A strong side by side can carry equipment, haul materials and tackle difficult trails. A stretch of snowy or flooded ground could place everything on hold.
It’s not always the engine’s horsepower that is causing issues. Tires might not be able distribute weight evenly, or provide sufficient traction to enable the machine advance.
That’s when UTV tracks are considered. UTV tracks change the way your vehicle interacts with the environment and allow you to travel into areas otherwise unaccessible due to winter or mud.
Traction isn’t the Same as Flotation
Although aggressive tires can improve grip, the weight of the vehicle remains consolidated in four small areas.
UTV track system distributes weight across a wide area. This reduces ground pressure and allows the vehicle to travel on deep snow, soft soil and muddy terrains without sinking as easily.
The difference matters for practical work. After a snowfall property owner may need to cross a fence. A farmer might need to cross a muddy field without making deep ruts. It may be necessary for those who manage the rural trails to have dependable access when spring thaw occurs. Tracks make the job more manageable while reducing damage to sensitive ground.
The best system depends on Your Machine
Not all tracks for UTVs are designed for identical vehicles or workloads. ATVtracks.net has four different systems of Camso, and Kimpex. The Camso UTV ENDUR is designed to accommodate larger side-by-sides with a capacity of 1000cc and above, while the Camso 4S1 covers many full-size 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 only the starting point and does not guarantee the fit. Before buying side by side tracks, make sure you know your vehicle’s make, model, and year. The mounting kit needs to be compatible with the specific machine. Even cars that look alike may require different equipment.
There are trade-offs in favor of better access
Tracks might improve access, but they do not make UTVs less expensive or quicker to operate. The manufacturer’s planning data indicate that some systems reduce travel speed by 30 to 35% when as compared to tires. The added weight and resistance to rotation can also impact fuel consumption and place additional demands on the drivetrain.
Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, using low range when driving in heavy or deep conditions. Also, limiting your speed can aid in coping with these pressures.
Rubber tracks can also wear more quickly If you continue to use them on abrasive surfaces such as asphalt or gravel. While the present system was designed to operate throughout the year however, they perform best when they are placed on a suitable surface.
Budget beyond the Track Units
Side-by-side track systems can be a substantial investment. ATVtracks.net offers systems with costs starting at $6,000 and going up to $13,000 based upon the model and the intended usage.
The track units do not constitute the entire system. Certain mounting components for vehicles including anti-rotation equipment, possible additional spacers or hub parts could be required. The entire list of components must be verified prior to the purchase is made.
Purchase under the conditions that You Actually Facing
If a tracker is the best solution to a problem that keeps coming back, it makes sense.
Tracks are useful when your side-by-side is frequently facing deep snow, muddy fields, areas of marshy terrain, or any other difficult conditions. For those who only enjoy occasional use with trails that are well-maintained The additional cost and maintenance can be hard to justify.
ATVtracks.net is an organization that has assisted owners for over 20 years to design, install and maintain track systems. Its team is able to verify compatibility and pinpoint components needed for a specific vehicle.
Be aware of the times you get stuck with your machine, and the conditions that cause it, and if a better flotation system will be a big difference.
The right tracks won’t eliminate all terrain limitations however, they can transform an idle side-by-side in difficult conditions into equipment you can continue using when access matters most.