Hey folks, today we’re talking ’bout side by side air conditioning. Now, I know what you’re thinkin’ – air conditioning, in one of those off-road UTVs? You betcha! Nowadays, folks want to go out on trails and still keep cool, so these big ol’ machines are getting some fancy upgrades, and that includes air conditioning right in the cab. Let’s dive in and see what this is all about, how it works, and why it’s gettin’ so popular these days.
Now, side by side vehicles, or UTVs (that’s Utility Task Vehicles for those who don’t know) used to be just for workin’ folks out on farms or hunters headin’ into the woods. But now, more and more people are using ‘em for adventure and fun, like camping and overlanding – that’s just a fancy way of saying “driving off-road with a purpose.” With all this adventurin’ goin’ on, people want a lil’ more comfort when they’re out there, and what’s more comfy than air conditioning?
What Exactly is Side by Side Air Conditioning?
Basically, this is just air conditioning installed right into the side by side’s cab. Brands like Polaris have really picked up on this, offerin’ models like the RANGER XP 1000 NorthStar Edition that come with factory-installed air conditioning and heating. These aren’t just for looks either – these systems are sealed up nice and tight so no dust and dirt can mess things up. Think of it as takin’ a piece of your car’s AC and puttin’ it in a rugged, off-road-ready machine.
Now, if you’re out in the heat for hours, you’re gonna want that cool air. It ain’t like the old days where you just had to sweat it out. With AC, you can stay out longer, feelin’ fresh and ready to take on more trails. And folks who use these UTVs for work? They sure don’t mind a little relief when they’re workin’ under the hot sun all day.
Benefits of Having Air Conditioning in a Side by Side
So, why’s everyone talkin’ about side by side air conditioning? Here’s some reasons:
- Comfort: Whether you’re on a bumpy trail or parked up for a break, AC makes it feel like a cool summer breeze in there.
- Longer Ride Time: You’ll stay cooler longer, which means you can keep goin’ without needin’ a break.
- Work and Play: It’s not just for fun – if you’re workin’ in a side by side, a little AC can make the job a whole lot easier.
- Protection: Some models have sealed cabs so dust and dirt stay out, keepin’ the air inside clean and cool.
Brands are also adding heating systems in some models, so whether it’s the blazing summer or chilly winter, you can ride around comfy as can be. That’s a big change from the old days of ridin’ around with just the open air hittin’ ya in the face.
Popular Side by Side Models with Air Conditioning
Alright, now let’s get into some of the side by side vehicles that come with air conditioning already in ‘em:
- Polaris RANGER XP 1000 NorthStar Edition: Comes with heating and air conditioning all ready to go. It’s sealed tight to keep out dust, dirt, and water, so it’s good for all kinds of weather.
- Polaris XPEDITION: This one’s more for overlandin’, with a cab that’s got air conditioning, a solid stereo, and a range of around 200 miles – perfect for long adventures.
- ODES DesertCross 1000: Known for being a strong workhorse, this one also has options for HVAC, though it can get a bit pricey, startin’ around $23,500.
There are other models out there too, so if you’re thinkin’ about gettin’ a side by side, it might be worth askin’ your dealer if AC is an option. Keep in mind that it ain’t cheap, but if you’re out there in the heat a lot, it could be worth every penny.
Is Side by Side Air Conditioning Right for You?
Well, I reckon that depends on what you’re usin’ your UTV for. If you’re just doin’ light trail rides or short work trips, maybe you don’t need it. But for folks spendin’ all day in the sun, or those who wanna take their side by side campin’ in hot areas, it sure makes things more pleasant.
There’s also the fact that air conditioning can help keep your cab cleaner. With a sealed cab and AC, you don’t get all the dust and grit blowin’ in your face. That’s a big plus if you’re on dirty, dusty trails all day long.
Wrapping It Up
At the end of the day, side by side air conditioning is about makin’ the whole experience more enjoyable. You get to stay cool, keep your cab clean, and maybe even ride a little longer. It’s definitely a step up from the old open-air UTVs that left ya hot, sweaty, and covered in dust.
So, if you’re lookin’ at a new side by side, or thinkin’ about upgradin’ your current one, maybe consider air conditioning. It’s a bit fancy, sure, but for long days in the sun, it might just be worth it!
Tags:[side by side air conditioning, UTV AC, Polaris RANGER XP 1000, off-road air conditioning, sealed cab UTV, UTV comfort upgrades]
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