ATVs / RUVs with tracks

[JimMorrissey]

Gents....I've heard from some folks who have ridden ATVs with tracks that they get thrashed riding on trails and they're exhausted after a couple hours (arms, legs). The words were "I don't know why anybody would want to ride an ATV with tracks for fun". Well....looking on youtube, it looks like a whole lot of fun to me! Hard to believe what they can rip through (snow/mud/trails). On the other hand, I've heard the RUVs with tracks and a steering wheel keep this bouncing in check and are much less tiresome on the driver. ATVs with tracks look like an absolute blast and much more nimble that a RUV....about 1/3 the cost and weight as well. I know there are great utility differences between the two, but just talking fun to drive/ride here. Not sure if I must have a RUV....or what to believe. RTV is too HD and with tracks it'd be close to $25K. I don't think I could drive it on Maine's snowmobile trails either (too wide and heavy). I'm told I could register a RUV or ATV with tracks for the winter trails. Doubt the snowmobilers would be very excited about my presence though.

What do you think about this ATV vs. RUV track comparison?

 

[john_bud]

Most tracks are for snow and will shred quick in mud. Least that was the last I heard.

If you need to get somewhere, tracks will do it.

The $$$$$ stops me cold.

jb

 

[JimMorrissey]

From what I've read of the last day or so, the new track systems are much more friendly and capable of 4 season work. I'll have to see what some others say. Sort of a new generation of tracks.

 

[john_bud]

That's good to hear. Keep us posted on the details. Not that I will ever be able to afford it!

jb

 

[Ryan03]

That's good to hear. Keep us posted on the details. Not that I will ever be able to afford it!

jb

Ditto that.

 

[nmu98]

I had an Arctic Cat that had tracks on the quad. We used it for a Sema show and once it was done, the company let us play with it for some time. Tracks slow the quad to about 1/4 speed and makes it very hard to steer. I could not imagine using them unless you wanted to climb snow covered hills.

The tracks are fun for about the fist 15 mintes as you can go through anything, but then you wish you could go faster than 20 MPH and steer. I would never suggest anyone spend the money they want for them unless you need them for rescue purpose.

 

[nmu98]

Here is the video of us testing it out on the truck for the show.



Video - This is Brian getting the skid Quad loaded up for a practice run before the S.E.M.A show in INDY , If ya look hard you can see some pucker happening !!!!!!!!!!!!! lol

 

[Scooby074]

Some of the new tracks, Bombardier ones come to mind, have been redesigned to make the steering much easier. They do work good in the snow and mud but are $$ as you know. Also im not sure how the snowmobile guys will take to you on the trails. I heard there was a few "altercations" here last year between snowmobilers and Atver's on the trails.

If you got one of the new atv with power steering i think it would make a huge difference, because ive been told that the last generation tracks will wear you out!

Another thing to consider is that Atv tracks will void alot of manufacturers warranties. I know though, that if you run the Bombi tracks on a Bombi, then your warranty is still valid.

Factory video with Bombi and tracks and explanation of improved reduced steering effort YouTube - Can-Am Apache Track System

 

[john_bud]

Yeah, that's a good point on warranty. I recall something about the driveline stress being really great with tracks. Never really paid much attention as it's too $$ for me, and I have no real need.

jb

 

[JimMorrissey]

Dealer told me that they would handle the warranty regardless of manufacturers claim that its void. It does seem to be an issue though.

I'll post some pics of the rig when I get it setup.