The Exciting World of Polaris RZR Racing in the USA
Utility track vehicle (UTV) racing is a relatively small racing segment compared to other Powersports vehicles, but its competitors are fierce, and its fans are passionate.
But how did a utility vehicle evolve into a racing machine?
A Sudden Rise
Maybe it’s silly to ask how UTVs became racing vehicles – humans seem pretty keen to race anything that will go fast! The history of UTV racing really starts with Cory Sappington, who transformed his Yamaha Rhino for racing back in 2005, racing it in the ‘Best in the Desert’ not long after. Cory went on to modify other UTVs and eventually formulated the rules and regulations for the UTV Racing Association.
Mainstream Acceptance
UTVs are no longer the odd man out in the off-road racing scene. They participate in most major off-road racing series. They are popular enough that many series now have a specific UTV class. There are even some UTV-exclusive race series. UTV racing may still be smaller than other kinds of motorsports racing, but for a type of vehicle that has barely existed for a decade, the sport is growing well.
The Polaris RZR – a Superior Breed of UTV
The Polaris RZR – pronounced ‘razor' – has become increasingly popular as a racing vehicle. The RZR's performance is so excellent that many UTV races are, in fact, races between Polaris RZRs. Featuring a state-of-the-art turbocharged engine, advances suspension systems, and great power steering, the Polaris RZR is a formidable foe on the race track.
The RZR on US Tracks
There are a lot of racing events in the USA where you can find RZRs and other UTVs in action, but here are a few of the biggest and most exciting.
The UTV World Championship
Run by the Best in the Desert Racing Association, the UTV world championship is an epic race through the Nevada desert that pits the Polaris RZR and other UTVs against motorcycles and quad bikes. The next race will be held April 13-15, 2017.
The King of Hammers
It sounds like a character from HBO’s Game of Thrones but, the King of Hammers is actually widely regarded as the USA’s ultimate desert race. The event features a full week of racing through the deserts of California and features many UTVs amongst the off-road vehicles on display. The next King of Hammers event will be held in early 2017.
The Mint 400
The Mint 400 is the USA’s largest and most prestigious off-road racing event and it is officially sponsored by Polaris RZR. With up to 350 racers each year, the Mint 400 is fast growing in popularity both in the USA and around the world. The 2016 Polaris RZR Mint 400 will be broadcast on NBC in October – a sign of just how much UTV racing is pushing its way into the mainstream.
Interested in Giving the RZR a Try?
We don’t suggest you run out and start racing a UTV without a good deal of training and practice first, but if you want to find out more about the Polaris RZR or even get one for yourself you can browse our range or get in touch today.