A powerful side-bys-side can move equipment, transport supplies and navigate difficult trails. A stretch of snowy or flooded ground can put everything on hold.
The problem isn’t always horsepower. Sometimes, the tires are unable to spread the load of the machine or get enough traction to advance.
UTV tracks can be a great option. UTV tracks alter how your vehicle interacts with its surroundings making it possible to reach areas that are otherwise inaccessible due to winter or mud.
Traction and Flotation Are Not the Same
While aggressive tires may increase grip, the weight of the vehicle is still packed into four rather small spaces.
UTV track systems spread that weight across a wider area. This lowers the pressure on the ground and allows the vehicle to travel over deep snow and soft soil without sinking.
The difference matters for practical purposes. Following a snowfall property owner might have to cross a fence. Farmers may need to cross a wet pasture without leaving deep ruts. Anyone who runs trails in rural areas may require reliable access during the spring thaw. Tracks can make these chores easier to handle while minimizing the chance of damaging sensitive ground.
Your machine will decide the most appropriate system for your needs.
Some UTV tracks are not designed for the exact car or for the same load. ATVtracks.net provides four tracks from Camso and Kimpex. The Camso 4S1 is designed for 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 only starting points and are not a guarantee of their suitability. Make sure you know the model, make and year of your car before purchasing side-by-side tracks. The kit for mounting must match the exact machine. Even cars that look similar can need different hardware.
There are trade-offs in favor of more accessibility
Tracks could improve access, however they don’t make UTVs more affordable or quicker to run. Manufacturer planning figures indicate that some systems can reduce the speed of travel by approximately 30-35% in comparison to tires. Additional weights that rotate and resistance will also boost the fuel consumption of vehicles and put extra stress on their drivetrain.
As per the advice of the manufacturer following the manufacturer’s advice, use a low range for driving in heavy or severe conditions, and slowing down your speed can help you manage these demands.
Rubber tracks will wear out more quickly in the event that they are constantly used on pavement or gravel that is abrasive. Although the current designs were created to work in all seasons, their performance is best when they are operated on the right terrain.
Budget beyond the Track Units
Quality side by side track systems represent a substantial investment. ATVtracks.net’s systems start at a price of $6,000 and go up to $13,000, based on their designs.
The track unit is not always the whole installation. Certain mounting components for vehicles, anti-rotation hardware, and possibly additional hubs, spacers, or parts might be required. Buyers are advised to verify the full parts list before ordering instead of thinking that the advertised price will cover everything.
Make a purchase subject to the conditions you Face
A track system makes most sense when it solves a recurring problem.
Tracks can be beneficial when your side-by-side is frequently in deep snow, muddy fields, rough terrain, or other conditions that are difficult. If you are only using your side-byside for recreation purposes with firm trails only occasionally the cost of maintenance may not be worth it.
ATVtracks.net has been around for more than two decades helping owners select to install, maintain, and even repair track systems. Their team can help verify that the system is compatible and can identify the components required for a specific car.
Think about how often you are stuck with your machine, and the conditions that cause it, and if a better flotation system will have a major impact.
The best tracks will not eliminate all terrain limitations but they can help turn the side-by-side which is idle in difficult conditions into equipment you can keep using whenever accessibility is the most important factor.