Sometimes a build comes back through our shop and reminds us why we love what we do. Ryan's Polaris Xpedition Northstar ADV rolled back into Jagged X for some routine maintenance - oil change and general upkeep stuff - and we realized we never did a proper photo shoot on this thing. If you've been following our shop walks, you might remember seeing this one about six to eight months ago when we first completed it. Well, it's back, and this tuxedo-themed black and white build is absolutely worthy of its moment in the spotlight.
Ryan had a clear vision from the start: a clean, cohesive black and white theme that carries through every single detail of the car. From the powder coated suspension arms to the custom stitched seats, this Polaris Xpedition is a perfect example of what happens when you plan a build from start to finish with a unified look in mind.
Front End Protection and Lighting
Starting at the front like we always do, one of the updates we made during this recent visit was adding a MOJAB Offroad Shackle Fairlead. This is a product we didn't carry back when we originally built this car, but now that we've been running these on builds, we absolutely love them. It gives you a clean, integrated look while providing a solid recovery point right at the front of the bumper.
Speaking of bumpers, Ryan went with the DRT Motorsports Front Bumper - and if you follow our builds, you know this is our go-to choice for Polaris Xpedition builds. The fit and finish is always dialed, and it provides excellent protection while still looking clean. Paired with that is the DRT Motorsports Grill Insert, which ties the whole front end together.
For primary lighting, Ryan chose Baja Designs XL Pro lights mounted on the bumper. These things throw serious light down the trail. He also added Baja Designs Squadron Pro lights in amber where the factory fog lights would normally sit. The amber cuts through dust like nothing else, which is essential for Arizona riding.
Suspension Setup
Ryan went with an HCR Mid Travel Kit for his suspension foundation. This kit gives the Polaris Xpedition a wider, more planted stance while significantly improving the ride quality and capability over rough terrain. All the suspension arms were powder coated white to match his tuxedo theme, and we had our painter come in to custom paint all the black logos on the arms. It's that attention to detail that really sets a build apart.
Paired with the HCR kit, we installed a full Shock Therapy setup. This includes their Dual Rate Spring Kit and Ride Improvement System. If you've ridden a stock Polaris Xpedition and then hopped in one with the Shock Therapy treatment, you know exactly what I'm talking about - it transforms the ride completely. The dual rate springs give you that plush feel at low speed while still having the support when you start pushing harder.
For axles, we went with SuperATV Rhino 2.0 axles. When you're running a mid travel kit, upgraded axles aren't optional - they're essential. The Rhino 2.0s are built to handle the increased angles and stress that come with extended suspension travel.
Wheels and Tires
The wheel and tire combo on this build is perfect for the tuxedo theme. Ryan chose Method 401R Race Wheels, which we had powder coated in black and white to match the rest of the car. The Method 401R is a proven wheel that can handle serious abuse while still looking good doing it.
Wrapped around those wheels are Tensor Tire Regulator 2 tires in a 33-inch size. The Regulator 2 is an excellent all-around tire that performs well in the Arizona desert terrain - rocks, sand, hard pack, you name it. The 33-inch size is the sweet spot for a mid travel Polaris Xpedition, giving you added ground clearance and capability without getting too aggressive on the overall size.
Roof Rack and Overhead Lighting
Up top, Ryan went with the SDR Motorsports X-Plorer Series Roof Rack in the extended configuration. For those of you with ADV models, SDR offers both a standard length rack that ends around the B-pillar area, and an extended version that gives you significantly more real estate up top. Ryan chose the extended version, which opens up a lot of possibilities for cargo, accessories, or in his case - a serious light bar setup.
We fabricated some custom brackets to mount a Baja Designs XL Sport 40-inch configuration up there. This is essentially a seven-pod light bar setup that throws an insane amount of light. When you combine this with the XL Pros on the bumper and the Squadron Pro ambers, Ryan has absolutely no issues seeing where he's going when the sun goes down.
Exterior Details and Graphics
The wrap on this Polaris Xpedition was done by a company called Street Graphics, and they absolutely nailed Ryan's vision. It's a flat gray and white graphic design that complements the tuxedo theme without being over the top. From the front, the car is all white, but as you come around the sides you see these cool graphics that give it some personality. It's a clean look that turns heads without being obnoxious.
We added all the DRT Motorsports mesh panels - both the clutch intake mesh and the inner fender mesh guards. These not only look good but serve a functional purpose by protecting vital components from debris while allowing airflow.
For whip mounts, we installed Viper Machine Billet Whip Mounts. These are some of the cleanest looking whip mounts available for the Polaris Xpedition, and they're built solid enough to handle whatever terrain you throw at them.
Rear End Setup
Moving to the back of the car, Ryan went with the Elektric Offroad Designs Rear Bumper. This bumper was powder coated white to match the theme, with black accent panels that tie everything together. It provides solid rear protection while maintaining a clean aesthetic.
For chase lighting, we installed a Litt Industries chase bar with an amber-white-amber configuration. Ryan can set these to strobe or run solid depending on the situation - all controlled through his Switch Pros setup inside the cab. When you're running in a group, proper chase lights aren't just cool, they're a safety essential.
The B's Fab Rear Window Handle makes accessing the rear cargo area so much easier. If you've ever tried to open that rear window without one of these, you know exactly why this is a must-have upgrade.
Step inside Ryan's Polaris Xpedition and the tuxedo theme continues in full force. The Triple X heated and cooled seats are custom done in white and black, matching the exterior perfectly. Heated and cooled seats might sound like a luxury, but when you're riding in Arizona summer heat or early morning cold, they make a huge difference. If you're interested in Triple X seats for your build, contact us - we handle these in-store.
One of the updates we made during this recent visit was installing the Geiser Performance Shift Boot. Ryan had noticed some heat and dust coming up through the shifter area, which is a common issue. The shift boot seals that area off completely, keeping the elements where they belong - outside the cab.
The doors and floorboards are wrapped in Blades Custom Decking in gray and black. This stuff completely transforms the interior feel of the Polaris Xpedition, getting rid of that plastic look and feel in favor of something that looks and feels premium. We do all our Blades Custom Decking installs in-house, so reach out to us if you want to get your interior done.
All of Ryan's lighting and accessory controls run through a Switch Pros system mounted in an overhead console. This keeps the cab clean while giving him easy access to control his dome lights, chase lights, and all his other accessories. The DRT Motorsports Push-to-Talk Plate on the steering wheel makes radio communication effortless.
Looking up, you'll notice the beautiful suede headliner throughout both the front and rear of the cab. It's one of those details that really elevates the interior quality. Ryan also has the factory Polaris Ram mount installed, which gives him flexibility for mounting phones, tablets, or GPS units.
Communication System
Ryan's communication setup is all Rugged Radios. He's running the M1 Race Series Radio paired with their intercom system, which allows everyone in the car to communicate clearly while also being able to talk car-to-car with the rest of the group. For the antenna, he went with the Rugged Stealth Tuned Low Profile Antenna - it keeps a clean look while still getting great range. He has push-to-talk controls for both driver and passenger.
For headset storage and connectivity, we installed Axia Alloys mounts for the headset jacks - both on the B-pillar for the front seats and in the rear for back seat passengers. Chupacabra Offroad Headset Hangers keep all the STX headsets organized and out of the way when not in use.
Rear Cabin and Passenger Comfort
The rear cabin got just as much attention as the front. We recovered the factory rear seat to match the Triple X front seats, carrying that tuxedo theme all the way through. The suede headliner extends to the back as well, creating a cohesive premium look throughout the entire interior.
We installed our Jagged X Rear Floorboard Foam kit, which adds comfort and insulation for rear passengers. An Axia Alloys Fire Extinguisher Mount with extinguisher is mounted back here as well - something every build should have for safety.
One upgrade that I can't recommend enough is the B's Fab Extended Door Straps. These allow the rear doors to swing open significantly wider than stock, making it so much easier to get in and out - especially for adult passengers. Ryan actually has some adult kids who ride in the back, and this makes their life way easier. If you have a Northstar Polaris Xpedition and you don't have these yet, you're behind. Seriously, it's a must-have.
For interior lighting, we installed three Litt Industries Hexik Surge dome lights - two up front and one in the rear cargo area. These are all controlled through the Switch Pros system, so Ryan can light up the cab whenever he needs to.
Electrical Upgrades
Another update we made during this recent service visit was installing our Jagged X Jump Lug Kit with Kill Switch. This is something we add to almost every build now because it solves a real problem. The kit includes two jump lugs and a battery kill switch, all mounted in an accessible location under the driver's seat.
Here's why this matters: if Ryan parks his Polaris Xpedition for an extended period, he can hit that kill switch and cut power to everything in the car, preventing any parasitic drain on the battery. And if he ever does need a jump, he doesn't have to grab tools and remove the seat to access the battery - he just hooks up to the jump lugs and he's good to go. It's one of those simple upgrades that you don't think about until you need it, and then you're really glad you have it.
Cargo Area and Recovery Gear
In the cargo area, Ryan keeps things practical. With the B's Fab Rear Window Handle, accessing this space is a breeze. He's got a tool roll and some essentials stored back here, but the star of the show is the AGM Products Manual Sport Jack.
The AGM Manual Sport Jack is mounted to the factory bed rail, keeping it secure and out of the way while still being easily accessible when needed. If you're out on the trail and need to swap a tire, having a quality jack that's actually accessible makes all the difference. This is one of those pieces of gear that you hope you never need, but when you do, you'll be glad you have it.
Ryan's Polaris Xpedition Northstar is a perfect example of what happens when you have a clear vision and work with a team that can execute it. The tuxedo theme carries through every detail - from the powder coated suspension arms to the custom stitched seats to the carefully chosen white and black accessories throughout.
If you're looking to build out your Polaris Xpedition, we'd love to help make it happen. Check out our full selection of Polaris Xpedition ADV parts or contact us to start planning your build. Whether you want to go all-out like Ryan or just add a few key upgrades, we've got you covered.
