Side-by-side vehicles, commonly called UTVs or SxS, are engineered to operate where standard vehicles fail: uneven terrain, heavy workloads, tight trails, and harsh weather. But even the best factory-made side-by-side is just the beginning. You really get the most out of a UTV when you add some side-by-side accessories. They boost protection, add useful features, and enhance performance for everyday adventures.
This breakdown provides a comprehensive explanation of what side-by-side accessories are, why they are important, how to choose the right ones, and the different types available for protection, work, lighting, storage, and performance.
What are side-by-side accessories?
Side-by-side accessories are extra parts that boost the functionality, safety, durability, comfort, and performance of a UTV. You can either get these accessories installed by the manufacturer or pick them up from aftermarket suppliers. They’re designed to fit right in with your vehicle’s frame, electrical system, suspension, or cargo area.
Unlike the flashy upgrades you see on cars, side-by-side accessories are mostly about getting the job done. They're built to handle tough conditions like mud, rocks, water, extreme temperatures, and a lot of shaking. Sometimes, these accessories are super important for keeping things running smoothly and lasting longer.
OEM vs Aftermarket Side-by-Side Accessories
Side-by-side accessories are available from two primary sources: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and aftermarket manufacturers. OEM side-by-side accessories are made specifically for a given UTV model, ensuring they fit perfectly and integrate seamlessly as if they were meant to be there from the start. They usually go well with the vehicle's look and style, but they can be pricier and not as diverse. Aftermarket side-by-side accessories give you more choices, let you customize things your way, and usually offer better bang for your buck. There are a bunch of aftermarket brands that focus on heavy-duty protection, performance upgrades, or specific needs that OEM options just don’t cover.
Why are side-by-side accessories important?
A factory-built UTV is intended for a variety of tasks. While capable, it is not ideal for all applications. Side-by-side attachments are crucial because they allow owners to customize their vehicles for real-world conditions and unique use cases. Without the correct accessories, a UTV is more prone to damage, less efficient, and frequently limited in what it can safely accomplish.
How to Choose the Right Side-by-Side Accessories
Choosing the right accessories starts with understanding how the UTV will be used. Not every accessory is necessary for every rider, and prioritizing the correct upgrades prevents wasted money and performance issues. Key factors to consider include:
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Primary use (work, recreation, hunting, farming, trail riding)
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Terrain type (mud, rocks, sand, snow, mixed terrain)
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Climate and seasonal conditions
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Vehicle make, model, and year
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Weight capacity and suspension limits
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Long-term durability and maintenance needs
The most effective approach is to start with protection and safety, then add utility, performance, and comfort upgrades as needed.
What are the types of side-by-side accessories?
Side-by-side accessories are best understood as functional systems rather than random add-ons. Each type exists to solve a specific problem, protecting the machine, improving capability, increasing comfort, or expanding how and where the vehicle can be used. Knowing which types of side-by-side accessories fall into these categories helps owners choose upgrades strategically.
Side-by-Side Accessories for Protection
Protection accessories are among the most important upgrades a side-by-side can receive, as they safeguard the vehicle’s most vulnerable and expensive components. These include:
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Skid plates protect the undercarriage, engine, transmission, and drivetrain from direct impacts and abrasion when navigating rough trails or job sites.
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Front and rear bumpers shield the frame and body panels from collisions, trail obstacles, and workspace hazards while also providing mounting points for winches and auxiliary lighting.
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Rock sliders and nerf bars protect the sides of the vehicle from rocks, stumps, and trail obstacles, especially in narrow or wooded environments.
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A-arm and suspension guards protect exposed suspension components, demonstrating their importance in rocky terrain and heavy-use conditions.
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Windshields block wind, mud, dust, and flying debris, improving rider safety, visibility, and overall comfort during operation.
Side-by-Side Accessories for Utility and Work
Utility and work accessories are designed to turn a side-by-side into a highly efficient, task-focused machine. These upgrades increase productivity, expand hauling and towing capabilities, and allow the UTV to handle demanding jobs across farms, worksites, and large properties.
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Winches provide recovery capability, assist with heavy lifting, and help clear obstacles such as fallen trees or stuck equipment.
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Tow hitches allow the UTV to pull trailers, implements, and attachments, significantly expanding hauling capacity.
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Cargo boxes, bed extenders, and racks improve load management, making it easier to transport tools, supplies, and materials securely.
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Snowplows, sprayers, and spreaders enable year-round use for snow removal, farming, and grounds maintenance.
Side-by-Side Accessories for Lighting
Lighting accessories enhance visibility, safety, and confidence when operating them side-by-side in low-light or nighttime conditions. Proper lighting allows riders to work longer hours and navigate trails more safely.
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LED light bars deliver wide-area illumination for trails, worksites, and open terrain.
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Spot and flood lights provide focused or broad lighting depending on the task or environment.
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Rock lights improve visibility around tires and obstacles at night.
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Auxiliary wiring and switch panels allow clean, safe management of multiple lighting accessories.
Side-by-Side Accessories for Storage and Organization
Storage and organization accessories help keep gear, tools, and equipment secure and easy to access. These improve efficiency and reduce clutter inside the cab and cargo areas.
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Lockable cargo boxes protect valuable equipment from weather and theft.
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Overhead storage racks and bags maximize space in the cab.
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Tool mounts and holders keep frequently used equipment organized and within reach.
Side-by-Side Accessories for Performance
Performance accessories improve how a side-by-side accelerates, handles, and responds in challenging conditions. These modifications improve traction, stability, power delivery, and overall control, allowing the UTV to perform better in a variety of terrains and workloads. Whether the vehicle is utilized for intense trail riding, heavy towing, or extreme conditions, performance accessories help it reach its maximum mechanical potential.
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Suspension upgrades and high-performance shocks improve ride quality, absorb impacts more effectively, and maintain stability when carrying heavy loads or navigating rough terrain.
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Terrain-specific tires enhance traction and control in mud, sand, snow, or rocky environments, while also improving braking and steering response.
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Reinforced or beadlock wheels increase durability and prevent tire slippage under low-pressure or high-stress conditions.
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Clutch kits optimize power transfer from the engine to the wheels, improving acceleration, throttle response, and hill-climbing ability.
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Steering and drivetrain enhancements improve handling precision and reduce strain on mechanical components during aggressive or extended use.
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Throttle response controllers reduce factory throttle delay by sharpening accelerator input, providing quicker acceleration, improved low-speed control, and a more responsive driving experience without permanent engine modifications.
Best Side-by-Side Accessory: Pedal Commander®
Pedal Commander® is considered one of the top performance accessories for side-by-sides because it boosts throttle response without messing with the engine or drivetrain. Lots of UTVs are built with a bit of a throttle delay straight from the factory to keep things efficient and reliable, but that can make them feel a bit slow when you're trying to accelerate or maneuver at low speeds. Pedal Commander® eliminates that lag by tweaking the throttle signal, so your side-by-side reacts right away to your pedal input and feels way more precise and responsive.
