A wide stance machine is a UTV (utility task vehicle) with wheels featuring a low offset to create a much wider stance than what typically comes OEM. You can also achieve a wider stance by choosing wheels with a wide profile like 15x10 instead of 15x7. By just adding wider wheels or/and wheels with a lower offset, this can improve the UTV's stability and performance, especially for off-roading, however there are negative factors to consider. Let's dig into what makes a wide stance kit worth it.
The V09 UTV wheel by Valor Offroad is a 15x10 +0mm offset
How to widen a UTV: Look for wheels with a low offset (potentially even with a negative offset). For example, a wheel with a +5mm offset will widen the stance of your UTV by over 1 inch per side. The V06 beadlock UTV wheel above is intended for sand rear tires but can quickly widen the stance your vehicle if you utilize this size on all four corners. You can increate your stance even more by adding wheel spacers, which bolt right onto the wheel hub. NOTE: If you really want to go wide, only consider spacers made from quality brands and from virgin aluminum.
Vehicle featured below is a Polaris Pro R on 15x10 V06 wheels on all corners.
Why to widen your UTV: You might have seen some crazies on the trail running super wide wheels or very low offset wheels and wondered to yourself, "but why?". We get it, it takes a minute to get used to seeing an offroad capable vehicle stretched out like it's riding on roller skates. The biggest reason you'll see people run a wide stance kit is improved stability. The wider the vehicle, the better cornering, turning, climbing and predictability of off-camber obstacles. You'll may also notice improved quality and travel of the UTV's suspension.
Why NOT to widen your UTV: This should be obvious, but let's discuss. Objectively your UTV was developed, engineered and tested by dozens, if not hundreds of skilled engineers who perfected the balance between comfort, performance and safety. Modifying the specifications of the vehicle can throw all of this specialized engineering out the window and you can expect to see different wear and tear on your vehicle, primarily cosmetic damage as your new wide tires now stick out past your fenders and WILL tear up the side(s) of your machine with dirt, rocks, debris.
