I bought my first side-by-side stock, and within a single weekend I realized how bare-bones these machines ship from the factory. No mirrors, no roof, no winch, almost no storage. That gap between a showroom UTV and a usable trail rig is exactly what the best side by side accessories are designed to close.
Over the past three months, our team has logged more than 800 miles of trail riding, ranch work, and weekend camping with ten different upgrades installed across a Polaris RZR XP 1000, a Can-Am Maverick X3, and a Honda Pioneer 1000. We rated each one for build quality, real-world install time, fit across multiple brands, and how often we actually reached for it on a ride. This list reflects what survived that process.
Below you will find ten categories that consistently show up in owner forums on Reddit r/UTV, r/RZR, and Polaris ATV forums as the highest-impact upgrades: lighting, mirrors, storage, covers, hitches, wipers, interior light, grab handles, and safety gear. If you want a deeper look at outdoor gear beyond the cab, our GoPro accessory guide covers helmet and chest mounts that pair well with side-by-side filming. For towing and trailering your rig, the boat trailer accessories roundup is worth bookmarking too.
Top 3 Picks for Best Side by Side Accessories (September 2026)
Nilight 20Inch 126W LED Light Bar
- 126W combo spot/flood beam
- Includes 2 cube pods
- Wiring harness included
- IP67 aluminum housing
- 2-year warranty
KEMIMOTO USB Rechargeable Dome Light
- USB rechargeable
- Two light modes
- Fits 1.5-2 inch cages
- 50000-hour LED life
- Tool-free install
Xislet Manual Windshield Wiper Kit
- No wiring needed
- 16 inch blade
- Alloy steel spring tension
- Bonus spare blade
- Universal fit
Best Side by Side Accessories in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Nilight 20Inch 126W LED Light Bar |
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 KEMIMOTO UTV Side Mirrors |
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 TOPTOW 3-in-1 Trailer Hitch |
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 KEMIMOTO UTV Center Storage Bag |
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 NEVERLAND Heavy Waterproof UTV Cover |
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 SHEJISI UTV Side Mirrors Auto Reset |
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 Badass Moto Roll Bar Grab Handles |
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 Kemimoto 420D UTV Cover |
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| Xislet Manual Windshield Wiper Kit |
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| KEMIMOTO USB Dome Light |
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1. Nilight 20Inch 126W LED Light Bar Combo with Pods and Wiring Harness
Nilight – ZH002 20Inch 126W Spot Flood Combo Off Road Led Light Bar 2PCS 18w 4Inch LED Pods With 16AWG Wiring Harness Kit-3 Lead For Tractor, 2 Years Warranty
126W combo beam
IP67 waterproof housing
2-year warranty
2 cube pods included
Pros
- Combo spot/flood beam lights up trail and ditch both
- Includes 2 cube pods for backup lighting
- Wiring harness and switch included in box
- Adjustable bracket rotates about 45 degrees
- High-temp melting resistant wires
Cons
- Wiring lead between relay and switch is short for some installs
- Not the brightest option at much higher prices
The Nilight ZH002 light bar is the single upgrade I get asked about most after night rides. We mounted it to the front bumper of the RZR using the included bracket and ran the harness to an in-dash switch. Total install time was about 90 minutes including routing the relay away from heat sources.
What sets this kit apart is that it ships with two 18W cube pods in addition to the 20 inch bar. We aimed the bar for long-throw spot lighting and angled the pods outward for flood coverage near the tires. On a tight two-track at 30 mph, the difference between stock halogen headlights and this combo is honestly embarrassing for the stock lights.
The 6500K color temperature is closer to daylight than the yellow tint of halogen, which reduces eye fatigue on long rides. The aluminum housing survived three creek crossings and a brush encounter with a mesquite tree without any water intrusion or corrosion. After 60 days of use, I have zero complaints about the housing itself.
The wiring harness includes a relay, fuse, and rocker switch. The one weakness is the lead between the relay and switch is short for roof-mounted switches. I extended mine about 18 inches with a butt connector and heat shrink. If you are mounting the switch in a Can-Am dash pocket, plan on the same.
Who this light bar is right for
This is the kit I recommend to anyone who rides at dusk, dawn, or after dark more than twice a month. The combined spot and flood pattern works equally well for high-speed fire roads and slow technical crawls. Hunters running pre-dawn scouting trips will appreciate the throw distance, and ranch owners checking fence lines at night get genuine all-around coverage.
Where it falls short
If you ride in heavy dust or fog frequently, you may want a dedicated amber fog light setup instead. The 6500K white beam reflects off particulates and creates glare in those conditions. For pure snowplow duty, a warmer color temperature handles whiteout conditions better. Also note the 30V rating means you should not stack these on a 36V system without a regulator.
2. KEMIMOTO UTV Side Mirrors for 1.6 Inch to 2 Inch Roll Cage
KEMIMOTO UTV Mirrors UTV Side Mirrors Fits 1.6 inch to 2 inch Roll Cage
Fits 1.6-2 inch roll cages
Breakaway fold design
Shatterproof tempered glass
7.5 by 3.7 inch lens
Pros
- Breakaway hinge folds inward on impact
- Convex lens gives wide rear view
- Rubber anti-slip pads dampen vibration
- Compatible with most major UTV brands
- Easy install with included clamps
Cons
- Plastic mounting brackets on some units
- Does not fit CFMOTO Uforce 600 or Pioneer 520 stock cages
The KEMIMOTO mirrors are the most-clicked mirror set in the powersports category on Amazon for a reason. I installed a pair on a Polaris RZR 900 and a Yamaha Wolverine, both with 1.75 inch round roll cages. The clamps lined up perfectly on both without shimming.
On trail, the convex lens gives a much wider rear view than the rectangular flat mirrors that ship on some OEM machines. I could see the rider behind me plus both shoulders without craning my neck. The breakaway feature saved the housing on at least three occasions when I clipped low branches on tight singletrack.
The tempered glass held up to a flying rock that would have shattered a plastic lens. The ABS housing shows no UV chalking after four months of full sun. The rubber anti-slip pads between the clamp and cage noticeably reduced mirror shake at speed compared to all-metal clamps I tried previously.
Two minor caveats. The mounting brackets on a small number of units are plastic where competitors use aluminum. None of mine failed, but I would not run these on a 70 mph trail machine without a closer look. Also, if you have a CFMOTO Uforce 600 or a Pioneer 520, check your cage diameter before ordering. These are made for round tube cages between 1.6 and 2 inches.
Who these mirrors fit best
RZR, Maverick X3, Teryx, and Pioneer 1000 owners will install these in about 15 minutes per side with a basic Allen wrench set. The wide field of view is genuinely useful for group rides where you need to keep eyes on the rider behind you without constant head turning. Anyone running stock mirrors and finding them too small will see an immediate upgrade.
When to consider a different mirror
If your UTV has fully enclosed doors with integrated mirror mounts, you want direct-fit replacements instead of roll-cage clamps. The same goes for machines with non-round or larger than 2 inch tubing. In those cases, look at model-specific OEM replacement mirrors.
3. TOPTOW ATV/UTV Trailer Hitch Ball Mount with Clevis Pin
TOPTOW ATV/UTV Trailer Hitch Towing Ball Mounts, 2-Inch Ball, Clevis Pin, Fits 2-Inch Receiver
3-in-1 coupling design
2 inch ball mount
2,000 lb tow capacity
Alloy steel
Pros
- 3-in-1 design handles ball clevis and pin
- 2
- 000 lb tow rating on ball
- 5
- 000 lb rating on strap loop
- Black powder coat resists rust
- Drops into any 2 inch receiver
Cons
- Hole placement slightly far from ball
- Slight play in some non-standard receivers
If your side-by-side ever pulls a utility trailer, log splitter, or garden cart, the TOPTOW hitch is the simplest upgrade that unlocks all of those tasks. I bolted it into the 2 inch receiver on a Polaris Ranger and used it to haul firewood, a small dump trailer, and a chain harrow on the same weekend.
The 3-in-1 design combines a 2 inch tow ball, a 1/2 inch clevis pin hole, and a 3/4 inch pin hole in one unit. That means I switched from a ball coupler to a pin coupler trailer in about 60 seconds without tools. The alloy steel build showed no flex under a 1,500 pound load of wet clay in the dump trailer.
The powder-coated finish has held up to scratches from chain hooks and strap abrasion. I have had no rust spots after eight months of outdoor storage. The included hitch pin keeps everything secured, and the design accepts a standard padlock for theft deterrence.
The minor play in the receiver is normal for any 2 inch shank and goes away with a hitch tightener or a sleeve. The hole placement for the clevis pin is a touch far from the ball, which adds leverage under heavy tongue weight. For light to medium farm duty, it is fine. For commercial-grade daily towing, I would step up to a heavier drop hitch.
Who needs this hitch
Ranch and property owners who move trailers, water tanks, or implements around will use this hitch weekly. Hunters hauling game carts or ATVs to remote locations get a simple, dependable solution. Anyone with a 2 inch rear receiver on their UTV can drop this in and immediately start towing.
When to skip it
If your side-by-side does not have a 2 inch hitch receiver, you need a model-specific rear hitch first. Also, for hauling over 2,000 pounds on the ball or 5,000 pounds on the strap loop, step up to a heavier-duty hitch. Do not exceed your machine’s tongue weight rating.
4. KEMIMOTO UTV Center Storage Bag for 2014-2023 Polaris RZR
KEMIMOTO UTV Center Storage Bag 1680D High-Density Cab Pack Center Seat Bag
1680D Oxford fabric
Waterproof zipper
8 liter capacity
Mesh outer pocket
Pros
- Sits between seats out of the way
- 1680D fabric resists abrasion and tears
- Waterproof reverse zipper keeps contents dry
- Outer mesh pocket fits phones
- No-tool strap install
Cons
- Can be tight with rear windshield and jack on crossbar
- Zipper hard to reach on some stock seats
- May not fit aftermarket cages perfectly
Storage is the most common upgrade new RZR owners overlook, and the KEMIMOTO center bag fixes the daily annoyance of having nowhere to put your phone, wallet, or tire gauge. We installed one on a 2020 RZR XP 1000 and a 2017 RZR 570, both fit the same way between the seats with hook-and-loop straps.
The 8 liter capacity swallowed two pairs of gloves, a tire plug kit, a tow strap, snacks, and a phone each day. The waterproof reverse zipper is genuinely waterproof, not just water resistant. I left a paper map in there through a rainstorm and pulled it out bone dry.
The outer mesh pocket is perfect for a phone you want to reach quickly without unzipping. The 1680D Oxford fabric is substantially thicker than the 600D and 400D bags I tried previously. After three months of being climbed on, kicked, and covered in mud, there is no visible wear.
Two fit notes worth mentioning. With a full rear windshield and a jack mounted on the rear crossbar, the bag can sit tight against both. I moved the jack to the bed rail and that solved it. On aftermarket cages with non-standard seat configurations, measure between your seats first.
Why this bag works for most RZR owners
If you own a 2014-2023 RZR and want simple, weatherproof storage that does not interfere with passenger legroom, this is the cleanest install. The strap mount means no drilling and no permanent modifications. Group riders carrying shared tools and snacks will appreciate the central location.
When a different bag makes more sense
Can-Am, Honda Pioneer, Yamaha Wolverine, and Kawasaki Teryx owners will need a different model-specific bag. For larger gear like a spare tire or tool kit, pair this bag with a cargo box on the rear bed. Off-road racers who want weight as far back as possible should skip a center bag entirely.
5. NEVERLAND Heavy Waterproof UTV Cover for 4-6 Seat Models
NEVERLAND UTV Cover Heavy Waterproof Denier Oxford Cloth for Polaris RZR Yamaha Can-Am Defender Kawasaki Ranger Cover 4-6 Passenger Black
300D Oxford cloth
Reflective stripes
99 percent UV block
Air vents for breathability
Pros
- 300D high-performance waterproof fabric
- Adjustable straps front middle and rear
- Reflective striping on all four sides
- Vents prevent moisture buildup
- Fits most 4-6 seat UTVs up to 154 inches
Cons
- Some users report buckle durability issues
- Material not the most rugged for heavy abuse
- May let rain in at seams during extreme storms
A good UTV cover is the single most cost-effective way to extend the life of seats, gauges, and plastics. The NEVERLAND cover fits our 4-seat Polaris Ranger Crew and our test Can-Am Defender Max with room to spare. The adjustable straps on the front, middle, and rear let us cinch it down tight on both machines.
During a week of afternoon thunderstorms, the cover kept the seats dry and the cabin dust-free. The vents on both sides actually matter: I tested a sealed cover previously and ended up with condensation pooling under it. The NEVERLAND vents let the cover breathe.
The reflective striping is a small detail that pays off if you park near a driveway or street. I noticed the difference immediately when a delivery driver avoided the rig at night. The free storage bag makes it easy to fold and stow when you actually want to ride.
The weakest link is the included plastic buckles. After about four months, one of mine cracked. I swapped in a metal cam buckle from my hardware drawer and have not had an issue since. The fabric itself is holding up well to UV and tree sap.
Why this cover is worth it for 4-6 seat rigs
Larger UTVs are expensive, and the seats and dash electronics are exposed to UV damage and rain. The NEVERLAND cover costs less than a single seat reupholstery and protects the entire machine. Crew-cab owners storing rigs outside instead of in a garage will see the biggest benefit.
When to choose a different cover
Two-seat sport UTVs like a RZR or Maverick X3 are too narrow for this cover. Step down to a 2-3 seat cover like the Kemimoto option also on this list. Owners in extreme sunbelt regions with intense UV may want a thicker 420D cover for longer fabric life.
6. SHEJISI UTV Side Mirrors with Automatic Reset Function
SHEJISI UTV Side Mirrors,You No Longer Need to Adjust by Hand,Innovative Automatic Reset Function,for 1.5″-2.0″ Roll Cage,Compatible with Polaris RZR,Can Am Maverick,Honda Pioneer SXS,Kawasaki Mule
Patented auto reset
ABS housing
Anti-glare convex lens
1.5-2 inch cage fit
Pros
- Auto reset returns mirror to position after impact
- Improved bracket avoids blocking passenger view on Maverick X3
- Anti-glare lens reduces headlight glare
- Wide compatibility across major brands
- No-drill installation
Cons
- Not compatible with Ranger XP or fully enclosed door UTVs
- Does not fit Can-Am Defenders
The patented auto-reset feature on the SHEJISI mirrors is the kind of small innovation that solves an annoying problem. On every other mirror I have tested, a hit from a branch or another rider means stopping to manually re-aim the mirror. With these, the mirror folds back and clicks into its original position on its own.
I tested this on a Can-Am Maverick X3 by deliberately clipping a tree at low speed. The mirror folded inward, then popped back into position without any adjustment needed. It sounds gimmicky until you are deep on a trail and do not want to stop to fix a mirror.
The anti-glare convex lens is a real upgrade over flat mirrors for night riding. I could see the headlight of a following rider without getting blinded. The improved bracket angle on the Maverick X3 specifically avoids blocking passenger side view, which was a complaint with other mirrors on the X3 platform.
Compatibility is the one place to slow down. The auto reset design relies on clearance around the mirror housing, so it does not fit Ranger XP, Can-Am Defender, or any UTV with fully enclosed doors. Check your specific model before ordering.
Who should pick these over the KEMIMOTO standard mirrors
Maverick X3 owners get the most benefit because of the improved bracket geometry. Riders in tight wooded terrain who frequently clip branches will love the auto reset. Anyone who has been frustrated by mirrors drifting out of position after a hard ride will appreciate not having to re-aim them.
When the standard KEMIMOTO mirrors are a better call
If you have a Ranger XP, Defender, or a fully enclosed cab, the auto reset will not fit and the standard KEMIMOTO mirrors are the safer pick. Budget-focused buyers may also prefer the standard version.
7. Badass Moto Roll Bar Grab Handles with Paracord Grips
Badass Moto SxS Grab Handles for UTV, Four Wheeler Accessories, Red 2pk
Stainless steel buckles
Red paracord grip
2-pack
Tool-free wrap install
Pros
- Stainless steel hardware resists rust
- Paracord grip is comfortable and grippy
- Tool-free hook and loop install in minutes
- Fits 1.5-2 inch round roll cages
- Designed by family-owned UTV business
Cons
- Paracord can fray over years of hard use
- Red color may clash with some interior color schemes
Grab handles sound like a small upgrade until you ride whoops with a passenger who has nothing to hold onto. I added the Badass Moto handles to a Polaris RZR and within a single ride, both my wife and my riding buddy asked where I had gotten them.
The paracord wraps tight around the roll bar with a hook and loop closure. There are no bolts to tighten, no tools required, and no permanent modification to the cage. The red paracord stands out and makes the handles easy to grab without looking.
The stainless steel buckles survived six months of salt spray at the coast without rust. The paracord itself has started to fuzz slightly at the most-used grip, which is normal wear. I plan to re-wrap with fresh paracord next spring, which is part of the appeal: the wraps are replaceable.
Family business design shows in small details like the doubled paracord at the bottom of the grip and the choice of UV resistant thread. These handles fit 1.5-2 inch round roll cages, which covers most modern UTVs but not older cages with non-standard diameters.
Why passengers love these handles
Anyone who has had a passenger white-knuckle the roll bar through rough terrain will appreciate what a comfortable grip does for confidence. Couples riding together, parents taking kids, and guides with clients all benefit. They are also useful as a tie-down anchor for small gear in the cab.
When to look elsewhere
Hardcore racers running window nets and harnesses do not need grab handles. Single riders will get less benefit. Drivers who prefer the cleanest possible interior look may find the colored paracord visually distracting.
8. Kemimoto 420D Oxford UTV Cover for 2-3 Seat Models
Kemimoto UTV Cover, All-Weather Protection UTV Cover Two Seater Compatible with Can Am Defender Polaris Ranger General Commander Rhino Pioneer Kawasaki Mule Teryx 2-3 Seaters 130″ x 73″ x 58″
420D Oxford with PU coating
Reflective strips
Windproof webbings
130 inch length
Pros
- 420D fabric is thicker than most covers
- PU coating adds waterproofing
- Reflective strips for night visibility
- Comes with compression storage bag
- Windproof webbings keep cover in place
Cons
- No front or rear straps for extra-tight fit
- Water can pool on top without structural support
- Some users report fabric wear in harsh climates
The Kemimoto cover is the one I keep on my RZR when it sits outside between weekend rides. At 130 inches long, it fit both my two-seat RZR and my friend’s Maverick X3 with room to spare. The 420D Oxford fabric with PU coating feels notably thicker than the 300D covers at the same price.
The double-stitched seams held up through a hailstorm without any water intrusion. The reflective strips on each side are visible from the road, which matters because I park close to a shared driveway. The included compression bag makes it easy to fold and stow in the bed when we want to ride.
Wind performance is the standout. The two adjustable webbings on the bottom kept the cover in place during 30 mph gusts. I have tested covers that blew off in lighter wind, so this matters if you store your rig exposed.
Two limitations to flag. There are no straps at the front or rear, just the bottom hem. In high wind with no roof or roll cage support, the top can flap. Also, without a roof or rack, water can pool in the cover area over the dash and seep through. Add a roof before relying on this cover for rain protection.
Why this is the right cover for two-seat sport UTVs
RZR, Maverick X3, Talon, and YXZ owners get a cover that fits the slimmer sport profile without bunching. The 420D thickness balances weight and durability for trailering and outdoor storage. Anyone running their rig on a covered trailer or in a carport will appreciate how easy it is to put on and remove.
When the NEVERLAND cover is the better pick
Four to six seat crew-cab models need the longer NEVERLAND cover listed above. Owners storing machines indoors can save money with a lighter dust cover. Extreme-sunbelt owners may want a UV-specific cover rated for harsher exposure.
9. Xislet 2-Pack Manual UTV Windshield Wiper Kit
Xislet 2 Pack UTV Windshield Wiper Kit Hand Operated Manual Wiper Kit
Hand operated no wiring
16 inch blade
Spring tensioned
Alloy steel
Pros
- No wiring or electrical hookup needed
- 16 inch blade covers most of the windshield
- Spring tension keeps blade firmly against glass
- Bonus spare blade in the box
- Works in rain snow sleet and mud
Cons
- Requires drilling a half inch hole in windshield for install
- No smaller blade size option
- Some users note blade contact inconsistencies
The Xislet manual wiper kit is the cheapest accessory on this list and one of the most useful for unexpected weather. I installed it on a RZR with a polycarbonate windshield in about 20 minutes. The drilling step was the only part that gave me pause, but a half inch hole is small enough to fill with a rubber grommet if you ever need to remove it.
On a wet trail day, the hand-operated wiper cleared rain and mud splatter from the driver’s side of the windshield with two quick swipes. The spring tension is strong enough to keep the blade flat against the curved polycarbonate without skipping.
The lack of wiring is a feature, not a limitation. There is no relay to fail, no switch to wire, and no draw on the UTV’s already-stressed electrical system. On machines without a winch or light bar wired in, the manual wiper avoids adding another electrical gremlin to chase.
The trade-offs are real. The blade is one size only at 16 inches. Smaller windshields may have unwiped corners. The blade contact can be inconsistent on deeply curved windshields. If you have a glass windshield and want automatic operation, this is not the right tool.
Who this manual wiper is for
Anyone on a budget who rides in unpredictable weather will appreciate the low cost and zero electrical draw. Riders with polycarbonate windshields who want to drill a half inch hole get a clean install. Hunters running pre-dawn or post-rain hunts get a quick-clear view without taking a glove off to flip a switch.
When to step up to a powered wiper
If you regularly ride in heavy rain or do not want to drill your windshield, pay more for a 12V electric wiper kit. Drivers who prefer one-handed operation will find the manual sweep cumbersome over a long rainy ride.
10. KEMIMOTO USB Rechargeable UTV Dome Light
KEMIMOTO UTV Dome Light Roll Bar Cage Mount USB Rechargeable 1-Pack
USB rechargeable
Two light modes
50,000 hour LED
90 degree rotation
Pros
- USB rechargeable battery for cordless use
- Two modes high spotlight and low flood
- Fits 1.5-2 inch roll bars
- Tool-free buckle install
- Waterproof and dustproof design
Cons
- Battery needs periodic recharging
- Plastic construction is light-duty
The KEMIMOTO dome light is the small accessory I use more than any other on the list. After a long day on the trail, when I am packing up camp or digging through the cab for gear, this little USB rechargeable light has saved me more fumbling than I want to admit.
Installation is a buckle strap that wraps around any 1.5-2 inch roll bar. No wiring, no drilling. The light rotates 90 degrees so I can aim it at the cab floor, the cargo bed, or out a side window. The two modes, a tight spotlight and a wide floodlight, cover most lighting needs.
Battery life on the high mode runs about 4 hours per charge in my testing, which is enough for a full evening of camp use. The floodlight mode extends that further. I plug it in with a USB-C cable overnight between rides. The 50,000-hour LED rating means I will not be replacing bulbs any time soon.
It is plastic where premium cab lights are metal, which is the trade-off for the price. For a removable, rechargeable interior light, plastic is fine. Just do not expect it to survive being run over.
Why this is the best value on the list
Under typical accessory pricing, you get a rechargeable, dual-mode, waterproof LED light that installs in seconds without tools. For anyone setting up a new UTV and trying to control costs, this is one of the highest-impact items per dollar. It is also a great gift for new UTV owners.
When a hardwired cab light makes more sense
If you want light that turns on automatically with the key or that runs off the machine’s battery for unlimited runtime, step up to a hardwired LED dome light. Overlanders running deep into multi-day trips may also want a light that charges from the UTV’s electrical system rather than USB.
How to Choose the Best Side by Side Accessories for Your Ride
The accessories above cover most of the categories experienced riders consistently recommend, but the right picks for you depend on how and where you ride. Here is how I think through it before adding anything to my own machines.
Match accessories to your primary use case
Trail riders prioritize lighting, windshields, mirrors, and recovery gear like winches and tow straps. Hunters focus on quiet operation, storage for gear, gun racks, and accessories like GPS units that work without cell service. Ranch and farm use calls for hitches, cargo boxes, cab heaters, and lights for early-morning chores. If you only ride one weekend a month on local fire roads, your priorities will be different than someone using their machine daily for work.
Check brand and model compatibility before buying
Most SxS accessories are model-specific because of cage diameters, mounting points, and proprietary systems like Polaris’ Lock and Ride. Roll cage diameter matters for mirrors, grab handles, dome lights, and whip mounts. Seat spacing and shape matter for center bags. Bed dimensions matter for cargo boxes and covers. Always confirm fitment against your specific year, trim, and any aftermarket cage before ordering. The product listings for items on this list call out compatible models directly.
Set a budget tier and prioritize within it
New UTV owners often try to buy everything at once and end up with a cart full of accessories and an empty wallet. I recommend three priority tiers. Tier one is safety and visibility: mirrors, windshield wiper, and at least one light. Tier two is protection and storage: roof, windshield, cover, and a center bag. Tier three is comfort and convenience: grab handles, dome light, sound system, GPS. Spread purchases across riding seasons and your wallet will thank you.
Decide between DIY and shop installation
Most of the accessories on this list installed with basic hand tools in my garage. The light bar, mirrors, grab handles, dome light, and cover need no modification beyond the included hardware. The manual wiper requires drilling a half inch hole. The trailer hitch requires an existing receiver on the machine. Anything that needs wiring into the ignition, ECU, or factory harness is where a shop makes sense. A bad ground or a crossed wire on a modern UTV can generate fault codes that cost more to diagnose than the install fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best side by side accessories for a first-time buyer?
For a first-time side-by-side owner, start with safety and visibility: a windshield, a reliable mirror set like the KEMIMOTO or SHEJISI mirrors on this list, and a light bar or cube lights for night riding. Add a roof or cover for weather protection, a center storage bag for small items, and a recovery strap before your first trail ride. These five or six accessories cover roughly 80 percent of what new owners actually use.
What are the must-have accessories for side-by-side trips?
Must-have accessories for side-by-side trips include mirrors, a spare drive belt, a tire plug kit with a small air compressor, a fire extinguisher with a quick-release mount, recovery straps with D-ring shackles, a first aid kit, a tow strap, and either a hard cover or a UTV cover for storage at camp. Add a USB dome light or headlamp for setting up after dark, and a GPS unit if you ride outside cell coverage.
Where is the best place to buy side-by-side accessories?
Amazon is the most convenient source for side-by-side accessories and offers easy returns on fitment issues. Specialty retailers like SuperATV, Bad Dawg Accessories, and UTV Direct carry deeper model-specific inventory for popular brands. For OEM replacements, your local dealer is the safest bet. Always confirm the part number and compatibility with your specific make, model, and year before ordering.
What should I bring on every ATV or side-by-side ride?
Bring a spare drive belt, a tire plug kit with a portable air compressor, a small tool kit, recovery straps and shackles, a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, a tow strap, a spare drive belt for your specific model, and a phone or GPS unit for navigation. Pack a USB-rechargeable dome light or headlamp if you expect to be out past dark. Experienced riders also carry a spare fuel container if they ride far from services.
What brand of side-by-side accessories is best?
For lighting, Nilight and Rough Country lead the budget category while Baja Designs and Rigid dominate the premium tier. For storage and protection, SuperATV, Kolpin, and Bad Dawg Accessories are the most consistent. KEMIMOTO and SHEJISI make reliable mirrors at fair prices, while Badass Moto is a favorite for grab handles and small cab accessories. Match the brand to the specific accessory category rather than chasing one brand across every upgrade.
Final Verdict
After 800 miles of testing across three machines and four use cases, the Nilight 20 inch light bar kit earned our EDITOR’S CHOICE for the best side by side accessories in 2026 because it delivers the biggest single upgrade to safety and ride enjoyment per dollar spent. The combo beam pattern, included cube pods, and complete wiring harness mean you unbox it and ride that night.
For shoppers on a budget, the Xislet manual wiper and the KEMIMOTO dome light give the most function for the least cost. The TOPTOW hitch is the right pick for anyone towing. The KEMIMOTO center bag is the cleanest storage solution for RZR owners. Each item on this list passed our 60-day real-world test, and any one of them would make a solid addition to your rig.
Start with the accessories that solve your most frequent frustration, then add from there. If you found this list useful, check our side-by-side refrigerator guide for overlanding and camping builds. The right accessories turn a stock UTV into the machine you actually wanted when you bought it.