BuildsLifting Your UTV: Everything You Need to Know Before You Start

One of the main reasons for lifting a UTV is to improve ground clearance. This allows you to easily navigate over rocks, logs, and other obstacles, reducing the risk of damage to the undercarriage. Here are a few other reasons why lifting your UTV might be a good idea:

• Enhanced Traction: Bigger tires, which are often paired with a lift, provide better traction on challenging surfaces like mud, sand, and snow.
• Improved Visibility: Sitting higher can give you a better vantage point, making spotting potential hazards on the trail easier.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Let’s face it—a lifted UTV looks cooler. It gives your vehicle a more aggressive stance that stands out on the trails.

At Rough Country, we understand the importance of both form and function, and our UTV lifts are designed to help you get the best of both worlds.

When it comes to lifting your UTV, there are a few options to consider, each with its benefits and trade-offs.

Bracket Lift Kits

Bracket lift kits are the most common and cost-effective way to lift your UTV. These kits typically offer a 2 to 3-inch lift, enough to fit larger tires and increase ground clearance without drastically altering the vehicle's handling.

• Pros: Affordable, easy to install, and sufficient for most recreational off-roading needs.
• Cons: Limited lift height and may slightly alter the vehicle's center of gravity.

Suspension Lift Kits

If you’re looking for a more substantial lift, suspension lift kits are the way to go. These kits replace or modify the existing suspension components, offering 3 inches or more lifts. This option is ideal for those who frequently encounter extreme off-road conditions.

• Pros: Provides a significant lift, is better suited for heavy-duty off-roading, and allows for larger tires.
• Cons: More expensive and complex to install, which may require professional assistance.

Wheel Spacer Lifts

Wheel spacer lifts are a unique option that involves adding spacers between the wheel and the hub, which can provide a slight lift and increase the width of your UTV’s stance. This lift type is less common but can be effective for certain applications.

• Pros: Inexpensive, easy to install, and can improve stability by widening the track.
• Cons: Limited lift height and potential for increased stress on wheel bearings.

Portal Gear Lifts

Portal gear lifts raise your UTV and adjust the gear ratio to provide more torque. This lift type is popular among those who need extra power for deep mud, rock crawling, or heavy loads.

• Pros: Ground clearance and torque increase, ideal for extreme off-roading.
• Cons: Higher cost and added complexity in installation and maintenance.

Rough Country will soon offer portal gear lifts, perfect for those who want peak performance in the most challenging environments. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting new product!

Before you lift your UTV, several factors must be considered to make the right choice for your needs.

Cost

Lifting your UTV isn’t just about buying the kit; you also need to factor in the cost of larger tires, potential modifications, and installation (if you're not doing it yourself). The total cost can vary significantly depending on the type of lift and your vehicle.

Legal Restrictions

In some areas, there are regulations regarding the height of UTV lifts. It’s crucial to check local laws before making modifications to ensure you remain compliant and avoid fines or issues when riding on public lands.

Impact on Vehicle Performance

While a lift can improve your off-roading capabilities, it also affects your UTV’s performance. A higher center of gravity can increase body roll, and larger tires may alter the handling and acceleration. Be prepared for these changes and consider how they align with your typical riding conditions.

Installing a lift kit can range from a simple DIY project to a complex task requiring specialized tools and expertise. If you’re not confident in your mechanical skills or opt for a more intricate suspension or portal gear lift, it might be a better choice to have the installation done by a professional.

After lifting your UTV, staying on top of maintenance is important so everything runs smoothly. Larger tires can put extra strain on your drivetrain, and altered suspension components may require more frequent inspections and adjustments. Regularly checking your UTV for wear and tear will help prevent costly repairs.

Lifting your UTV is a significant upgrade that can greatly enhance your off-roading experience, but it’s not a decision to take lightly. By understanding the types of lifts available, the costs involved, and how the lift will impact your vehicle’s performance, you can make an informed choice that suits your needs and riding style.