A Beginner’s Guide to Riding Your UTV in the Snow
Winter is just around the corner, which means that snow is going to start falling soon. However, you don’t have to quit riding your UTV just because there’s snow on the ground. UTVs (also called side-by-sides) are designed to handle all sorts of terrain, which include rocks, mud, sand, ice, and snow. With a few precautions and the right preparation, you can enjoy riding your machine through the cold weather.
The experts at Maxey’s Motorsports have created this brief guide to help you get your side-by-side ready for riding in the snow. If you need any help or you want to check out some high-quality UTVs for sale in Oklahoma City, OK, feel free to visit our dealership so we can show you some of the top models we have available right now.
Ready Your UTV for the Cold Weather
First and foremost, it’s important to make sure that your side-by-side is all prepped for the bitter cold. Start by switching out the standard engine fluids for winter-specific products, like replacing engine coolant with antifreeze. Gasoline can withstand cold temperatures, so this shouldn’t be a problem, but make sure you top off your fuel, so you don’t run out on the trail.
You can also consider upgrading your UTV with accessories to make it better suited for riding in the snow. A snow-plow attachment at the front can be used to clear the path as you tear up snowy trails in your vehicle. This is also a useful attachment to have at home to clear the driveway. Consider getting snow tires, chains, or tracks that provide better traction.
A major perk of riding a UTV in the winter is that you can add a cover to protect yourself from precipitation and wind. Adding a more complete enclosure or even just installing a windshield can shield you from high winds and keep you dry, even if it’s snowy or rainy outside.
Keep Yourself Warm
The weather is already going to be bitterly cold. When you add in the winds that will blow past you as you travel at high speeds, you’re bound to suffer from shivering and numb hands. You’ll need the right gear to combat the plummeting temperatures. A full-face helmet is the safest option and it will help keep you warmer than other types of helmets.
Wear a woolen cap and a snug scarf, and consider investing in sturdy boots. Layering clothes is a great way to keep yourself warm and cozy as you ride your side-by-side. 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.
Follow Good Snow Safety Practices
Even when you and your UTV are ready for the snow, you’ll still need to be careful about your driving habits when you’re behind the wheel. There’s a risk of skidding off the trail or losing traction if you’re not alert, so keep things slow and steady. Watch out for icy patches that you may not have seen and try to go around them, especially if the weather has been warming up recently.
You’ll want to ride responsibly by following the rules of the trail and all other standard safety practices, like remaining sober while driving your side-by-side and being careful around pedestrians and animals. Don’t be afraid to cut your ride short and head for safety if the winds pick up significantly or if there’s a snowstorm. You should also get plenty of rest to warm up, drink hot liquids, and have a snack.
We hope that these tips will help you enjoy riding your side-by-side in the snow. If you’re still looking for that perfect machine to conquer the trails, then come check out our selection of UTVs for sale at Maxey’s Motorsports in Oklahoma City, where we proudly serve all those in Edmond and Tulsa, OK. Our friendly staff will be happy to answer your questions and provide advice on which models best suit your budget and lifestyle, so stop by today!