A powerful side-by can tow equipment, transport supplies, or traverse difficult terrain. However, one spot of icy snow or wet ground can make everything stop.
The problem isn’t always with horsepower. Sometimes, the tires can’t disperse the machine’s weight, or find enough traction to make the machine move forward.
UTV tracks are then worthwhile to consider. The tracks alter the way that the vehicle is interacting on the ground. This allows owners to gain access to areas that would normally not be accessible, especially during the winter season.
Traction isn’t the same as Flotation
Agri-friendly tires can enhance grip, but they still place the vehicle’s weight in four small contact areas.
UTV track systems distribute that weight over a larger footprint. This reduces the ground pressure and allows the vehicle to navigate through difficult terrain, deep snow and muddy terrains with no sinking.
Practical work requires a different approach. A property owner might have to get near a fence distant after snow. Farmers may need to cross a wet pasture without leaving deep ruts. A person who maintains trails for the rural environment may require access throughout the spring freeze. Tracks help take care of these tasks while also protecting the ground from damage.
The Right System Depends on Your Machine
Not all UTV tracks are designed for the exact vehicle or load. ATVtracks.net provides four systems that are made by 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 the starting point and is not a guarantee of the quality. Before purchasing side by side tracks, confirm your vehicle’s make, model, and year. The mounting kit must match the exact model, and even similar vehicles can require different hardware.
Better Access comes with trade-offs
Tracks might improve access, but they will not make UTVs more affordable or quicker to operate. Manufacturer planning figures indicate that some systems reduce travel speed by around 30-35% in comparison to tires. A higher amount of resistance and weight to rotate can also impact fuel consumption and increase the demands on the drivetrain.
Use low range when in heavy or severe conditions, restricting sustained speed and adhering to the recommendations of the manufacturer can assist in managing these demands.
Rubber tracks wear down faster if they are used continuously on a surface which is abrasive. While the systems currently in use are designed for all seasons, they’re most effective when placed on a suitable terrain.
Budget Units that go beyond the Track
Side-by-side track systems are an important investment. ATVtracks.net has systems available with prices that start at $6,000 and go up to $13,000, based on the design and intended use.
The track unit isn’t always the entire installation. There may be specific vehicle mounting components as well as anti-rotational hardware. Additionally, additional hubs or spacers may be required. Buyers should verify the complete list of components prior to placing an order rather than assuming the price advertised for starting will cover everything.
Purchase to cover the conditions You Actually Have to Face
If a tracker system is the best solution to the problem that has been running into the same spot, it makes sense.
Tracks are useful for those who live on the same side of the road and are regularly faced with thick snow, muddy fields, areas of marshy terrain, or any other challenging conditions. If you only use it for occasional recreation on firm trails The additional cost and maintenance might be difficult to justify.
ATVtracks.net, a leading provider of track systems has helped owners decide on, install and maintain track systems for over two decades. Its team of experts can confirm compatibility as well as identify the essential components for a car.
Consider the frequency with which your machine is stuck and the type of terrain creating it, and whether an improved flotation system would be beneficial.
The best tracks won’t eliminate every terrain limitation. They can however transform an old side-by-side left in a stalemate during harsh conditions into equipment you can use when access is most important.