Riding your Side by Side in the Snow

When there’s snow on the ground, you might start looking for more efficient ways of getting around. Or maybe you simply don’t want to be giving up some of your favorite pastimes. Whatever the case may be, using a powersports vehicle you already have, like your trusty side by side, is probably going to be more efficient than going out to get something brand new. Your side by side also gives you the option of year-round use, rather than just one season. But using your UTV in the snow is going to require special preparation, so check out the guide we here at Peak Powersports LLC have provided below. You can also stop by our location in Sheridan, Wyoming, near Buffalo, so we can show you some of the UTV models we have available right now.

Prepare Your UTV for the Cold

Start by making sure your UTV is all prepped for freezing cold weather. This is probably going to mean switching out some of the standard engine fluids for winter-specific products. Make sure there’s no excess water in your coolant that could freeze, and replace it with a product that’s safe for below-freezing temperatures. Many of your other engine fluids won’t freeze until well below 0℉, but it can’t hurt to check them before you ride.

There are other add-on features you can install to help your side by side function more efficiently in the snow. You can use a snow plow attachment to clear paths for your UTV, other people, and even other vehicles. You’ll also want to upgrade to snow tires for more traction, or maybe even talk to our service staff about opting for tracks.

One of the advantages of using a UTV for snow riding is you’ll have access to a full cover. Throw one of these on and you’ll be completely enclosed and protected 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.

Staying Warm

Next, make sure you’re all prepped for freezing cold weather. The snow might make things chilly to begin with, but throw in the winds that’ll whistle past you when you’re traveling at top speeds and your teeth will probably start to chatter, even if you have that full cover. This will need to include all your standard safety gear, including your helmet and goggles (if you have them). If you find your summer helmet is letting too much cold air in, consider getting a full-face motorcycle helmet for added insulation.

Wear insulated gloves and even bring along hand warmers in your pockets. While layering will always be the best choice when it comes to the clothes you wear, you’ll probably want your outermost layers to be snow pants and a snow jacket. These are better suited for this kind of cold weather.

Good Snow Safety Practices

Even with all your snowy side by side upgrades, you’ll still need to be wary of your driving habits when you’re behind the wheel. There’s still an increased risk that you skid off the trail or lose traction at a bad time. As tempting as it is to go full speed, keep things slow and steady, especially when going into a turn. Be wary of ice, especially if temperatures have been warming up. And, as always, follow all other standard safety practices, like staying sober and staying hydrated and rested.

Your UTV can be an efficient and fun tool this winter, but first, you’re going to need the side by side to ride around! Stop by Peak Powersports LLC and let us know what kind of machine you’ll want this winter and for every other season. We proudly serve Sheridan and Buffalo, Wyoming.