A powerful side-by can tow equipment, transport supplies, or tackle difficult trails. A stretch of snowy or waterlogged ground could put everything on hold.
It’s not always the horsepower that creates issues. The tires may not be able to spread weight evenly, or provide sufficient traction for the machine to advance.
UTV tracks are worthwhile to consider. UTV tracks alter how your car interacts with its surroundings which allows it to reach areas that are otherwise impossible due to winter conditions or mud.
Traction and Flotation Do Not Mean the Same Thing
Although tires with aggressive treads can increase grip, they nevertheless concentrate vehicle weight in four small zones.
UTV track systems spread that weight to a larger area. This lowers pressure on the ground and helps the machine travel over deep snow, soft soil and muddy terrains without sinking as quickly.
The difference is important for the practical use. A property owner might need to reach a distant fence after snowfall. A farmer may need to cross a pasture that is wet without causing deep ruts. It may be necessary for someone who is responsible for maintaining rural paths to have reliable access when spring thaw occurs. Tracks can help in completing these tasks and lessen the risk of damage to fragile terrain.
The Right System Depends on Your Machine
Some tracks are not designed to work with the same type of vehicles or loads. ATVtracks.net has four UTV tracks from Camso as well as Kimpex. The Camso 4S1 system can be used with many full-size vehicles within the 400-1000cc class.
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 a 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 needs to exactly match the machine. Even vehicles that look similar can need different hardware.
There are trade-offs for greater access
Tracks could improve access, however they do not make UTVs less expensive or more efficient to use. Plans from the manufacturers indicate that some systems reduce travel speed by about 30 to 35 percent when as compared to tires. The added rotating weight and resistance increase the amount of fuel consumed, and puts an additional burden on drivetrains.
Low range is a good option in difficult or heavy conditions, limiting speeds sustained, and observing the guidelines of the vehicle manufacturer can assist in managing these requirements.
Rubber tracks wear more quickly when they are continuously used on gravel or abrasive surfaces. They work better on appropriate terrain, despite the fact that they’re intended to be used in multiple seasons.
Budget Units Beyond the Track
High-quality side by side track systems can be a major investment. ATVtracks.net provides systems at costs starting at $6,000 and going up to $13,000 depending on the design and intended use.
The track unit is not always the complete installation. There may be specific vehicle mounting hardware and anti-rotational components. Additionally other hubs, spacers, or spacers may be required. Buyers are advised to verify the full list of parts prior to ordering instead of thinking that the advertised price will cover all of the components.
Buy for the Conditions You Actually have to
Track systems make the most sense when improved access solves an issue that has been recurring.
Tracks can be beneficial If your side-by-side is often confronted with thick snow, muddy fields marshy terrain, or other difficult conditions. If you use your side-by-side for recreational purposes in a few instances, the extra expense and maintenance could not be justified.
ATVtracks.net has spent over 20 years helping people choose to install, maintain, and even repair track systems. Its experts confirm compatibility as well as determine the components required for a vehicle.
Consider how often you get stuck with your machine, and the terrain that causes it, and if a better flotation system will significantly improve your experience.
The right tracks will not remove every obstacle in the terrain. However, they can turn an old side-by-side lying idle in tough conditions into a piece of equipment that you can use in the times when accessibility is crucial.