Side-by-sides are great for farming, ranching, off-roading, and fun rides with friends and family. These vehicles are versatile enough to match any need, from comfort to thrills, and they look good when doing it. With so many accessories available, choosing the right ones can be challenging. Read on for some common-sense tips on choosing upgrades for your side-by-side.
Assess Your Needs and Riding Style
Before getting into the accessories, we sell at Thumper Fab (and there are tons of them), decide where and when you’ll ride, including:
- Recreational riding. If you have a thirst for adventure, choose add-ons that enhance handling and comfort, like tires and windshields.
- For hunting, ranching, and work purposes, focus on accessories including winches, cargo racks, and boxes.
- Trail trips. If you ride trails regularly, you’ll need bumpers, suspension upgrades, and skid plates for performance and durability.
Having a plan makes it easier and more affordable to focus on the right upgrades.
Consider Comfort
Your side-by-side excursions should be as comfortable as possible, especially if you plan to ride all day. Here are a few must-have creature comforts:
- Seats and covers. Better seats offer more support and less fatigue. Consider adding water-resistant covers if you ride in the mud or it rains often.
- Windshields and roofs. These add-ons offer protection from debris, wind, and rain. For more versatility, choose a half windshield.
- Cab enclosures. Install doors or a cab enclosure to keep dirt, dust, and water at bay.
With Thumper Fab’s long list of accessories, you’ll be ready for whatever the day brings.
Improve Handling, Safety, and Performance
If you are serious about off-roading (and most of our customers are), certain accessories can change your vehicle’s capabilities for the better.
- Wheels and tires: Stock tires aren’t built for rough terrain, but mud and all-terrain tires offer the stability and traction you’ll need.
- Suspension upgrades: A better suspension provides comfort, control, and stability. Choose adjustable shocks if you ride on different terrains.
- Performance add-ons. Exhaust systems, air filters, and engine upgrades can boost your side-by-side’s power and performance.
If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry—we’re here to help! Call, click, or email us.
Improve Usability with Practical Upgrades
Side-by-sides aren’t just for fun; they can be put to work, too. Make yours more useful with accessories like:
- Essential for those who like to go off the beaten path, winches can get you out of a jam.
- Racks, boxes, and bags keep gear organized, secure, and accessible.
- Tow hooks and hitches. If you haul heavy gear, tow hooks or a hitch will turn your side-by-side into a workhorse.
Other additions, like skid plates, roll cages, bumpers, and lights, will protect you and your gear when things get challenging.
Customizations for Style and Fun
Finally, don’t forget about stylish and fun accessories that make side-by-sides stand out. While these upgrades aren’t essential, they can enhance the experience.
- Whether you want to communicate or enjoy some great music, an audio system is a game-changer.
- Wraps and graphics. Use decals, wraps, and graphics to make your side-by-side unique.
- Steering wheels and shifters. Give your new side-by-side a different look with a custom shifter, knob, or wheel that makes driving more enjoyable.
Choosing the best accessories for a side-by-side improves the ride, whether it’s on a farm, a trail, or a paved road. By prioritizing upgrades based on your budget, riding style, and usage patterns, you’ll invest wisely and get the most fun and value out of your vehicle.