couple questions on RZR S performance

ok im about to buy a 2012 RZR s.

got a couple questions.

first, how tall is the stock tires, vs the optional big horns? ive seen them both listed at 25" 26" and 27"

second how much will it hurt the performance of the machine in stock trim if i put a inch or posibly 2" taller tire.


3rd question. is it worth putting a intake or exhaust on it? how much ''REAL'' power can be gained? and is there a higher performance exhaust thats not super loud?

Most tires run at least 1/2" shorter than advertised. Bighorns run a little tall. I would say that due to the way the S is clutched, you could run a larger tire without killing it to bad, but your slow speed crawl ability will suffer some do to the taller tire making it geared higher. If you want more clearance, maybe try a lift from EMP before going to a tire any taller than 27".



Intake would prob. be a waste. If you do any intake mods, snorkel or double filter it somehow to keep dirt out.



I've seen video where the Barkers dual exhaust was like a 9 hp gain! But, it will be loud, and it costs over $900. Muzzy exhaust is supposed to be worth 5 hp according to Hunterworks, and it will be much cheaper and quieter. The stock exhaust on the S is pretty good, that's what gave the S a few more ponys over the base rzr.



I think you should buy the S LE with the bighorns and fox shocks and ride it. Then go from there. Don't let the low look fool you, that suspension droop finds traction big time.

Oh, and as for the power...in the woods the 800 has plenty, it's only out on the big straights and pavement that you will really want more. If that is a big concern, you should maybe consider paying the extra for the XP. I mean once you buy performance mods for the 800, you're gonna have XP money in a S with no where near the power.

The biggest gains in performance I had with my "S" were the addition of an aftermarket ignition and a good clutch kit.
Find the tires you want, then contact EPI for your clutch kit. They will custom build one based on your machine, tire size, riding conditions, and other modifications.
For the ignition I went with a Mountain Performance re-mapped stocker after having 2 Dynatek's fail within 1 year. With a re-mapped unit there is nothing to "piggyback" together and it is a clean looking install. They put a hotter fuel curve in it, without all the pollution crap that comes from the factory. The rev limiter is also raised so you'll see about 5mph more on top end.
I have many other mods done to my "S" but most showed little, if no gain at all. Hope this helps, now get out the and have fun!

Purn1973 wrote:

The biggest gains in performance I had with my "S" were the addition of an aftermarket ignition and a good clutch kit.
Find the tires you want, then contact EPI for your clutch kit. They will custom build one based on your machine, tire size, riding conditions, and other modifications.
For the ignition I went with a Mountain Performance re-mapped stocker after having 2 Dynatek's fail within 1 year. With a re-mapped unit there is nothing to "piggyback" together and it is a clean looking install. They put a hotter fuel curve in it, without all the pollution crap that comes from the factory. The rev limiter is also raised so you'll see about 5mph more on top end.
I have many other mods done to my "S" but most showed little, if no gain at all. Hope this helps, now get out the and have fun!

Since my RZR is not an"S" I installed an FMF header/SuperTrapp combo along with a PCMIII using the Two Brothers map. That and my DDP clutch kit make it a blast to ride.

all good info.


i have rode a 2011 rzr s with the factory installed bighorns.

i thought it had plenty of power. im not so much interested in a full lift, as much as just a better looking tire. just figured while im at it id put a inch or so bigger one on it.

im leaning towards the LE mainly for the shocks. the 2011 s i rode amazed me at how well the suspension works. and you all say the reg shocks suck, so i asume the fox shocks wipe your butt and fix dinner for ya there so good. lol


2 questions on the clutch kits.

does it void your waranty?
and is there any bad effects? premature belt wear etc etc?

Finzup wrote:

Since my RZR is not an"S" I installed an FMF header/SuperTrapp combo along with a PCMIII using the Two Brothers map. That and my DDP clutch kit make it a blast to ride.

how much louder is the exhaust?

jbeane wrote:

Finzup wrote:

Since my RZR is not an"S" I installed an FMF header/SuperTrapp combo along with a PCMIII using the Two Brothers map. That and my DDP clutch kit make it a blast to ride.

how much louder is the exhaust?

MUCH! Soft idle but roars @WOT. Some say it sounds good.

Don't know how to answer your belt life question. I'll guess that riding style has the most impact on belt life. Slippage and the heat that is generated eventually does the belt in. Can't get away from that with a CVT. I've begun using low gear a lot more in the slow stuff.

Stick with the LE. Finz is right. It is much louder.

Voiding warranty all depends on the dealer. If you have a dealer that is anal then it could. If you have a dealer that is cool and will work with you it may not.

I dont think there is any excessive wear to the belt. Chances of wearing your belt would come from spinning it like I do accidentally sometimes.

Good Luck!!