If you've put a Polaris RZR XP 1000 through the wringer, there's a good chance you've already snapped a stock axle or watched a CV give out on the trail. The Rhino 2.0 heavy-duty axle is the fix and the prevention: a 4 mm bigger shaft, end-to-end 4340 chromoly with a proprietary heat treatment, and maximized CV joints that run at high angles without cooking. The result is about twice the strength of stock, in front and rear versions for the XP 1000, XP 4 1000, High Lifter and Trails & Rocks editions.
Highlights
- 4340 chromoly construction with a proprietary heat treatment for strength and longevity
- Larger shaft and CV components, built stronger than stock
- A massive 4 mm increase in shaft size
- High articulation angles keep CV joints running cooler through demanding suspension travel
- Field and lab tested for extreme strength and endurance
- Two times stronger than stock
A Bigger, Stronger Axle
The RZR XP 1000 is a mean machine, but the factory axles weren't built for the kind of beating many owners hand out. Whether you're replacing busted axles or upgrading before something lets go, the Rhino 2.0 lets you push the machine to its limits without worrying about breaking something.
The Rhino 2.0 Formula
The Rhino 2.0 wasn't a few tweaks to an old design. Every inch of the axle was reworked. Bigger shafts and all-chromoly construction give it two times the strength of stock, and the maximized CV joints work at high articulation angles while staying cool, no matter how hard you push. The formula comes down to three things:
- A massive 4 mm increase in shaft size
- End-to-end chromoly construction
- Proprietary heat treatment
Engineered and Tested In-House
These axles are designed, manufactured and tested in Madison, Indiana, using top-of-the-line CAD technology and a multi-million dollar investment in testing equipment. Every aspect of the axle goes through extensive lab and field testing before it's sold, which is how it earned its place as one of the strongest heavy-duty RZR XP 1000 axles on the market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Rhino 2.0 better than a stock RZR XP 1000 axle?
It's built from end-to-end 4340 chromoly with significantly larger CV components than OEM. It's designed to handle higher torque loads, aggressive riding and the extreme CV angles that routinely break stock axles.
Will it fit my RZR XP 1000?
It's engineered specifically for the RZR XP 1000 platform with model-year-specific fitment. Always check the fitment table and the OEM part number list below against your machine to make sure you're ordering the right axle.
Do I need these with a lift kit?
These axles are commonly required on lifted or DYNAMIX machines because of the increased CV angles. On many DYNAMIX and high-angle suspension setups, they're required to prevent over-binding and premature failure, because the design allows safe operation at 40°+ CV angles that stock axles can't reliably handle.
How much stronger than OEM are they?
The larger shaft diameter, maximized CV joints, upgraded material and proprietary heat treatment dramatically improve impact resistance and longevity. Overall they can be up to 100% stronger than stock, though the exact figure varies from model to model.
Can they handle aggressive riding and big tires?
Yes. They're made for oversized tires, lift kits and aggressive trail or mud riding, and they keep power delivery smooth under hard throttle and high articulation.
How does the CV design improve durability?
The CVs use maximized spiders and cages that spread torque more evenly and reduce stress inside the joint. That allows extended running at steep suspension angles without overheating or binding.
Is installation difficult?
No more than a stock axle replacement with standard tools. They're direct-fit replacements for compatible RZR XP 1000 models, and detailed instructions are included.
Will they change ride quality or handling?
No. They're engineered for smooth power transfer and a factory-like feel. The added strength improves reliability without adding vibration.
Why pick the Rhino 2.0 over other heavy-duty axles?
They're lab and field tested, engineered specifically for high-angle use, and trusted as the axle in matching lift kits. With chromoly construction, oversized CVs and proven reliability, they're built for riders who don't lift just to cruise.
Signs It's Time for a New Axle
Axles usually warn you before they quit. A clicking or popping noise when you turn under throttle points to a worn outer CV. A clunk when you get on and off the gas, or a vibration that gets worse with speed, can mean a worn inner joint or a bent shaft. A torn boot is the most common early warning of all: once it splits, grease slings out and dirt and water get in, and the joint wears quickly after that. If you see grease spattered on the inside of a wheel or on the A-arm, check the boots right away. Catching it early lets you swap the axle in the garage instead of on the trail.
Rhino 2.0 or a Step Up?
For most stock-width RZRs with bigger tires and hard riding, the Rhino 2.0 is the sweet spot between price and strength. Riders running a 7-10" lift need the longer big lift version, and long travel kits use their own long travel axle, because the stock-length axle won't reach. If you're running very large tires or a built engine and still breaking parts, the X300 line is the next step up.
Choose Your Axle
Select the axle location (front or rear), your year range, and your RZR model: Standard Edition, High Lifter Edition, or Trails and Rocks Edition (Gold). Each selection is one axle, so order a pair if you're replacing both sides. The fitment section lists which OEM part numbers each front (AX01-004F0, AX01-005F0) and rear (AX01-002R0) axle replaces.
What's in the Box
- One Rhino 2.0 heavy-duty axle (front or rear, as selected)
- Installation instructions
Who It's For and What Pairs Well
This is the axle for RZR XP 1000 and XP 4 1000 owners running bigger tires, a mild lift, or a heavy right foot at stock width. If you've gone to a 7-10" lift or long travel, choose the big lift or long travel versions instead, and if you want the strongest option, look at the X300 axles; all of them are in RZR XP 1000 axles and CVs (4-seat: RZR XP 4 1000 axles and CVs). Add limit straps from RZR XP 1000 limit straps to protect the CVs at full droop, and check the carrier bearing in RZR XP 1000 drivetrain parts while you're under the machine.
Fitment
| Year | Make | Model |
|---|---|---|
| 2014-2023 | Polaris | RZR XP 1000 |
| 2014-2023 | Polaris | RZR XP 4 1000 |
| 2015-2023 | Polaris | RZR XP 1000 High Lifter Edition |
| 2017-2023 | Polaris | RZR XP 1000 Trails & Rocks Edition |
Replaces OEM Part #
Front (AX01-004F0) : 1333123, 1333283, 1333420, 1333943, 1334308
Front (AX01-005F0) : 1333434, 1334492
Rear (AX01-002R0) : 1333124, 1333439, 1333718, 1333944, 1334307, 1334490
Note: Not compatible with Anti-Lock Brake Systems (ABS)
Installation
The Rhino 2.0 is a direct replacement for the stock axle and installs with standard tools. It is not compatible with Anti-Lock Brake Systems (ABS). Instructions are below.
- source:
- superatv
- satv_url:
- https://www.superatv.com/polaris-rzr-xp-1000-heavy-duty-axles-rhino-2-0
- fitment_raw:
- Polaris RZR XP 1000 2014-2023; Polaris RZR XP 4 1000 2014-2023; Polaris RZR XP 1000 High Lifter Edition 2015-2023; Polaris RZR XP 1000 Trails & Rocks Edition 2017-2023
- install_pdf:
- https://madmin.superatv.com/amfile/file/download/file/4326/product/6339/
- desc_status:
- rewritten_2026-10-22
- sub_brand:
- Rhino 2.0 Axles