Comparing Track Footprint, Capacity, and Intended Use

A strong side-by-side is able to move equipment, transport supplies, and handle demanding trails. However, one spot of icy snow or ground that is soaked with water can slow everything down.

Most problems aren’t due to horsepower. The problem isn’t always about horsepower.

This is when UTV tracks are considered. UTV tracks alter the way your vehicle interacts with the environment which allows it to travel into areas otherwise unaccessible due to winter or mud.

Traction Isn’t the Same as Flotation

While aggressive tires may increase grip, the mass of the vehicle remains consolidated in four small areas.

UTV track systems spread that weight over a larger footprint. This helps reduce the pressure on the ground and allows the vehicle to traverse deep snow, soft terrain and muddy terrains, without sinking.

The distinction can be crucial to practical purposes. After a snowfall, a homeowner may have to access a fence. A farmer may need to cross a pasture that is wet without creating deep ruts. A person who maintains trails in rural areas may require reliable access throughout the spring freeze. Tracks can make these jobs easier while also reducing damage to fragile terrain.

The best system depends on Your Machine

Not all tracks designed for UTVs are built for identical vehicle or load. ATVtracks.net offers four tracks that are made by Camso and Kimpex. The Camso UTV ENDUR is intended for larger side-by sides of 1000cc and higher, while the Camso 4S1 includes a variety of full-size machines in approximately 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 just the starting point and not a guarantee of fit. Before purchasing side by side tracks, confirm your vehicle’s make, model, and year. Even similar machines might need different hardware for mounting.

There are trade-offs that can be made for greater access

Tracks might improve access, but they don’t make UTVs more affordable or quicker to use. According to the manufacturer’s planning data that certain systems could reduce travel times by 30 to 35% in comparison to tires. The extra weight and resistance increases the amount of fuel consumed, and puts further demands on the drivetrain.

Following the manufacturer’s advice to use low range for driving in heavy or severe conditions, and slowing down your speed can aid you in managing these stresses.

Rubber tracks also wear quicker when used for long periods on gravel or pavements that are abrasive. Although the current designs were created to work in all seasons however, they perform best when used in a terrain that is suitable for them.

Budget Beyond the Track Units

A quality side-by-side track system is an investment of a major amount. ATVtracks.net’s systems begin with a cost of $6,000 and go up to $13,000 depending upon their designs.

But the track units aren’t necessarily the whole installation. Other components, such as mounting hardware for your car as well as anti-rotation hardware, hubs or spacers may be required. Before purchasing, purchasers should check the complete components list and do not believe that the initial price will include everything.

Purchase according to the Terms You Are Subject to

If a tracker is the best option to solve a problem that keeps running into the same spot, it makes sense.

Tracks are a great option for those who live on the same side of the road and are regularly faced with thick snow, muddy fields areas of marshy terrain, or any other challenging conditions. For recreational use that is only occasionally with trails that are well-maintained the cost of additional maintenance could be more difficult to justify.

ATVtracks.net has spent more than two decades assisting owners to select track systems, install and maintain track systems. Their team can help verify the compatibility of the track and determine the parts required for a particular vehicle.

Think about the frequency your machine gets stuck and the type of terrain creating it, and whether an improved flotation system could help.

The correct tracks can’t remove any obstacle to travel but they can convert a side-by-side that sits idle in difficult conditions into equipment you can continue using whenever accessibility is the most important factor.

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