UTVs excel at a variety of off-road activities. Whether they are used for utility purposes or sport, they all have their limits. Pushing them beyond those limitations can cause mechanical wear and tear and result in accidents.
A few simple pre-ride checks can dramatically improve your UTV’s performance and safety on the trail.
1. Check the Tires
One of the most important aspects of your UTV is its tires. They determine how far up and over a rock or tree you can go, whether you have the traction to climb steep slopes, and even if you have enough clearance to drive through deep mud or water.
Invest in high-quality tires that are specifically designed for the types of terrain you regularly encounter. For example, snow tires have a number of grooves and channels, known as sipes, that bite into wet ice and snow to enhance traction in slippery conditions. Mud-terrain or all-terrain tires have taller, wider, and deeper treads that improve ground clearance and traction in sandy or muddy conditions.
Before heading out, ensure that your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure specified by the manufacturer. This information is usually listed in your owner’s manual or on a placard located on the driver’s door jamb. If you’re unsure about the best tire pressure for your vehicle, purchase a quality tire pressure gauge and make it a habit of checking it before every trip off-road.
Rugged terrain often punctures and tears suspension components, so carrying spare parts is critical for keeping your ride rolling. Consider packing replacement tie rods, radius rods, ball joints, and control arms. You should also pack a repair kit that includes grease, wrenches, and any specialty tools needed to fix these common failure points. If you’re venturing off-road for extended periods, stock up on larger parts like a rear differential or a front-to-rear drive shaft, as these are more likely to fail than smaller parts. These replacements can get you back on the trail quickly after a failure and prevent an unexpected breakdown from ruining your trip.
2. Check the Suspension
It’s important to inspect the suspension and make sure it is in good working order before heading out on an off-road adventure. A UTV with a properly upgraded suspension will be better equipped to handle rough terrain, giving the rider a more comfortable and safer experience.
One of the most common reasons people upgrade their UTV’s suspension is to increase ground clearance so they can go further off-road without getting stuck or damaging their vehicle. Some people also choose to enhance the performance of their UTV’s shocks, which can help them take on tougher obstacles with more confidence.
A quality suspension upgrade from a top manufacturer like Bandit UTV can provide a more comfortable ride while transforming your UTV into a more capable off-road machine. Features such as internal bypass zones can allow you to fine-tune the handling characteristics of your UTV with ease and precision.
The number one thing you need to check when preparing your UTV for off-roading is the shock preload. A professional UTV mechanic will be able to ensure your shocks have the proper preload for your machine, riding style, and terrain conditions. The right amount of preload will give your UTV a more consistent ride height and improve the overall ride quality.
If you aren’t familiar with how to check the preload on your UTV, ask a local UTV mechanic to show you how. This will ensure your shocks are ready for the trail and prevent them from blowing out after a few rides. It is also important to know your UTV’s approach and departure angles before driving over an obstacle. Having this knowledge will help you avoid getting high centered and require the use of a jack to free yourself.
3. Check the Mirrors
Whether you’re tearing up the dunes for fun or competing in an extreme off-road race, a UTV is one of the best ways to enjoy the outdoors. With their purpose-built chassis, heavy-duty suspensions, powerful engines and protective features, these versatile machines offer the perfect blend of utility and thrill. However, no matter how well-designed your UTV is, reckless driving can lead to injury and even death.
The first step to enjoying the outdoors on your UTV is to make sure you’re prepared for anything. Having the proper equipment can not only help you get out of tricky situations, but also protect you from dangerous elements like ice. For example, if you’re riding on frozen ponds or lakes, it’s important to check the thickness of the ice before you attempt to drive over it. Doing so could cause your UTV to break through the ice, submerging you in icy cold water.
Another safety item that you should have on hand is a fire extinguisher. These compact, easy-to-operate devices can quickly put out flame flare-ups when they occur in the engine compartment. If you’re in an area that’s remote from medical facilities, having a fire extinguisher can mean the difference between a minor mishap and a life-threatening situation.
Other useful accessories you should have on hand include a flashlight, a spare tire, a whip flag from handyflag.com, and some basic tools. These items can come in handy when you’re stuck on the trail and need to make a quick repair. You can also add a set of reflective emergency blankets to your UTV, as these can be helpful in keeping you warm and protected in unexpected situations like sudden storms or wet conditions.
4. Check the Lights
Even the most capable UTVs have their limitations, and some terrains pose serious challenges. Extremely rocky or steep areas, for instance, may be too much for utility or sport UTVs without the right tires and ground clearance. Deep mud and water are also challenging for UTVs unless they are equipped with appropriate tires and waterproofing.
Mud tires are ideal for mudding because they provide the extra traction needed to overcome muddy conditions. They’re available from many UTV retailers and come in different tread patterns to suit the type of terrain you’ll be driving on.
A well-stocked first aid kit is an essential for off-roading, particularly in remote locations where cell service isn’t readily available. Look for kits designed for UTV use that include items like tourniquets, compression dressings and tape. You’ll also want to brush up on first-aid knowledge and skills so you can handle an injury until professional help arrives.
While a lot of people enjoy mudding in the summer, others prefer to take on this fun sport in winter. The cold weather can make UTV riding more difficult, but there are some ways to prepare your vehicle for the conditions. You can start by spraying the body with a mudslinger, a type of non-stick aerosol that makes it easy to clean off your vehicle after a ride. You can also add a heater for added comfort and a heated steering wheel for better control.
5. Check the Heater
Some people call off-roading a dangerous hobby, but with the right preparation and equipment you can enjoy this winter pastime safely. A UTV can take you places that a regular car or truck can’t, and there are many accessories available to improve your ride’s performance and comfort.
When going off-road in winter, you should always bring a first aid kit to protect yourself from accidents that may occur. Make sure that it contains basic supplies like Band-Aids and a thermometer, as well as trauma items such as a tourniquet. Look for kits designed specifically for UTV use to ensure the items are kept in a safe place and easy to access. It’s also a good idea to brush up on your wilderness emergency response skills so you can help if anyone gets hurt while you’re out there.
A good heater for your UTV can be a game-changer for those cold weather rides. You’ll be able to stay out longer on the trails while staying comfortable and warm, which will allow you to improve your skills and have more fun. Some UTVs even have a heated steering wheel to make the riding experience even more pleasant.
Riding in snow is a great way to experience an entirely new type of trail. It’s a lot of fun and can provide some pretty epic moments on trails that you’ve ridden before. It’s important to get the best tires for snowy conditions and to add chains to increase traction. You should also remember to dress warmly and be prepared for the cold. You should also carry extra water and sports drinks so you can avoid dehydration. Keep an eye out for loose bolts or fasteners and tighten them before you go off-roading to prevent any problems.
