Lauren HollandBy Lauren Holland

Updated November 2026

Honda sells side-by-side UTVs built for trail riding, farm work and recreational family outings. This guide walks you through how the honda side by side models are grouped, what to compare between them and how to narrow the field to the one that fits your riding. By the end, you should know which model category matches your terrain, your passengers and your budget range.

Step 1: Sort Honda Models by Riding Purpose

Honda’s side-by-sides fall into a few broad groups, and the fastest way to narrow your choice is to decide what you will mostly do with the machine. Trail and recreation models are tuned for handling, suspension travel and comfort over long rides. Utility-focused models put more emphasis on cargo capacity, towing and a rugged bed. Owners who split their time between both often look at the mid-range options, which balance the two.

Shopping for one? See our guide: 5 Best Razor Side by Side 2 Seater Models (2026): Expert Picks.

Before you look at any spec sheet, write down three things: the terrain you ride most, how many people usually ride with you, and whether you need to haul or tow. Those answers will eliminate half the lineup quickly.

Step 2: Compare Seating, Engine and Drive Options

Seating is the first hard filter. Two-seat models are lighter and easier to maneuver in tight timber or on narrow singletrack. Four-seat versions add a rear bench, which suits families but makes the machine longer and heavier. Check whether the model you like offers a rear bench at all, since not every trim does.

Next, look at the engine and drivetrain. Manufacturers list displacement in cubic centimeters, and larger engines generally give more low-end torque for climbing and pulling. Confirm whether the drive system is two-wheel or four-wheel drive, and whether it includes a locking differential. Owners who ride in mud, sand or snow usually prioritize four-wheel drive with traction control, while those riding mostly on dry trails can often get by with a simpler setup.

Step 3: Check Suspension, Cargo and Towing Capacity

Suspension travel determines how the machine handles whoops, ruts and rocks. Longer travel usually means a smoother ride at speed but a higher seat height, so test the seat height against your inseam before committing. Cargo capacity, listed in pounds for the bed and in some cases the front rack, sets how much gear or game you can carry. Towing ratings tell you what trailer weight the machine can handle safely. Always use the owner’s manual figures rather than estimates from forums.

Quick comparison checklist

  1. Primary use: trail, utility or mixed
  2. Seating: two-seat or four-seat
  3. Drive system: two-wheel or four-wheel, with or without differential lock
  4. Seat height compared to your inseam
  5. Bed or rack load rating and towing rating from the manual
  6. Dealer service availability within a reasonable drive

Step 4: Test Ride and Confirm Fit

Spec sheets do not show you how a machine feels in your hands. If you can, test ride two or three models that passed your earlier filters. Pay attention to steering effort, how easily you reach the controls, and whether the seat and footwell fit your body. A machine that feels awkward on the dealer lot will rarely feel better after a full day on the trail.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Buying the largest engine without considering how you will actually use it.
  • Ignoring seat height, which can make a capable machine uncomfortable or unsafe for shorter riders.
  • Assuming towing ratings apply to any trailer, when hitch and tongue weight also matter.
  • Skipping the owner’s manual and relying only on forum or video claims.
  • Forgetting protective gear. Read UTV and Side-by-Side Safety: Belts, Helmets, Passengers before your first ride.

A good set of seat belts and a helmet that fits properly matter more than any accessory. For riders who plan to haul, a sturdy cargo cover helps protect gear from mud and rain. Consider View on Amazon for head protection and View on Amazon for keeping loads secure in the bed.

For a deeper look at accessories tailored to Honda’s Pioneer line, see Honda Side by Side Pioneer: 5 Best Accessories for Riders (2026). If you are still comparing brands, Yamaha Side by Side UTVs: How to Choose the Right Model (2026) offers a useful point of comparison.

FAQ

Which Honda side-by-side is best for beginners?

A two-seat model with a moderate engine and simple drive system is usually the easiest to learn on. It is lighter, easier to steer and less intimidating on tight trails.

Do Honda side-by-sides come in four-seat versions?

Some models in the lineup offer a four-seat configuration with a rear bench. Check the current model year specifications, since seating options can vary by trim.

Should I buy new or used?

New machines carry full manufacturer coverage and current features. Used units can offer good value if you have them inspected by a qualified technician before buying.

Conclusion

Choosing among honda side by side models comes down to purpose, seating, drivetrain and fit. Work through the steps above, test ride your top choices and confirm towing and cargo limits in the owner’s manual. A careful comparison now will save frustration on every ride after.

Ready to choose one?

Lauren Holland

About Lauren Holland

Lauren Holland is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our ATV, UTV/side-by-side & dirt bikes guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.