You see that narrow trail entrance, the one marked “50-inch gate,” and you know the best scenery and most thrilling rides are just beyond it. But your wide, beastly UTV just won’t fit. You’ve probably felt that pang of frustration, knowing a whole world of adventure is locked away simply because of your machine’s width.
At FatBoysOffroad, we get it. That’s why we’re pulling back the curtain on the rig designed to conquer those tight spaces. We promise this guide will give you the expert knowledge to choose, maintain, and master the polaris 50 inch side by side, turning you into the most prepared rider on the trail.
In this deep dive, we’ll cover the core benefits of going narrow, a bulletproof pre-ride care guide, how to troubleshoot common problems right on the trail, and pro tips to make your machine an unstoppable force in the woods. Let’s get you ready to thread the needle.
What Exactly is a Polaris 50 Inch Side by Side?
When we talk about a “50-inch” machine, we’re referring to the vehicle’s overall width from the outside of one tire to the outside of the other. This isn’t just a random number; it’s the golden ticket for accessing a vast network of width-restricted trails across the country, particularly in national forests and BLM land.
These trails are often marked with physical gates or posts set 50-51 inches apart to allow ATVs and specific UTVs through while blocking wider vehicles and full-size trucks. A polaris 50 inch side by side is purpose-built to slip through these gates with ease.
Popular models in this class include the agile Polaris RZR Trail and the work-and-play-focused Ranger 500. They are designed for riders who prioritize nimble handling and ultimate trail access over the long-travel suspension and raw power of their wider desert-running cousins.
The Key Benefits of a Polaris 50 Inch Side by Side
Choosing a narrow-stance UTV isn’t a compromise; it’s a strategic decision for a specific type of riding. The benefits of a polaris 50 inch side by side are significant, especially if you spend your time in dense forests or on technical, winding paths.
- Unmatched Trail Access: This is the number one reason. You can legally and physically go places wider machines simply cannot. It opens up thousands of miles of trails reserved for narrower vehicles.
- Incredible Maneuverability: A shorter wheelbase and narrow track width give these machines a ridiculously tight turning radius. Weaving through tight trees, navigating switchbacks, and correcting your line on a rocky ascent becomes second nature.
- Lighter and More Agile: Being smaller means being lighter. This makes the vehicle easier to transport, less likely to sink in mud or snow, and easier to recover if you do get stuck.
- Easier on the Wallet (and the Trail): Generally, 50-inch models have a lower initial purchase price. Their lighter weight also means less impact on sensitive terrain, which is a core tenet of our eco-friendly polaris 50 inch side by side philosophy.
Your Pre-Ride Polaris 50 Inch Side by Side Care Guide
The difference between a great day of riding and a long walk back to the truck is often just 10 minutes of prevention. This simple pre-ride inspection is one of the most important polaris 50 inch side by side best practices you can adopt. Think of it as T-CLOCS for your UTV.
- Tires & Wheels: Check your tire pressure before every ride; it dramatically affects handling. Give each tire a quick visual scan for punctures or sidewall damage. Grab the top of the tire and give it a good shake—excessive wobble could mean a bad wheel bearing or ball joint.
- Controls & Cables: Test your throttle for smooth operation. Squeeze the brake pedal—it should feel firm, not spongy. Turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock to ensure there’s no binding.
- Lights & Electrics: A quick walk-around is all it takes. Flip on your headlights (high and low beams) and check your taillights and brake lights. A functioning machine is a safe machine.
- Oils & Fluids: This is non-negotiable. Pull the dipstick and check your engine oil level. Peek at your coolant reservoir—it should be between the ‘min’ and ‘max’ lines. Glance at the brake fluid reservoir to ensure it’s topped up.
- Chassis & Suspension: Crouch down and look for anything out of place. Are your CV boots torn (look for grease splatter inside the wheel wells)? Are your A-arms or trailing arms bent? Are your shocks leaking oil? Catching these issues in the driveway is always better than finding them 15 miles from camp.
Following this simple polaris 50 inch side by side care guide will save you headaches, money, and potentially a dangerous situation on the trail.
Common Problems with Polaris 50 Inch Side by Side Models (And How to Fix Them)
No machine is perfect, and the unique demands of tight trail riding can expose certain weaknesses. Knowing the common problems with polaris 50 inch side by side models lets you be proactive with maintenance and repairs.
Overheating on Slow, Technical Trails
When you’re crawling over rocks at 3 mph, you’re not getting much natural airflow over the radiator. This can lead to overheating, especially on hot days.
The Fix: Keep your radiator clean! After a muddy ride, gently hose it out from the back to push dirt forward. Never use a high-pressure washer directly on the delicate fins. Always ensure your coolant level is correct. For frequent slow-speed riders, installing a manual fan override switch can be a game-changer.
CV Boot and Axle Damage
Narrow trails are littered with sticks, stumps, and rocks that are perfectly positioned to snag and tear a CV boot. Once torn, dirt and water get in, destroying the joint quickly.
The Fix: Make CV boot inspection part of your post-ride cleanup. The best defense is a good offense: invest in a quality set of UHMW A-arm guards. They glide over obstacles and protect your boots and axles from the majority of impacts.
Clutch and Belt Wear
The constant on-and-off throttle of technical riding is tough on your drive belt. Using the wrong gear is the fastest way to smoke a belt and get stranded.
The Fix: Use Low gear anytime you’re riding under 15 mph, climbing, or pulling a load. This keeps the clutch in its optimal range and prevents the belt from slipping and overheating. Learn how to polaris 50 inch side by side belt changes in your garage, and always carry a spare belt and the necessary tools (a simple clutch spreader tool and a few sockets) on the trail.
Essential Polaris 50 Inch Side by Side Tips for Trail Dominance
You’ve got the machine, now let’s make it truly yours. This isn’t about just bolting on parts; it’s about smart upgrades that enhance the unique strengths of the 50-inch platform. This is your advanced polaris 50 inch side by side guide.
Choose the Right Tire and Wheel Setup
Tires are your single most important upgrade. The stock tires are a compromise. A good 6-ply or 8-ply tire offers vastly superior puncture resistance. Crucial tip: Pay close attention to wheel offset! Aftermarket wheels with a different offset can easily push your machine’s width over the 50-inch limit. Always measure your total width after installing new wheels and tires.
Protection is Not Optional
Your machine’s underside will take a beating. A full-body skid plate, preferably made from UHMW (Ultra-High Molecular Weight) plastic, is essential. It’s lighter than aluminum, quieter, and slides over rocks instead of gouging into them. Add A-arm guards and rock sliders (nerf bars) to complete your armor.
Smart Storage for Long Rides
Space is a premium on these smaller rigs. Utilize it wisely. Door bags are fantastic for keeping small items like phones, wallets, and trail snacks handy. A good quality, securely mounted cargo box or cooler in the bed is a must for carrying recovery gear, tools, and drinks.
The Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Approach to Off-Roading
Being a true off-road enthusiast means being a steward of the trails we love. A sustainable polaris 50 inch side by side experience is about respecting the environment so these trails remain open for generations to come.
Embrace the principles of Tread Lightly! This means staying on designated trails, never blazing your own path. Cross streams only at designated crossings and avoid sensitive areas like meadows and wetlands.
Another key part of being an eco-friendly polaris 50 inch side by side owner is managing your machine’s impact. Pack out everything you pack in—leave no trace. After a ride, wash your UTV thoroughly, especially the undercarriage, to prevent the spread of invasive plant species to other trail systems.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Polaris 50 Inch Side by Side
What are the most popular Polaris 50-inch models?
The most common modern models are the Polaris RZR Trail series (like the Trail 900) and the utilitarian Ranger 500. Historically, early models of the RZR 800 and some RZR 900 “Trail” editions were also popular 50-inch platforms.
Can I make my wider Polaris RZR a 50-inch machine?
Unfortunately, it’s not a simple or cost-effective conversion. Wider models like the RZR XP or Turbo S have a different frame, longer A-arms, longer shocks, and longer axles. Converting one would require replacing the entire suspension system and is generally not practical.
What is the top speed of a 50-inch side by side?
Top speed varies by model but typically falls in the 50-60 mph range. However, these machines are not built for top speed; they are engineered for agility and low-speed technical capability. Their true performance shines when the trail gets tight and twisty.
Do I need a winch on a 50-inch machine?
We highly recommend it. While they are lighter than their bigger brothers, they can still get seriously stuck. A winch provides self-recovery and peace of mind. A winch with a 3,500 lb. capacity is an excellent choice for this class of UTV, providing plenty of pulling power without adding excessive weight.
The polaris 50 inch side by side is more than just a machine; it’s a key that unlocks a new dimension of off-road exploration. It’s built for agility, precision, and the pure joy of navigating a challenging trail. By understanding its strengths, performing regular maintenance, and respecting the trails, you’re not just a rider—you’re a true trail expert.
Get out there, explore those tight trails, and ride safe. We’ll see you on the trail!
- Getting Polaris 570 Error Codes – Your Ultimate DIY Diagnostic Guide - November 20, 2025
- All Polaris Error Codes – The Ultimate Guide To Diagnostics & Fixes - November 20, 2025
- Polaris Red Paint Code – Your Ultimate Guide To Flawless Touch-Ups - November 20, 2025