Going Wide: Will Your UTV Still Fit the Trail?

A new wheel-and-tire setup can change the whole personality of your UTV. Different tread, a different finish, a little more stance- it’s easy to picture the finished machine before you’ve even placed the order. But will you be able to fit on width-restricted trails?

A small offset change happens on both sides

Wheel offset describes the mounting surface’s position relative to the wheel’s centerline. With the other relevant dimensions unchanged, moving to a lower positive offset moves the wheel outward. Here’s a quick example:

Changing from +50 mm to +30 mm offset moves each wheel centerline outward by 20 mm. Across one axle, that adds 40 mm, or about 1.57 inches, between the wheel centerlines. That calculation assumes unchanged hubs and no change in spacers. It also doesn’t establish the finished outside tire-to-tire width. Different tires or wheel widths introduce additional variables. See the table below for a sample of Valor Offroad products to compare. Our Product Specs page provides the full spec list of wheel sizes, offsets, backspacing, and load ratings. Our UTV and ATV Fitment Guide identifies other checks, including brake clearance, suspension clearance, tire compatibility, and load requirements. 

The useful lesson is that an offset difference affects both sides of the machine. What sounds like a modest change on one wheel can matter when you’re working close to a route’s width limit. 

Give your installer a width requirement

When discussing new wheels, provide your vehicle’s year, model, trim, current tire size, and existing modifications. Add the routes you’re trying to keep riding and the width requirements you’ve confirmed. That information helps the conversation move beyond appearance. 

Measure the vehicle you have now

The width listed for your stock model is a reference point. After changing wheels, tires, spacers, or suspension components, check the machine as it currently sits. The 2025 Black Hills National Forest Mystic map describes its special 62-inch designation using an outside-tire-to-outside-tire measurement at the widest front or rear tread width. Park on level ground with the steering straight. Record the front and rear outside tire widths separately. Straightedges can help establish the outer reference points without wrapping a tape around the tires.

A gate opening doesn’t answer the whole question

It’s tempting to treat a gate as a simple test: if your UTV fits through, the trail must be appropriate...right?

The Forest Service notes that not every width-restricted trail has a measured gate. Its broader guidance also explains that not all motorized routes are signed. Physical openings and signs alone don’t provide the complete access picture (fs.usda.gov). That’s why it’s worth doing the map work before unloading. If something at the trailhead conflicts with what you researched, an alternate route selected beforehand is much easier to work with than a last-minute guess.

Check the whole loop—and the riding date

A ride can include several route types. One section might allow your vehicle width while a connecting trail has a different designation. Trace the entire trip, including the return. For a mixed group, compare the route with each vehicle’s requirements instead of assuming everyone can follow the lead machine. Also check current closure notices and orders. Keep the map available offline and share the planned route with the group. Identify where you’ll turn around if access or conditions prevent continuing. Those decisions are easier to make while everyone still has time and a clear plan.

Ready to compare options? Explore our UTV wheel collection with your current specification requirements. Tell us where you ride and whether preserving your vehicle’s width matters. That’s useful information to bring to the fitment discussion—and a good way to keep your next upgrade aligned with your next adventure.

Sources:

• Forest Service Guide to the MVUM — designated routes, vehicle classes, seasonal use, and signage.
• 2025 Black Hills Mystic MVUM — a specific example of a width designation and measurement method.
• Black Hills OHV guidance, July 2023 — width restrictions and gate limitations.
• Superior National Forest OHV guidance — temporary closures alongside mapped designations.