So, you’re the proud owner of a 2021 Polaris RZR Turbo S 4 Velocity. You’ve got your hands on a 72-inch wide, turbocharged beast designed to devour whoops, conquer dunes, and carve through forest trails with four of your favorite people. It’s an incredible machine, but you know that keeping a high-performance UTV at its peak isn’t just a matter of “gas and go.”
We promise this guide will be your go-to resource for getting the absolute most out of your machine. We’re not just talking about specs you can find anywhere; we’re diving deep into the real-world knowledge you need.
In this ultimate 2021 polaris rzr turbo s 4 velocity guide, we’ll cover the essential pre-ride checks, break down the most common problems you might face (and how to fix them), walk through a proper care guide, and even offer some smart upgrade tips. Let’s get wrenching.
What Makes the 2021 Polaris RZR Turbo S 4 Velocity a Trail Dominator?
Before we get our hands dirty, let’s appreciate what we’re working with. This isn’t just any side-by-side. The Turbo S platform was Polaris’s answer to the demand for a wider, more stable, and incredibly capable machine right off the showroom floor.
The benefits of the 2021 polaris rzr turbo s 4 velocity are clear from the moment you get behind the wheel. Its massive suspension travel and intelligent control systems deliver a ride that inspires confidence over terrain that would stop lesser machines in their tracks.
Key Specifications at a Glance
Understanding the core components is the first step in effective maintenance. Here’s the cheat sheet for your machine:
- Engine: 925cc ProStar Turbo H.O. 4-Stroke DOHC Twin Cylinder
- Horsepower: 168 HP
- Suspension (Front): High-Clearance Dual A-Arm with Stabilizer Bar and 19″ of usable travel.
- Suspension (Rear): Trailing Arm with Stabilizer Bar and 21″ of usable travel.
- Shocks: Walker Evans 2.5” Velocity Needle Shocks with 16-position adjustable clickers.
- Width: 72 inches
- Tires: 32″ ITP Coyote 8-Ply Tires
The Velocity Trim: What’s the Difference?
The “Velocity” model stands out from its DYNAMIX-equipped sibling primarily through its suspension. Instead of the computer-controlled DYNAMIX active suspension, the Velocity features manually adjustable Walker Evans Velocity Series shocks.
This is a huge plus for DIYers and riders who prefer to set their suspension and forget it, or for those who want full manual control over their ride characteristics. You trade on-the-fly electronic adjustments for robust, reliable, and highly tunable shocks you can dial in yourself.
The Essential Pre-Ride Inspection: Your 10-Minute Safety Ritual
Want to avoid a long walk back to the truck? Spend 10 minutes before every single ride performing these checks. This is one of the most important 2021 polaris rzr turbo s 4 velocity best practices you can adopt.
Think of it as a conversation with your RZR. It’ll tell you if something’s wrong before it becomes a major failure on the trail.
- Tires & Wheels: Check the air pressure in all four tires. Visually inspect for any cuts or punctures. Grab each wheel at the top and bottom and try to wiggle it—any excessive play could signal a bad wheel bearing or ball joint.
- Fluids & Leaks: Look under the machine for any new drips. Check your engine oil and coolant levels. A quick glance at the brake fluid reservoir is also a must.
- Suspension & Steering: Glance over all your A-arms, trailing arms, and radius rods for any cracks or bends. Check that your shock bodies aren’t leaking oil.
- Belt & Clutches: Remove the clutch cover and take a quick look at your drive belt. Look for any glazing, frayed edges, or missing cogs. A clean clutch housing is a happy clutch housing.
- Controls & Brakes: Hop in and test the brake pedal. It should feel firm, not spongy. Turn the wheel lock-to-lock to ensure smooth operation.
- Safety Gear: Make sure your harnesses or seatbelts are in good condition and that your fire extinguisher is charged and accessible.
Common Problems with the 2021 Polaris RZR Turbo S 4 Velocity (And How to Fix Them)
Even the best machines have their quirks. Knowing the common problems with the 2021 polaris rzr turbo s 4 velocity can save you a world of headache. Here’s what to watch out for.
The Infamous Clutch & Belt Issues
The Symptom: You might notice a burning smell, slipping under hard acceleration, or poor engagement. The stock clutch setup is good, but it can be a weak point, especially with larger tires or aggressive driving.
The Fix:
- Break-In is Key: Always break in a new belt properly. This involves varying your speed and avoiding full-throttle acceleration for the first 30 miles.
- Use Low Gear: When rock crawling, loading the RZR on a trailer, or doing any technical, low-speed driving, always use low gear. This keeps the clutches cool and saves your belt.
- Aftermarket Clutch Kit: An aftermarket clutch kit (like those from Gilomen Innovations or Aftermarket Assassins) can re-calibrate your engagement and shift-out for your specific riding style and tire size, drastically improving belt life and performance.
Carrier Bearing Woes
The Symptom: A noticeable vibration or a “rumbling” sound that you can feel through the floor, especially at certain speeds. The factory carrier bearing for the main driveshaft is a non-greasable, sealed unit that often fails prematurely.
The Fix: This is a must-do upgrade. Replace the stock unit with a heavy-duty, greasable aftermarket carrier bearing from brands like Sandcraft RCR or SuperATV. It’s a bit of a job, but it’s a permanent solution to a very common problem.
Overheating on Slow, Technical Trails
The Symptom: Your engine temperature gauge starts creeping up into the danger zone (typically over 220°F) during slow, high-load situations like climbing a rocky hill.
The Fix:
- Keep it Clean: The radiator is a magnet for mud and debris. After every muddy ride, thoroughly clean the radiator fins. Caked-on mud kills airflow.
- Fan Override Switch: Installing a simple fan override switch allows you to turn the radiator fan on before the engine gets hot, which is a great preventative measure.
- Use Low Gear: We’ll say it again! Using low gear allows the engine to run at a higher RPM, which spins the water pump and fan faster, improving cooling.
A Complete 2021 Polaris RZR Turbo S 4 Velocity Care Guide
Proactive maintenance is the secret to a long-lasting, reliable machine. Follow this 2021 polaris rzr turbo s 4 velocity care guide to keep your rig ready for action.
After Every Ride: The Clean-Up and Lube Down
Don’t just park it and forget it. A good wash-down prevents corrosion and lets you spot potential issues like a cracked weld or a leaking seal.
Be careful with pressure washers. Avoid spraying directly into electrical connectors, the gauge cluster, or wheel bearings. After it’s clean and dry, take a grease gun with some quality waterproof grease (like Lucas Oil Marine Grease) and hit all the zerk fittings on your suspension components.
Engine Oil & Filter Changes (The 25/50/100 Hour Rule)
Your engine is the heart of your RZR. Treat it right. Polaris recommends the first oil change at 25 hours, then every 50 hours or 6 months thereafter. We recommend sticking to that schedule, or even shortening it if you ride in very dusty or harsh conditions.
You’ll need a drain pan, the correct socket for the drain plug, an oil filter wrench, and 2.5 quarts of Polaris PS-4 Full Synthetic Oil. Always replace the copper sealing washer on the drain plug.
Air Filter Maintenance for Peak Performance
A clogged air filter will choke your engine and rob it of power. Check it after every ride, especially in dusty conditions. Tap it out to remove loose dust, but if it’s heavily soiled, replace it.
For a more sustainable 2021 polaris rzr turbo s 4 velocity approach, consider a reusable, high-flow foam filter (like from R2C or S&B Filters). These can be washed and re-oiled, making them an eco-friendly 2021 polaris rzr turbo s 4 velocity option that saves you money in the long run.
Smart Upgrades & Performance Tips
The stock machine is incredible, but the aftermarket is where you can truly tailor it to your needs. Here are some of our top 2021 polaris rzr turbo s 4 velocity tips for upgrades.
Must-Have First Mods: Safety & Reliability
Before you chase horsepower, focus on safety.
- Harnesses: 4-point or 5-point harnesses will keep you and your passengers much more secure than the stock seatbelts.
- Fire Extinguisher: Mount one where it’s easily accessible from the driver’s seat. It’s cheap insurance.
- On-Board Toolkit: At a minimum, carry a spare belt, the tools to change it, a tire plug kit, and a small air compressor.
Beefing Up for the Bumps: Tires and Durability
While the stock 32″ Coyote tires are decent all-arounders, you can gain huge performance by choosing a tire for your specific terrain. A more aggressive mud tire or a tougher rock-crawling tire can transform the machine’s capability.
For added durability, consider a chassis gusset kit. These kits reinforce weak points in the frame, which is a smart move if you plan on driving hard or adding the weight of accessories like bumpers and winches.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Polaris RZR Turbo S 4 Velocity
What is the top speed of a stock 2021 RZR Turbo S 4 Velocity?
A stock RZR Turbo S is electronically limited to a top speed of around 85 mph. While ECU tunes can remove this limiter, it’s rarely necessary or safe to go faster than this on off-road terrain.
How often should I change the drive belt?
There’s no set hour-meter for belt life, as it depends heavily on your driving style. We recommend inspecting it before every ride and replacing it proactively every 1000-1500 miles, or immediately if you see any signs of significant wear. Always carry a spare!
Is the Walker Evans Velocity suspension good for all terrains?
Absolutely. The beauty of the Velocity shocks is their tunability. With 16 clicks of compression adjustment, you can soften them up for slow rock crawling or stiffen them for high-speed desert whoops. It takes some time to learn what settings you like, but the control is unmatched.
What’s the best way to make my RZR more eco-friendly?
Following eco-friendly 2021 polaris rzr turbo s 4 velocity practices is easier than you think. Use a reusable air filter, properly dispose of all used fluids, and adhere to the “Tread Lightly!” principles by staying on designated trails to minimize your impact on the environment.
Your 2021 Polaris RZR Turbo S 4 Velocity is a masterpiece of off-road engineering. By understanding its systems, performing regular checks, and staying on top of proactive maintenance, you’re not just a rider—you’re a responsible owner.
This machine will reward your efforts with thousands of miles of adrenaline-pumping fun and unforgettable memories with friends and family. So get your tools out, stay on top of your maintenance, and we’ll see you on the trail. Ride safe!
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