Buyer’s Guide to Side by Side Hauling Capacity
A side by side can lend itself to a wide range of applications, from high-speed recreation to heavy labor. It comes as no surprise that the UTV market is packed with variety. When presented with such a multitude of options, you might find it hard to determine which model is right for you. But if you need a side by side that can serve as a reliable workhorse, hauling capacity is one of the most important factors to consider.
Keep reading to learn more about UTV hauling capacity, then come shop our selection of side by sides here at Ball Equipment. You can find plenty of models to choose from at our dealerships in Richmond and Sandusky, MI.
What Does “Hauling Capacity” Mean?
If you are new to the game, you might be wondering what exactly defines “hauling capacity.” This term is easily confused with payload capacity, which refers to the contents of the vehicle’s own storage compartments. By contrast, hauling capacity relates to cargo that is transported by a trailer with freely moving wheels. This is otherwise known as “rolling capacity.”
When you hitch a trailer to your side by side, the combined weight of the trailer and its cargo should not exceed the vehicle’s hauling capacity. It should be noted that hauling capacity does not pertain to cargo that is being dragged on the ground. This number only indicates how much weight your side by side can handle when the cargo is loaded onto a trailer.
Conditions That Affect Hauling Capacity
The hauling capacity of a side by side is determined by the vehicle manufacturer, and it is calculated based on the assumption that the vehicle will be traveling on level ground. When you navigate slopes on your UTV, keep in mind that its hauling capacity will be reduced.
Terrain also has an impact on hauling capacity. On standard terrain types, like compact dirt and grass, your UTV can operate at full capacity. But when the terrain becomes harder to navigate, your vehicle must work harder to haul cargo the same distance.
How Much Hauling Capacity Do You Need?
If you are all about trail riding, you might never need to concern yourself with hauling capacity. But if you need a UTV for transporting supplies or equipment, hauling capacity should play an important role in your decision.
To determine your hauling needs, you will need to calculate the approximate weight of all the materials you would like to transport with your side by side. You should also consider the terrain you expect to encounter on the job, and account for how those conditions will affect hauling capacity.
We hope this article answered all your questions! If you need more advice, feel free to consult the qualified salespeople at Ball Equipment. We welcome customers from all over the Detroit region at our dealerships in Richmond and Sandusky, MI.