First UTV Upgrade: Why Skid Plates Should Be the First Thing You Buy After Your Machine

You just bought a new UTV, and now comes the fun part—making it your own. With so many aftermarket accessories available, deciding what to upgrade first can be overwhelming. Tires, winches, lift kits, lights, doors, windshields, bumpers, and storage solutions are just a few of the options competing for your attention and your budget.

But before investing in performance upgrades or accessories, there's one important question every new UTV owner should ask: Is my machine properly protected for the terrain I plan to ride?

For riders heading into rocky trails, rough terrain, or areas filled with roots, ruts, and other obstacles, upgrading to a quality UTV skid plate can be one of the smartest first investments.

This guide explains why underbody protection deserves serious consideration as your first UTV upgrade, what factory skid plates typically protect, and what to look for when choosing an aftermarket protection system for your machine.

Table of Contents

• Why is choosing the first UTV upgrade so overwhelming?
• Why should a skid plate be one of your first UTV upgrades?
• What does the factory skid plate on your new UTV actually protect?
• Why should protection come before performance and comfort upgrades?
• What should you look for in your first UTV skid plate upgrade?
• Which Trail Armor protection products should new UTV owners consider?
• What upgrades should you consider after installing a skid plate?
• Is Your UTV Protected for the Trails You Plan to Ride?
• Frequently asked questions about first UTV upgrades

Why Is Choosing the First UTV Upgrade So Overwhelming?

The aftermarket UTV industry offers an enormous selection of accessories and upgrades. With so many products available, deciding where to spend your money first can be a challenge.

• Performance upgrades: Exhaust systems, tires, lift kits, suspension components, and intake systems.
• Comfort upgrades: Windshields, roofs, doors, heaters, mirrors, seat upgrades, and audio systems.
• Utility upgrades: Winches, racks, storage boxes, lighting systems, and tow hitches.
• Protection upgrades: Skid plates, A-arm guards, trailing arm guards, bumpers, mud shields, and fender extensions.

For many new UTV owners, performance and appearance upgrades are some of the first things that come to mind. Bigger tires, lift kits, and additional lighting can completely change the look and capabilities of a machine.

However, one category that deserves just as much attention is protection.

While performance and comfort upgrades can improve your riding experience, protection upgrades are designed to help safeguard vulnerable components from rocks, roots, stumps, and other obstacles encountered on the trail.

For example, larger tires may provide additional ground clearance, but they don't eliminate the possibility of underbody contact. Likewise, a lift kit doesn't guarantee that important components are protected from rocks and trail debris.

The key to choosing your first UTV upgrade is understanding how and where you plan to ride. If rocky trails, technical terrain, or challenging off-road conditions are in your future, investing in quality underbody protection early can help reduce the risk of costly damage down the road.

The problem with skipping protection is straightforward. A new tire does not help if the oil pan gets punctured on the first technical trail. A lift kit does not prevent a cracked transmission case from a rock strike. The UTV upgrade order guide that actually protects your investment puts protection first, every time.

Why Should a Skid Plate Be One of Your First UTV Upgrades?

Whether you're exploring wooded trails, navigating rocky terrain, or tackling challenging off-road obstacles, the underside of your UTV can be exposed to rocks, roots, stumps, and other trail hazards. Even experienced riders can encounter unexpected obstacles that make contact with the undercarriage.

Depending on your UTV's design, important mechanical components such as the engine, transmission, differentials, and other underbody components may be vulnerable to impacts from the terrain.

This is why underbody protection deserves serious consideration when choosing your first UTV upgrade.

A quality aftermarket skid plate system is designed to help protect vulnerable areas underneath your machine while providing a durable surface that can help the UTV slide over obstacles rather than allowing direct contact with certain components.

While factory skid plates offer varying levels of protection, aftermarket systems may provide additional coverage, increased material thickness, and designs better suited for demanding off-road conditions.

For riders who regularly encounter rocks, roots, stumps, and uneven terrain, upgrading your skid plates early can help reduce the risk of underbody damage and potentially costly repairs.

Protecting your UTV before damage occurs is worth considering when planning your first upgrades.

To understand what is actually at risk underneath your UTV and why it matters, read Why Every UTV Needs Underbody Protection and What Happens When You Skip It.

What Does the Factory Skid Plate on Your New UTV Actually Protect?

Many new UTVs come equipped with some form of factory underbody protection. Depending on the manufacturer and model, this may include plastic, aluminum, or steel skid plates designed to help protect certain areas underneath the machine.

However, not all factory skid plate systems provide the same level of coverage or protection.

UTV manufacturers must consider several factors when designing factory protection, including weight, material selection, ground clearance, production costs, and the vehicle's intended use. As a result, some factory skid plates may provide sufficient protection for lighter recreational riding, while others may leave areas exposed that could benefit from additional protection in more demanding terrain.

When evaluating your factory skid plates, it's important to look beyond whether your machine simply has a skid plate installed. Consider the material thickness, overall coverage, mounting design, and which areas of the undercarriage are actually protected.

Depending on your UTV's design, areas that may benefit from additional protection include:

• Undercarriage: Areas beneath the engine, transmission, and other mechanical components.
• Rocker panels and lower sides: Areas that may come into contact with rocks, stumps, and other obstacles when navigating tight or uneven terrain.
• Front A-arms: Suspension components that can be exposed to rocks, roots, and trail debris.
• Rear trailing arms: On machines equipped with trailing arm suspension, these components may encounter rocks, ledges, and other obstacles.

It's also important to understand that skid plates, A-arm guards, and trailing arm guards serve different purposes. A full skid plate system focuses on protecting the underside of the machine, while additional suspension guards help protect specific components.

Before heading into challenging terrain, take a closer look at your factory protection and consider whether it provides the coverage you need for the type of riding you plan to do.

For riders who regularly encounter rocky trails, deep ruts, stumps, and technical obstacles, upgrading to a quality aftermarket protection system can be a worthwhile investment.

For a detailed breakdown of factory versus aftermarket skid plate protection, read What Is a UTV Skid Plate and Do You Actually Need One?

Why Should Protection Come Before Performance and Comfort Upgrades?

Most UTV upgrades are designed to improve performance, capability, convenience, or comfort. The right tires can improve traction, a winch can assist with recovery, and a windshield can help shield occupants from wind and trail debris. All of these upgrades can make a difference in your riding experience.

However, before investing heavily in performance or comfort accessories, it's worth considering how well your machine is protected for the terrain you plan to ride.

Rocks, roots, stumps, and other obstacles can make contact with vulnerable areas underneath your UTV. While no protection system can prevent every type of damage, quality skid plates and additional suspension guards can help reduce the risk of damage from certain trail hazards.

When Planning Your First UTV Upgrades, Consider the Following Priorities:

Step 1: Safety and Vehicle Preparation
Before your first ride, make sure you have the appropriate safety equipment, understand your machine's capabilities, and complete the recommended pre-ride inspections.

Step 2: Underbody and Suspension Protection
For riders tackling rocky trails, wooded terrain, or challenging obstacles, consider upgrading your skid plates and adding A-arm or trailing arm guards where applicable. These products are designed to help protect vulnerable areas from impacts and trail debris.

Step 3: Recovery Equipment
Depending on where you ride, a winch, properly rated recovery straps, and a tire repair kit can be valuable additions. Recovery equipment is especially important when riding in remote locations or challenging terrain.

Step 4: Terrain-Specific and Performance Upgrades
Consider tires, suspension upgrades, lighting, and other accessories based on your riding conditions. Different terrain presents different challenges, so choose upgrades that complement how you plan to use your UTV.

Step 5: Comfort and Convenience
Windshields, doors, storage solutions, audio systems, and other accessories can make your time on the trail more comfortable and enjoyable.

There is no single upgrade order that works for every UTV owner. Your riding style, terrain, and budget should guide your decisions. However, for riders who frequently encounter rocks, roots, ruts, and other obstacles, underbody and suspension protection deserve a place near the top of the list.

Investing in protection early can help reduce the risk of damage before you encounter more demanding riding conditions.

What Should You Look for in Your First UTV Skid Plate Upgrade?

Not all UTV skid plates are designed the same. Materials, thickness, coverage, fitment, and mounting methods can all affect how a skid plate performs on the trail.

When choosing your first UTV skid plate upgrade, here are eight important features to consider.

• Material

  Skid plates are commonly manufactured from steel, aluminum, or high-performance polymer. Each material has different characteristics when it comes to weight, durability, impact resistance, and how it interacts with obstacles.

  Trail Armor manufactures its skid plates using 1/2" Super Tough Polymer, a durable material designed to withstand demanding off-road conditions. Its impact-resistant properties and ability to flex and recover from impacts help make it an excellent choice for underbody protection.

  Another important advantage is its low-friction surface, which helps the machine slide across rocks and other obstacles. Unlike steel, Super Tough Polymer also won't rust or corrode.

  For a more detailed comparison, read Trail Armor's Super Tough Polymer vs. Aluminum vs. Steel: What Your UTV Skid Plate Is Actually Made Of.

• Coverage

  Coverage is one of the most important considerations when choosing a skid plate system.

  A quality full skid plate system should provide protection for the areas of the undercarriage most vulnerable to trail obstacles. Depending on the machine, this may include areas beneath the engine, transmission, differentials, and other components.

  It's also important to consider protection along the lower sides of the machine, where rocks, roots, and stumps can make contact.

  Remember, not all full skid plate systems provide identical coverage. Always review the coverage offered for your specific make and model.

• Thickness

  Material thickness is another important consideration when evaluating skid plates.

  Trail Armor manufactures its skid plates using 1/2" Super Tough Polymer, providing a substantial layer of impact-resistant material between the undercarriage and trail obstacles.

  However, thickness alone doesn't determine how well a skid plate performs. Material properties, overall coverage, mounting design, and construction are equally important factors.

• Fitment

  Choosing a skid plate designed specifically for your UTV's make, model, and year helps ensure proper fitment and coverage.

  Model-specific skid plate systems are designed around the machine's frame, undercarriage, and available mounting locations.

  Trail Armor designs its skid plates to utilize existing factory mounting points wherever practical. However, some applications require additional mounting hardware or self-drilling screws where suitable factory mounting holes are unavailable.

  Always review the manufacturer's fitment information and installation instructions before purchasing.

• Drain Holes

  Mud, water, and trail debris can accumulate between the skid plate and undercarriage, especially when riding in wet or muddy conditions.

  Properly positioned drain holes help allow water and loose debris to escape and can make cleaning easier.

  However, drain holes do not eliminate the need for periodic inspection and cleaning. Depending on riding conditions, mud and other debris may still collect between the skid plates and the machine.

• Service Access Holes

  Routine maintenance is an important consideration when choosing an aftermarket skid plate system.

  Access holes positioned near applicable service points can make tasks such as oil changes and fluid maintenance more convenient.

  Trail Armor incorporates service access holes into its skid plate designs where applicable, helping owners perform certain routine maintenance tasks without unnecessary disassembly.

  Some maintenance procedures may still require removing individual skid plate panels, depending on the machine and the service being performed.

• Recessed Hardware

  Skid plate mounting hardware can be exposed to rocks and other obstacles when riding in rough terrain.

  Countersunk fasteners help position the hardware below the skid plate's outer surface, reducing direct contact with obstacles and minimizing potential snag points.

  Trail Armor incorporates countersunk mounting hardware into its skid plate systems to help protect fasteners during off-road use.

  As with any skid plate system, mounting hardware should be inspected periodically, especially after significant impacts or demanding rides.

• Integrated Slider Nerfs

  The design of a skid plate system's side protection is another important consideration, particularly for riders navigating rocks, ledges, and tight obstacles.

  Some protection systems use separate center skid plates and rock sliders, which can leave a gap between the components. Depending on the design, that gap can create an area where rocks or other obstacles may catch.

  Trail Armor's Integrated Slider Nerfs, available on applicable full skid plate systems, extend protection along the lower sides of the machine while eliminating the catch gap between the center skid and the integrated slider.

  This design helps provide a smoother transition across obstacles and additional protection for vulnerable lower-side areas.

  When comparing skid plate systems, consider not only the material and thickness but also how the individual components work together to provide protection.

For a complete step-by-step buying framework, read How to Choose the Right Skid Plate for Your UTV: A Practical Guide for Every Rider.

Which Trail Armor Protection Products Should New UTV Owners Consider?

Trail Armor manufactures a variety of UTV protection products designed to help protect vulnerable areas of your machine from rocks, roots, stumps, and other obstacles encountered during off-road riding.

Our product lineup includes full skid plates, iMpact A-Arm Guards, trailing arm protection, and mud protection accessories for a wide range of UTV makes and models.

When deciding which protection upgrades to purchase first, consider your machine's design, the terrain you plan to ride, and which areas may benefit from additional protection.

• Full Skid Plates

  For riders frequently encountering rocky trails, uneven terrain, and challenging obstacles, a full skid plate system is one of the first upgrades worth considering.

  Trail Armor's full skid plates are manufactured from 1/2" Super Tough Polymer, providing durable, impact-resistant protection for vulnerable areas beneath the machine.

  Depending on the specific application, our skid plate systems are designed to provide coverage beneath important mechanical components while also incorporating features such as drain holes, service access holes, and countersunk mounting hardware.

  Many Trail Armor full skid plate systems also feature Integrated Slider Nerfs, which extend protection along the lower sides of the machine while eliminating the catch gap between the center skid plate and integrated side protection.

  Because every UTV is designed differently, coverage and mounting methods vary by application. Trail Armor utilizes existing factory mounting locations wherever practical, although some kits require additional mounting hardware or self-drilling screws.

• iMpact A-Arm Guards

  Your UTV's front A-arms can be exposed to rocks, roots, stumps, and other trail obstacles, especially when navigating tight trails or technical terrain.

  Trail Armor's iMpact A-Arm Guards are designed to help protect these suspension components from impacts and trail debris.

  Manufactured from durable Super Tough Polymer, these guards provide additional coverage around vulnerable areas of the A-arms, including three-sided protection where the specific application allows.

  For riders regularly encountering rocks and other obstacles near the front suspension, iMpact A-Arm Guards can be a valuable addition to an underbody protection system.

• Trailing Arm Guards

  On UTVs equipped with trailing arm rear suspension, these components can be exposed to rocks, ledges, stumps, and other obstacles encountered on the trail.

  Trail Armor's Trailing Arm Guards, available for applicable models, are designed to help protect these suspension components while providing a surface that can help the trailing arms slide across certain obstacles.

  For riders who frequently navigate rocky terrain or technical trails, trailing arm protection is another important upgrade to consider.

• Mud Flap Fender Extensions and Mud Shields

  For UTV owners who regularly ride through mud, water, and wet trail conditions, additional mud protection accessories can be beneficial.

  Trail Armor offers Mud Flap Fender Extensions and Mud Shields for select UTV applications.

  Depending on the product and vehicle design, these accessories help reduce the amount of mud, water, and trail debris reaching certain areas of the machine.

  They can also help reduce some of the cleanup required after muddy rides.

Choosing the Right Protection for Your UTV

There is no single protection package that is right for every UTV owner.

For riders tackling rocky or technical terrain, full skid plates and additional suspension protection may be among the most valuable early upgrades. For riders who frequently encounter wet or muddy conditions, mud shields and fender extensions may also be worth considering.

The goal is to choose protection based on your machine, your riding conditions, and the areas most likely to encounter trail obstacles.

To learn more about suspension protection, read Why Your UTV's A-Arms and Trailing Arms Need Protection.

What Upgrades Should You Consider After Installing a Skid Plate?

Once you've considered the protection your UTV needs, there are plenty of other upgrades that can improve its performance, capability, safety, and comfort.

The best upgrades depend on how you use your machine, where you ride, and what you want to improve about your overall riding experience.

Here are several popular UTV upgrades worth considering.

• Winch and Recovery Gear

  Even a well-equipped UTV can become stuck in mud, deep ruts, or challenging terrain.

  A properly rated winch, suitable recovery straps, and other recovery equipment can be valuable additions, especially for riders who frequently explore remote areas or difficult trails.

  Understanding proper recovery techniques and using equipment designed for your machine are just as important as having the recovery gear itself.

• Windshield

  For riders who regularly encounter dust, wind, rain, or cold weather, a windshield can make a noticeable difference in comfort.

  Depending on its design, a windshield can help reduce wind exposure and the amount of trail debris entering the cab.

  When choosing a windshield, consider the riding conditions, airflow, visibility, and the type of protection you want.

• Tires

  Tires play an important role in how your UTV performs across different types of terrain.

  If your factory tires aren't well suited for your riding conditions, selecting an appropriate aftermarket tire can improve traction, handling, and overall capability.

  Whether you're riding rocky trails, mud, sand, or hard-packed surfaces, choose tires designed for the terrain while staying within your machine's recommended specifications and operating limits.

• Lighting

  Additional lighting can be beneficial for riders who frequently ride in low-light conditions.

  LED light bars, auxiliary lights, and other lighting accessories can improve visibility in certain situations, particularly when navigating wooded trails or off-road areas after dark.

  Proper mounting, aiming, and electrical installation are important to avoid creating visibility problems for yourself or other riders.

• Suspension

  Your UTV's suspension plays an important role in ride comfort, handling, traction, and overall performance.

  Depending on your riding style, adjustments to the factory suspension may help improve how your machine handles different terrain.

  For riders seeking additional performance, aftermarket shocks, springs, and other suspension components may also be worth considering.

  Before investing in major suspension upgrades, take time to understand your machine's factory setup and determine what improvements are actually needed.

• Comfort and Convenience Upgrades

  Roofs, doors, seats, storage solutions, and audio systems can all improve the overall riding experience.

  For some owners, these accessories are primarily about comfort. For others, they serve practical purposes such as providing additional storage, reducing exposure to weather, or making the machine more useful for work and recreation.

  Choose accessories that complement the way you use your UTV.

Choosing the Right Upgrade Order

There is no universal upgrade order that works for every UTV owner.

A rider tackling rocky terrain may prioritize skid plates and suspension protection, while someone regularly riding through deep mud may focus on tires and recovery equipment.

Regardless of the terrain, safety equipment, proper maintenance, and understanding your machine's capabilities should always come first.

When planning your upgrades, think about protecting vulnerable components, preparing for the conditions you may encounter, and improving the overall riding experience.

The best approach is to make upgrades based on your needs rather than simply following the latest trends.

For a complete preparation checklist covering every step a new UTV owner should take before the first ride, read 10 Things Every New UTV Owner Should Do Before Their First Ride.

Is Your UTV Protected for the Trails You Plan to Ride?

There are countless ways to customize and upgrade your new UTV. From tires and suspension to lighting and comfort accessories, every upgrade serves a different purpose.

But before investing in upgrades that improve performance or appearance, take a moment to consider how well your machine is protected for the terrain you plan to ride.

For riders who regularly encounter rocks, roots, stumps, and challenging trails, a quality UTV skid plate system can be one of the most valuable upgrades you make.

Trail Armor manufactures durable underbody and suspension protection products for a wide range of UTV makes and models. From our 1/2" Super Tough Polymer Full Skid Plates to iMpact A-Arm Guards, Trailing Arm Guards, and additional protection accessories, our products are designed to help protect vulnerable areas of your machine from demanding off-road conditions.

Whether you're preparing for your first trail ride or upgrading a machine you've owned for years, choosing the right protection can help you ride with greater confidence.

Find the right first UTV upgrade for your exact machine in the full Trail Armor catalog by vehicle make and model, or browse the complete Trail Armor Product collection by vehicle.