Overview
Anyone running light-duty tasks on rough terrain will appreciate what the SSR Motorsports SRU 170RS offers as a small utility vehicle built for entry-level users and recreational enthusiasts alike. Designed with a focus on affordability and simple utility, this machine caters to those seeking a simple yet functional side-by-side for farm chores, trail riding, or yard work. Its compact dimensions and modest powertrain prioritize ease of use and maintenance, making it an accessible choice for newcomers or budget-conscious buyers.
At its core, the SRU 170RS features a 168.9 cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine with a carburetor, emphasizing simplicity and low maintenance. Coupled with a CVT transmission and 4X2 driveline, it delivers smooth power delivery suitable for light hauling, trail riding, or other recreational tasks. The machine’s relatively low weight of 540 pounds combined with a ground clearance of 7 inches allows it to navigate uneven terrain without excessive difficulty while maintaining a manageable size for storage and maneuverability.
Its suspension setup, with double A-arm front suspension and a swing arm at the rear, offers sufficient shock absorption for farm paths and dirt trails, though it is not designed for aggressive off-road use. Dual hydraulic disc brakes up front and a hydraulic disc at the rear ensure adequate stopping power for its intended tasks. the SRU 170RS is a compact, entry-level utility vehicle that emphasizes simplicity, ease of operation, and affordability-traits that make it stand out within its category as an accessible, no-frills off-road machine for casual use and light utility work.
Performance & Powertrain
Pull up the throttle and the SSR Motorsports SRU 170RS delivers a lively response thanks to its 168.9 cc single-cylinder engine. This displacement strikes a balance commonly found in entry-level utility UTVs, providing enough power for light work, trail riding, and recreational tasks without overwhelming novice drivers. The air-cooled design simplifies maintenance and enhances durability in varied outdoor conditions, making it suitable for extended use in hot or humid environments.
The carburetor fuel system, while less precise than electronic fuel injection, offers simple tuning and easier troubleshooting in remote locations. Power delivery is modulated through a CVT transmission, which automatically adjusts gear ratios to match engine speed and load conditions. This setup provides smooth acceleration without the need for clutch operation, a major advantage for operators who prioritize ease of use over high-performance driving. The 4×2 drive system keeps weight down and reduces complexity, making the SRU 170RS easier to handle for beginners and those working on light-duty tasks.
Compared to segment norms, the engine’s power output aligns with typical sub-200 cc utility UTVs, emphasizing low-end torque for crawling over rough terrain and hauling light loads. The CVT transmission’s belt-driven design ensures consistent power transfer and eliminates the need for driver intervention, but it can introduce a delay at low speeds and requires periodic belt maintenance. the engine and drivetrain configuration prioritizes reliability and user-friendly operation, ideal for users who need a simple utility machine rather than high-speed performance or heavy-duty towing capabilities.
Suspension & Handling
If you’re planning to navigate a variety of terrains, you’ll want to know how the suspension setup of the 2017 SSR Motorsports SRU 170RS influences its performance. The front suspension employs a double A-arm configuration, which provides a good balance between stability and articulation. This design allows the vehicle to absorb impacts from rough trail surfaces while maintaining precise steering response. With approximately 4 inches of travel at the front, the SRU 170RS can handle uneven terrain and small obstacles without transmitting excessive shocks to the rider or damaging the chassis.
The rear suspension features a swing arm setup, which is common in utility UTVs for its simplicity and durability. The swing arm offers around 3.5 inches of travel, sufficient for light trail riding and work tasks where extreme articulation isn’t necessary. This setup maintains a lower center of gravity compared to more complex multi-link systems, which benefits stability on uneven ground but may limit high-speed cornering performance. Together, the front and rear suspensions are optimized for moderate off-road use and work environments where durability and ease of maintenance are priorities.
Braking performance is supported by dual hydraulic disc brakes at the front, paired with a hydraulic disc brake at the rear. This configuration delivers strong stopping power with good modulation, essential for controlling speeds over varying terrains. The hydraulic system reduces fade during extended use and offers consistent pedal feel, which is crucial when descending steep inclines or carrying heavy loads. The tires also complement the suspension and braking setup, with 21-inch front tires and 10-inch-wide rear tires that provide adequate grip on loose dirt, gravel, or packed hardpack surfaces. The tread pattern on these tires offers a balance between traction and durability, making the SRU 170RS suitable for both recreational trail riding and light-duty work tasks.”
Dimensions & Ergonomics
If you’re planning to maneuver this UTV through tight trails or fit it into a standard truck bed, you’ll want to know its size specifications. Measuring 8.17 feet in length and 7 feet in width, the SRU 170RS offers a compact footprint that enhances agility while maintaining stability. Its height of 60 inches keeps it low enough to avoid most overhead obstacles, yet tall enough to provide a commanding view for the rider. The wheelbase of 72 inches contributes to balanced handling, especially when navigating uneven terrain, while the ground clearance of 7 inches helps clear obstacles without compromising ride quality.
For riders, seat height plays a critical role in control and comfort. Although the exact seat height isn’t specified, the overall dimensions suggest a design accessible to a wide range of riders, including those of shorter stature. The ergonomic considerations extend to the vehicle’s width, which ensures stability without feeling overly bulky. The dry weight of 540 pounds indicates a relatively light build, making it manageable for transportation and quick maneuvering, yet substantial enough to provide stability at speed or on uneven ground.
Additional practical details include a fuel capacity of 2.9 gallons, which allows for moderate off-road excursions without frequent refueling. Its compact size makes loading and unloading simple, fitting easily into most pickup trucks or trailers designed for recreational vehicles. the SRU 170RS’s dimensions emphasize a blend of manageable size, rider comfort, and functional cargo capacity, catering well to outdoor enthusiasts seeking a nimble utility vehicle for varied terrains and practical use scenarios.
Notable Features
Anyone running around off-road trails or farm fields will appreciate the inclusion of a CVT transmission paired with a 168.9cc single-cylinder engine. This combination simplifies operation and provides smooth acceleration without the need for shifting gears, making it accessible for riders of varying experience levels. The CVT’s design allows for continuous power delivery, which is especially beneficial when navigating uneven terrain or pulling light loads, reducing rider fatigue and improving overall control.
Distinctively, the SRU 170RS integrates a 4×2 driveline that prioritizes simplicity and weight savings over the complexity of four-wheel drive systems. This configuration helps keep costs competitive while offering enough traction for most recreational and utility tasks. The model’s air-cooled engine design enhances durability by minimizing overheating risks during extended use, especially in warmer environments or when the vehicle is subjected to prolonged operation.
In terms of convenience and user experience, the model’s carburetor fuel system keeps maintenance simple and repairs accessible, which is crucial at this price point. While it doesn’t include electronic fuel injection or advanced fuel management, the carburetor setup tends to be easier for owners to service themselves, reducing long-term ownership costs. The punchy engine performance, combined with the CVT and simple drive system, delivers an intuitive riding experience that balances power and ease of use.
Though this model does not feature luxury accessories or electronic controls, it includes essential features suited for entry-level riders or those seeking an affordable utility vehicle. Its design emphasizes function over frills, providing a dependable platform for working or recreational activities. The SRU 170RS’s clear-cut approach to powertrain and drivetrain underscores its focus on practicality and ease of maintenance, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious consumers who need a reliable utility vehicle without unnecessary complexity.
Pricing & Value
What stands out here is the SSR Motorsports SRU 170RS’s MSRP of $3,699, which places it squarely in the entry-level price range for utility side-by-sides. This price aims at newcomers or budget-conscious buyers seeking a basic workhorse with simple features. Considering the segment, this machine offers an attractive starting point, especially given its relatively low cost compared to more feature-rich competitors that can push well above $5,000.
Given its position, the SRU 170RS falls beneath the premium trims from SSR’s lineup, which typically include additional features such as upgraded suspension, larger engines, or more refined finishes. Above it, models with bigger engines, enhanced comfort features, or more advanced technology tend to command prices in the mid-$4,000s or higher. This makes the SRU 170RS a simple entry point for buyers who prioritize basic utility over luxury or high-end tech, but it also means compromises are made in areas like suspension tuning and comfort features to keep costs down.
From a value perspective, the $3,699 price tag is reasonable for what it offers in its segment. The machine provides a simple, no-frills utility experience aimed at users who want dependable work capability without paying for unnecessary extras. While it may lack some refinement or high-tech additions found on more expensive models, the SRU 170RS’s price is aligned with its intended use-basic hauling, trail riding, or light farm work. This pricing makes it a fair deal for first-time buyers or those needing a low-cost utility vehicle that can handle simple tasks without breaking the bank.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning to introduce a young rider to off-road adventures on a budget, you’ll want to know that the SSR Motorsports SRU 170RS offers a compact and approachable entry point. Its simplified design and smaller engine make it manageable for beginners, but it lacks the refinement and durability needed for regular, demanding use. This machine prioritizes cost-effectiveness over long-term resilience, which could lead to quicker wear and higher maintenance costs over time.
The most defining aspect of the SRU 170RS is its lightweight, minimalistic chassis that emphasizes ease of handling and affordability. This focus on simplicity means it handles well within the confines of beginner use, but it falls short for those who require a machine with more substantial power or advanced features. Its limited suspension and basic build are ill-suited for rugged terrains or extended off-road excursions, making it more of a toy than a true utility vehicle.
In terms of who should consider this UTV, it clearly targets newcomers or young riders seeking an inexpensive, easy-to-control machine for light trail riding or recreational fun. Those looking for a workhorse built for hauling, heavy-duty tasks, or intensive trail riding should look elsewhere. The SRU 170RS excels in its simplicity but ultimately offers too little in terms of durability and performance for serious off-road enthusiasts or frequent use. For those needs, investing in a more durable model is the prudent choice.
Tech specs
Engine
Transmission
Suspension
Brakes
Tires
Dimensions
Tags and taxonomy
Compatible parts for the 2017 SSR Motorsports SRU 170RS
Selected from this machine's own specification, not a generic list. Check any of it against the table above.
- ClassUtility UTV
- Drive4X2
- Front tire21x7-10
- Dry weight540 lb
- Winch and mountSynthetic and steel line kitsShop on Amazon
- Roof and windshieldWeather protectionShop on Amazon
- Tires21x7-10Front tire size fitted from the factoryShop on Amazon
- BatteryReplacement and AGM upgradesShop on Amazon
- Oil and filter kit168ccFull service kitsShop on Amazon
- Loading ramps1500 lbRated above the 540 lb dry weightShop on Amazon
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