These are common reasons UTVs are so expensive right now. There have been performance improvements in UTVs, an increase in accessories, add-ons, and supply and demand.
You have to pay a premium price if you desire a superior product. UTVs can be expensive for the simple reason that they are constructed from robust materials. In addition to the material, labour and precision are required to create this product.
Reasons UTVs are so expensive?
1. Suspension
This is a major reason why UTVs are so expensive. As the wheelbase is longer and the vehicle weighs more, UTV suspension requires more robust components. Although the suspension is not the only pricey component, the work necessary to install it is pretty expensive. This is one of the reasons why UTVs are expensive to purchase and produce.
The suspension must be exact to absorb jumps and navigate tight curves. Having a suspension with excellent handling and absorbent enough for high jumps is costly. Incredible outcomes take a great deal of research and technological development.
You can purchase a UTV with average suspension, but you will not receive the entire experience. Therefore, it is advised that you get a UTV with excellent suspension, as this will maximize your satisfaction with your investment.
Read Also: 7 Common Honda Talon Problems [Buyer’s Guide]
2. Engine
Unlike conventional automobiles, UTVs require a high-revving engine with a constant torque output at all RPMs. Most riders will drive their UTV off-road, although obtaining insurance and driving it on the road is possible. Regardless, you will likely drive your UTV in locations where standard automobiles cannot travel. For this reason, you must have a vehicle with a superior engine.
A typical UTV features a high horsepower and torque engine to enable riders to escape tight situations such as muddy trails or climbing. For the engine to have a long lifespan and not break during the first couple of years, manufacturers tend to use premium materials.
In addition, the engine is expertly designed to have the ideal torque and horsepower curve. In the majority of automobiles, horsepower peaks at the highest RPM. However, UTVs have a fairly steady increase in power and reach their peak horsepower considerably faster than conventional automobiles.
3. Drivetrain and transmission
In addition to its tremendous power, the UTV comes with a gearbox and drivetrain of high quality which is a reason UTVs are so expensive right now. A high horsepower engine is useless if the vehicle cannot transfer that power to the ground; therefore, UTVs must have a drivetrain and the highest-quality transmission.
A UTV’s transmission and drivetrain are more robust and responsive than those of conventional automobiles to endure and handle difficult conditions. Manufacturers tend to spend a great deal of time developing the ideal powertrain and gearbox for UTVs; in fact, many people consider this to be one of the most crucial components of developing the ideal UTV.
Most of your UTV driving time will likely be spent in the higher RPM range. Therefore, the transmission must be dependable and quick enough to upshift or downshift when necessary.
UTVs must have a reliable transmission and drivetrain because they are not driven like a typical automobile, which is a reason UTVs are so expensive now.
4. Rigid chassis
A UTV must have a rigid chassis because you will be towing and driving it aggressively. The chassis must be durable and constructed from the best quality materials if the UTV is to last, which is why so many manufacturers invest so much time and money into constructing the ideal chassis for their most recent UTV model.
Remember that the chassis must also be lightweight, as UTVs are intended to be agile and light enough to traverse rough terrain. This necessitates that manufacturers design a chassis that is as sturdy as a truck’s but as light as an ATV’s, which might be difficult. Manufacturers obtain a rigid chassis by combining lightweight and durable materials with precision engineering, which is why UTVs are so expensive to produce and acquire.
5. Strong frame
You will likely roll your UTV than a regular vehicle, so the frame must be durable. Manufacturers must build a structure that protects against rollovers while preserving the UTV experience.
To construct a robust frame for a UTV, manufacturers must use lightweight and pricey materials in order to provide a safe and enjoyable ride. Building a robust frame is expensive and demands precision and man-hours, which is why UTVs can be expensive to purchase and manufacture.
6. General packaging
A UTV’s whole construction must be of great quality and durability, which requires precision and excellent engineering. We have discussed all the factors that contribute to the high cost of UTVs, but the primary factor is the cost of packaging everything together.
Manufacturers must ensure that all goods fit properly and work properly. Consequently, the engine, transmission, and frame must all match flawlessly. Once all the moving pieces have been assembled, the next step will be testing. Before deciding to sell UTVs, producers must ensure that the product meets all advertised specifications.
Manufacturers will subject the UTV to rigorous tests to determine its durability. If not, then the plan must be revised. In either case, the UTV must perform before sales can begin. The entire process of designing and testing a UTV can be costly, not to mention that its creators must be compensated.
When you consider all of the expenditures associated with designing and producing a UTV, it becomes clear why they are so expensive. The entire packaging of a UTV is what makes it so expensive, as it is more difficult to produce than a conventional vehicle. So, there you have it, why side by sides so expensive.
7. Windshields
This accessory will not be standard on all makes and models, but it is a valuable addition. When traversing dirt, sand, or streams, an additional layer of protection is always welcome. Even if you have a windshield, goggles and/or a helmet are still recommended.
8. Seating
In terms of seating, ATVs need you to have your legs spread apart, but UTV seating is comparable to that of a car. You can alter the seats in your UTV to make it more comfortable at any time. Investing in seats with denser foam is beneficial for lumbar support and shock absorption. If it rains or you drive through a stream, seats made of mesh will dry faster. A 5–point harness, as opposed to the standard 3–point harness, will help keep you in your seat.
9. Street driving
While most UTVs can only be driven off-road, you can legally convert your side-by-side to be driven on the street. This includes components such as brake lights, headlights, seat belts, mufflers, etc. Some locations even sell legalization kits for UTVs. Most modern UTVs already include the majority of these capabilities. You will only need to verify your state’s requirements.
10. Lightbars
LED lightbars boost nighttime visibility, whether you’re attempting to see past the sand in the desert or through the trees in the forest.
Historically, side-by-sides were almost exclusively employed as utilitarian vehicles. People would purchase them and spend tens of thousands of dollars changing them into high-end sports cars. By constructing them straight as sports cars, manufacturers have made it easy for customers to obtain precisely what they desire with minimal effort beyond making a purchase.
UTV manufacturers have simplified the process and enhanced performance to unprecedented levels. The price includes all components, performance, convenience, and elegance.
Note: Side-by-sides are also called utility vehicles (UTVs), recreational off-highway vehicles (ROVs) and recreational utility vehicles (RUVs), per California Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation.
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Conclusion
As previously stated, if you want to get superior quality, you will need to invest money. UTVs are so expensive now, so don’t bother going for a cheap one. The most dangerous thing you can do is purchase the UTV you desire on the cheap, as you will ultimately regret your decision.
Ensure that you test-drive as many UTVs as possible and then purchase the one you choose. Producing and purchasing a UTV is always an expensive endeavour due to the product’s premium materials and precision engineering. When seeking to acquire an ATV, you will receive what you paid for, so do not skimp on the price. Good quality UTVs are expensive to produce, making them expensive to purchase.
Bernard is the lead driver and force behind his Big Dog Garage Race Team. He is the General Manager and Chief Mechanic of Jay Leno’s Garage. Bernard and his crew of seven are responsible for all repairs, restoration and fabrication of Jay’s incredible automobile and motorcycle collection.
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