A powerful side-bys-side can be used to pull equipment, haul items, and handle demanding trails. A stretch of snowy or waterlogged ground could put everything in a bind.
It’s not always about horsepower. The problem isn’t always related to horsepower.
UTV tracks are an ideal choice. Tracks alter the way that the vehicle is interacting on the ground. The tracks allow owners to gain access to areas that would normally be difficult to access, particularly during the winter season.
Traction is not the exact same as Flotation
Aggressive tires can increase grip, but they concentrate the vehicle’s weight into four small contact areas.
UTV track system distributes burden over a larger area. This reduces ground-pressure and allows the vehicle to travel over deep snow and soft soil without sinking.
The difference matters for practical tasks. A property owner may have to come close to a fence that is quite far after sleet. Farmers might need to traverse a wet pasture without causing deep ruts. Someone maintaining rural trails could require access to a reliable source during spring freeze. Tracks make it easier to handle these tasks and protect vulnerable ground.
The Best System is based on Your Machine
Not all tracks for UTVs are designed for identical vehicles or workloads. ATVtracks.net includes four systems of 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 starting places, and not a guarantee of good quality. Find out the year, manufacturer and model of your car prior to buying side by sides tracks. The mounting kit must match the exact machine as even vehicles that are similar can require different hardware.
Accessibility is the result of a trade-off
Tracks might improve access, but they do not make UTVs less expensive or more efficient to run. Certain manufacturers’ plans indicate that certain systems could cut down on the speed of travel by up to 30% or more in comparison to tires. The additional weights and resistance that rotate are also a major contributor to the fuel consumption of vehicles and put extra pressure on their drivetrain.
Using low range in deep or extreme conditions, limiting sustained speed, and following the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations can assist in managing these needs.
Rubber tracks will wear out more quickly when they are continuously used on gravel or pavement that is abrasive. They are more effective on proper terrain, even though they’re designed to be used during multiple seasons.
Budget over the Track Units
High-quality side by side track systems are a significant investment. ATVtracks.net’s systems begin at $6,000 and go up to $13,000, based on their designs.
But these track units aren’t necessarily the entire installation. The vehicle-specific mounting parts, anti-rotation hardware, and possibly additional hubs, spacers, or parts could be required. Prior to ordering, the buyer must check the complete parts list and not assume that the starting price includes everything.
Buy for the Conditions You Actually Are Experiencing
When a track system is the best option to solve an issue that is repeating, it is logical.
If you regularly find yourself stuck in deep snow, meadows that are muddy, marshy grounds, or difficult conditions in the winter, tracks can assist your side-by-side complete more of the work. For those who only enjoy occasional use on trails that are firm the extra cost and maintenance could be more difficult to justify.
ATVtracks.net an industry-leading provider of track systems, has been helping owners to choose, install and maintain track systems for more than two decades. Its team is able to confirm compatibility, and identify elements required for a specific vehicle.
Consider how often you get stuck with your machine, and the terrain that causes it and if improved flotation will be a big difference.
The best tracks will not eliminate any terrain obstacle however, they can transform an idle side-by-side in difficult conditions into equipment that can be used when access matters most.