The Real Cost of Getting a Side-by-Side Through Deep Snow

A strong side-by can tow equipment, transport supplies, or tackle difficult trails. A few inches of waterlogged or deep snow can halt everything.

The issue isn’t always about horsepower. Sometimes, the tires can’t evenly distribute the weight of the machine or get enough traction to move forward.

That’s when UTV tracks become worth considering. The tracks change the way the vehicle interacts on the ground. It allows owners to get to places that otherwise would not be accessible, especially in the winter season.

Traction is not the same as Flotation

Although aggressive tires could improve grip, they do not eliminate the vehicle’s weight in four distinct areas.

UTV track systems spread that weight over a larger footprint. This decreases the pressure in the ground which allows the machine to move over hard snow, soft terrain, and muddy terrains without sinking.

Practical work requires a difference. A property owner may have to come near a fence quite far after sleet. Farmers may need to cross a wet pasture and not leave deep ruts. Anyone who is responsible for maintaining trails on rural land could require access to a reliable source during spring the thaw. Tracks can help make these jobs easier while also reducing damage to fragile terrain.

Your machine will determine the most appropriate system for your needs.

Not all tracks for UTVs are created for the same vehicles or workloads. ATVtracks.net provides four systems from Camso as well as Kimpex. The Camso 4S1 system is suited to many big-sized vehicles that fall in 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 not guarantees that the tracks will work. Check the year, model, and model of your vehicle before buying side by sides tracks. The mounting kit needs to match exactly to the machine and even vehicles with similar models might require different equipment.

The price of better access is an option to trade off

Tracks may improve access but they do not make UTVs less expensive or more efficient to use. According to the manufacturer’s plans, some systems can reduce the speed of travel by approximately 30-35% over tires. Additional weights that rotate and resistance also increase the fuel consumption of vehicles. They also put more pressure on their drivetrain.

Using low range in deep or heavy conditions, limiting the speed of sustained use, and following the instructions of the vehicle manufacturer will assist in managing these demands.

Rubber tracks also wear quicker when used for long periods on gravel or abrasive surfaces. While the present system was designed to operate throughout the year, their performance is best when used on a suitable surface.

Budget Beyond the Track Units

A high-quality side-byside track system can be a substantial investment. ATVtracks.net provides systems at prices that start at $6,000 and go up to $13,000 based upon the design and purpose of use.

The track unit isn’t always the complete installation. Certain mounting components for vehicles including anti-rotation equipment, possibly additional hubs, spacers, or components may be needed. Buyers should confirm the complete list of components prior to placing an order instead of believing that the advertised starting price covers all of the components.

Buy to the Conditions You Have to

When a tracker is the best option to solve the problem that has been coming back, it makes sense.

If your side by side is often confronted with deep snow or muddy pastures, wet ground, or challenging winter conditions, tracks could increase the amount of work they can achieve. For those who only enjoy occasional use with trails that are well-maintained the cost of additional maintenance can be hard to justify.

ATVtracks.net is a company that has assisted owners for over 20 years to install, select and maintain track systems. The team can confirm compatibility and determine elements required for a specific vehicle.

Consider how often you get stuck on your machine, the terrain that causes it and if better flotation can significantly improve your experience.

Tracks won’t be able to remove all limitations of terrain but they will turn a side-by-side vehicle that’s in idle conditions into a machine you can use when it matters most.