Elevating Your Off-Road Experience: The Power of Full Doors
The roar of the engine, the thrill of the trail, the dust kicking up behind you – the Polaris RZR 800 is an icon in the off-road world. It’s a machine built for adventure, for pushing limits, and for forging memories on the open trail. But as any experienced RZR owner knows, enhancing the experience often means addressing a few key areas. One of the most significant upgrades you can make to your RZR 800 is installing full doors. This seemingly simple addition transforms not just the appearance of your UTV, but also dramatically impacts its safety, comfort, and overall utility.
This comprehensive guide dives deep into the world of full doors for the Polaris RZR 800. We’ll explore why these additions are a worthwhile investment, examining their benefits, the different types available, and the crucial factors to consider when making your choice. Get ready to learn everything you need to know to transform your RZR into a safer, more comfortable, and stylish off-road machine.
Safety and Security: A Fortress on Wheels
Safety should always be paramount when venturing off the beaten path. Full doors provide a crucial layer of protection that significantly minimizes potential risks.
The most obvious benefit is the prevention of ejection in the event of a rollover. While the RZR 800 has a roll cage designed to protect occupants, the lack of full doors leaves a vulnerable gap. Full doors create a complete enclosure, effectively keeping you securely inside the vehicle. This is particularly important in scenarios where the terrain is uneven or when navigating challenging trails.
Beyond rollover protection, full doors also act as a robust barrier against flying debris. Mud, rocks, branches, and other objects that can be kicked up by the tires or encountered along the trail pose a risk to both occupants and the vehicle itself. Full doors shield you from these hazards, safeguarding your eyes, face, and body. This is especially valuable in densely wooded areas or on trails where vegetation is close to the path.
Comfort: Making Every Ride Enjoyable
Off-roading should be an enjoyable experience, and full doors contribute significantly to rider comfort.
Wind and noise are constant companions on the open trail. Full doors act as a windbreak, reducing the amount of wind that enters the cabin. This can significantly improve comfort, particularly on colder days or when traveling at higher speeds. Reduced wind also means less noise, making it easier to converse with passengers and enjoy the sounds of nature.
Beyond wind and noise reduction, full doors create a more enclosed cabin environment. This contributes to a feeling of security and provides a sense of privacy. This creates a more welcoming space, improving the overall experience for both the driver and passengers.
In regions with extreme temperatures, full doors can also help to regulate the cabin’s temperature. By reducing wind and allowing for optional window upgrades, you create a more insulated environment. This can lead to cooler rides in the summer and warmer rides in the winter, making your RZR a year-round adventure vehicle.
Style: Giving Your RZR a Distinctive Look
Beyond their practical benefits, full doors contribute to the aesthetic appeal of the Polaris RZR 800. They offer a stylish upgrade that sets your machine apart from the crowd.
The addition of full doors modernizes the look of the RZR 800, giving it a more contemporary and refined appearance. The sleek lines and integrated designs available with many aftermarket options significantly enhance the overall style.
Full doors come in a wide array of designs, materials, and finishes. This allows you to personalize your RZR and reflect your individual style. You can choose doors that complement the existing color scheme of your machine or opt for a contrasting look that makes a bold statement.
Full doors create a sense of completeness, transforming the RZR into a well-equipped, ready-to-tackle-anything off-road vehicle. They project an image of capability and confidence, turning heads on the trail and setting you apart from other riders.
Exploring the Options: Different Types of Full Doors
The market offers a diverse range of full doors for the Polaris RZR 800, each with its own unique features and benefits. Understanding the various types will help you find the perfect fit for your needs.
Factory and Original Equipment Manufacturer Doors
Some Polaris RZR 800 models may have come with factory-installed full doors or offered them as options. However, this is not the case with all models. If you’re looking for a direct replacement or a genuine Polaris option, investigating these doors may be a good starting point.
These doors are designed to seamlessly integrate with the vehicle’s existing design. They offer a perfect fit and often incorporate the same high-quality materials and finishes as the rest of the RZR. The main benefits include ease of installation and a factory appearance. The downside is they can be more expensive than some aftermarket alternatives, and availability can be limited depending on the model year.
Aftermarket Doors: A World of Choices
The aftermarket industry provides a vast array of full doors for the Polaris RZR 800, giving you a wide selection of options to match your specific preferences. The most common categories include various designs and materials.
Tube Doors
Tube doors offer a minimalist approach, providing essential protection while maintaining an open, airy feel. Constructed primarily from steel tubing, these doors offer a strong and durable barrier against the elements. They are typically more affordable than panel doors and easy to install.
The open design maximizes airflow, making them ideal for hot weather conditions. However, they offer less protection from mud and debris than panel doors. Tube doors are often a good choice for trail riding where full enclosure isn’t a priority.
Panel Doors
Panel doors provide a more enclosed environment, offering superior protection from the elements and debris. These doors typically feature a solid panel construction, often made from steel or aluminum, and may include integrated windows.
Panel doors enhance rider comfort by blocking wind, reducing noise, and providing a more insulated cabin. They are a popular choice for riders who prioritize all-weather protection and a more refined appearance. The downside is the added weight and potentially higher cost compared to tube doors.
Hybrid Doors
Hybrid doors combine elements of both tube and panel doors, creating a balance between open-air feel and protection. They often feature a combination of tube framing and panel inserts.
These doors provide a versatile option that offers the best of both worlds. They provide a high level of protection while still allowing some airflow and a more open feel. They are a great compromise for riders who enjoy trail riding but want additional comfort and protection from the elements.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing Full Doors
When selecting full doors for your Polaris RZR 800, several key features should be carefully considered to ensure you choose the right product for your needs.
The materials used directly impact durability, weight, and aesthetics. Steel doors are known for their strength and ruggedness. Aluminum doors are lightweight and corrosion-resistant. High-quality plastic doors offer a cost-effective option. The choice of material will often be a trade-off between strength, weight, and budget.
The locking mechanisms are essential for security and ease of use. Look for doors that feature secure and reliable latches that are easy to operate, even with gloves on. Some doors may offer integrated locking mechanisms for added security.
Easy installation is critical. Choose doors that come with clear and comprehensive installation instructions. Many manufacturers offer doors that can be installed with basic tools, making the process straightforward.
The weight of the doors can affect the vehicle’s performance and handling. Consider the weight of the doors, especially if you are concerned about maintaining the RZR 800’s agility.
Optional windows can enhance the comfort and versatility of full doors. Choose doors that offer clear, scratch-resistant windows that provide good visibility and protection from the elements.
The color and finish options allow you to customize the doors to match your RZR 800’s existing color scheme or create a unique look. Look for doors that offer a durable and weather-resistant finish.
Compatibility with other accessories, such as mirrors and door bags, is essential. Ensure the doors you choose are compatible with any existing or planned accessories.
Making the Right Choice: Selecting the Perfect Doors
Choosing the right full doors for your Polaris RZR 800 requires careful consideration of your individual needs and preferences.
Your riding style is a key factor. For serious rock crawling, you may want doors that offer maximum protection and durability. If you primarily ride on trails, you might prefer doors that prioritize airflow and visibility.
Set a budget for your door upgrade. Prices can vary widely depending on the type of door, materials, and features.
Consider your personal preferences regarding style and aesthetics. Do you prefer a more rugged look or a more refined appearance?
The required level of protection is essential. If you frequently ride in challenging conditions, prioritize doors that offer superior protection from impacts and debris.
Ease of access and egress are crucial for passenger comfort. Choose doors that open and close easily and provide ample room for entering and exiting the vehicle.
Leading Brands and Models: A Glimpse at the Top Choices
Here are some top brands and popular models of full doors for the Polaris RZR 800:
Brand X is a well-respected manufacturer of off-road accessories, known for quality and durability. Their full door offering for the RZR 800 provides exceptional protection and a sleek design. Key features include high-strength steel construction, a secure latching system, and an easy-to-install design. These doors are a solid choice for serious off-road enthusiasts.
Brand Y is another leading brand known for innovative designs. Their doors often incorporate lightweight materials such as aluminum. Their models often feature a more streamlined look and are available in a variety of finishes. They frequently focus on providing a balance between protection, style, and ease of use.
Brand Z is a popular brand for high quality and value, often providing great options for those looking for a budget friendly and reliable option.
Installation Tips for a Seamless Upgrade
Installing full doors is a rewarding project that can be accomplished with basic tools and the right preparation.
Before beginning, check all parts to ensure they are in good condition and the correct parts are present. Review the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Gather the necessary tools, which typically include a wrench set, screwdrivers, and possibly a drill.
Carefully follow the installation instructions, paying attention to each step.
Professional installation is always an option. If you’re not comfortable with the installation process, consider having a qualified mechanic or off-road specialist handle the task.
Care and Maintenance to Extend Door Life
Regular care and maintenance will help to ensure that your full doors remain in excellent condition for years to come.
Clean the doors regularly with soap and water to remove dirt, mud, and debris.
Inspect the doors periodically for any signs of damage, such as scratches or dents.
Lubricate the hinges and latches as needed to ensure smooth operation.
Cost and Availability: Getting Started
The cost of full doors for the Polaris RZR 800 can vary widely depending on the type of door, materials, brand, and features. Tube doors are often the most affordable option, while panel doors with integrated windows may be at the higher end of the price range.
You can purchase full doors from various sources, including online retailers, off-road specialty stores, and local dealerships. Compare prices and features from different vendors to find the best deal.
Conclusion: Investing in Your Off-Road Adventures
Full doors are a smart investment for any Polaris RZR 800 owner who wants to enhance their safety, comfort, and style. They provide essential protection from the elements, reduce noise and wind, and elevate the overall aesthetic of your machine. By choosing the right full doors for your needs, you can create a more enjoyable and versatile off-road experience.
With enhanced safety, comfort, and style, full doors are an investment that transforms your RZR 800 into a more capable and enjoyable off-road machine. So, don’t delay – explore your options and equip your RZR with full doors to take your off-road adventures to the next level.