the neighborhood of 65 horsepower, so the 800 S is no slouch. However, at this price, competition is steep, and the Kawi is on the low-end of the power spectrum for vehicles in its class.
Transmission/Drivetrain
Clutch engagement and power are delivered in the typical smooth and refined Kawasaki fashion. Having a centrifugal internal wet clutch before the CVT means less belt slip and ultimately, more belt life. Push-button 4WD with a true locking front diff are also great features, and the Teryx’s big, notchy shifter feels strong and precise. We also love the manual parking brake. Suspension Suspension is where Kawasaki spent most of their R&D budget on the S model. The standard Teryx has dual A-arm suspension at all four corners, but produces a modest 8.0/8.3 inches of suspension travel front/rear, respectively. The S model’s redesigned A arms, longer shocks, axles, and other components add four inches of width and 25% more travel. This bumps travel numbers to 10.7 inches front and 10.0 inches in the rear, and coupled with an all-new set of Fox Podium LSC shocks, the ride quality change is drastic. The Teryx 800 S filters out small debris on the trail well, and has great bottomout control when driven within reason. UTV OFF-ROAD MAGAZINE 43
FIRST RIDE
44 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
2022 KAWASAKI TERYX/TERYX4 800 S LE
Interior & Exterior While identical to the standard Teryx, the S model’s interior is ergonomically sound. A wellthought-out dash layout keeps all of the controls centralized. Teryx 800 models have a much smaller interior volume than the KRX because of the vehicle’s smaller footprint, but Kawasaki makes good use of it here. The seating position is comfortable and getting in and out of the Teryx is quite painless. This is a fantastic trail exploration rig for those with mobility limitations. Teryx 2 and 4 seat models share the same wheelbase, which means the 2 seaters get a bonus storage locker behind the seats that makes most UTV beds look tiny. On top of that, it features the largest bed in its class, which is about double the size and weight capacity of any sport UTV at this price range. The Teryx leans heavily toward the
utility-oriented side of this segment, whereas other vehicles in this price range like the RZR Trail S and the Maverick Sport are far more performance oriented, losing most of their storage space. The Teryx 800 S strikes a great ground between massive storage capacity, comfort, and performance potential. The Ride We headed out to Jawbone, California in the heart of the Mojave desert to put the Teryx 800 S to the test. Starting at the base of Red Rock Canyon, we blasted through sand wash, climbed rock faces, traversed peaky two-track, and picked through pieces of Last Chance Canyon in an effort to expose any weaknesses in the 800 S. UTV OFF-ROAD MAGAZINE 45
FIRST RIDE
The Teryx 800 S handles bumpy terrain far better than the standard Teryx 800, offering a big improvement in both ride quality and handling prowess. It is still a step behind the Maverick Sport and RZR Trail S in terms of suspension sophistication and compliance, but it offers far more storage space and a more robust chassis that will out-haul either of the other cars. Handling is great, too, as the Teryx S feels like it has properly-sorted front suspension geometry that resists any noticeable toe change.
46 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
Ticking the box for the S model gets you a redesigned Teryx that drives better in every manner than its predecessor, which is a great bargain considering it is only a $600 upgrade over the narrower Teryx 800 LE. We don’t know anywhere else you can get a 25% improvement in suspension travel for $600, and after driving one, we hope Kawasaki shares the S treatment with every trim level. This is a great UTV at a fantastic price, and now it has some performance chops to boot!
2022 KAWASAKI TERYX/TERYX4 800 S LE 2022
TERYX/TERYX4 800 S LE
MSRP: $15,799-$17,999 www.Kawasaki.com
DIMENSIONS
ENGINE & DRIVETRAIN 4-stroke, SOHC, 4-valve V-twin, liquid-cooled
OVERALL L x W x H
118.1 in (2), 125.4 in (4) x 62.6 in x 78.5 in (2), 80.5 in (4)
DISPLACEMENT
783cc
WHEELBASE
88.2 in
BORE & STROKE
85.0 x 69.0mm
GROUND CLEARANCE
11.2 in
MAXIMUM TORQUE
76.7 lb-ft @ 7,000 rpm
CURB WEIGHT
1,596.4 lb (2), 1,638.3 lb (4)
COMPRESSION RATIO
10.7:1
CARGO BED L x W x H
27.6 x 43.3 x 10.4 in (2), 17.9 x 47.6 x 8.7 in (4)
MAXIMUM TORQUE
47.0 lb-ft@ 5500 rpm
CARGO BED/LOAD CAPACITY
600 lb/1100lb
DFI® with two 36mm Mikuni throttle bodies
SEATING CAPACITY
2-4
IGNITION
TCBI with electronic advance
TOWING CAPACITY
1300 lb
TRANSMISSION
Automatic CVT with centrifugal clutch (H,L,N,R)
FUEL CAPACITY
7.9 gal
ENGINE TYPE
FUEL SYSTEM
FINAL DRIVE
Selectable 2WD/4WD with locking front differential, shaft
ENGINE BRAKING
Yes
STEERING & SUSPENSION FRONT SUSPENSION/ WHEEL TRAVEL
Double wishbone, FOX 2.0 LSC Piggyback Shocks, 10.7 in.
REAR SUSPENSION/ WHEEL TRAVEL
Double wishbone, FOX 2.0 LSC Piggyback Shocks, 10.0 in.
FRONT BRAKES
Dual hydraulic discs with two-piston calipers
REAR BRAKES
Sealed, oil-bathed, multi-disc
FRONT TIRES
Maxxis 27 x 9-14
REAR TIRES
Maxxis 27 x 11-14
WHEELS
Alloy
STEERING
Electric Power Steering (EPS) / rack-and-pinion
TURNING RADIUS
17.7 ft
FEATURES FRAME
Steel Tube Double-X Reinforcement
LIGHTING
(4) LED headlights, (2) LED taillights, LED stoplight
INSTRUMENTS
Multi-function digital meter with speedometer, fuel gauge, clock, hour meter, odometer, dual trip meter and parkingbrake indicator, R/N/P/4WD, water temp and low-oil-pressure indicators
WARRANTY
Kawasaki Strong 3-Year Limited Warranty Kawasaki Protection Plus™ (optional): 12, 24, or 36 months
Color Choices: Candy Lime Green/Super Black, Candy Persimmon Red/Super Black
UTV OFF-ROAD MAGAZINE 47
FIRST DRIVE
2022 POLARIS
RANGER SP 570 FIRST DRIVE
This welcomed refresh to the Ranger midsize lineup brings upscale creature comforts and sporty handling. STORY: CODY HOOPER PHOTOS: POLARIS/MIKE EMERY
M
idsize Utility UTVs do not get the attention they deserve. These rigs make up a big part of the workforce, specifically in areas where a full-size just won’t fit. Schools, farms, landscaping operations, and many more industries rely on smaller runabouts to get them to their work. For 2022, Polaris is bringing an allnew face to the mid-size UTV segment, and with it come a host of accessory options to make life with your new Ranger SP more enjoyable.
48 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
2022 POLARIS RANGER SP 570
0
UTV OFF-ROAD MAGAZINE 49
FIRST DRIVE
The Ranger may be small in stature compared to its full-size brethren, but it sure maximizes its footprint. Accessories like this glass rear windshield are available through Polaris. Photo: Polaris
50 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
2022 POLARIS RANGER SP 570 2022 POLARIS RANGER SP 570 REVIEW HIGHLIGHTS: • Peppy acceleration • Tight handling • Massive bed • Great interior storage • Big accessory catalog • Available in 2 or 4 seat (Crew) models
Engine
Polaris’ new Ranger SP 570 mid-size builds on an older platform rather than being all-new. Its engine and transmission are plucked right from the 570 full-size, and 44 horsepower has never felt so strong in a Ranger. Thanks to its light weight, the SP doesn’t have to tax those 44 ponies too much, leading to grin-inducing acceleration that was unexpected from such a docile little workhorse. Polaris’ 570 engine is buttery smooth, offering up power in the same manner that a luxury automobile does. Rather than feeling a hard punch, you get a strong surge of torque that propels you. This makes it perfectly suited for daily use, and also easier to drive in low-traction situations.
Transmission/Drivetrain
The CVT transmission in the SP 570 is tuned well and offers sufficient grunt in low range to pluck up some pretty nasty terrain. On-demand AWD means that the power only gets sent to all four when the rear wheels lose traction, and it is very seamless from behind the wheel. The SP’s power and light weight make it feel very sure-footed when climbing, but the real fun happens when you let it stretch its legs on a wider trail. The CVT offers great acceleration, and the SP managed a top speed just shy of 50 MPH before we ran out of trail. UTV OFF-ROAD MAGAZINE 51
FIRST DRIVE
Suspension
The SP 570 features a new suspension architecture that employs a McPherson strut up front. The struts offer a lower cost and simpler alternative to dual A-arms, and in this application, they work well. Polaris has a lot of experience with McPherson strut front suspension, and the Ranger shows that off. A full nine inches of suspension travel is available from the front end of the SP 570, which helps produce a smooth ride. In the rear, Polaris engineers outfitted the SP with dual A-arm independent suspension, offering ten inches of travel. At 56 inches wide, the SP 570 feels tidy on the trail.
Tires/Wheels/Brakes
Both ends have hydraulic disc brakes to slow the Ranger down, and they work very well. All Ranger SP 570 models come equipped with 25-inch tires. Base and Premium models get Carlisle 489 tires, 8 inches wide in the front and 10 in the rear. The 12-inch steel wheels are standard on the base Ranger only; aluminum wheels are included on the Premium and NorthStar Edition trims. NorthStar Rangers also receive upgraded 6-ply Carlisle Terra Cross tires. Even the base tires grip well. The Carlisle 489 has been around for a long time, and they generally last a while as long as you keep them aired up.
Interior & Exterior
Polaris knows that this Ranger offers two things: low cost of entry and a smaller footprint. However, the owner of the smaller UTV does not always want to sacrifice features and amenities. The previous-generation mid52 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
size 570 was fairly spartan, but the new model benefits from the larger Ranger’s hefty accessory integration success. The SP 570 is available in three trims: standard, Premium, and NorthStar Edition. NorthStar-equipped SP 570s feature a fully sealed cab complete with a heating and ventilation (not air conditioning) system. You have to step up to the full-size Ranger at this point to get A/C. Polaris redesigned the dash and seat to accommodate more storage as well, claiming 19.8 gallons of total storage. The Ranger’s dash pockets and under seat storage are incredibly useful, as is the trickle charger port in the dash that accepts any standard two-prong powersports charger. The SP 570 is well thought-out and quite good looking, so long as you can get past the massive black bumper. The dump bed functions extremely well, and it holds up to 500 pounds.
The Ride
We tested Polaris’ Ranger SP 570 at ERX Motorsports park in Elk River, Minnesota. Initial impressions with the interior were great, especially at this price point. The dash houses a builtin cell phone pocket which actually works- we tested it by sending the 570 airborne a few times. This mid-size utility UTV is surprisingly good to drive, even with slow steering and a very upright seating position. Body roll is well controlled, even on models without the front swaybar. If you’re curious, all four-seat (Crew) variations, as well as the NorthStar two-seat model come with the front swaybar. Two-seat base and Premium models do not.
2022 POLARIS RANGER SP 570 The SP 570 is now available with Ride Command, adding a host of features to the experience like GPS, JBL audio integration, Group Rides and more. Photo: Polaris
The top-trim NorthStar Edition brings a fully-sealed and heated cab to the mid-size utility space. Photo: Polaris
UTV OFF-ROAD MAGAZINE 53
FIRST DRIVE
Seat comfort is good, thanks to a hybrid bench/ bucket design that adds a little bolstering. Premium models gain electronic power steering, aluminum wheels, a blue color option, a larger front bumper, and full skid plates for another $2,000. For colder climates, the NorthStar is the only way to go, as it adds a fully-enclosed Proshield cab with heating and a glass windshield. Other features are upgraded tires, a 3,500 pound winch, and a front swaybar. The SP 570 was designed from the ground-up with cab integra-
Ranger SP 570’s front suspension is a blend of cost-savings and smart packaging. The strut tuning is very good, providing a plush ride and great bump absorption. Photo: Polaris
54 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
tion in mind, and the fit of the cab is great. This is one of the only available UTVs with a dump bed that will fit in the bed of a full-size pickup truck. The SP 570’s 56-inch width allows it to fit in tight spaces, and also makes it very easy to drive. This is the perfect Ranger for families who need a runabout for their property, or a farmer looking for a rig he can fit through some of his narrower fences. In this mid-size segment, we can’t think of a better value, or a utility rig that is more fun to wheel when the work is over.
The 570 nestles between the SP’s frame rails quite nicely. This engine has a velvet-smooth power character. Photo: Cody Hooper
The SP 570 is available in two or four-seat configurations. Door nets are standard, but soft and hard accessory doors are also available from Polaris. Photo: Polaris
2022 POLARIS RANGER SP 570 2022
POLARIS
RANGER SP 570 MSRP: $10,499-$19,499 www.Polaris.com
The NorthStar Edition adds a slick hard cab and glass windshield/ rear panel, along with a heater and some other goodies. Accessory soft cabs and panels are also available for the base and Premium trim levels. Photo: Polaris Color / Graphics: Sagebrush Green, Polaris Blue ENGINE & DRIVETRAIN
DIMENSIONS
ENGINE TYPE
4-Stroke Single Cylinder DOHC
OVERALL L x W x H
108 x 56 x 74 in. (274.3 x 142.2 x 188 cm)
COOLING
Liquid
BED BOX DIMENSIONS L x W x H
33.3 x 48.7 x 12.3 in
CYLINDERS
1
GVW
2,255 lbs.
DISPLACEMENT
567cc
WHEELBASE
73 in (185.4 cm)
FUEL SYSTEM
Electronic Fuel Injection
GROUND CLEARANCE
11 in (27.9 cm)
DRIVE SYSTEM
CVTech Automatic Belt-drive, P/R/N/H/L
DRY WEIGHT
1,139 lbs (base) – 1,479 lbs (NorthStar)
DRIVE SYSTEM TYPE
On-Demand True AWD/2WD/VersaTrac Turf Mode
BOX CAPACITY
500 lb (226.8 kg)
HORSEPOWER
44 HP
FUEL CAPACITY
9.5 gal (35.9 L)
TRANSMISSION/FINAL DRIVE
Automatic PVT H/L/N/R/P; Shaft
HITCH TOWING RATING
1,500 lb (680 kg)
Not Equipped
HITCH TYPE
Standard 2 in (5.08 cm) Receiver
PAYLOAD CAPACITY
1,000 lb (453.6 kg)
PERSON CAPACITY
2
ENGINE BRAKING SYSTEM (EBS)
STEERING & SUSPENSION FRONT SUSPENSION
MacPherson Strut 9 in (22.9 cm) Travel, with anti-sway bar (NorthStar and Crew Editions only)
REAR SUSPENSION
Dual A-Arm, IRS 10 in (25.4 cm) Travel
TURNING RADIUS
12.7 ft
TILT STEERING
Standard
FRONT/REAR BRAKES
4-Wheel Hydraulic Disc
PARKING BRAKE
Park In-Transmission
FRONT TIRES
ADDITIONAL SPECIFICATIONS INSTRUMENTATION
4" LCD Rider Information Center: User Selectable Blue/ Red Backlighting & Brightness, Programmable Service Intervals, Speedometer, Tachometer, Odometer, Tripmeter, Clock, Hour Meter, Gear Indicator, Fuel Gauge, Coolant Temperature, Voltmeter, Service Indicator and Codes, Seat Belt Reminder, DC Outlet
25 x 8-12; Carlisle 489 (Carlisle Terra Cross on NorthStar Edition)
LIGHTING
55W Headlights, LED Tail
25 x 10-12; Carlisle 489(Carlisle Terra Cross on NorthStar Edition)
ELECTRONIC POWER STEERING
Equipped on Premium and NorthStar Edition
TIRE PLY RATING
4 Ply Rated (6 ply for Carlisle Terra Cross)
CARGO SYSTEM
Lock & Ride
WHEELS
Stamped Steel, aluminum (Premium/NorthStar Edition)
OTHER STANDARD FEATURES
Standard In-Dash SAE Charge Port
REAR TIRES
UTV OFF-ROAD MAGAZINE 55
56 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
Eastern Sierra
ADVENTURE STORY & PHOTOS: JON CROWLEY
A
lways up for an adventure, my wife Teresa and I concocted a plan that included both offroading and hiking all condensed into three days and two nights. We chose Bridgeport, CA as the hub of our operations due to its central location between Mount Patterson in the north and the Tioga Pass entrance to Yosemite National Park in the south.
UTV OFF-ROAD MAGAZINE 57
DAY 1
THE PLAN:
Knowing that Teresa would love to see the view from the top of Mount Patterson, I was itching to take our new 2021 Can-Am Commander XT-P out for a ride around the high Sierras. We drove three hours to the town of Walker, CA, and from there, continued solo to the summit reaching up to 11,654 feet. Separating the West Walker River from the East Walker River, Mount Patterson is the tallest peak in the Sweetwater Mountain Range and sits to the north of Mono County, California. Save the exceptionally willing, most of the range remains only accessible on foot, with the use of a pack animal, or in our case: a capable four-wheel-drive vehicle.
THE AREA:
The area comes alive with history as we visited the ghost towns of Belfort and Clinton –– small gold mining camps on the south-eastern slope of Mt. Patterson that date back to the 1800s. The Sweetwater post office existed on the eastern boundary of the range during the 1920s, relatively more recent than the Fales post office on the
58 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
southwestern boundary that dates to 1877. Both Clinton and Belfort operated post offices during the 1880s, as well. Several other inactive small gold mining camps and gold mines in the range include Boulder Flat, Montague Mine, Angelo Mission Mine, Kentuck Mine, Frederick Mine, Longstreet Mine, Lilly Mine, Deep Creek Mine, and Tiger Mine. On the way to the top, we stopped at Lobdell Lake. Not far from there we reached the peak of Mount Patterson and its panoramic 360-degree view. Continuing to explore, we ventured through the ghost town of Belfort and then back over to Montague Mine. Soon after, we starting heading back down the slope. Back in Walker, we loaded up and drove 30 minutes south to Bridgeport, CA to spend the night. A great finish to an even better day, we met up with our friends Kurt & Kelly for some nice burgers, tater tots, and a few brews at Big Meadow Brewing Co. before crashing for the night at Ruby Inn.
UTV OFF-ROAD MAGAZINE 59
60 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
DAY 2 HIKING:
Up early, we headed to the Tioga Pass entrance to Yosemite National Park. The good news is the trailhead is right at the park entrance. We were able to park just outside without worrying about getting a reservation to enter Yosemite. Since we’ve been training to hike Mt. Whitney this coming August, we have been bagging as many peaks as we can to get in as much altitude training as possible. At 13,061 feet, Mount Dana was a perfect test run. The hike starts at about 10,000 feet and rises to over 13,000 in only 3 miles! With jumbled rocks and a super steep climb to the top, we felt a little like billy goats. Nonetheless, our hard work was rewarded with a spectacular view: Mono Lake to the east, Yosemite Valley to the west, Mount Lyell to the south, and Mt. Patterson to the north which we road to the day prior.
OFF-ROADING:
After eating lunch atop the mountain, we descended back down the trailhead to clock in at about 5 hours round-trip! Seeing as it was just 1 PM, Teresa and I certainly weren’t done with dventuring for the day, though. Driving north almost back to Bridgeport we unloaded our Can-Am Commander at Green Creek Road. Exploring the area to the southwest, we found some old mining cabins and equipment before heading over to Kavanaugh Ridge. This spot specifically is over 11,000 feet and drops off dramatically into the Hoover Wilderness Area. Despite the extremely gusty wind, the incredible views of the area were worth it nonetheless. Back in Bridgeport at dinner time, the first thing we decided was to grab some much needed food. Stopping in at Rhino’s Bar and Grille, we kicked back and reminisced.Kentuck Mine, Frederick Mine, Longstreet Mine, Lilly Mine, Deep Creek Mine, and Tiger Mine. UTV OFF-ROAD MAGAZINE 61
DAY 3 FULL CIRCLE:
So inspired by the view from Kavanaugh ridge the day earlier, Teresa and I did some investigating into the Hoover Wilderness Area. To our luck, I found an access point into the same area that we peered down on from the Green Creek Trailhead. Navigating wasn’t too difficult. The spot will take you less than 10 miles down a decent dirt road, and is accessible via Green Creek Road. From the trailhead, our goal was to get to East Lake –– totaling about 9-miles round trip. The hike was comparatively much easier than hiking Mount Dana the day before. Instead of 1,000+ feet per mile, today’s trek was closer to 500 feet per mile. Since it lacks the large rocks and boul62 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
ders, we also found the trail to be much easier to navigate without having to look when placing each step. Overall, the Hoover Wilderness Area was fantastic –– including the hikes to visit both Green Lake and then East Lake. Bringing the trip full circle, it was interesting to see the top of Kavanaugh Ridge, but this time from the bottom. Packing in as many activities as possible, we had a ball exploring this area over the course of three days. With so many outdoor opportunities one really can’t miss out when visiting the area. The only downside that I can think of would be the price of fuel in Bridgeport. It has to be one of
Kavanaugh Ridge 4x4 Trail
Hiking Mount Dana in Yosemite National Park
the most expensive in California! Our Can-Am Commander XT-P is perfect for this type of riding. While we are out exploring and soaking up the sites, there really isn’t a need for a turbo, and we love the bed in the back to stash away plenty of gear. The stock suspension is nice and plush, but the Shock Therapy upgrades and FOX iQS takes the plush ride to another level. Rugged Radios intercom lets us talk the entire way about what we are seeing and that makes the journey even more enjoyable.
Hiking to Green Lake and East Lake in the Hoover Wilderness Area
UTV OFF-ROAD MAGAZINE 63
PRODUCT REVIEW
MAXXIS
RAZR XT TIRE
Maxxis drops an all-new desert tire with the podium in mind STORY: STAFF OF UTV OFF-ROAD PHOTOS: ADAM CAMPBELL PHOTOGRAPHY
Typically, new tire announcements from Maxxis carry some weight. The rubber-industry powerhouse has been the biggest name in OEM UTV tires for years, and their aftermarket lines offer viable upgrades when the stock rubber is all worn out. Their newest drop, the RAZR XT desert tire, comes in one size and is purposebuilt to deliver maximum performance in southwestern terrain. Part number TM00296300, better known as the 32x10.00R15 RAZR XT, is the only size available for this tire style from Maxxis. As it would happen, 32 inches is the maximum tire size allowed in most desert-racing UTV classes at this time. Maxxis uses a lot of racer feedback to build their tire line, so the RAZR XT was designed from the start to be competitive. Maxxis claims 64 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
that the RAZR XT is built with a high-density, double steel-belted carcass to enhance stability over impacts at high speeds. Built for less carcass deflection and a more planted feel, the RAZR XT truly does add a level of confidence at high speeds. When designing this tire, Maxxis implemented a new rubber compound that provides increased resistance to tearing and better stiffness than the compounds used in some of their previous hardpack/desert tires. The 8-ply-rated radial tires have a unique staggered lug pattern and a defined ridge running around the shoulders of the tire. This extra rubber keeps the edges of the tire from deforming under hard driving, ultimately letting the tread of the tire continue to do its job of maintaining traction.
2022 MAXXIS RAZR XT TIRE one smaller size option join the RAZR XT line for this reason alone. On the X3, the RAZR XT felt more at home, exhibiting rock-solid performance even when smacking square edges at high speeds. The RAZR XT provides great traction in forward bite and braking, about on par with the best of the industry in those respects. The rear breaks loose predictably on corner exit, which adds a layer of enjoyment to your drive and doesn’t feel so hard on the driveline. The rounded profile affords the RAZR XT a more predictable transition from grip to slide, inspiring confidence at the limit of traction by reducing snap oversteer. It also comes back from loss of grip very well, responding instantly to changes in throttle, brake, or steering. Maxxis’ RAZR XT is wearing well so far, with very little measurable wear in the first 350 miles. The traction afforded by the tires in normal desert terrain is great, and the additional ridges and grooving of the sidewall really allow them to grip well when cornering hard. If you are looking for a little more high-speed stability for your UTV, and a 32x10R15 tire is your desired size, the RAZR XT is a solid choice. When it comes to high-speed desert performance, it is definitely a top contender.
E
On our scale, the RAZR XT measured 43.7 pounds brand new, which is within a pound of a similarly sized ITP Coyote tire on our resident Turbo S 4. While a tad heavy if upgrading from a smaller-sized tire, the advantages the RAZR XT offers in performance certainly outweigh the weight penalty. The RAZR XT is still on the lighter side for steel-belted radial off-road tires, and Maxxis mentioned they may release a nylon-belted, lighter-weight version. We tested these tires on both a Honda Talon 1000R and a Can-Am Maverick X3 RR. On the Talon, we had a bit of an issue with tire rub up front. The RAZR XT tires measure a hair over 32 inches when mounted and inflated, so the Talon was subject to rubbing before we could find full lock. While the tire rubbing is no fault of Maxxis’, we do hope to see at least
We tested these 32" Maxxis RAZR XT tires ($335 each) on a set of KMC Mesa Lite wheels ($189 each) UTV OFF-ROAD MAGAZINE 65
PRODUCT REVIEW
ALL GERMAN MOTORSPORTS
CAN-AM X3 EXR FUEL TANK Add another 9 gallons and 80-100 miles of range to your X3 In the Southwest, 100+ mile rides are a daily occurrence. We often stretch our fuel range right to the ragged edge, limping back home after doing a 150-mile loop in a car we know gets 150 miles to a tank. Carrying spare fuel in gas cans is extremely dangerous, seemingly leaving you no alternatives other than to cut your rides shorter. All German Motorsports knew there was a better solution, and boy did they nail it. All German Motorsports, or AGM, has been making high-end racing parts for decades. Most famous for shoehorning BMW powerplants into various offroad racing cars to compete in desert racing, AGM is also home to AGA Tools. This division of All German creates tools for the European auto industry such as braker rotor gauges, lift tables, transmission service tools, and many more. AGM has a long history of manufacturing expertise, which shows in here in their new EXR series of extended-range fuel tanks. Available for Can-Am Maverick X3 and RZR XP, this $1,179 kit will double the riding range of your UTV.
66 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
The kit starts with a non-bladdered fuel cell that is custom shaped to sit below the seats, underneath the plastics. Since the cell does not have a rubber bladder, it is not built for racing use, but AGM pressure tests each one before shipping. Installation is made lengthy mostly by things out of AGM’s control, such as the stock Can-Am skidplate needing to be removed. This requires drilling out rivets as Can-Am does not bolt their skidplates on. AGM sells a hardware upgrade kit to put the stock skid plates back on, but we recommend running a Factory UTV UHMW skid plate to protect your X3’s vitals and your new AGM tank. The EXR kit ships complete with the tank, straps, hoses, relay and wiring pigtails, auxiliary fuel pump, clamps, and more. The cell holds fuel as a remote tank until you turn on the pump to transfer the extra fuel into the main tank. This is done by altering the stock tank’s filler neck with the included parts in the AGM kit, keeping the factory tank in place and sealed tightly. This affords the added benefit of also having the option to pump auxiliary fuel out of
the AGM tank and into another vehicle trailside. A “Buddy Hose” is included with the kit, which simply plugs inline to a distribution block next to the seat bottom so you can share fuel in seconds, with no siphoning. The fuel pump provided with the kit is fairly loud, but it pumps quickly and is a high-quality unit. Luckily, the pump doesn’t run all the time; only when transferring fuel. The EXR tank gave us an additional 70-90 miles of range in our X3 on 33inch tires, depending on how hard we were driving and how much gear we took with us. For our Baja 1000 pre-run, we bring an additional 300 pounds of spare parts and camping gear. In this trim, we expect our overall range to be close to 170 miles, even with a mix of hilly terrain, high-speed sand washes and silt beds. That’s amazing for a simple bolt on install, as the stock car will only go around 100 miles. We’ve relied on plastic fuel cans mounted above our heads or above hot, skeptical locations for years, and we are grateful for the peace of mind this EXR fuel cell brings.
EXR Fuel Tank Price: $1,179.00
All German Motorsports (760) 884-8319
AGM-Products.com
UTV OFF-ROAD MAGAZINE 67
1
ALL GERMAN MOTORSPORTS ELECTRIC JACK We reviewed an extended-range fuel tank from All German Motorsports in this issue, but another one of their products caught our eye at the show. This battery-powered highlift jack uses a standard DeWalt or Milwaukee drill battery (optioned at time of purchase) and can lift up to 2,000 pounds. It has 14 inches of lift travel and a 17” external heigh adjustment range. AGM also sells weld-on chassis mounts, jack points or universal hooks, so you have multiple options for lifting. The lightweight jack weighs just 17 pounds and retails for $1,289.00 at www.AGM-products.com.
POLARIS RZR TURBO DYNAMIX
11 COOL THINGS FROM
11 OF THE COOLEST THINGS WE SAW AT
SAND SPORTS SHOW 2021
WORDS/PHOTOS: CODY HOOPER
THIS YEAR’S SAND SHOW IN CASE YOU COULDN’T MAKE IT! Sand Sports Super Show 2021 has come and gone after a one-year hiatus due to Covid-19. Back in action after taking 2020 off, this year’s Sand Show was sponsored by Geico and Nitto Tire, and hosted by Bonnier Events at the Orange County Fairgrounds in Costa Mesa. In case you have never heard of the Sand Sports Super Show, it is exactly what it sounds like – a large expo of UTV and offroad centered vendors displaying Sand and desert-oriented products. Here, you will a massive assortment of UTV coach builders, parts manufacturers, and just about any other affiliated company that makes products for off-road use. Walking the hundreds of booths at the Sand Sports Show can take more than a full day if you really want to see everything, so we compiled a short list of 11 hot items we saw at this year’s show for your perusal. This year’s show saw record attendance, and served as a giant kickoff party for the riding season in the southwest. Some of these products will make their way into the pages of UTV OffRoad Mag as product evaluations, so be sure to check back for updates.
UTV OFF-ROAD MAGAZINE 69
11 COOL THINGS FROM
2
SAND SPORTS SHOW 2021
ARP STAINLESS UTV BOLT KITS Automotive Racing Products, better known as ARP, are a hardware manufacturer who has been around for decades. Their fasteners are such high quality that their brand name have become a household name for garage nuts. Relatively new to the UTV industry, ARP now offers bolt kits for roll cages, A-arms, trailing arms, hubs, studs and more. They feature 12 point head, polished stainless bolts that are rated to 180,000 PSI. The assortments are available at www.TPRIndustry.com. Tip- Be sure to apply proper anti-corrosive compounds where necessary when pairing stainless bolts and aluminum parts.
4
GATE KING TAILGATE ADJUSTERS The Gate King aims to make every pickup truck owner’s life a little easier by offering a stronger and more practical alternative to standard tailgate cables. By replacing the cables with a chromoly ratcheting mechanism, the Gate King allows you to lock your tailgate in multiple positions, releasing with either a lift of the tailgate or a flick of a lever. The way the Gate King works is incredibly slick, and you can see demo videos on their site, www.castel-usa.com. Pricing is $228.28 per set for the made in USA, high-quality tailgate adjusters.
70 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
HAVOC GOGGLES While not a new name in the off-road industry, Havoc is a young one. Their goggle sets are all under $100 and are loaded with unique design features. The top-level Infinity goggle features magnetic, interchangeable lenses that pop on and off in a fly, perfect for when your UTV ride hits dusk. We met with Havoc and set up a full product test on their Infinity goggles, so check back soon for a hands-on review. www.Havocracingco.com
5
ASSAULT INDUSTRIES RZR PRO XP TRUNK Assault Industries has recently released this killer sheetmetal trunk and spare tire carrier for the Polaris RZR Pro XP. Built with high-quality fasteners, hinges, and struts, Assault’s spare tire carrier and trunk kit offer plenty of storage thanks to the Pro XP’s deep bed sides. It opens with one hand via two latches at the rear of the car, ensuring easy trailside operation even when wearing thicker gloves. Pricing was still being determined at the time we printed this, but check www.Assaultind.com for
6
3
BOXO USA UTV TOOL ROLL 2.0 BOXO USA’s Tool Roll 2.0 is a UTVspecific tool kit packaged to make trailside repairs and maintenance at camp a little easier. Featuring 66 pieces, the tool roll was designed with Polaris and Can-Am fasteners in mind. The pre-labeled tool roll pouch has extra pockets for additional wrenches, but comes loaded with the most-used tools for RZR/X3 maintenance. The tools feature a lifetime warranty. For a full list of what’s included in BOXO’s UTV tool roll, visit www.boxousa.com. UTV OFF-ROAD MAGAZINE 71
11 COOL THINGS FROM
SAND SPORTS SHOW 2021
7
9 72 UTVOFFROADMAG.COM
JAMAR BIG BRAKE KITS Those familiar with desert racing will likely know the name Jamar Performance. Their hub and brake kits have been used in the off-road desert racing circuits for years, and they are about to release full big brake kit packages for the Polaris RZR and Can-Am X3. While pricing was not finalized at the show, the kits should be ready for distribution very soon. For more information, reach Jamar Performance at (714) 603-7536 or at www.JamarPerformance.com. MWHIPS LIGHTED WHIP KITS It takes a lot to stand out in the whip game, but recent startup MWhips caught our attention with some unique design elements. The one that intrigued us most was the whip’s quick disconnect base, which is designed to be the point of failure should the whip contact a tree branch, tunnel, or be subjected to a rollover. MWhips chose to do this as the bases can be replaced for $20 per pair, rather than having to replace the entire LED whip antenna. MWhips has an incredible amount of options for whips, pod lights, accent lighting and more, available at www.MWhips.com.
10
KRAFT WERKS UTV SUPERCHARGER KITS Kraft Werks is a company with a storied history in supercharging who is now making a hard charge at the UTV industry. They now offer power-up kits for the RZR XP1000, Honda Talon, Kawasaki KRX, Yamaha YXZ, and more. Kraft Werks claims a massive 60%+ power increase for the KRX, which we are very interested in. For more information, visit www.KraftWerksUSA.com or call (951) 808-9888.
8
FOR U 2 MOTORSPORTS CUSTOM X3 For U 2 Motorsports is an off-road customs shop out of Hesperia, California that started off customizing low riders and sand rails. Their unique style of vehicle builds has won them many awards and prizes, but this Can-Am Maverick X3 Max really caught our attention. The styling is reminiscent of early-2000s sand rails, and For U 2 went so far as to wrap the firewall, inner fenders, parts of the dash and more to make this X3 feel very upscale. For U 2 Motorsports can be reached at (760) 949-8600 or by visiting www.ForU2Motorsports.com
MADIGAN MOTORSPORTS POLARIS RZR XP PRO LONG TRAVEL Madigan Motorsports builds some absolutely gorgeous equipment, and their Polaris RZR XP Pro Long Travel kit is no exception. This kit presents a great way to add a massive amount of stability and suspension performance to the Pro XP platform, and is built incredibly strong with meticulous attention to detail. Madigan has many options to choose from when it comes to UTV parts, so give them a ring a (951) 382-0256 or by visiting www.MadiganMotorsports.com.
11 UTV OFF-ROAD MAGAZINE 73
U L T I M AT E T E R R A I N
Winter off-roading season is in full swing and we're constantly out exploring new trails! Adam Campbell Photography snapped this Honda Talon 1000R ripping across the Mojave desert. PHOTO: ADAM CAMPBELL