A strong side by side can haul equipment, pull materials and tackle difficult trails. However, one spot of icy snow or ground that is soaked with water can make everything stop.
It’s not always the engine’s horsepower that is causing problems. The tires may not be able of distributing weight evenly, or provide sufficient traction for the machine to move forward.
UTV tracks are worth taking into consideration. The tracks alter the way the vehicle interacts with the ground. It allows owners to get to places that otherwise would be inaccessible, especially during the winter or mud season.
Traction Isn’t The Same As Flotation
Although aggressive tires can improve grip, the overall weight of the vehicle is still packed into four rather small spaces.
UTV track systems spread that weight across a much larger footprint. This lowers the pressure on the ground and allows the vehicle to traverse difficult terrain, deep snow and muddy terrains, without sinking.
It is vital to be aware of what the distinction is for practical reasons. After a snowfall, a homeowner might need to access a fence. A farmer may have to cross a pasture that is wet and not leave deep ruts. It might be necessary for someone who maintains rural paths to have reliable access when spring thaw occurs. Tracks make it easier to handle these tasks and protect sensitive ground.
Your machine will help you determine the right system for you
Some tracks are not designed for the same vehicle or the same loads. ATVtracks.net offers four tracks from Camso and Kimpex. The Camso 4S1 is designed to be 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 just a starting point, and does not guarantee the fit. Check the year, model and model of your car prior to purchasing side by side tracks. The mounting kit must match the exact machine, and even similar vehicles might require different equipment.
Better Access comes with trade-offs
Tracks make it easier to access the terrain, but they do not make a UTV easier or cheaper to run. Plans from the manufacturers indicate that certain systems decrease the speed of travel by approximately 30-35% over tires. Additionally, the weights and resistance that are rotated will also boost the fuel consumption of vehicles and put extra stress on the drivetrain.
The demand can be met with the help of the low range, by limiting sustained speeds, and following the recommendations of the manufacturer of your vehicle.
Rubber tracks wear out faster when they are continuously used on gravel or pavements which is abrasive. Although the current systems are designed for multiple seasons, they are most effective when they are used on the right terrain.
Budget Units Beyond the Track
Side-by-side track systems are a major investment. The track systems provided by ATVtracks.net have starting prices ranging between $6,000 and $13,000, contingent on their design and intended application.
The track units are not the complete installation. There may be specific vehicle mounting hardware and anti-rotational components. Also other hubs, spacers, or spacers might be required. Buyers should verify the complete list of parts prior to ordering rather than assuming the advertised price will cover all of the components.
Pay according to the Conditions You Accept
It makes sense to employ a track system for solving a problem that has been recurring.
If your side by side is often confronted with deep snow swamps, muddy pastures or marshy ground, or challenging seasonal conditions, tracks may increase the amount of work they can complete. The added cost and maintenance of tracks may not be worth it for recreational use on a regular basis.
ATVtracks.net an industry-leading provider of track systems, has been helping owners to choose, install and maintain track systems for over two decades. Its team of experts can verify compatibility and identify the essential components for a particular vehicle.
Before investing, think about how often your machine gets stuck, the terrain that causes the problem, and whether the improved flotation will be beneficial.
The right tracks won’t eliminate all terrain limitations but they can help turn the side-by-side which is idle in difficult conditions into a piece of equipment that can be used whenever accessibility is the most important factor.