Working Through Deep Snow Without Relying on Tire Traction

A powerful side-by-side can carry equipment, haul materials and tackle difficult trails. One stretch of waterlogged or deep snow can stop all other equipment.

Not all problems are caused by power. Sometimes, the tires just don’t spread the load of the machine or have enough traction to progress forward.

This is the time that UTV tracks become worth considering. The tracks change the way the vehicle interacts on the ground. The tracks allow owners to access places that would otherwise be unaccessible, especially during the winter and mud season.

Traction isn’t the Same as Flotation

While aggressive tires may increase grip, the mass of the vehicle is still packed in four small areas.

UTV track systems spread that weight across a much larger footprint. This lowers the pressure on the ground and allows the vehicle to traverse difficult terrain, deep snow and muddy terrains, without sinking.

The difference is important for practical tasks. The owner of a property may need to walk close to a fence that is quite far after sleet. A farmer may need to cross a pasture that is wet without creating deep ruts. People who manage trails for rural use might require reliable access in the spring time thaw. Tracks can make these jobs easier while reducing the damage to fragile terrain.

Your machine will decide the right system for you

Not all tracks designed for UTVs are built for identical vehicles or workloads. ATVtracks.net carries four systems from Camso and Kimpex. The Camso 4S1 system is compatible with a variety of 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 merely an idea of where to start, not a guarantee of fit. Before purchasing side by side tracks, check your car’s model, make, and year. The mounting kit must precisely match the vehicle. Even cars that appear like they do may require a different set of hardware.

There are trade-offs in favor of greater accessibility

Tracks are a great way to improve accessibility, but don’t make UTVs faster or cost-effective. The planning figures of some manufacturers indicate that certain systems could decrease the speed of travel by 30 to 35 percent compared with tires. The increased weight and resistance increase fuel consumption, and places additional demands on drivetrains.

Utilizing low range in extreme or extreme conditions, limiting sustained speed and adhering to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations can assist in managing these demands.

Rubber tracks can be more worn when you are using them regularly on abrasive surfaces such as gravel or pavement. Although the current systems are designed for all seasons, they are most effective when they are placed on suitable terrain.

Budget Units Beyond the Track

A top-quality side-by-side track can be a substantial investment. The systems offered by ATVtracks.net are priced between $6,000 and $13,000, depending on their design and application.

The track units are not the complete installation. Additional components such as mounting hardware for your vehicle and anti-rotation equipment, as well hub or spacer components could be required. Before placing an order, customers should check the complete components list and do not believe that the price is inclusive of everything.

Make a purchase subject to the conditions you Face

When a track system is the ideal solution to problems that keep recurring, it makes sense.

Tracks are a great option for those who live on the same side of the road and are regularly confronted with deep snow, muddy fields, areas of marshy terrain, or any other challenging conditions. If you only use it for occasional recreation with trails that are well-maintained the cost of additional maintenance could be more difficult to justify.

ATVtracks.net has spent over two decades helping car owners choose the best, most reliable, and easy-to-install track systems. Their team can help verify compatibility and identify the components needed for the particular vehicle.

Consider how often you get stuck with your machine, the terrain that causes it and if improved flotation will make a significant difference.

Tracks aren’t able to remove all limitations of terrain, but they will transform a side-by-side vehicle which is in a stalemate in challenging conditions into an equipment you are able to use when it is most.