A sturdy side-by is able to pull equipment, haul supplies or handle difficult trails. But one swath of snow or a muddy ground could slow everything down.
Sometimes it’s not the horsepower that creates problems. Sometimes the tires simply cannot disperse the machine’s weight, or find enough traction to make the machine move forward.
That’s when UTV tracks become worth considering. UTV tracks alter the way your vehicle interacts with its surroundings, making it possible to reach areas that are otherwise unaccessible due to winter conditions or mud.
Traction isn’t the same as Flotation
Aggressive tires can improve grip, however they concentrate the vehicle’s weight into four small contact areas.
UTV track systems spread that weight across a greater area. This reduces ground pressure and aids the machine in traversing the deep snow, soft soil and muddy terrain without sinking as easily.
The difference matters for practical purposes. Following a snowfall, a homeowner might need to cross a fence. Farmers may have to walk across wet pastures without creating deep ruts. It could be essential to someone who has a routes for rural use to have reliable access when spring thaw occurs. Tracks can help make these jobs easier while reducing the damage to the terrain.
Your machine will decide the appropriate system for you.
Not all tracks designed 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 specifically designed for full-size side-by sides in the 400 to 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 don’t guarantee that the tracks will meet your needs. Verify the model, make and year of your vehicle prior to purchasing side-by-side tracks. Even similar machines might require different mounting hardware.
The price of better access is an exchange
Tracks are an excellent way to make it easier for people to access, but they aren’t able to make UTVs quicker or cost-effective. Manufacturer planning figures indicate that some systems can reduce the speed of travel by about 30 to 35 percent when in comparison to tires. Additional weights that rotate and resistance can also raise the consumption of fuel of vehicles and put extra stress on their drivetrain.
Using low range in deep or difficult conditions, and limiting sustained speed and adhering to the guidelines of the vehicle manufacturer can help to manage the demands.
Rubber tracks wear out faster in the event that they are constantly used on gravel or pavements that is abrasive. While the present designs were created to work throughout the year, their performance is best when they are operated on suitable terrain.
Budget Units Beyond the Track
Side by side track systems are a major investment. ATVtracks.net provides systems at prices starting from $6,000 to $13,000 depending on the design and intended use.
The track unit isn’t always the entire system. Other parts like the mounting hardware to your vehicle or anti-rotation hardware as well as hub or spacer components could be required. Buyers should confirm the complete list of parts prior to ordering instead of thinking that the advertised price will cover everything.
Buy for the Conditions You Actually have to
A track system makes most sense when access is improved to solve problems that are frequently recurring.
Tracks are a great option for those who live on the same side of the road and are regularly in deep snow, muddy fields areas of marshy terrain, or any other conditions that are difficult. If you’re only using your side-by-side for recreational purposes in a few instances it is possible that the extra cost and maintenance could not be justified.
ATVtracks.net has spent more than two decades helping car owners choose to install, maintain, and even repair track systems. Its team can help confirm the compatibility of the track and determine the parts needed for the particular vehicle.
Before investing, consider how often your machine gets stuck, the terrain that causes the problem, and whether improvements in flotation could be beneficial.
The best tracks will not eliminate any terrain obstacle, but they can turn a side-by-side that sits idle during difficult conditions into equipment you can continue using when access matters most.
