A powerful side-by can tow equipment, carry supplies, or tackle difficult trails. However, one spot of icy snow or ground that is soaked with water can bring everything to a stop.
Most problems aren’t caused by power. Tires might not be able distribute weight evenly, or provide sufficient traction to allow the machine progress forward.
This is the time that UTV tracks become worth considering. UTV tracks alter how your car interacts with its surroundings making it possible to get into areas otherwise unaccessible because of winter or mud.
Traction isn’t the Same as Flotation
Aggressive tires can improve grip, however they place the vehicle’s weight in four contact zones that are relatively small.
UTV track system distributes the burden over a larger area. This helps reduce ground pressure and allows the machine to move over hard snow and soft soil without sinking.
It is essential to know the difference in order to make sense of it. Following a snowfall homeowner may have to access a fence. A farmer may need to traverse a muddy pasture without making deep ruts. One who maintains trails for the rural environment may require access in the springtime thaw. Tracks can make these chores easier to manage while minimizing the risk of damage to ground.
What Machine Do You Have? Choose the right system
Some tracks are not designed for the same types of vehicles or weights. ATVtracks.net offers four systems by Camso and Kimpex. The Camso UTV ENDUR is designed to be used with larger side-by-sides that are 1000cc and more, whereas the Camso 4S1 has a wide range of full-size machines within 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 only starting points, not guarantees of good quality. Before purchasing side by side tracks, confirm your vehicle’s make, model, and year. Even similar machines might need different hardware for mounting.
Accessibility is the result of a trade-off
Tracks are a great method to make it easier for people to access, but they do not make UTVs more efficient or less expensive. The manufacturer’s planning data indicate that some systems reduce travel speed by 30 to 35% when as compared to tires. Added rotating weight and resistance increase the amount of fuel consumed and increase the demands on the drivetrain.
This can be controlled by utilizing the low range, limiting to sustained speeds and adhering to vehicle manufacturer recommendations.
Rubber tracks can also wear out faster when you are using them regularly on an abrasive surface such as pavement or gravel. They work best on right terrain, even though they are designed to be used during multiple seasons.
Budget Units Above the Track
Side by side track systems are an important investment. ATVtracks.net offers systems with prices starting from $6,000 to $13,000 depending on the design and purpose of use.
But the track units aren’t always the entire system. Other components, such as the mounting hardware to your vehicle as well as anti-rotation hardware, hubs or spacer components could be needed. Buyers should confirm the complete parts list prior to making an order instead of believing that the advertised starting price covers everything.
Purchase for the conditions you Actually Have to
A track system makes most sense when better access resolves a recurring problem.
Tracks can be useful for those who live on the same side of the road and are regularly in thick snow, muddy fields rough terrain, or other challenging conditions. For those who only enjoy occasional use with trails that are well-maintained The additional cost and maintenance could be more difficult to justify.
ATVtracks.net has spent over two decades helping car owners choose track systems, install and maintain track systems. Its team of experts can confirm compatibility as well as determine the components required for a particular vehicle.
Before making a purchase, take note of how often your machine gets stuck, what type of terrain is causing the problem, and whether improved flotation would be beneficial.
The right tracks won’t eliminate any terrain obstacle but they can convert a side-by-side that sits idle during difficult conditions into equipment that you can use for the time when accessibility is most important.