
Polaris may tell you to swap out your RZR belt every 500 miles, but I’m here to tell you that with a bit of careful driving, you can stretch that bad boy to 1500-2000 miles. That’s right, I’m talking about driving with finesse, taking those turns slow and steady, and not gunning it like some kind of maniac. So next time you’re out there on the trail, remember to treat that belt with the respect it deserves, and you’ll be rewarded with many more miles of adventure
When it comes to the Polaris RZR, one question that always seems to be on people’s minds is just how long that drive belt can hold out. Will it last you for hundreds of miles of trail riding, or is it more likely to give out on you just when you’re starting to hit your stride?
Well, my friends, the answer is a bit more complicated than a simple number. You see, there are a lot of factors that can impact the lifespan of your RZR belt, from the kind of terrain you’re traversing to how much horsepower your vehicle is packing.

Buy the right belt with our buying guide on finding your Polaris RZR belt
Does your RZR drive belt temperature matter?
The primary thing to watch out for is too high of a belt temperature. The high temperatures can slightly melt the belt sides and cause what’s called glassing. You will see a slightly shiny area on the side of your belt.
You can use a belt temperature sensor to monitor your belt and prevent overheating

Is Polaris RZR clutch alignment important to belt life?
You bet it is, clutch alignment should be maintained although it is fine coming from the factory. If you are constantly experiencing belt tears you should check the alignment between the primary and secondary clutch and make sure your belt is riding in the center of the two clutches.
It’s important to keep in mind, too, that regular inspection and maintenance can go a long way toward extending the lifespan of your drive belt. Keep an eye out for any signs of wear and tear, such as fraying or cracking, and make sure to address any issues promptly.
In the end, the longevity of your Polaris RZR belt will depend on a variety of factors, some within your control and others not so much. But with careful attention and a bit of luck, you should be able to get plenty of miles out of your trusty drive belt, whether you’re racing through the wilds or just puttering around the farm.
Related Questions About Polaris RZR Drive Belts
Can I Replace a Polaris Drive Belt Myself?
Yes, you can it ain’t rocket surgery. You can swap out a Polaris drive belt yourself. No need to fork over your hard-earned cash to a mechanic. Just grab your tools and get to work.
How Do I Know My Polaris RZR CVT Belt Is Worn?
One of the most common injuries that RZR and Ranger riders face is a worn-out drive belt. You check for glassy sides of the belts. Also, sluggish acceleration or jumping suddenly can be a sign of a worn belt
How Long do Polaris RZR drive belts last?
When it comes to the Polaris RZR, one question that always seems to be on people’s minds is just how long that drive belt can hold out. Will it last you for hundreds of miles of trail riding, or is it more likely to give out on you just when you’re starting to hit your stride?
Why do RZR belts break?
RZR belt breakage can be attributed to several reasons, including overloading, harsh riding conditions, poor maintenance, or manufacturing defects. Overloading the vehicle or carrying excessive weight can strain the belt, causing it to fail. Similarly, riding in harsh conditions like extreme heat or dust can accelerate belt wear and reduce its lifespan. Lack of maintenance, such as not keeping the belt clean or ignoring signs of wear, can also lead to belt breakage. In rare cases, manufacturing defects may cause premature belt failure.
What does a failing drive belt sound like?
RZR belt breakage is a problem that can have several culprits. It could be due to overloading the vehicle with too much weight or putting it through the wringer in harsh riding conditions. Riding in extreme heat or thick clouds of dust can speed up the wear and tear on the belt, causing it to fail sooner. Neglecting to keep the belt clean or ignoring warning signs of wear and tear can also lead to breakage. And, in some rare instances, defects in the manufacturing process may cause the belt to fail before its time.
How do you break in a new RZR belt?
If you want to keep that RZR of yours runnin’ smooth and strong, you gotta give that belt the break-in it deserves. Don’t go slammin’ down the pedal and expect everything to work like a charm. No, sir. Take it easy for the first 5 to 10 miles, keep it in low gear if you got it, and vary them speeds. If you ain’t got low gear, take it moderate for 50 miles. And don’t forget, it ain’t just about the miles. Keep them engine RPMs low and steady, and you’ll be good to go.
Why do my belts keep ripping?
Why do my Polaris drive belts keep ripping? Well, it could be due to overloading the vehicle or carrying too much weight, harsh riding conditions such as extreme heat or dust, poor maintenance, or even manufacturing defects. Take good care of your belt and avoid straining it, and you’ll have fewer problems.
How much does it cost to get a drive belt replaced?
If you’re handy enough, you can replace your RZR drive belt for less than two hundred bucks. Just grab a new belt for around 150 and some tools, if you don’t already have some, for 30 bucks, and you’re good to go.
Should you wash a Polaris CVT belt?
Washing a new drive belt before installation is a hotly debated topic. But if you insist on giving it a bath, use warm, soapy water and let it air dry before you slap it on.
Are Polaris RZR belts directional?
New belts don’t give a damn about direction, but used ones sure do. Directional arrows on some belts are just a reminder to put it back on the same way if you ever take it off. To prolong your belt’s life, it’s wise to always run it in the same direction.
Can you drive with a worn Polaris drive belt?
Can you drive with a worn Polaris drive belt? Well, you can, but it’s like walking around with a ticking time bomb in your pocket. You never know when it’s going to go off and leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere. So, if you value your time and sanity, it’s best to replace that worn belt before it’s too late.
What happens if you don’t change your Polaris drive belt?
Well, friend, if you don’t change your Polaris drive belt, you’ll eventually find yourself stranded in the middle of nowhere with a busted belt and a sour mood. A worn-out belt can break unexpectedly, leaving you high and dry on the trail or in the field. Not to mention, a damaged belt can cause other issues with your vehicle’s performance, leading to costly repairs down the road. So, don’t be a fool – keep that drive belt fresh and enjoy your ride without any unnecessary headaches.
Will a broken Polaris drive belt destroy my engine?
No, it won’t destroy your engine. The rev limiter will kick in and you may get a light on your dash. Just shut her down and clean out the old drive belt and replace it with a new belt. Disconnect the battery to clear the dash light then reconnect it and get on with your day.
Can you spray wd40 on RZR belt?
Don’t do that WD40 is a lubricant and your UTVs drive belt works with friction applied to the belt. A lubricant reduces friction and would defeat the purpose of the belt.