A strong side by side can transport equipment, pull supplies, and navigate difficult trails. A section of icy or waterlogged ground could put everything on hold.
Sometimes it’s not the engine’s horsepower that is causing issues. The problem isn’t always horsepower.
That’s when UTV tracks become worth considering. They alter the way in which the vehicle operates on the ground. This lets owners access places that would otherwise be difficult to access, particularly in the winter season.
Traction isn’t the Same as Flotation
While aggressive tires can improve grip, they also place vehicle weight in four small regions.
UTV track systems spread that weight across a much larger footprint. This reduces the ground pressure which allows the machine to navigate through the deep snow, soft terrain and muddy terrains without sinking.
The difference is important for the practical use. A property owner might have to get near a fence that is distant after snow. Farmers may need to cross a wet pasture without leaving deep ruts. Someone who manages rural trails may require reliable access throughout the spring freeze. Tracks can facilitate these tasks, while also reducing damage to vulnerable terrain.
What Machine Do You Own? Find the most appropriate system
Not all tracks designed for UTVs are made for the same cars or different workloads. ATVtracks.net has four systems that are made by Camso, and Kimpex. The Camso UTV ENDUR is designed for larger side-by sides of 1000cc and above, while the Camso 4S1 includes a variety of full-size models in 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 fit. Before purchasing side by side tracks, make sure you know your vehicle’s model, make, and year. The mounting kit must match the exact vehicle, and even similar vehicles can require different hardware.
There are trade-offs to better access
Tracks may improve access but they don’t make UTVs cheaper or faster to run. The planning figures of some manufacturers show that certain systems can slow down the speed of travel by as much as 30% to 35% compared to tires. Added rotating weight and resistance also increase fuel consumption and place additional demands on the drivetrain.
Use low range when in heavy or extreme conditions, limiting sustained speed and adhering to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations can help manage these demands.
Rubber tracks also wear faster when used for long periods on abrasive pavement or gravel. Although the current designs were created to work in all seasons but they are most effective when they are used on a suitable surface.
Budget beyond the Track Units
Top-quality side-by-side track systems make for a considerable investment. The systems offered by ATVtracks.net include prices that start approximately between $6,000 and $13,000 based on the model and use.
The track unit isn’t always the entire system. The vehicle-specific mounting parts as well as anti-rotation hardware and possible additional spacers or hub components may be needed. Buyers are advised to verify the full list of components prior to placing an order instead of assuming that the advertised starting price covers all of the components.
Purchase for the conditions you Actually have to
It is logical to utilize the track system when you want to solve the issue over and over again.
If your side-by-side regularly encounters deep snow swamps, muddy pastures or marshy ground, or difficult weather conditions, trails could expand the work it can accomplish. If you’re only using your side-byside for recreation purposes in a few instances the cost of maintenance may not be worthwhile.
ATVtracks.net has spent over 20 years helping people choose to install, maintain, and even repair track systems. The company’s staff can confirm compatibility and determine parts required to fit a specific vehicle.
Before you invest, think about how often your machine gets stuck, what type of terrain is causing the problem, and whether improvements in flotation could be beneficial.
The correct tracks can’t remove any terrain obstacle but they can convert a side-by-side that sits idle in difficult terrain into equipment that can be used for the time when accessibility is most important.