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Customize Your Off-Road Vehicle

In these times when we're all being defined by numbers and crunched into conformity, we still want something that expresses our own style. Something that says, "This is me."

For some time, an underworld of car customization has existed. But today, it's not just low-riders and hotdoggers who want to make a personal statement. With the popularity of shows such as "American Chopper" and "Pimp My Ride," orders for custom cars and bikes have skyrocketed.

Now, ATV and utility vehicle owners are just as eager to spruce up their rides. They are beginning to appreciate their sturdy off-road vehicles - more often associated with hunting and farming - and are dreaming up ways to make them unique. Each becomes a signature piece, reflecting the taste and style of the owner.

The trend, spearheaded by celebrities and sports stars, now is becoming more mainstream, according to Polaris, a leading manufacturer of ATVs and utility vehicles. The Southwest, especially California and Arizona, seems to be the hub of this new fad.

Here are some of the hottest ways to customize your ride:

* Flames: Since the 1950s, painted flames scorching the front and sides of hot rods have meant speed. Today, this classic design still leads the pack.

* Chrome: The luxurious Packards and Cords of the 1930s

were loaded with shine and sparkle. Grills, doors - everything that could gleam, did gleam. Even now, chrome says high style.

* Color-keyed rims: They would have loved this in the 1960s. Bright primaries, strong earth tones, simple neutrals -choose a color and your ride is instantly one of a kind.

* Sound systems: Install one in the bed or roof. Whether your music of choice is golden oldies or heavy metal, everything will sound better. And on those camping trips when you're deprived of your usual comforts, you can still enjoy quality sound.

New Utility Vehicles Are Popular, Practical

One of the most popular pieces of outdoor power equipment these days is the utility vehicle. From hunters to handymen, everyone seems to be using them.

Why? The current crop of utility vehicles is practical, powerful and versatile-a far cry from their "golf cart with an attitude" predecessors. So what should you look for in a utility vehicle?

"Take the time to really figure out how you will use a utility vehicle and what type of terrain you will encounter," advises Jerry Sandy, product manager for Husqvarna's HUV utility vehicle line. "Decide up front what accessories and features are required for the types of tasks you plan to accomplish."

Home & Garden-For jobs like brush clearing or hauling supplies to the garden, says Sandy, a compact utility vehicle may fit the bill. Larger tasks such as clearing snow, on the other hand, require a more powerful unit, four-wheel drive and accessories such as a snowplow attachment, tire chains and a cab enclosure.

Property Management-For farmers, ranchers and timber owners, key factors include engine durability, payload capacity and traction for rough terrain. A smooth suspension maximizes comfort when traveling extended distances. Accessories such as windshields, heaters, electric winches and trailer hitches are also important.

Hunting & Fishing-Outdoorsmen will want a utility vehicle that functions well in remote areas, so consider features such as certified rollover protection, four-wheel drive and locking differentials. A wide wheelbase and low center of gravity provide stability in rough conditions, and accessory items such as winches, hood racks, heavy-duty bumpers, and aggressive tires can be helpful

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