Post: The Stability Benefits and Limits of a Longer Track Footprint

A powerful side-by-side can be used to pull equipment, haul items and navigate difficult trails. One stretch of deep snow or a muddy ground could cause everything to stop.

It’s not always the horsepower that creates problems. Tires might not be able of distributing weight evenly, or provide sufficient traction for the machine to be able to move forward.

UTV tracks are an excellent option. The tracks change the way that the vehicle is interacting with the ground. It allows owners to gain access to areas that would normally be difficult to access, particularly in the winter season.

Traction and Flotation are Not the Same

Aggressive tires may improve grip, but they make the car’s weight a focus in four relatively small contact areas.

UTV track system distributes the weight across a vast area. This reduces ground pressure and helps the machine travel over hard snow, soft soil, and muddy terrain without sinking as easily.

It is crucial to understand the difference to be able to use it for practical purposes. Following a snowfall homeowner might need to reach an adjacent fence. A farmer may have to cross a pasture that is wet, without leaving deep ruts. A person who maintains trails in rural areas could require access to a reliable source during spring thaw. Tracks can facilitate these tasks, while also reducing damage to the terrain.

The Right System Depends on Your Machine

The UTV tracks may not be designed for the same type of car or for the same load. ATVtracks.net offers four different tracks by Camso as well as Kimpex. The Camso 4S1 system is compatible with a variety of big-sized vehicles that fall in the 400 to 1000cc category.

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 do not provide any guarantee that the tracks will work. Verify the model, make and year of your vehicle prior to purchasing side-by-side tracks. The kit for mounting must be compatible with the exact model or similar ones will require different hardware.

There are trade-offs for more accessibility

Tracks can be a fantastic way to make it easier for people to access, but they aren’t able to make UTVs quicker or cost-effective. Manufacturer planning figures indicate that certain systems slow down travel speeds by approximately 30-35% as compared to tires. Additional weight and resistance from rotating also increase fuel consumption and put additional strain on the drivetrain.

Following the manufacturer’s advice following the manufacturer’s advice, use a low range when driving in high or deep conditions. Also, limiting your speed can aid in coping with these pressures.

Rubber tracks can wear faster when you are using them regularly on abrasive surfaces, such as gravel or pavement. Although current systems are designed for multiple seasons, they are most effective when used on appropriate terrain.

Budget beyond the Track Units

Quality side by side track systems represent a substantial investment. ATVtracks.net’s systems begin at $6,000, and rise to $13,000 depending upon their designs.

The track units are not the complete installation. There could be a need for specific vehicle mounting components and anti-rotational hardware. Also, additional hubs or spacers could be needed. Before placing an order, customers should verify the entire parts list and do not believe that the cost of purchase includes everything.

Purchase to cover the conditions You Actually Face

If a tracker is the most effective solution to an issue that is repeating, it is logical.

If you often find yourself stuck in deep snow, meadows that are muddy, wet ground, or other difficult season conditions, tracks could help your side-by-side complete more of the work. For those who only enjoy occasional use on trails with firm surfaces, the additional expense and maintenance might be difficult to justify.

ATVtracks.net has spent more than 20 years helping people choose, install, and maintain track systems. The team of experts can help you confirm compatibility and pinpoint the necessary components needed for the particular vehicle.

Take note of the frequency at which your machine gets stuck, the terrain that is producing it, and if an improved flotation system could help.

The right tracks will not completely eliminate all terrain limitations. But they can change the side-by-side that was left in a stalemate during harsh conditions into a piece of equipment that you can continue to use when access is most important.

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