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2025 RZR PRO R 1233 MILE SAND, ROCK & DESERT REVIEW | CHUPACABRA OFFROAD
by Jacob Layton
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Is there anyone out there that uses their SxS in all of these environments? I hope you guys find this helpful. Overall, the RZR Pro r is a fantastic machine.
Transcript:
(0:00) – Introduction
- Nick Olson, Chupacabra Offroad, introduces the video.
- Over 1,200 miles on the 2025 Polaris RZR Pro R.
- Reviewing how it performs in rock crawling, desert riding, and dunes.
Selling the Speed UTV & Switching to Pro R
(1:03)
- Previously owned a Speed UTV El Jefe (sold it).
-
Issues with Speed UTV:
- Unreliable (engine, transmission, overheating).
- Difficult to diagnose & repair issues.
- Not ideal for his type of off-roading.
- Needed a reliable, high-performance UTV → Switched to Polaris Pro R.
Goals for the New UTV
(5:09)
-
Priorities:
- Click off miles reliably (no breakdowns).
- Push driving skills further (improve handling & speed).
- Tackle different terrains (rock crawling, desert, dunes).
Rock Crawling Performance
(9:47)
- Tested in Sand Hollow, Utah (UTV Takeover event).
-
Trails:
- Double Sammy (7-rated) – Completed successfully.
- The Maze (8-rated) – Faced challenge on “You Gotta Be Nuts” climb but made it.
- Milt’s Mile (7-rated) – Handled well, even in wet, slippery conditions.
-
Upgrades for rock crawling:
- Obor 35” Rock Scraper tires – Great grip & cushioning.
- Kept suspension in "Rock Mode" – Provided better balance than "Comfort Mode".
-
Observations:
- The 4-seater Pro R is long (not ideal for tight rock trails).
- Considering buying a used Kawasaki KRX 2-seater for rock crawling.
Desert Riding Performance
(16:33)
-
Tested on a 3-day, 450-mile ride in Arizona:
- Lake Havasu → Wickenburg → Crown King → Back.
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Terrain:
- High-speed runs, technical sections, rough trails.
-
Upgrades for the trip:
- 35” Tensor Regulator 2 tires on Method Forged Wheels.
- AZ Wire Pros Communication Setup (radio/intercom).
-
Suspension Adjustments:
- Used “Baja Mode” for aggressive handling.
- Tested MTS Off-Road suspension setup → Improved small bump compliance.
-
Issues Noticed:
- Steering feedback under heavy braking.
- Upgrading to ZRP Tie Rods for better stability.
- Fuel Consumption – Pro R burns fuel fast.
Dune Riding Performance
(30:00)
- Best experience so far in the Pro R.
- Jumped bigger than ever at Camp RZR.
- Chased a Funco F9 dune car but couldn’t keep up.
-
Biggest advantages in sand:
- Long wheelbase = stability on transitions.
- Powerful 4-cylinder engine = consistent speed & torque.
- Red button (Fox Live Valve Suspension) = instant suspension stiffness for G-outs.
-
Considering a Power Upgrade:
- Bikeman Stage 3 Kit (+75 HP, ECU, Clutch, Exhaust, Cam).
- Concerned about reliability in Baja.
Planned Upgrades & Final Thoughts
(33:27)
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Future mods:
- Adding a larger fuel cell (to improve range).
- Starlink internet system for Baja trips.
- More Baja Designs lighting (XL80s on mirrors).
-
Final Takeaway:
- Best UTV for multi-terrain adventure.
- Reliable, fast, and capable.
- Excited for upcoming Baja rides & future upgrades.
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