Tips For Riding Your Side-by-Side In The Snow
When snow covers the ground, you might want a more efficient way of getting around, or you may not want to give up on your outdoors time. Whatever the reason, instead of purchasing a new vehicle, you can simply use your powersports vehicle, like a UTV. Your side-by-side can be your trusty companion all year round if you take the proper steps required to make it more compatible with snow. To help you out with that, we at Outdoor Motor Sports & Trailer Sales have compiled the following guide. For all your powersports needs, visit our location in Amsterdam, NY. We also cover the areas of Schenectady and Albany.
Prep Your UTV for the Cold
You have to make sure your side-by-side can handle the freezing-cold weather. This involves switching out some of the standard engine fluids with products that are winter-specific. Ensure that your coolant doesn’t have any excess water that could freeze with the dropping temperatures. Replace it with a product that’s safe for below-freezing weather conditions. Many of your other engine fluids won’t freeze until well below 0℉, but it can’t hurt to check them before you ride.
To help your side-by-side function more smoothly in the snow, there are a number of add-on features you can install. To clear paths for the UTV, you can get a snow plow attachment. You can also use this to clear paths for your other vehicles! For greater traction, you should get upgrade to snow tires, or maybe even talk to our service staff about opting for tracks.
A UTV is one of the best powersports vehicles for snowy conditions because it gives you access to a full cover. With one of these one, you’ll be in an enclosed space, safe from winter winds and snowfall. If you’re not into the full cover, you can also look into windshields to at least block some of the chill.
Stay Warm
Next, you have to prep yourself for the weather. The dropping temperatures make things cold to start with; add to that the sharp winds that’ll blow past you as you travel at top speeds, and you can be pretty sure your teeth will start to chatter, even if you have a full cover. You should wear proper gear, which includes standard safety gear (including goggles and helmet). If you find your summer helmet is letting too much cold air in, consider getting a full-face motorcycle helmet for added insulation.
Layering is always a good choice when it comes to wearing clothes that’ll keep your warm and cozy as you ride your side-by-side, but you’ll probably want your outermost layers to be snow pants and a snow jacket. Wear insulated gloves and bring along hand warmers in your pockets.
Good Practices for Snow Safety
Despite all the upgrades you plan to get for your UTV, you still need to pay attention to your driving habits when you’re driving around in the snow. There’s always an increased risk of the vehicle skidding off or losing traction at the wrong time. It might be tempting to push your side-by-side to top speed, but it’s better to keep things smooth and steady, especially when you’re taking turns. Be wary of ice, especially if temperatures have been warming up. As always, follow all other standard safety practices, like staying sober and staying hydrated and rested.
We hope this guide will help you turn your UTV into a winter monster! If you need any additional help or information, head to Outdoor Motor Sports & Trailer Sales in Amsterdam, NY. We’re here for all the powersports needs of our patrons from Schenectady and Albany.