The 5 most common questions about ATV and UTV track systems

1. What level of flotation should I expect from a track system?

When you equip your machine with a track system, you’ll reduce the ground pressure of your machine’s total weight by up to 75% (depending on vehicle weight, load and the track system model). Basically, it works by using the same concept as snowshoes: the greater the footprint, the more flotation you get. Also, keep in mind that the track system’s geometry will also affect performance in snow.

Curious to learn more about the level of flotation you can get from a track system? Ask your local dealer if there’s a demo ride day coming up. Trying a vehicle equipped with tracks is the best way to experience firsthand the benefits of track systems. Find a local dealer in your area.

2. Can a side-by-side or all-terrain vehicle equipped with a track system get stuck?

It sure can—just like any other vehicle! Track systems may be incredibly reliable, but like everything else, they can only be pushed so far.

Here’s the deal: tracks let you take your all-terrain or utility vehicle off trails, in deep snow or just about anywhere else you want to go, but they can still get stuck, and what happens is you’ll have gotten a lot further on that particular terrain before you do get stuck than if you were on tires, which means you’ll probably be that much deeper in the woods. If you do get stuck, stop as soon as you notice that your track is spinning! A simple trick to get unstuck is to back up a bit then move forward slowly, which usually does the trick. This is the best way to avoid getting even more stuck and breaking parts such as the anti-rotation system.

That’s why we recommend always bringing a few tools along—wrenches in case track tension changes, a small jack for a quick repair and a block of wood if you need to go over an obstacle—those sorts of things. Your owner’s manual will include a list of what to bring. (Lost your Camso ATV/UTV Owner’s Manual? You can find it here.)

If you always head out prepared, you’ll always have what you need on hand if your machine does get stuck. We also recommend bringing along a cellular or GPS phone, just to be on the safe side. Plus, that cellular phone might come in handy if you want to take photos of the beautiful scenery out there! (Make sure to tag us on Facebook or Instagram to be featured.)

3. Will I lose speed when I install a track system on my ATV or UTV?

The answer is yes, but there’s a very good reason for it. Vehicles lose about one third of their speed when equipped with track systems. That means you’ll only be able to reach two thirds of the vehicle’s max speed.

Why? To ensure you get maximum power in tough conditions like snow, mud or when hauling a trailer or plowing the road up to the cottage, the vehicle needs to be adapted with smaller sprockets than the ones used with wheels to retain horsepower for more torque. Added to that, track systems are heavier than tires and require more engine power to turn.

For a vehicle that would only be driving on hard surfaces, it could make sense to use bigger sprockets without losing much torque, but at the end of the day, if you’re considering purchasing a track system for your ATV or UTV, it’s not to use it on the road, is it? You already have tires for that. It’s to take it off the beaten path, without compromising HP and limiting possible mechanical failures.

Wondering what system is best for you? Compare traction, flotation and stability of Camso track systems for ATVs and UTVs.

In the end, a track system gives you a happy compromise. You lose one third of the speed you’d have on tires, but you keep the torque and gain flotation. Not a bad bargain, is it?

Alternatively, look at it this way: if you’re running in deep snow versus running on a clean racetrack, you won’t require the same amount of power to move forward, will you?

Need to find which system is right for your vehicle year, make, model and cc? Check out our Track System Fitment Guide.

4. Can a vehicle equipped with a track system pull an ice shelter or plow snow?

Yup. As you just read above, Camso track systems are engineered to retain maximum vehicle horsepower. The sprockets are adapted to your vehicle’s cc to give you the ideal plenty of power to pull an ice shelter or plow a driveway.

5. How long does a track system usually last?

Well this one’s a tougher question to answer. There are so many factors to consider; it all depends on how the track system is used. Is it being used commercially, like at a ski resort or for emergency services? During the winter only? Year-round? Are you sticking to a routine maintenance schedule?

As a general rule, any system that’s maintained as recommended by the owner’s manual and with regular, rigorous maintenance of the bearings as needed, will typically last longer.

But to give you a ballpark number: if you only use the system in the winter, diligently maintain it and properly store it when not in use, etc., a track system can last about 10 years.

You can also expect roughly this lifespan if you’re using the track system for commercial purposes or in tough conditions—but with a caveat. You’ll need to replace more moving parts, more often (bearings, tracks, etc.).

It basically always boils down to this: proper maintenance will lead to a longer-lasting track system. If you want to know more, here are 5 simple steps for extending the life of your track system. Simple guidelines for a happy, long-lasting system!

Want to know more about Camso track systems for ATVs and UTVs? Just ask us—however you’d like!

Call us: 1-819-539-2220
Email us: pws.tracksystem@camso.co
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You can also find more information on the Service & Support section of our website.