Riding your atv in the winter can be quite a production. First there are all the extra clothes, finding a place to ride with some decent snowpack, loading up the machines, and so on. And don’t forget keeping it ride-ready during the winter and/or removing the snowplow from its front end.
But there are a few insider tips to make the winter voyage a bit less toilsome. Aside from the obvious—waterproof gloves, extra socks, etc.—tie something large to your key, since one drop in deep snow means you are walking back in the cold. Factor in cold hands, and big gloves, and it’s a good idea to protect the key.
Usually mid to low tire pressure is recommended for your atv, but not for riding in the snow. When riding on snowpack be sure to keep your tires full of air, around 4.5 to 5 psi. This will ensure the weight is distributed to the parts of the tire that get the most traction. Beware of low lying swampy areas that could be hiding ice under a few inches of powder, and in terms of ice riding, Alaskans say they need 12 inches of ice before they will take their machine across. The same ought to apply here, but crossing any type of water, with the exception of small streams, is always dangerous. It is best to be avoided is possible.
Don’t forget to bring a space blanket, fire starter kit, shovel and a small saw. The saw always comes in handy to make strong levers should you get stuck. If you do get stuck, you should have a winch, but be sure there is no water in your winch before you ride, since by the time you need a tug the winch will be frozen solid and of no use. Another helpful tip is that once you are dragging snow on the frame, you’re in too deep as they say. Also, remember that you can still get wet even though it is well below freezing. Since your machine will heat up, in combination with your body heat, your seat will always get wet. That much is guaranteed. Waterproof pants are a lifesaver.
We carry all the winter weather gear you need, so pay us a visit.
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