A powerful side-by-side can carry equipment, haul materials and tackle difficult trails. One stretch of waterlogged or deep snow could stop all other equipment.
It’s not always the horsepower that can cause problems. The problem is not always about horsepower.
That’s the time that UTV tracks can be considered. They alter the way in which the vehicle operates with the ground. It allows owners to gain access to areas that would normally be inaccessible, especially during the winter and mud season.
Traction is not the same as Flotation
Although aggressive tires could improve grip, they also place the weight of the vehicle in four smaller regions.
UTV track systems spread that weight across a much larger footprint. This helps reduce pressure on the ground and helps the machine travel over the deep snow, soft soil and muddy terrain, without sinking as easily.
Practical work requires a difference. Following a snowfall homeowner might need to access a fence. Farmers may need to cross a wet pasture, without leaving deep ruts. A person who maintains trails for the rural environment may require access throughout the spring freeze. Tracks can make these tasks easier to handle while minimizing the chance of damaging sensitive ground.
What Machine Do You Have? Identify the right system
Certain tracks aren’t made to work with the same type of vehicles or weights. ATVtracks.net offers four systems by Camso and Kimpex. The Camso 4S1 is designed for full-size side by-sides within the 400-1000cc size 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 an initial point of reference, and not a guarantee of fit. Make sure you know the year, year of manufacture and model of your vehicle prior to purchasing side by sides tracks. The installation kit should match exactly to the machine as even vehicles that are similar can require different hardware.
There are trade-offs that can be made for greater access
Tracks can be a fantastic way to increase accessibility, however they don’t make UTVs faster or cost-effective. According to the manufacturer’s plans, some systems can reduce the speed of travel by about 30 to 35 percent when as compared to tires. The additional weights and resistance that rotate also increase the fuel consumption of vehicles and put additional pressure on their drivetrain.
Following the manufacturer’s advice Use a lower range of speed when driving in high or deep conditions. Also, slowing down your speed will aid you in managing these stresses.
Rubber tracks wear more quickly when used for long periods on abrasive pavement or gravel. While current systems are made to work in all seasons, they work best when used on appropriate terrain.
Budget Units Beyond the Track
High-quality side by side track systems are a significant investment. ATVtracks.net provides systems at prices starting from $6,000 to $13,000 based on the model and the intended usage.
The track units do not constitute the entire system. Specific mounting components for your vehicle as well as anti-rotation hardware and possible additional spacers or hub components may be needed. The complete list of required parts must be verified prior to the purchase is made.
Purchase for the conditions you Actually Face
It makes sense to use the track system when you want to solve a problem that has been recurring.
If your side-by-side regularly encounters deep snow or muddy pastures, wet terrain, or challenging seasons, trails may extend the tasks it is able to achieve. The additional cost and maintenance of tracks might not be worth it for occasional use.
ATVtracks.net, a leading provider of track systems, has been helping owners to choose, install and maintain track systems for over two decades. Their team can confirm compatibility, and to identify elements required for a specific vehicle.
Take note of the frequency at which your machine gets stuck or stutters, and the specific terrain the cause, and if an improved flotation system can have a positive impact.
The proper tracks can’t eliminate every terrain limitation. But they can change the side-by-side that was in storage during difficult conditions to an item you can continue to use for the most crucial access.
