what size trailer for side by side

I'd say go with a 6x12 minimum. I had a 5x10 and my RZR 900 barely fit with inches to spare. You'll want room to strap it down properly and maybe carry gear. Plus, a tilt deck is nice but ramps are cheaper and just as easy if you have a winch.

5x10 works fine for most side-by-sides if you measure first. My Can-Am Maverick fits on a 5x10 with no issues. Just make sure the trailer is rated for the weight. Your RZR XP 1000 is heavy, so check the GVWR of the trailer.

I disagree with the 5x10 crowd. I tried that and had to winch it on at an angle. That's a pain. Go 6x12, you won't regret it. Also, tilt trailers are great but they cost more; ramps are fine if you have a good winch and a solid anchor point.

Don't forget about width. Most SxS are around 60-65 inches wide, so a 5-foot wide trailer (60 inches) is too tight. You need at least 6 feet wide. Length wise, 10 feet might be okay for a short wheelbase but 12 is safer. Check your owner's manual for dimensions.

I've been hauling a Polaris General on a 6x10 for years. It's snug but works. I use ramps and a winch. The key is proper tie-downs. Also, make sure your truck can handle the tongue weight. A half-ton should be fine but don't overload.

If budget is tight, look for a used 6x12 tilt trailer. They're common and hold value. Avoid those cheap foldable ones; they rust fast. I bought a used Big Tex for $1500 and it's been solid. Just inspect the bearings and lights before buying.

Whatever size you pick, make sure the trailer has a brake system if your state requires it for that weight. My RZR weighs about 1500 lbs, plus trailer, you might be over 2000 lbs. Some half-tons need trailer brakes for safe stopping.

I think you're overthinking it. Just measure your SxS and add a foot each way. My buddy uses a 5x10 for his RZR 1000 and it's fine. He does have to back it in straight, but it's doable. Ramps are easier to store than a tilt deck.

I'm a mechanic and I see a lot of people ruin their transmissions because they don't secure the SxS properly on a too-small trailer. The bouncing causes stress. Go bigger than you think you need. A 6x12 is the sweet spot for most full-size models.

Check the trailer's deck height. Low-profile trailers are easier to load but might drag on steep driveways. I have a 6x12 with a 2-foot dovetail and ramps, loads like a dream. Also, consider a spare tire mount – you'll thank me later.

Another thing: if you plan to take it to remote trails, a tilt trailer is safer because you don't have to back up on a slope. I've seen too many people get stuck with ramps on uneven ground. Spend the extra if you can.

I'll play devil's advocate: a 5x10 is lighter and easier to tow, especially if you have a smaller truck. My Tacoma struggles with a 6x12. So if your half-ton is older, maybe stick with 5x10 and just be careful. But measure twice!

I use a 7x14 because I also carry a quad and gear. Overkill for just the SxS, but it's nice. For your RZR, 6x12 is perfect. Don't go smaller than that. And get a trailer with a winch plate already installed – saves hassle.

Ramps vs tilt: ramps are cheaper but you need to make sure they're long enough for a low clearance SxS. Short ramps can scrape the front bumper. I prefer a tilt because it's one motion. But tilts can be harder to balance if the SxS is heavy.

I've seen people use a 5x10 for a RZR 1000 but they had to remove the spare tire and fold mirrors. Not worth it. Just get a 6x12. Also, check the trailer's payload capacity – some 5x10s are only rated for 2000 lbs, which is too close.

If you're handy, you can build your own trailer. I built a 6x12 for under $1000 using a kit. But for most people, buying used is better. Just make sure the frame isn't rusted and the axles are straight. A bent axle will eat tires.

I partially disagree with the tilt recommendations – I've seen tilt trailers fail if the locking mechanism isn't heavy duty. Ramps are simpler and less to go wrong. But either works if you maintain them. Get one with a good warranty.

One more thing: check the trailer's width between fenders. Some 6x12 trailers have fenders that stick out, reducing usable space. You want a flat deck or removable fenders. My buddy's RZR barely fits between fenders on his trailer.

I've been hauling for 10 years. My advice: buy a trailer that's one size bigger than you think you need. You'll eventually carry extra stuff. Also, invest in a quality winch – you don't want to hand-winch a heavy SxS in the rain.

Lastly, don't forget about lighting and brakes. If your trailer doesn't have LED lights, upgrade them. And if you're towing in hilly areas, get electric brakes. Safety first. Your RZR is expensive; protect it with the right trailer.