A powerful side-by can tow equipment, haul supplies or tackle difficult trails. A stretch of snowy or flooded ground could place everything in the way.
It’s not always the horsepower that creates issues. Sometimes the tires simply cannot spread the load of the machine or get enough traction to progress forward.
That’s when UTV tracks become worth considering. They change the way a vehicle is able to interact with the ground, allowing owners to get into areas that would otherwise be inaccessible when it’s winter or mud season.
Traction and Flotation are Not the Same Thing
While aggressive tires may increase grip, the vehicle remains consolidated in four small areas.
UTV track systems spread that weight over a larger footprint. This decreases ground pressure and enables the machine to traverse hard snow and soft soil without sinking.
It is vital to be aware of the difference to be able to use it for practical purposes. After a snowfall, a homeowner may have to cross a fence. A farmer might have to cross a wet pasture without leaving ruts. A person who maintains rural trails might need reliable access throughout the spring freeze. Tracks can make these chores more manageable while reducing damage to sensitive ground.
Your machine will identify the right system for you
Certain tracks aren’t made for the same vehicle or the same loads. ATVtracks.net has four systems that are made by Camso and Kimpex. The Camso 4S1 system is compatible with a variety of big-sized vehicles that fall in the 400-1000cc class.
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 the starting point and is not a guarantee of the quality. Before purchasing side by side tracks, make sure you know your vehicle’s model, make, and year. The mounting kit must exactly match the machine. Even cars that appear alike may require different equipment.
Better Access Means Trade-offs
Tracks are an excellent way to improve accessibility, but don’t make UTVs speedier or less expensive. Certain manufacturers’ plans demonstrate that certain systems reduce the speed of travel by 30-35% in comparison with tires. Additional weight and resistance from rotating also increase fuel consumption and place additional demands on the drivetrain.
Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines following the manufacturer’s advice, use a low range for driving in heavy or difficult conditions, as well as slowing down your speed can help you manage these demands.
Rubber tracks can wear faster when you are using them regularly on an abrasive surface such as gravel or pavement. While the present designs were created to work throughout the year but they are most effective when they are operated on the right terrain.
Budget Beyond the Track Units
Quality side by side track systems are a significant investment. The systems offered by ATVtracks.net are priced between $6,000 and $13,000, depending on their design and intended application.
But these track units aren’t necessarily the entire installation. There may be specific vehicle mounting hardware and anti-rotational components. Also other hubs, spacers, or spacers may be required. Before ordering, buyers should verify the entire parts list and do not believe that the cost of purchase includes everything.
Purchase according to the Terms You Accept
A track system makes the most sense when it solves a recurring problem.
Tracks can be beneficial when your side-by-side is frequently in deep snow, muddy fields, areas of marshy terrain, or any other tough conditions. The extra cost and upkeep of tracks may not be worth it to use them for leisure purposes on occasion.
ATVtracks.net is an organization that has been helping car owners for over 20 years to select, install and maintain track systems. The team can confirm compatibility, and identify the components required for a particular vehicle.
Take note of how often you’re stuck with your machine, and the terrain that causes it and if improved flotation will make a significant difference.
Tracks can’t completely eliminate the limitations of terrain but they will turn the side by side that’s in idle conditions into a machine that you can utilize when it is needed the most.