If you’re in Minnesota and looking to buy a side by side, you’re in luck—there’s no shortage of options for these versatile vehicles. Side by sides, or UTVs, are perfect for work, play, or both, whether you’re hauling gear on a farm or hitting the trails Up North. The Polaris General is a popular choice here, blending rugged utility with trail-ready performance. In this guide, we’ll cover what makes the General stand out, where to find them in Minnesota, what affects pricing, and tips for picking the right one. Let’s get rolling!
Why the Polaris General is Popular in Minnesota
The Polaris General is a hit in Minnesota because it’s built for our lifestyle. With models like the 2025 General XP 1000 Premium, it offers a 100-horsepower engine, 13.5 inches of ground clearance, and a 600-pound cargo bed—great for farm work or hauling hunting gear. It can tow up to 1,500 pounds, perfect for trailers or boats. Minnesota’s mix of forests, lakes, and fields makes the General’s balance of work and fun ideal. You can plow snow in winter or explore trails like the Iron Range OHV Park in summer.
Locals love its durability and features like on-demand all-wheel drive for muddy or snowy conditions. The General comes in two- and four-seat options, so it suits solo riders or families. Dealerships like Northway Sports in East Bethel report strong demand for its versatility. Plus, with Minnesota’s 600+ miles of ATV trails, the General’s sporty side shines for weekend adventures. It’s no wonder it’s a top pick for Minnesotans needing a do-it-all UTV.
Where to Find General Side by Sides in Minnesota
Minnesota’s got plenty of places to buy a Polaris General. Northway Sports in East Bethel has a big selection, including the 2025 General XP 1000 Ultimate for $28,999, with features like a 4,500-pound winch and heated seats. Up North Power & Sports in Park Rapids offers models like the General XP 4 1000 Premium for $29,999, perfect for larger groups. Lakes Area Powersports in Walker lists the 2025 General XP 1000 Sport at around $22,114 after discounts.
Other spots include Mankato Motorsports, with used 2023 General XP 1000 Premiums for about $26,999, and Five Seasons Sports in Eveleth, known for Polaris expertise. La Canne’s Marine in Faribault has used 2018 General 1000 EPS Deluxe models for $18,999. You can also check Craigslist in Minneapolis for deals, like a 2020 Polaris General 1000XP for around $17,000, though private sales need extra caution.
Most dealers offer test rides and financing, with promotions like 0.99% for 36 months at places like Mies Outland in St. Cloud. Check websites like www.northwaysports.com or www.lakesareapowersports.com for current inventory. Always call ahead to confirm stock, as demand is high and models sell fast.
Factors Affecting General Side by Side Prices
Pricing for a Polaris General in Minnesota depends on several things. New 2025 models range from $22,114 for the General XP 1000 Sport to $38,999 for the XPEDITION XP Northstar at Lakes Area Powersports. Used models, like a 2018 General at La Canne’s Marine, can drop to $18,999, but condition and mileage matter. Trim levels—Sport, Premium, or Ultimate—bump costs with extras like upgraded shocks or stereos.
Dealer location affects price too; urban spots like Northway Sports may have higher demand, pushing prices up, while rural dealers might offer deals. Promotions, like Polaris’s $4,000 off select UTVs, can lower costs at places like River Valley Power & Sport in Red Wing. Financing rates, such as 0.99% for 36 months, make monthly payments easier but add to the total.
Add-ons like winches, plows, or cab enclosures increase the price but are useful for Minnesota’s weather. Market demand is another factor—Moon Motorsports in Monticello notes low inventory due to high interest, which can drive prices up. Always compare dealer quotes and check for hidden fees like destination charges ($1,195 on some models) to get the best deal.
Tips for Buying a General Side by Side in MN
Buying a Polaris General in Minnesota takes some planning. Start by deciding your needs—work-focused models like the General 1000 suit farmers, while trail riders might want the XP 1000 for its sporty suspension. Check your budget; new models start around $22,000, but used ones can save thousands if you inspect them carefully.
Visit dealers like Northway Sports or Lakes Area Powersports for test rides to feel the handling. Ask about warranties—Polaris offers a one-year limited warranty, and some dealers extend it. Look for promotions; Mies Outland in St. Cloud has deals like $4,000 off or low financing. Check inventory online first, as stock moves fast, per Moon Motorsports.
For used buys, especially on Craigslist, inspect the UTV for wear on tires, suspension, and engine. Ask for maintenance records to avoid lemons. Minnesota’s weather demands extras like heated cabs or snowplows, so factor those into your budget. Finally, register your UTV with the Minnesota DNR for trail use ($30 for three years). Comparing prices, testing models, and planning for add-ons will land you the right General for your adventures.
Is the Polaris General Worth It for Minnesotans?
The Polaris General is a solid choice for Minnesota’s mix of work and play. Its towing power, cargo capacity, and all-wheel drive handle tough jobs like plowing snow or hauling firewood, while its suspension and power make trails like the Gandy Dancer a blast. Prices range from $18,999 used to $38,999 new, fitting various budgets. Features like sway control and winches add value, especially for our harsh winters.
Compared to rivals like the Can-Am Defender ($12,499-$22,999), the General offers a better balance of sport and utility, though Defenders are cheaper for basic work. Dealers like Five Seasons Sports praise the General’s reliability, and user reviews on sites like Yelp highlight strong service at places like Northway. If you tow, haul, or ride trails often, the General’s versatility justifies the cost. For occasional use, a used model might be smarter. Either way, it’s a trusty companion for Minnesota’s rugged outdoors.
FAQs
What’s the average price of a Polaris General in Minnesota?
New 2025 models range from $22,114 to $38,999; used ones start around $18,999, depending on condition and trim.
Where can I buy a Polaris General in Minnesota?
Try Northway Sports (East Bethel), Lakes Area Powersports (Walker), Mankato Motorsports, or Five Seasons Sports (Eveleth).
What’s the towing capacity of the Polaris General?
The General can tow up to 1,500 pounds, ideal for trailers, boats, or small equipment.
Are there financing options for General side by sides?
Yes, dealers like Mies Outland offer 0.99% financing for 36 months or up to $4,000 off.
Do I need to register a Polaris General in Minnesota?
Yes, for trail use, register with the Minnesota DNR for $30 every three years.
