Off-Road and All-Terrain Vehicles

Best Off-Road & All-Terrain Vehicles, Parts, and Top US Stores for UTV Upgrades

If you live for mud-splattered Sundays, rocky creek crossings, and long rides across open dunes, you know the right vehicle and parts can make or break your adventure. This guide walks through the most popular off-road and all-terrain vehicles, the upgrade kits that turn stock rigs into trail monsters, and the best U.S. stores where you can buy parts and accessories — including mainstream sellers like Walmart and specialty retailers that cater to serious off-roaders. Whether you’re shopping for a 125cc go-kart, a stage 3 kit for a Can-Am Maverick X3, or the perfect 18-inch aluminum rim, I’ll help you sort the signal from the noise so you spend smart and ride hard.

Walmart: Affordable Entry Points and Wide Selection

Don’t dismiss Walmart if you’re building out your off-road collection on a budget — the retailer carries a surprising range of entry-level machines and parts. From small machines like the X-pro 125cc Jeep-style go-kart with a 3-speed semi-automatic transmission and big 18-inch aluminum rims to bolt-on UTV upgrade kits, Walmart is a go-to for affordable, readily available items. If you’re starting out with a youth or beginner machine, or need replacement parts without waiting weeks, Walmart’s massive distribution network often gets you back on the trail faster than niche suppliers.

Can-Am Maverick X3 Upgrade Kits: What the Market Offers

The Can-Am Maverick X3 is one of the most popular high-performance UTV platforms, and the aftermarket reflects that. Upgrade kits labeled Stage 1, Stage 2, and Stage 3 are common and are marketed for specific models and widths — for example, kits compatible with the Maverick X3 Max Turbo R that fit 64-inch and 72-inch wide models for years like 2018 through 2022. These kits are designed to boost durability, suspension travel, and overall trail performance, turning a capable stock machine into a more aggressive, trail-ready rig.

Stage 1 vs Stage 2 vs Stage 3: How They Differ

Think of the stages as steps on a ladder: Stage 1 is often bolt-on parts that improve strength and protection, Stage 2 might add better long-travel components and tuned shocks, while Stage 3 typically overhauls suspension, arms, and may require drivetrain or engine tuning to handle the new geometry. Stage 1 could include upgraded A-arms and skid plates; Stage 2 might add higher-clearance control arms and moderate shocks; Stage 3 commonly includes full long-travel kits, stronger tie rods, and beefier track-width components. Each step increases capability — and complexity — so plan accordingly.

Where to Buy UTV Parts: Specialized Shops vs General Retailers

Choosing the right store depends on your goals. General retailers like Walmart and Amazon are great for budget items, basic parts, and quick replacements. Specialty shops like Summit Racing, 4 Wheel Parts, Rocky Mountain ATV/MC, and MFG-specific dealers (Can-Am dealers, for example) excel at performance parts, technical support, and fitment assurance. If you need a stage 3 kit that modifies suspension geometry or a set of 18-inch rims with the correct offset, specialty stores often provide part fitment guides, tech calls, and aftermarket warranties that big-box retailers don’t.

Summit Racing: Performance Engines and Drivetrain Parts

Summit Racing is a strong choice if your build touches the engine or drivetrain. They stock performance exhausts, turbo components, clutch kits, and high-quality bearings. If your Maverick X3 build intends to add a turbo upgrade or aftermarket clutch to handle extra horsepower, Summit’s catalog and technical articles are a useful resource for detailed specs and compatible parts.

4 Wheel Parts and Rocky Mountain ATV/MC: Suspension and Armor

These two retailers are go-to destinations for off-road armor, suspension systems, and tires. Looking for control arms, sway-bar links, skid plates, or full long-travel kits? They stock manufacturer-backed brands and often offer installation guides. Rocky Mountain ATV/MC is especially strong on ATV and UTV-specific components, while 4 Wheel Parts blends truck and UTV accessories, so it’s great if you’re running mixed builds or want interchangeability across platforms.

Wheels and Tires: Why 18-Inch Rims Keep Coming Up

You’ll see lots of references to 18-inch aluminum rims — that size is common because it balances tire profile, ride comfort, and aftermarket selection. Eighteen-inch wheels give you many tire options, from aggressive mud terrains to hybrid all-terrain tires, while still allowing enough sidewall for ride compliance. For a 125cc go-kart or lighter off-road buggy, 18-inch aluminum rims offer a visual upgrade and strength without adding too much unsprung weight.

Picking Tires: Size, Load Rating, and Tread Pattern

Tire choice is a dance between terrain, width, and load. All-terrain tires with an aggressive tread are ideal for mixed trails and mud, while sand or dune riders will prefer paddle-style or sand-specific treads. Always check load ratings in pounds and pick a tire that exceeds your GVW. Wider tires increase flotation but can add rolling resistance; taller tires change gearing and clearance. If you switch from a stock 32-inch tire to a 34-inch one, anticipate a change in top speed and acceleration — treat it like swapping a final drive gear.

Suspension Upgrades: More Travel, Less Worry

When the trail gets rough, suspension matters more than anything else. Upgrading shocks and springs gives you more travel, better damping, and improved control over rocks and whoops. Brands like Fox and King are top tier when it comes to off-road racing and hardcore trail use, offering adjustable reservoirs, tuneable valving, and several inches of added travel. Expect to measure shock travel and total vehicle lift in inches — most serious UTV builds increase travel by 2 to 6 inches depending on the kit.

How Much Lift Should You Add?

Lifts are measured in inches and depend on tire size and desired ground clearance. A 2-inch lift will give modest clearance and allow slightly taller tires, while a 4-inch or 6-inch lift opens up serious wheel travel and obstacle clearance. But remember: more lift changes steering geometry and can increase stress on tie rods and CV joints. Balancing lift between shocks and control arms is crucial to avoid premature wear.

Performance Mods: Tunes, Turbo Options, and Power Handing

If you’re tinkering with turbo models like the Maverick X3 Turbo R, power upgrades become part of the conversation. ECU tunes, upgraded intercoolers, and high-flow exhaust systems can unlock meaningful horsepower and torque gains, but they require supporting mods — stronger clutches, better cooling, and upgraded driveline components. Think of power upgrades like adding a turbocharger to a lawn engine: fun and powerful, but it changes the entire maintenance schedule.

Safety Upgrades: Seats, Harnesses, and Roll Protection

Speed and big terrain demand safety. Upgrading seats to bolstered sport seats with multi-point harnesses improves control and safety, while adding a proper roll cage or strengthening the existing structure reduces the risk during a rollover. Windshields and full doors improve comfort and reduce dust exposure on long rides. Spending on safety gear is never wasted — it’s the insurance you want when you push the limits.

Installation: DIY or Professional Help?

Some upgrades are perfect for a weekend wrenching session: swapping tires, installing aftermarket seats, or bolting on skid plates. Other projects, like full Stage 3 kits or engine tunes, can involve complex geometry changes, driveline modifications, and precision torque specs. If you’re comfortable with a torque wrench, service manuals, and have a decent workshop, DIY can save money. If not, professional installation at a reputable shop ensures correct fitment and may be worth the peace of mind.

Budgeting Your Build: Where to Spend and Where to Save

Budgeting is the art of priorities. Spend where it counts: quality shocks, reinforced control arms, and properly rated tires. Save on bolt-on cosmetic items that don’t impact performance. A typical mid-range UTV upgrade (suspension, tires, and minor performance mods) can range from a few thousand dollars to well beyond depending on brand choices. Always factor in installation costs and potential drivetrain tweaks required after changing tire size or adding horsepower.

Choosing the Right Store for Parts and Kits

When shopping, prioritize these factors: accurate fitment information, clear compatibility notes (like “fits Can-Am Maverick X3 Max 64-inch 2020–2021”), return policies, customer reviews with photos, and technical support. General retailers excel at convenience and price; specialty shops provide depth, warranty support, and installation guidance. If you’re buying a kit that changes suspension geometry, buy from a supplier that will answer fitment questions or supply torque specs and alignment recommendations.

Final Tips Before You Click “Buy”

Measure twice, buy once. Confirm exact model years and width (64-inch vs 72-inch track) before selecting a UTV kit. Keep a build log and photograph your steps if you plan to DIY — it helps with troubleshooting later. And don’t forget consumables like new hardware and upgraded brake lines if you’re changing wheel or suspension geometry; these small parts often make or break an installation.

Whether you’re shopping Walmart for an affordable X-pro 125cc go-kart with 18-inch rims or planning a full Stage 3 overhaul on a Can-Am Maverick X3, the key is smart, staged upgrades. Start with the essentials — tires, shocks, and safety — then layer in power and performance as you get comfortable with how the vehicle handles. With the right parts and the right stores, you can turn a stock machine into the exact trail companion you’ve been dreaming about.

Ride safe, plan your builds, and don’t be afraid to ask questions from specialty shops — the right advice is worth its weight in mud.