If you’ve ever visited the mountains, an off-road park, or a trail-heavy vacation destination, you’ve probably seen compact off-road vehicles rolling by with passengers sitting next to each other instead of one behind the other. They’re often called UTVs, SXS vehicles, or just simply side by sides, and for many first-time riders, they spark the same question: what is a side by side, and why does everyone seem to love them?
What is a side-by-side?
A side by side is an off-road vehicle designed to carry two or more passengers seated next to each other rather than straddling the vehicle like an ATV. That seating position is exactly where the name comes from. Side by sides use steering wheels instead of handlebars, feature bucket or bench seats with 3-point or even 5-point seatbelts, and include a roll cage for added protection. They’re controlled with gas and brake pedals, making them feel familiar to anyone who has driven a car before.
They come in a wide variety of makes, models, and sizes. Some of the smaller SXS machines have just two seats for an intimate, sporty ride. While other larger models accommodate 4, 5, and even 6 passengers, with plenty of storage and cargo capacity. These configurations allow your family to have the same experience throughout your entire adventure.
What is a UTV?
The term UTV stands for Utility Task Vehicle, which is the broader category side by sides fall into. Originally, UTVs were built for work purposes such as farming, ranching, construction, and land maintenance.
Over time, manufacturers realized people wanted these machines for recreation as well, not just utility. That shift led to many modern side by sides being designed specifically for trail riding, mountain roads, scenic routes, and guided off-road experiences. Today, when most people say UTV, they’re talking about a recreational side by side built for adventure. Adding that ‘fun factor’ beyond just utility.
Key Features That Make Side by Sides So Popular
One of the biggest reasons side by sides have become so popular is how easy they are to drive. The controls feel natural and intuitive, even for beginners. Instead of balancing on a seat and managing handlebars like on an ATV, you sit comfortably with your feet on the floor, hands on a steering wheel, and pedals underfoot.
This makes side by sides far less intimidating for first-time riders and ideal for families, couples, and groups who want to enjoy the ride together. Most these days include adjustable seat position and tilt steering wheel, as well as a full complement of cupholders, glove box, storage bays, and cargo capacity.
Another defining feature of a side by side is the seating itself. Because passengers sit next to each other, the experience is social. You can talk, laugh, point out scenery, and share the moment as it happens. This is a major reason side by sides are often preferred over ATVs, especially for vacations or group outings. Everyone gets the same view and feels equally involved in the experience.
Side by sides are also known for their open-air design. Many models are completely open, while others have partial enclosures or windshields. Either way, the goal is immersion. You hear the sounds of the trail, smell the forest, and feel the changes in elevation as you ride. Instead of being sealed inside a vehicle, you’re connected to your surroundings, which turns a simple drive into an experience.
Then for more challenging weather conditions, some SXS are fully enclosed with AC/Heat, power windows, and amazing sound systems. They really offer something for everyone. At Off-Road Gatlinburg, we have a wide variety of makes, models, and configurations to choose from for your experience.
Capability, Comfort, and Performance on the Trail
What about capability? That is where these machines really shine. Side by sides are built specifically for terrain that normal vehicles struggle with. They handle gravel roads, dirt trails, hills, and uneven surfaces with ease. Their suspension, ground clearance, and stability allow them to navigate environments that would be uncomfortable or inaccessible in a standard car.
At the same time, modern side by sides are designed with safety in mind, featuring roll cages, seat belts, and a low center of gravity that helps them feel stable and confidence-inspiring when driven responsibly. Many boast powerful engines and cool exhaust signatures.
Are Side by Sides Street Legal?
A common question new riders ask is whether side by sides are street legal. The answer depends on the machine and the location. Many side by sides are street legal straight from the factory, while some are modified or specially equipped to meet local and state requirements.
These street-legal versions include mirrors, turn signals, lights, horns, and other required equipment. In certain areas, including popular tourist destinations, street-legal side by sides are allowed on approved roads. For example, in Tennessee, SXS are considered medium speed vehicles and are allowed to drive on any street with a posted speed limit of 45 MPH or below.
These laws will vary depending on which state you are in, and some states change from county to county. Also make sure to check state and local regulations.
People love riding side by sides because they transform transportation into part of the adventure. They’re more exciting than driving a car, less intimidating than riding a dirt bike, and more social than an ATV. For families and groups, side by sides strike a perfect balance between comfort and excitement. Instead of rushing from place to place, the ride itself becomes something to look forward to.
Renting a Side by Side
For those who are new to UTVs, renting a side by side is the easiest way to try one. Rental units are typically well-maintained, beginner-friendly, and set up specifically for local terrain. Most rental companies provide safety briefings, basic instructions, and recommended routes, so you don’t need prior experience or mechanical knowledge. You simply show up, learn the basics through an onboarding process, and enjoy the ride.
Book your UTV early with promo code EARLY15 and get 10% off.
Explore the Smoky Mountains by Side by Side
One of the most popular regions to experience a side by side is the Great Smoky Mountains. With winding mountain roads, scenic overlooks, and backcountry routes, the Smokies offer an ideal environment for SXS riding.
Visitors can explore the area in a street-legal side by side with Off Road Gatlinburg or Off-Road Pigeon Forge, experiencing the mountains in a way most tourists never do. Instead of sitting behind glass, riders are fully immersed in the surrounding landscape.
So, when someone asks what is a side by side, the answer goes beyond a simple definition. A side by side is an easy, approachable way to explore rugged terrain, a shared experience that brings people together, and a memorable way to experience the outdoors. Whether you’re planning a trip, curious about UTVs, or looking for a new kind of adventure, riding a side by side often becomes the moment people remember most long after the trip is over.
Let us help you find the perfect adventure for your family. Book your ride today!
