Shopping for side-by-sides is always a fun outing, and my boys never miss the chance to come along. We rarely make a purchase, but they love climbing in, testing the seats, and pretending they’re off on an adventure.
When I’m in Las Vegas I always stop at Bass Pro Shops. It’s a massive outdoor retailer that supports fishing and hunting but also offers gear for virtually every outdoor pursuit. Alongside their boats and watercraft you’ll find a wide selection of ATVs, UTVs, and side-by-sides on display.
On a recent trip to Warroad, Minnesota, I visited the Marvin Windows factory. Mr. Marvin mentioned that Arctic Cat and Polaris operations weren’t far away and that business for those brands has been booming, even through the economic downturn.
I’ve always been drawn to go-karts and ATVs, and the modern high-performance side-by-sides look like a blast. No wonder demand has surged. Prices vary widely, from about $5,000 for basic models up to $25,000 or more for top-tier machines with premium packages and high-tech options.
At the Bass Pro Shop I visited, Arctic Cat models dominated the floor. They carried a full range of utility UTVs designed for farm and ranch work—useful for hauling and tough chores—alongside the high-performance side-by-sides built for speed and recreation. These vehicles are often called side-by-sides because their seats sit beside each other rather than inline, which makes the experience feel like driving a compact dune buggy or a souped-up go-kart.
Major manufacturers including Polaris, Kawasaki, Can-Am, Yamaha, and John Deere all offer full lineups of side-by-sides that typically seat two to four people. That variety means buyers can choose from nimble two-seaters for solo thrills to family-friendly four-seaters for group outings.
Side-by-sides have exploded in popularity, though traditional ATVs remain popular for good reasons. ATVs are more agile on tight trails, generally lighter, and often less expensive. For riders who need quick handling and want to stay within a smaller budget, an ATV can be the smarter choice.
On the other hand, UTVs and side-by-sides appeal to people who prioritize comfort and a more car-like driving position. Their full roll cages and enclosed seating offer a greater sense of security, and many utility models provide hauling capacity approaching that of a small pickup truck. For recreational riders, the fun factor is high—racing around with a friend or family member sitting next to you adds a social element that single-rider ATVs can’t match. I’m looking forward to taking one on a camping trip someday.
Are you shopping for side-by-sides right now? What models have caught your eye? My son already dreams of the day he’s old enough to take one for a spin—just like his dad.