What You Need to Know About Buying a Side-By-Side

Side-by-sides are versatile vehicles that you can use for work and for play time. Choosing the right UTV does require some thought and consideration about what your needs are. If you aren't sure what UTV would be appropriate for you, visit us in Deland, Florida at RC Hill Honda. We serve Deltona and Palm Coast, Florida as well.

Should You Buy New?

Used Side-by-Sides are much cheaper than new ones. If you are just getting into driving a Side by Side, buying an old UTV can help you figure out if you like the sport without breaking the bank. 

Unless you are buying the vehicle from a dealer or a friend you can trust, you really don't know if the vehicle has been maintained well nor what kind of damage it has experienced. You won't be able to see the damage just by looking at it. Unless you know what to look for, buying used can be a gamble.

However, when you buy a new Side-by-Side, you get a warranty and you can take comfort in knowing it has never been used. This means you don't have to worry about any damage or maintenance surprises. Even though a new Side-by-Side is much more expensive, you can finance it.

How Many Seats Are Needed?

You can choose a Side-by-Side with just a seat for the driver. There are also models that allow for the driver and one passenger to be seated. You can choose a model that allows for three passengers and a driver. The last configuration is one driver with five passengers.

When deciding on the number of seats you want in your UTV, think about the dimensions as well as the weight. If you have a Side-by-Side that can accomodate a lot of passengers, it will be bigger and weigh more than one that can accomodate less passengers.

What Size Engine Should You Choose?

When you have a large engine, it will have more power. However, a larger engine costs more money. For fast acceleration or hauling a lot of gear, aim for an engine that is between 900 and 1000cc. If you just need to do some farm work or explore the outdoors, 800cc should be more than enough.

What Type of Model Should You Choose?

UTVs can be used for a variety of activities. However, each version has its own purpose. Utility UTVs are made to work. They aren't the fastest, and they don't corner very well. However, they do have a large bed in the back that is made for carrying any tools or materials you may need on the farm. They also have a trailer hitch to tow small trailers.

Recreation Side-by-Sides are middle-of-the-road UTVs. They perform better than utility UTVs, but not as well as the ones designed for sport. Their suspension is better than the utility models. Like the utility UTVs, they have a cargo bed. You can use them for camping excursions and exploring forest trails.

Sport & High-Performance Side-by-Sides are faster and more expensive than the other UTVs. They handle jumps very easily. However, you can't carry heavy loads with them as they only have a small storage area. They are also not suitable for forest trails.

Regardless of why you want a UTV, it is important to consider your options. There are pros and cons to buying used. You want to think about the seats you require for UTV. It is also important to think about the type of UTV you need. Here at RC Hill Honda in Deland, Florida, we have a selection of UTVs to choose from. We also serve Deltona and Palm Coast, Florida.