If you are going to head out into the cold this winter you will no doubt be aware that you are going to have to gear up in order to stay safe and warm. Hitting the trail or even plowing can be dangerous without the right gear. You have to stay safe and your vehicle needs to be protected. Be prepared.
This winter there are some accessories that you should simply not be without – here is a list from Side by Side Garage of those essentials that will keep you and your vehicle on the right path.
Accessories for Heating
Staying warm when you are out and about is of the utmost importance. If you purchase an UTV and SxS model that has heated seats that’s well and good – but you may need that little bit extra. Your hands need to be warm – not only will that help with normal driving tasks – but in the event of an emergency, warm hands can mean the difference between making it home and disaster.
Not all UTV makes will have it but a heated steering wheel that keeps your hands comfortable and flexible so that you are ready for whatever winter has to throw at you is a must. Some companies also offer side-by-side and heated grips for most makes of UTV. Switch them on and you will give yourself a hearty pat on the back for your foresight.
These products can allow you to make the most of your time outdoors – and can even allow you to spend more time doing what you need to do, be that a leisure pursuit or during the hours of work. The products are available for a number of makes and models of vehicles and feature wire harnesses, making them simple to install. If the temperature falls below freezing these are the sorts of products that tenure that dexterity does not become a thing of the past – safety (and comfort) first should the rule of your still working thumbs.
Traction Systems
A track kit transforms your UTV or SxS into a vehicle that can cope with the harshest of conditions. The track system replaces the tires of your vehicle with tracks that resemble those used on the most successful models of snowmobiles. They offer great performance in deep snow and can help you deal with tracks that might before have seemed impassable. With standard tires, you avoid snow that is deeper than the height of your tires or the vehicle’s standard ground clearance.
Dig in with a standard setup and you are not going anywhere. However, with a track kit you simply float over deep snow and improved traction means that you can tackle steeper gradients. Towing and plowing become far easier – even under the harshest of conditions.
The challenge is to find a track system that is compatible with your machine – while at the same time enjoying ease of installation. Just make sure to find ones specifically engineered to match the engine output of your machine, match the chassis setup, the speedo readings and work with your DPS power steering to ensure that you remain in control at all times.
Plows
Many off-road vehicles are used for snow removal – and for these vehicles, the fitment of a snow ploy is a non-negotiable addition. The challenge is to find the right plow – there are a confusing number on the market. Some use the factory-fitted winch mechanism to lift the plow blade – others may require some after-market work. The key is to find a system that is compatible with your vehicle.
Cab Enclosures
The best way to be protected from the cold is to simply be insulated from its effects. Every enthusiast of winter sports and leisure activities knows that clothing is their first line of defense against sub-zero temperatures. Water and wind-proof clothing are essential. However, when the temperature really begins to plummet then you need the warmth and peace of mind of a great cab enclosure.
That enclosure will shield both you and your passengers from the worse that Mother Nature can throw at you. With the right enclosure, you can spend the entire day on the trail and still return home toasty warm.
