Owning a RZR: What to Upgrade and What to Leave Alone

Owning a Polaris RZR is an experience like no other but figuring out which parts to keep and which to upgrade can be overwhelming. Polaris did a fantastic job designing a vehicle that's tough, reliable, and ready for a variety of terrains. That being said, some upgrades can really boost your RZR’s performance depending on how and where you drive it. Whether you're racing, rock-crawling, dune-riding, or just hitting the trails, here's a breakdown of what to upgrade and what to leave alone.

What Polaris Did Right:

Before diving into modifications, let’s acknowledge that Polaris got a lot of things right. The RZR’s suspension system, for instance, is typically well-balanced for general off-road use. The engine is also powerful enough for most riders straight from the factory, and the stock drivetrain is durable and built to handle rough terrain. Unless any of these components are damaged, there's no need to replace them unless you're looking for a specific performance boost.

Upgrades Based on Your Riding Style:

For Race-Ready Drivers:

If speed is your game and racing is your passion, upgrading for maximum performance is a must.

• Suspension: While the stock suspension is solid, you’ll want to upgrade to high-performance shocks and stiffer springs for better handling at high speeds.
• Tires & Wheels: Race-ready drivers benefit from lighter, more durable tires designed for speed and traction on hard-packed surfaces.
• Cooling System: Racing puts a lot of strain on the engine, so an upgraded cooling system will help maintain optimal performance during long, high-speed runs.

For Rock-Crawlers:

Rock crawling is a totally different beast. It's slow, precise, and requires a lot of torque and ground clearance.

• Low Gearing: Upgrading to a lower gear ratio helps manage torque for better control while navigating over rocks and steep inclines.
• Skid Plates: Protecting the undercarriage is crucial when rock crawling, so invest in heavy-duty skid plates and rock sliders to prevent damage.
• Tires: Go for larger, more aggressive tires with deep treads that offer excellent grip on rocky surfaces.
• Winch: A winch is a must-have for rock-crawlers to pull yourself out of tight situations.

For Duning:

Dune riding is all about power and maneuverability, and you’ll want your RZR to glide smoothly over soft sand.

• Sand Tires: Paddle tires are essential for getting the best traction in loose sand. They offer better floatation and grip in the dunes.
• Performance Exhaust: For more horsepower and that extra boost in the sand, an upgraded exhaust system can help push your engine to its max.
• Air Intake: The desert is dusty, so consider a performance air intake with better filtration to keep your engine breathing clean air.

For Trail Riding:

If you prefer trail riding through forests and open fields, you'll need a balance of comfort, durability, and maneuverability.

• Tires: All-terrain tires with a more moderate tread pattern are perfect for handling a variety of surfaces, from mud to gravel to hard-packed dirt.
• Suspension Adjustments: Depending on how rough your trails are, you may want to soften or stiffen the suspension to enhance comfort and handling.
• Lights: Visibility can be an issue on dense trails, so additional LED light bars or spotlights are great for navigating tricky terrain at dusk or dawn.

For Showing Off:

Let’s be honest—sometimes you just want to turn heads with your RZR. If showing off is your goal, it’s all about aesthetics and personal style.

• Custom Paint or Wraps: Whether you prefer a sleek matte black or a neon pop of color, custom paint jobs or vinyl wraps give your RZR a unique look.
• Aftermarket Roll Cages: Not only do they offer better protection, but aftermarket cages can also be customized for a more aggressive appearance.
• Wheels & Tires: Larger, flashy wheels can enhance the look of your RZR, while beadlock wheels add a rugged, performance-driven edge.
• Interior Upgrades: Consider custom seats, steering wheels, or dash kits to personalize the inside of your RZR and make it stand out.

Final Thoughts:

Ultimately, the decision to upgrade or leave parts as-is comes down to your personal riding style and what you're aiming to get out of your RZR. If you're into high-speed racing, extreme rock crawling, or casual trail riding, there's an upgrade path tailored for you. And for those who simply want to turn heads, there are endless cosmetic mods to make your RZR unique. Whether you decide to keep things stock or go all out with modifications, the most important thing is to have fun and ride safe!