A powerful side-byside can be used to pull equipment, haul items, and handle demanding trails. A section of icy or flooded ground could place everything in a bind.
Most problems aren’t due to horsepower. Sometimes, the tires can’t disperse the machine’s weight, or find enough traction to progress forward.
That’s when UTV tracks can be considered. UTV tracks change the way your car interacts with its surroundings making it possible to access areas that would be otherwise difficult to access because of winter or mud.
Traction and Flotation Aren’t the Same Thing
Although tires with aggressive treads can increase grip, they still concentrate vehicle weight in four small zones.
UTV track systems spread that weight to a larger area. This decreases the pressure in the ground and allows the vehicle to traverse hard snow, soft terrain and muddy terrains with no sinking.
It is vital to be aware of the difference in order to make sense of it. The owner of a property might need to be near a fence not accessible after sleet. A farmer might have to cross a pasture that is wet without leaving deep ruts. It may be necessary for those who manage the rural trails to have dependable access during the spring freeze. Tracks can ease the burden while also reducing the impact on the terrain.
The Right System Depends on Your Machine
Not all tracks designed for UTVs are made for the same machines or work. ATVtracks.net offers four tracks that come from Camso and Kimpex. The Camso UTV ENDUR is intended for larger side-by sides of 1000cc and above, while the Camso 4S1 is a full-size version of machines that fall within 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 merely the starting point and not a guarantee of fit. Check the make, model and year of your vehicle prior to purchasing side-byside tracks. The installation kit should match the exact model, and even similar vehicles might require different equipment.
Accessibility is an option to trade off
Tracks improve access, but they don’t make UTV easier or cheaper to operate. Certain manufacturers’ plans reveal that certain systems reduce the speed of travel by as much as 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. They also put more stress on their drivetrain.
These demands can be managed through the use of low range, by limiting the sustained speed, and following the recommendations of the manufacturer of your vehicle.
Rubber tracks also wear out faster if you use them continuously on an abrasive surface such like pavement or gravel. They work better on suitable terrain, even if they’re designed to be used throughout the seasons.
Budget over the Track Units
Quality side by side track systems represent a substantial investment. The systems offered by ATVtracks.net have starting prices ranging between $6,000 and $13,000 based on their design and application.
But the track units aren’t necessarily the whole installation. You may need vehicle-specific mounting parts and anti-rotational hardware. Additionally other hubs, spacers, or spacers may be required. Prior to ordering, the buyer should check the complete components list and don’t assume that the cost of purchase includes everything.
Purchase for the conditions you Actually Face
When a track system is the most effective solution to a problem that keeps recurring, it makes sense.
Tracks are a great option if your side-byside is regularly facing deep snow, muddy fields, rough terrain, or other difficult conditions. The cost and maintenance of tracks might not be worth it for occasional use.
ATVtracks.net has been around for more than two decades helping car owners choose, install, and maintain track systems. Its team is able to confirm compatibility, and identify parts required to fit a specific vehicle.
Be aware of the times you get stuck on your machine, the environment that causes it and if improved flotation will significantly improve your experience.
The right tracks will not solve every single obstacle to your terrain. However, they can turn an old side-by-side left in a stalemate during harsh conditions into an equipment which you can continue to use for the most crucial access.
