A powerful side-by can tow equipment, haul supplies or tackle difficult trails. But one swath of snow or waterlogged ground can cause everything to stop.
Sometimes it’s not the horsepower that causes issues. The problem isn’t always a matter of horsepower.
UTV tracks are also worth considering. UTV tracks change how your car interacts with its surroundings and allow you to reach areas that are otherwise difficult to access due to winter conditions or mud.
Traction isn’t the same as Flotation
Aggressive tires can increase grip, but they put the weight of the vehicle into the four areas of contact that are very small.
UTV track systems spread that weight across a wider footprint. This helps reduce pressure on the ground and aids the machine in traversing dense snow, soft dirt and muddy terrain without sinking as quickly.
The difference matters for practical purposes. After a snowfall, a homeowner may have to reach an adjacent fence. A farmer may need to travel through a pasture that is muddy without making deep ruts. People who manage trails for rural use could require access to a reliable source in the spring time freeze. Tracks make the job easier to handle while minimizing the risk of damage to ground.
The best system depends on Your Machine
Some tracks are not designed to work with the same type of vehicles or the same loads. ATVtracks.net carries four systems that are made by Camso as well as Kimpex. The Camso 4S1 system is compatible with a variety of big-sized vehicles that fall in the 400-1000cc range.
The Kimpex HD4 supports machines within its published capacity of up to 4,000 pounds, while the Kimpex WSS4 follows its own manufacturer-specific compatibility list.
These categories are just starting points, not guarantees of fit. Verify the model, make and year of your vehicle prior to purchasing side-by-side tracks. Even similar machines might require different mounting hardware.
The price of better access is an exchange
Tracks can improve accessibility, however they don’t make UTV more efficient or less expensive to run. According to the manufacturer’s planning data, some systems can reduce speeds of travel by between 30 and 35 percent when compared to tires. The added weight and resistance to rotation will also consume more fuel and add additional stress on the drivetrain.
In accordance with the advice given by the manufacturer Use a lower range of speed when driving through heavy or severe conditions, and restricting your speed can assist you in managing these conditions.
Rubber tracks can be more worn when you are using them regularly on an abrasive surface such as asphalt or gravel. They work better on right terrain, even though they are designed for use in all seasons.
Budget Units Beyond the Track
Quality side by side track systems represent a substantial investment. ATVtracks.net’s systems begin at a price of $6,000, and rise to $13,000, based on their designs.
But the track units aren’t always the entire system. Other parts like mounting hardware for your vehicle or anti-rotation hardware as well as hub or spacer parts could be required. The complete list of items is required prior to when the order is made.
Purchase for the conditions you Actually Have to
If a tracker system is the best option to solve problems that keep recurring, it makes sense.
Tracks are a great option when your side-by-side is frequently faced with deep snow, muddy fields rough terrain, or other tough conditions. For recreational use that is only occasionally on firm trails the extra cost and maintenance can be hard to justify.
ATVtracks.net one of the leading providers of track systems, has been helping owners select, install, and maintain track systems for more than two decades. The team can confirm compatibility, and identify parts required to fit a specific vehicle.
Before you invest, think about the frequency at which your machine is stuck, the terrain that causes the issue, and if an improved flotation system could be beneficial.
The best tracks won’t eliminate every terrain limitation. However, they can turn a side-byside lying idle in tough conditions to an item you can continue to use whenever accessibility is essential.