A strong side by side can haul equipment, pull supplies, and navigate difficult trails. However, one spot of icy snow or waterlogged ground can make everything stop.

Sometimes it’s not the horsepower that causes issues. The tires may not be able to distribute weight evenly, or provide sufficient grip to allow the machine to be able to move forward.

That’s when UTV tracks become worth considering. The tracks alter the way the vehicle interacts with the ground. It allows owners to access areas that might otherwise be inaccessible, especially during the winter or mud season.

Traction isn’t the Same as Flotation

Although aggressive tires could improve grip, they still concentrate the vehicle’s weight in four distinct zones.

UTV track systems distribute the weight to a larger area. This decreases the pressure on the ground. It also helps the machine travel over hard snow, soft soil, and muddy terrain without sinking as quickly.

It is important to know the difference for practical purposes. After a snowfall property owner may need to cross a fence. Farmers may need to cross a wet pasture without leaving ruts. People who manage trails for rural use could require access to a reliable source to the trail during the spring thaw. Tracks can in completing these tasks while reducing the damage to the terrain.

The Right System Depends on Your Machine

Certain tracks are not made for the same vehicle or the same loads. ATVtracks.net offers four systems by Camso and Kimpex. The Camso UTV ENDUR is designed to be used with larger side-by-sides that are 1000cc and above, while the Camso 4S1 covers many full-size models 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 only a starting point, and not a guarantee of fit. Find out the year, manufacturer, and model of your vehicle prior to buying side by sides tracks. Even similar machines can need different hardware for mounting.

Accessibility is a trade-off

Tracks improve access, but they won’t make a UTV quicker or more affordable to operate. The manufacturer’s planning data indicate that certain systems decrease the speed of travel by approximately 30-35% compared with tires. Added rotating weight and resistance also increase fuel consumption and place additional demands on the drivetrain.

Utilizing low range in extreme or severe conditions, restricting sustained speed, and following the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations can help to manage the requirements.

Rubber tracks wear down faster if they are used continuously on gravel or pavements which is abrasive. While the present designs were created to work throughout the year however, they perform best when they are used on suitable terrain.

Budget beyond the Track Units

Side-by-side track systems are a major investment. ATVtracks.net offers systems with costs starting at $6,000 and going up to $13,000 based on the model and the intended usage.

The track unit isn’t always the whole installation. Vehicle-specific mounting components as well as anti-rotation hardware and perhaps additional spacers and hub components may be needed. Buyers should confirm the complete list of components prior to placing an order instead of believing that the price advertised for starting will cover everything.

Make a purchase subject to the conditions you Are Subject to

It is logical to utilize an electronic tracker for solving an issue that is persistent.

If you often find yourself in deep snow, muddy meadows, grassy areas, or in difficult season conditions, tracks can aid your side by side complete more of the work. If you use your side-by-side to enjoy the outdoors in a few instances the cost of maintenance may not be worth it.

ATVtracks.net is an established company that has been helping owners for over 20 years to choose, install and maintain track systems. The company’s staff can confirm compatibility, and identify components needed for a specific vehicle.

Take note of how often you’re stuck on your machine, and the environment that causes it and if a better flotation system will be a big difference.

The best tracks won’t completely eliminate all terrain limitations. But they can change an old side-by-side left in a stalemate during harsh conditions into a piece of equipment that which you can continue to use when access is most important.