Buying a solid atv side by side trailer is the only way to actually get your machine to the dirt without making a massive headache for yourself. If you've just dropped a significant amount of money on a new Polaris RZR or a Can-Am Maverick, the last thing you want is to be stuck in the driveway because your trailer is too small, too weak, or just plain sketchy. It's one of those purchases that feels like a "utility" buy, but it actually dictates how much fun you're going to have. If loading up is a nightmare, you're less likely to head out for a weekend ride.
Getting the Size Right the First Time
The biggest mistake I see people make is buying a trailer that's "just enough." They measure their machine, see it's 64 inches wide, and buy a 66-inch wide trailer. On paper, it works. In reality? You're going to be sweating bullets every time you try to drive up those ramps. You need a little bit of wiggle room for those times when you aren't perfectly centered or when the ground at the trailhead is uneven.
Most modern side-by-sides are getting wider and longer. A standard 5x10 trailer used to be the gold standard for ATVs, but for a side-by-side, you're usually looking at a 6x12 or even a 7x14 if you have a four-seater. If you think you might upgrade to a bigger machine in a year or two, do yourself a favor and buy the bigger atv side by side trailer now. It's way cheaper than trading in a small trailer and buying a new one later. Plus, that extra space is perfect for hauling fuel jugs, a tool chest, or a cooler without it being cramped.
Aluminum vs. Steel: Which One Wins?
This is the age-old debate in the hauling world. Steel trailers are usually the go-to because they're affordable and incredibly tough. If you're dragging your trailer through brush or over rocky paths to get to a remote campsite, steel can take a beating. The downside? Rust. If you live somewhere where they salt the roads or you're near the coast, a steel trailer will start looking rough pretty quickly if you don't stay on top of the paint.
Aluminum trailers are the "buy once, cry once" option. They're much lighter, which is a huge plus if you're towing with a mid-sized SUV or a smaller truck. Since they don't rust, they tend to hold their resale value like crazy. You'll pay more upfront—sometimes a lot more—but you won't be dealing with flaky paint or structural rot ten years down the line. If you've got the budget, aluminum is almost always the way to go for an atv side by side trailer.
Open vs. Enclosed Trailers
This really comes down to where you live and how you store your gear. An open trailer is easy. You can wash your machine while it's still on the trailer, it's easy to maneuver, and you don't have to worry about overhead clearance. It's the classic choice for most riders.
However, an enclosed atv side by side trailer is basically a rolling garage. If you're traveling long distances or staying overnight at hotels, having your rig locked up and out of sight is a massive stress-reliever. There's also the weather factor. Keeping the rain, mud, and road salt off your seats and electronics during a five-hour drive makes a difference. The downside is the "sail effect"—towing a big box in a crosswind is a workout for your truck, and your gas mileage will definitely take a hit.
The Importance of Payload Capacity
Don't just look at the size of the deck; you have to look at the weight rating. A lot of single-axle trailers are rated for 3,500 pounds. That sounds like a lot, but you have to subtract the weight of the trailer itself. If the trailer weighs 1,200 pounds, you've only got 2,300 pounds of "payload" left. A fully decked-out four-seat side-by-side with a winch, bumpers, and a full tank of gas can easily push 2,000 pounds. Throw in some spare tires and gear, and you're right on the edge.
If you're pushing the limits, it might be worth looking at a tandem axle atv side by side trailer. Having two axles makes the ride much smoother, and if you get a flat tire on the highway, you aren't immediately grinding your rim into the pavement. Tandem axles also usually come with trailer brakes, which are a literal lifesaver when you're trying to stop in the rain or coming down a steep mountain pass.
Loading and Ramps
I've seen some pretty sketchy ramp setups in my time. Some people use loose wooden planks, which is a disaster waiting to happen. Most atv side by side trailer options come with a built-in rear gate that doubles as a ramp. These are great because they're wide and stable. Just make sure the gate is sturdy enough for the weight of your machine. If the gate starts to bow the first time you drive up it, that's a bad sign.
Tilt-deck trailers are another cool option. You just pull a pin, the back of the trailer tilts down, you drive on, and it pivots back into place. No ramps to fumble with, no heavy gates to lift. They're a bit more expensive, but for someone who rides solo a lot, they make life incredibly easy.
Don't Forget the Tie-Downs
You can have the best atv side by side trailer in the world, but it doesn't matter if your machine isn't stayed put. Those cheap $10 hardware store straps aren't going to cut it. You want heavy-duty ratchet straps—preferably the ones rated for 5,000 pounds or more.
Even better? Look into wheel chocks or "tire bonnets." Instead of compressing your suspension (which isn't great for your shocks during long hauls), these systems secure the tires directly to the trailer deck. It lets the machine's suspension do its job and soak up the bumps, while the rig itself stays rock-solid. It's a much more professional way to haul, and it's way faster to hook up once you get the hang of it.
Maintenance is Part of the Deal
Trailers are notoriously neglected. Most people park them in the weeds all winter and then expect them to do a 500-mile trip in the spring. If you want your atv side by side trailer to last, you've got to show it some love.
Grease your wheel bearings every season. Check the tire pressure before every single trip—trailer tires are famous for losing air while sitting. And please, check your lights! There's nothing more frustrating (or dangerous) than a trailer with a flaky ground wire that makes the blinkers stop working halfway through your drive. A little bit of WD-40 in the plug and a quick walk-around can save you a ticket and a lot of grief.
Final Thoughts on Choosing Your Rig
At the end of the day, your atv side by side trailer is what connects your home to your hobby. It's tempting to go cheap, but you usually get what you pay for. Whether you go for a simple open steel deck or a fancy enclosed aluminum setup, just make sure it's got the capacity and the width you need to feel comfortable.
Once you find a setup that's easy to load and stable on the road, you'll find yourself heading out to the trails way more often. There's a certain peace of mind that comes with knowing your rig is secure behind you, allowing you to focus on the ride ahead rather than worrying about what's happening in your rearview mirror. Grab the right trailer, tie everything down tight, and get out there.