So, you’ve got your eye on a new Polaris Xpedition, or maybe you’re about to pull the trigger on one. You’re dreaming of overlanding adventures and conquering rugged trails. But a nagging, practical question keeps popping up: will this beast actually fit?
Will it squeeze down that favorite wooded trail? Will it fit on your existing trailer? Can you even get it through your garage door? You’re not alone in asking these questions. Knowing the precise dimensions is critical before you invest.
We get it. At FatBoysOffroad, we’ve seen folks make costly assumptions. This comprehensive guide promises to answer not just how wide is a polaris xpedition, but what that width really means for you.
We’ll break down the factory specs, reveal how common mods can drastically change your width, and give you actionable tips for measuring, transporting, and trail-prepping your rig. Let’s get you ready to ride with confidence.
The Official Numbers: How Wide is a Polaris Xpedition from the Factory?
Let’s start with the baseline. Straight from the Polaris factory, the answer is refreshingly simple for a change.
Across the entire lineup, including the Xpedition XP and Xpedition ADV models, in both 2-seat and 5-seat configurations, the stock width is 64 inches. This applies to all trim levels—Premium, Ultimate, and the fully-enclosed NorthStar Edition.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Polaris Xpedition XP (2-seat & 5-seat): 64 in.
- Polaris Xpedition ADV (2-seat & 5-seat): 64 in.
This 64-inch measurement is taken from the outside bulge of the stock tires. It’s a deliberate design choice by Polaris to hit a sweet spot in the off-road world, which we’ll dive into next. This part of our how wide is a polaris xpedition guide is the easy part; now let’s get into the real-world variables.
Why 64 Inches? The Magic Number for Trail Access
That 64-inch number isn’t random. It’s a critical dimension in the off-road community, placing the Xpedition squarely in what’s often called the “trail” or “sport” category.
Understanding the benefits of this width is key to appreciating the machine’s design.
Benefits of a 64-Inch Stance
The primary benefits of how wide is a polaris xpedition‘s stance are stability and access. It’s significantly more stable on off-camber situations and at higher speeds than narrower 50-inch “ATV trail” machines.
Yet, it’s still narrow enough to legally access a vast number of trail systems across the country that have a 65-inch or sometimes a 66-inch gate restriction. This opens up far more possibilities than the wider “dune” or “desert” models like the RZR Pro R or Turbo R, which can be 72-74 inches wide.
Trail Designations to Know
When planning your trips, you’ll often see trails marked with width restrictions:
- 50-Inch Trails: These are typically reserved for ATVs and very specific, narrow UTVs. Your Xpedition will not fit.
- 60-Inch+ Trails: This is your playground! Many state and federal OHV (Off-Highway Vehicle) areas cater to machines in the 60- to 66-inch range.
- Unrestricted Trails/Roads: These are often Forest Service roads or open desert areas where width is not a primary concern.
Always check the regulations for the specific park or trail system you plan to visit. Their website or a quick call to the local ranger station can save you a wasted trip.
Beyond the Spec Sheet: What *Really* Determines Your Xpedition’s Width?
Here’s where many new owners get into trouble. That 64-inch factory spec is a starting point. The moment you start modifying your Xpedition, that number can change—fast. One of the most common problems with how wide is a polaris xpedition is forgetting how mods impact its overall dimensions.
H3: Tires and Wheels: The Biggest Culprit for Width Creep
The number one factor that increases width is your choice of aftermarket wheels and tires. It’s all about wheel offset.
In simple terms, offset is where the wheel’s mounting surface is in relation to the centerline of the wheel. A negative offset wheel pushes the tire further out from the vehicle’s hub, increasing your track width.
Many off-roaders choose wheels with a more negative offset for a wider, more aggressive stance and improved stability. However, even a small change, like going from a factory 5+2 offset to a 4+3 offset, can add 2 inches to your total width, pushing your “64-inch” machine to 66 inches.
H3: Suspension Mods and Lift Kits
While a standard lift kit that uses shock spacers might not significantly alter width, more advanced long-travel suspension kits absolutely will. These kits use longer A-arms to increase wheel travel, pushing the wheels further out and adding several inches to the overall width.
If you’re considering a long-travel kit, be prepared to graduate to the “wide” class of UTVs.
H3: Accessories That Add Inches
Don’t forget the bolt-ons! While they might not affect your tire track width, they can still prevent you from fitting through a tight spot.
- Fender Flares: Oversized flares designed to stop mud sling can easily add an inch or two to each side.
- Rock Sliders/Tree Kickers: These essential protection pieces stick out from the bodywork. Measure their full width, not just your tires.
- Mirrors: Even your side mirrors can be the deciding factor when squeezing into a trailer or through a tight gate.
A Practical Guide: Measuring and Managing Your Xpedition’s True Width
Don’t guess, measure! Knowing your machine’s true, “as-is” width is a fundamental part of responsible ownership. This is the core of our how to how wide is a polaris xpedition section—getting the real number for your specific rig.
H3: Tools You’ll Need
You don’t need anything fancy. Grab these from your garage:
- A reliable tape measure
- Two long, straight edges (e.g., 4-foot levels, straight 2x4s, or aluminum flat stock)
H3: Step-by-Step Measurement Process
Park your Xpedition on a flat, level surface like a concrete garage floor.
Place one straight edge vertically against the outermost bulge of the driver’s side front tire. Ensure it’s perfectly upright.
Do the same on the passenger’s side front tire.
Measure the distance between the two straight edges. This is your true front track width.
Repeat the process for the rear tires. Sometimes the front and rear can differ slightly.
Finally, measure the widest point of your machine, including any accessories like rock sliders or mirrors. The largest number you get is the one you need to remember.
H3: How Wide is a Polaris Xpedition Best Practices
To stay trail-legal and avoid surprises, follow these tips. Following these how wide is a polaris xpedition best practices ensures a smooth ride every time.
- Check Before You Buy: When buying new wheels or tires, ask the vendor specifically how they will affect your overall width.
- Know Your Trails: Research trail width restrictions before you haul your rig out for a trip.
- Air Pressure Matters: Lowering your tire pressure for the trail causes the sidewalls to bulge more, which can slightly increase your width. Keep this in mind on tight trails.
Transport and Storage: Will It Fit Your Trailer and Garage?
Now for the logistics. Knowing your Xpedition’s width is crucial for getting it to and from the trail, and for storing it safely at home. This is a vital part of any good how wide is a polaris xpedition care guide.
H3: Choosing the Right Trailer
A standard 6-foot (72-inch) wide utility trailer will be extremely tight for a 64-inch machine, leaving you almost no room for error when loading. We strongly recommend a trailer with a deck width of at least 80 inches, and preferably a 7-foot (84-inch) wide deck.
Pay close attention to trailers with side rails or interior fender wells. The advertised width is often the overall deck, not the usable space between the fenders. Always measure that interior space yourself.
H3: Garage and Storage Solutions
A standard single-car garage door is typically 8 or 9 feet wide (96 or 108 inches), so a stock Xpedition will fit through easily. However, you need to account for your mirrors and how you’ll maneuver it inside.
Measure your door opening and plan your entry angle. If you have oversized tires and accessories pushing you closer to 70 inches, you’ll need to be much more careful.
Sustainable Off-Roading: Width, Trail Impact, and Eco-Friendly Practices
Understanding your machine’s width is also about being a responsible member of the off-road community. A key aspect of sustainable how wide is a polaris xpedition use is respecting the trails.
Trail systems are designed and maintained for specific vehicle sizes. When a wide machine forces its way down a narrow trail, it can cause significant damage to the trail bed and surrounding vegetation, leading to erosion and trail closures for everyone.
Adhering to width restrictions is one of the most important eco-friendly how wide is a polaris xpedition practices you can adopt. It protects the natural environment we all love to explore and ensures these trails remain open for future generations. Always follow Tread Lightly! principles by staying on designated routes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Polaris Xpedition Width
Can I make my Polaris Xpedition narrower for 50-inch trails?
Unfortunately, no. The Xpedition’s chassis, suspension, and drivetrain are fundamentally designed for its 64-inch stance. Converting it to a 50-inch width would require a cost-prohibitive and custom re-engineering of the entire vehicle.
What is the widest tire I can put on a stock Xpedition without making it wider?
This is more about the wheel offset than the tire itself. To maintain the 64-inch width, you must use wheels with the factory offset (or very close to it). You can often fit a slightly taller tire on a stock wheel without increasing width, but a wider tire will almost always add some width due to sidewall bulge, even on a stock wheel.
Does the Xpedition ADV 5 have the same width as the XP 2?
Yes. Despite the differences in length, wheelbase, and features (like the covered pass-through on the ADV), all Polaris Xpedition models share the same 64-inch stock width.
How does the Xpedition’s width compare to a Polaris General or RZR?
The Xpedition fits right in with the most popular “trail” versions of its cousins. Many Polaris General 1000 and RZR Trail S / XP 1000 models also come in a 60- to 64-inch width, making them compatible with the same network of trails.
You now have a complete picture. The Polaris Xpedition is a 64-inch machine from the factory, but that’s just the beginning of the story. Your final width depends entirely on your choices in wheels, tires, and accessories.
Always measure your rig after making changes, and always check the rules of the trail before you go. By being informed and prepared, you can ensure your Xpedition fits your trailer, your garage, and your next great adventure. Stay safe and happy trails!
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