A powerful side-byside can pull equipment, haul supplies and navigate difficult trails. Yet one stretch of deep snow or ground that is soaked with water can cause everything to stop.
Most problems aren’t caused by the horsepower. The problem isn’t always about horsepower.
UTV tracks are definitely worthwhile to consider. The tracks change the way the vehicle interacts with the ground. This lets owners get to places that otherwise would not be accessible, especially during the winter or mud season.
Traction isn’t the Same as Flotation
While aggressive tires can enhance grip, the weight of the vehicle is still concentrated into four rather small spaces.
UTV track systems spread the weight over a larger footprint. This helps reduce the pressure on the ground which allows the machine to traverse hard snow, soft terrain, and muddy terrains without sinking.
Practical work demands a change. Following a snowfall property owner may need to cross a fence. A farmer may have to travel through a pasture that is muddy without causing deep ruts. Someone maintaining rural trails may need dependable access in the spring time thaw. Tracks can make these jobs more manageable while reducing the potential for damage to soils that are sensitive.
The best system depends on Your Machine
Not all tracks for UTVs are made for the same machines or work. ATVtracks.net offers four tracks that are made by Camso and Kimpex. The Camso 4S1 is designed for full-size side-by-sides in 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 only a starting point, and they are not a guarantee that the track will be suitable. Before purchasing side by side tracks, confirm your vehicle’s make, model, and year. The kit for mounting must be compatible with the exact machine, and even similar vehicles can require different hardware.
Better Access is a result of trade-offs
Tracks improve access, but they won’t make a UTV faster or cheaper to operate. Some of the manufacturers’ figures for planning show that certain systems can reduce the speed of travel by up to 30% or more in comparison to tires. The increased weight and resistance increase the amount of fuel consumed, and puts further demands on the drivetrain.
Utilizing low range in extreme or heavy conditions, limiting the speed of sustained use, and following the instructions of the vehicle manufacturer will aid in managing these requirements.
Rubber tracks also wear faster when operated continuously on abrasive pavement or gravel. While the systems currently in use are designed to work in all seasons, they work best when they are used on the right terrain.
Budget over the Track Units
A high-quality side-byside track system can be a substantial investment. ATVtracks.net provides systems at prices starting at $6,000 up to $13,000, based on the design and intended use.
The track unit is not always the whole installation. You may need vehicle-specific mounting components and anti-rotational hardware. Furthermore, additional hubs or spacers may be required. The entire list of components should be confirmed before the purchase is made.
Purchase for the conditions you Actually Face
It makes sense to implement an electronic tracker when you are trying to resolve a problem that has been recurring.
If your side by side is often confronted with deep snow, muddy pastures, marshy ground, or challenging weather conditions, trails could extend the tasks it is able to do. If you use your side-by-side to enjoy the outdoors in a few instances the cost of maintenance could not be justified.
ATVtracks.net has been around for more than two decades helping owners select track systems, install and maintain track systems. The team of experts can help you confirm that the system is compatible and can identify the components needed for the particular vehicle.
Before you invest, think about the frequency at which your machine is stuck, what terrain causes the issue, and if improvements in flotation could help in a meaningful way.
Tracks can’t remove all limitations of terrain however they can turn the side by side which is in a stalemate in challenging conditions into a machine that you can use when it matters most.