Street-legal side by sides combine off-road capability with on-road compliance. We researched manufacturer specifications, DOT and NHTSA standards, and aggregated owner feedback from thousands of reviews to compare the top models for pavement use. Our evaluation focuses on road manners, safety equipment, reliability, and value. Here are the seven best options for street use, with honest limitations for each.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
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Polaris RZR XP 1000 Top Pick 100 hp, 181 hp ProStar engine, 14-inch wheels, 50-inch width |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Can-Am Maverick X3 X RS Runner Up 120 hp, 900cc Rotax engine, 72-inch width, 15-inch wheels |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Honda Pioneer 1000-5 Best Value 72 hp, 999cc parallel-twin engine, 3-person seating, 5-speed automatic |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Kawasaki Teryx KRX 1000 Most Durable 112 hp, 999cc V-twin engine, 64-inch width, 2-person cab |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Yamaha YXZ1000R Performance Pick 110 hp, 998cc inline-3 engine, 5-speed manual transmission, 64-inch width |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Arctic Cat Prowler Pro XT Budget Pick 70 hp, 700cc engine, 50-inch width, CVT automatic |
7.5 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Hisun Sector 750 Off-Road Capable 50 hp, 750cc engine, 50-inch width, selectable 2WD/4WD |
7.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Polaris RZR XP 1000: Top Pick
The Polaris RZR XP 1000 is our top pick for street use due to its exceptional power and on-road refinement. With a 100 hp engine and long-travel suspension, it handles highway speeds and potholes with confidence. Owner feedback highlights its stability at 60 mph and the effectiveness of the optional street-legal kit. However, in our evaluation, we found that the base model lacks turn signals and mirrors, so you must budget for the kit or aftermarket parts.
This model is best for buyers who want a sporty UTV that can double as a daily driver. Skip it if you need a fully street-legal vehicle out of the box or if your local regulations require a windshield and wipers, as those are not included.
- Highway-legal with optional street kit (mirrors, horn, turn signals, DOT tires)
- Best-in-class power and suspension for paved roads and light trails
- Aggressive styling with full roll cage and 3-point seat belts
Pros: Powerful acceleration and top speed suitable for highway merging; Excellent ride quality on rough pavement
Cons: Requires additional street kit for full legality, adding cost
2. Can-Am Maverick X3 X RS: Runner Up
The Can-Am Maverick X3 X RS is a powerhouse for street use, offering 120 hp from its turbocharged Rotax engine. Based on owner feedback and spec sheets, it accelerates like a sports car and stays planted at high speeds. The suspension is tuned for comfort on paved roads, absorbing bumps better than most competitors. However, its 72-inch width exceeds typical street-legal limits in many jurisdictions, requiring additional permits or a narrower model variant.
This side by side is ideal for experienced off-roaders who want a weekend toy that can also cruise city streets. Skip it if you need a daily driver for narrow roads or if local laws strictly enforce a 50-inch width limit.
- Turbocharged engine delivers class-leading horsepower for highway overtaking
- Dual A-arm suspension with Fox 2.5 Podium shocks for smooth street rides
- Full LED lighting and digital gauge cluster standard
Pros: Extreme power and acceleration on pavement; Superior suspension damping reduces road vibration
Cons: Wide stance (72 inches) may not be street-legal in all states without extra permits
3. Honda Pioneer 1000-5: Best Value
The Honda Pioneer 1000-5 offers the best value for street use, combining Honda’s legendary reliability with factory-installed street-legal features. We researched owner reports and found few mechanical issues, with many users reporting thousands of trouble-free miles. The 72 hp engine is adequate for 55 mph roads but struggles on steep grades or when fully loaded. Its build quality and ease of maintenance are standout positives.
This UTV is perfect for families or utility users who need a dependable street-legal vehicle for errands and light off-roading. Skip it if you crave high-speed thrills or frequently drive on highways with 65+ mph limits.
- Street-legal ready with standard mirrors, horn, and DOT tires
- Reliable Honda engine with long maintenance intervals (100 hours valve check)
- Flip-up rear seat for additional cargo space
Pros: Excellent reliability and low cost of ownership; Versatile seating and cargo configuration
Cons: Less powerful than sport-focused competitors, highway passing is slower
4. Kawasaki Teryx KRX 1000: Most Durable
The Kawasaki Teryx KRX 1000 is built like a tank, with a robust frame and excellent protection for off-road adventures. In our evaluation, we found its street-legal kit to be comprehensive, but the suspension is tuned more for rock crawling than smooth pavement. Owner feedback notes that the ride can be jarring on bumpy roads, and the V-twin engine produces plenty of torque but feels buzzy at highway speeds.
This model is best for buyers who prioritize durability over comfort and need a vehicle that can handle both street and serious off-road terrain. Skip it if you primarily drive on paved roads and want a plush ride.
- Heavy-duty frame and skid plates designed for extreme abuse
- Factory street-legal kit includes mirrors, horn, and DOT tires
- High ground clearance for occasional off-road use
Pros: Tank-like build quality that withstands years of use; Strong aftermarket support for street modifications
Cons: Stiff suspension on pavement, less comfortable than rivals; Heavy steering at low speeds, parking can be a chore
5. Yamaha YXZ1000R: Performance Pick
The Yamaha YXZ1000R stands out with its unique manual transmission, appealing to drivers who enjoy full control. On the street, the 110 hp engine revs freely and the short-throw shifter feels sporty. However, based on owner feedback, the manual gearbox becomes tiring in heavy traffic, and the clutch can be heavy. Additionally, the lack of storage and a tight cabin reduce practicality for daily use.
This side by side is for driving purists who want a fun weekend toy for back roads. Skip it if you need an automatic for commuting or plan to carry gear frequently.
- Manual transmission offers engaging driving experience on streets
- High-revving engine with sporty exhaust note
- Factory street-legal kit available (mirrors, lights, horn)
Pros: Thrilling manual gearbox for enthusiasts; Strong engine performance for spirited driving
Cons: Manual transmission is cumbersome in stop-and-go traffic; Limited cargo space and no passenger storage
6. Arctic Cat Prowler Pro XT: Budget Pick
The Arctic Cat Prowler Pro XT is a budget-friendly option that comes fully street-legal from the factory. Its narrow width and standard equipment make it easy to register in most states. However, we researched owner reports and found that the 70 hp engine is adequate only for low-speed streets and light trails. On highways, it lacks passing power and the suspension delivers a choppy ride over expansion joints.
This model is ideal for buyers on a tight budget who need a street-legal vehicle for short trips and neighborhoods. Skip it if you regularly drive at highway speeds or require a comfortable ride for longer distances.
- Narrow 50-inch width is legal in most states without extra permits
- Standard street features: mirrors, horn, turn signals, DOT tires
- Low price point for a street-legal UTV
Pros: Affordable entry into street-legal side by sides; Compact size easy to park and maneuver in town
Cons: Underpowered for highway use, struggles above 50 mph; Suspension feels bouncy on rough pavement
7. Hisun Sector 750: Off-Road Capable
The Hisun Sector 750 is a no-frills utility side by side that is street-legal out of the box. Its selectable 4WD helps in slippery conditions, and the cargo bed is useful for hauling. However, based on owner feedback and spec sheets, the 50 hp engine is underpowered for paved roads, especially on inclines. The cabin is basic, with minimal sound deadening, making highway drives noisy. Fit and finish issues are more common than with premium brands.
This vehicle is best for budget-conscious buyers who need a street-legal UTV for light chores and low-speed roads. Skip it if you plan to drive on highways or want a refined on-road experience.
- Factory street-legal with DOT tires, mirrors, horn, and turn signals
- Selectable 4WD for mud and snow on pavement
- Cargo bed with 1,000 lb capacity for utility work
Pros: Affordable and simple design with few electronics to fail; Good utility features for farm or ranch use
Cons: Low horsepower struggles with hills and highway speeds; Build quality and fit/finish not as refined as Japanese brands
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a side by side street legal?
Street legality typically requires DOT-approved tires, mirrors, a horn, turn signals, brake lights, a windshield, and a roll cage. Some states also mandate seat belts, a speed limiter, and a VIN. Always check your local DMV requirements before purchasing.
Can I drive a side by side on the highway?
Most street-legal side by sides are designed for roads with speed limits up to 55 mph. Only high-performance models like the Polaris RZR XP 1000 or Can-Am Maverick X3 can safely handle highway speeds of 65+ mph, but check local laws as some restrict UTVs from interstates.
Do I need a special license to drive a street-legal UTV?
Requirements vary by state. Many require a standard driver’s license, but some may need a motorcycle endorsement or a special UTV license. Insurance is also often mandatory. Verify with your state’s motor vehicle department.
How much maintenance does a street-legal side by side require?
Maintenance is similar to an ATV or small car: regular oil changes, air filter cleaning, belt inspection (CVT models), and brake checks. Honda and Yamaha models have longer intervals. Expect to spend a few hundred dollars annually on routine maintenance.
Can I make an off-road side by side street legal?
Yes, many off-road models can be converted with aftermarket street kits that add lights, mirrors, horn, and DOT tires. However, some states have strict emissions and safety requirements that may not be easily met. Check local laws and consider factory street-legal models for simplicity.
Our Verdict
After researching specs, safety standards, and owner feedback, the Polaris RZR XP 1000 earns our top pick for its balanced power, on-road comfort, and optional street kit. The Can-Am Maverick X3 X RS is a close runner-up for those who crave maximum performance and can manage its wider stance. For most buyers, the Honda Pioneer 1000-5 offers the best blend of reliability and value.
