So, you’ve got your eye on a new Polaris Xpedition, or maybe you’re about to pull the trigger on one. You’re already picturing the adventures, the remote trails, and the weekend getaways. But then, a very practical, very important question pops into your head: “Will this beast actually fit in my garage?”
You’re not alone. It’s one of the most common hurdles every new side-by-side owner faces. That single measurement can be the difference between parking your pride and joy safely inside and leaving it out in the elements. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
This is your complete how tall is a polaris xpedition guide. We promise to take you far beyond the simple spec sheet. We’ll break down the exact factory heights for every model, show you how modifications like tires and roof racks will change your dimensions, and give you a step-by-step process to measure your space like a pro. By the end of this article, you’ll have the confidence to know exactly what fits, what doesn’t, and how to plan your build accordingly.
The Official Specs: Polaris Xpedition Stock Heights
First things first, let’s get the baseline numbers directly from Polaris. It’s crucial to remember that these are the “out-of-the-box” heights with stock tires and suspension settings. This is your starting point.
The overall height of a stock Polaris Xpedition is primarily determined by its model configuration—specifically, whether it’s an XP (open-air) or an ADV (fully enclosed cab) model.
- Polaris Xpedition XP Models (2-seat & 5-seat): The typical stock height is right around 77 inches (195.6 cm).
- Polaris Xpedition ADV Models (2-seat & 5-seat): With the fully enclosed cab and roof, these models are slightly taller, coming in at approximately 77.5 inches (196.9 cm).
Xpedition XP vs. Xpedition ADV: A Half-Inch Matters
That half-inch difference between the XP and ADV models might not sound like much, but in the world of tight garage clearances, it can be everything. The ADV’s Pro-Fit cab system, roof, and windshield assembly are what account for this extra height.
If your garage door clearance is already razor-thin, that extra half-inch on the ADV is a critical factor to consider before you buy. Always measure with the tallest model in mind if you haven’t decided yet.
2-Seat vs. 5-Seat Models: Does Length Affect Height?
Thankfully, this is one area where things are simple. The wheelbase and overall length increase significantly between the 2-seat and 5-seat models, but the stock overall height remains the same for both configurations within their respective XP or ADV lines.
Your choice between a 2-seater or a 5-seater will dramatically impact your trailer needs and breakover angle on the trail, but it won’t be the deciding factor for your garage door clearance.
Beyond the Brochure: Real-World Factors That Change Your Rig’s Height
The manufacturer’s spec sheet is just the beginning of the story. The moment you start personalizing your Xpedition, that number changes. Here are the most common modifications that will impact your overall height.
Tire Size: The #1 Height Modifier
Upgrading your tires is one of the first and best mods for any off-road vehicle. But bigger tires mean a taller machine. The math is simple: for every inch you add to the tire’s diameter, you add a half-inch to the vehicle’s height.
Pro Tip: A stock Xpedition comes with 30-inch tires. If you upgrade to 32-inch tires, you’ve added two inches in diameter. Divide that by two, and you’ve just added 1 full inch to your rig’s total height. A jump to 35s will add 2.5 inches of height before you even touch the suspension!
Lift Kits & Suspension Upgrades
A lift kit is the next logical step for gaining ground clearance, but it’s also the fastest way to make your rig too tall for the garage. Lift kits are measured by the amount of lift they provide.
- Bracket Lifts (2-4 inches): These are common and will add their advertised height directly to your total. A 3-inch lift plus 32-inch tires (1″ height gain) makes your Xpedition 4 inches taller than stock.
- Portal Gear Lifts (4-8+ inches): These advanced lifts provide massive ground clearance by moving the axle’s centerline. They also add significant height and are a major consideration for anyone with a standard 7-foot (84-inch) garage door.
Roof Racks, Light Bars, and Tents
This is the factor that catches most people by surprise. You’ve calculated your tires and lift, and you think you have an inch to spare. Then you install a roof rack and a light bar, and suddenly you’re hitting the garage door header.
Always measure the height of any accessory you plan to mount on the roof. A low-profile rack might only add 3-4 inches, but a full-blown adventure rack with a spare tire mount or a rooftop tent can add 8-12 inches or more. This is one of the most important how tall is a polaris xpedition tips we can offer: plan your roof accessories carefully!
How to Accurately Measure Your Space: A Step-by-Step Guide
Before you bring your Xpedition home, you need to measure your storage space correctly. Don’t eyeball it. This section is your complete guide on how to how tall is a polaris xpedition will be in your specific space.
Step 1: Identify the True Lowest Point
Your garage door opening isn’t a perfect rectangle. The single biggest mistake people make is measuring the door frame and calling it a day. The real obstacle is usually lower.
Open your garage door completely. Take a quality tape measure and measure from the concrete floor to the lowest hanging part of the open garage door itself. For many, this is the lowest point. For others, it might be the garage door opener track or a support bracket. Find that absolute lowest point and write that number down. This is your real maximum height.
Step 2: The Toy Hauler Challenge: Angles and Ramps
If you’re loading into an enclosed trailer or toy hauler, the angle of the entry ramp is a huge factor. As your Xpedition goes up the ramp, the top rear of the roll cage will be much higher than when the machine is sitting level.
Have a friend slowly spot you the first time. Watch the highest point of the cage as it enters the door frame. You may need several more inches of clearance at the door than the rig’s actual height to account for this angle.
Step 3: Account for an Uneven Floor
Is your garage floor perfectly level? Does it slope towards the door for drainage? A slight slope can eat up a surprising amount of clearance. If you have a sloped floor, measure your clearance at the exact spot where the Xpedition will be parked.
Common Problems with Polaris Xpedition Height and How to Solve Them
Even with careful planning, you might find yourself in a tight spot. Here are some common problems with Polaris Xpedition height and some creative solutions from the field.
Problem: “My Rig is Just One Inch Too Tall!”
It’s a frustrating situation. You’re so close, but the roof rack just scrapes the weather stripping. Here are a few tricks to gain that last crucial inch.
- Air Down Your Tires: This is a temporary but effective fix. Dropping your tire pressure from 15 PSI down to 5-8 PSI can lower the vehicle by a half-inch or more. Just remember to air them back up immediately before driving.
- Load the Suspension: Carefully using a heavy-duty ratchet strap from one side of the frame, over the roof, and down to the other side can compress the suspension slightly. This should be done with extreme caution and only for slow, careful entry/exit of the garage.
- Look into Aftermarket Cages: For a more permanent solution, some fabricators offer lower-profile “garage-friendly” roll cages that can chop several inches off the top.
Problem: Trail Stability vs. Maximum Clearance
One of the key benefits of how tall is a polaris xpedition is from the factory is its well-engineered balance between ground clearance and stability. As you make your rig taller with lifts and big tires, you raise its center of gravity.
A higher center of gravity makes the vehicle more susceptible to tipping on off-camber (side-hilled) trails. While a tall rig looks cool and clears obstacles easily, it can be less safe in certain situations. Consider adding wheel spacers or offset wheels to widen the vehicle’s stance and regain some of that lost stability if you go with a big lift.
A Complete Polaris Xpedition Height Care Guide
Maintaining the components that determine your rig’s height is essential for consistent performance and safety. This is more than just a measurement; it’s part of a proper how tall is a polaris xpedition care guide.
Suspension Maintenance Best Practices
Your shocks and springs hold the entire vehicle up. Worn-out shocks or sagging springs can cause your rig to sit lower than it should, reducing ground clearance. Regularly inspect your shock bodies for oil leaks and check all suspension bushings for wear and tear. Following these how tall is a polaris xpedition best practices ensures your ride height remains consistent.
Sustainable Choices for Your Build
When considering mods that affect height, think long-term. A “sustainable” build means using high-quality parts that last. A cheap lift kit might save money now, but if it fails on the trail or causes premature wear on other components, it’s not a good investment. Choosing durable, well-engineered components is also a more eco-friendly how tall is a polaris xpedition approach, as it reduces waste and the need for frequent replacements.
Frequently Asked Questions About How Tall a Polaris Xpedition Is
What is the absolute minimum garage door height for a stock Polaris Xpedition?
For a stock Xpedition ADV (the tallest model at 77.5 inches), we recommend an absolute minimum opening of 80 inches. This gives you 2.5 inches of wiggle room for slight floor variations, tire pressure changes, or a forgotten item on the roof. A standard 7-foot (84-inch) door is ideal.
Does the FOX® Podium QS3 suspension setting change the ride height?
Yes, but only slightly. The QS3 shocks have three settings (soft, medium, firm). While the firmest setting may raise the unloaded ride height by a very small amount (less than a quarter-inch), it’s not enough to be a primary factor in your garage clearance calculations. Vehicle load will have a much greater effect.
How much height does a roof-mounted spare tire add?
This depends on your roof rack and tire size. A 30-inch spare tire mounted flat on a low-profile rack could add 8-10 inches to your highest point. Always measure the total height after mounting the spare.
Can I lower a Polaris Xpedition?
While it’s not common, it is possible. Some aftermarket companies may offer lowering springs. However, this would significantly reduce ground clearance and is generally not recommended for a vehicle designed for off-road and overland adventures.
Your Adventure Awaits—Measure with Confidence
Understanding your Polaris Xpedition’s height is about more than a number—it’s about planning, preparation, and peace of mind. You now know the stock specifications, how every modification will impact that number, and exactly how to measure your space to avoid any costly surprises.
Remember the golden rule: measure twice, buy once. Take your time, account for all your current and future accessories, and you’ll ensure your new rig has a safe and secure home. Now get out there, wrench safely, and enjoy the ride!
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