ATV snow riding in deep snow can be fun using the right technique. Getting stuck in snow offers some challenges also. Here in Colorado you either learn to ride in snow or you put your ATV in winter storage for six to eight months each year.
When ATV snow riding in deep snow it is all about momentum and common sense. That is keep going and try not to stop in the deep stuff. The biggest problem with deep snow is getting high centered or stuck up to the frame. This is where bigger, more aggressive tires and/or an ATV lift kit help out dramatically.
The main necessity for ATV snow riding is an ATV winch and the proper winch accessories because your going to get stuck whether you like it or not. Typically when riding on a snow covered trail the ATV with the most ground clearance will lead the pack, blazing the trail for the others to follow.
When one does get high centered, rocking the ATV from side to side with moderate throttle will help the tires grab some traction and get some movement. Sometimes the snow drifts just get too big and you end up turning around and finding another trail.
I have been on several snow rides where it turns out to just be a winch fest because the snow is so deep. It’s times like these where proper winching techniques really pay off as I have seen many winch failures from improper winching. A little patience and understanding can go a long way in the successful winching of a stuck ATV.
A good set of aftermarket tires really makes a difference also. Stock or wore tires just don’t cut it when it comes to ATV snow riding. An ATV lift kit enables the use of larger tires and increases your ground clearance.
The other critical part of winter ATV riding is staying warm and dressing appropriately. I don’t care what you are doing, if your cold it’s just not that fun. Layering your clothing, waterproof boots and gloves are part of the game plan. Around here the weather can change in an instant so being prepared makes the best sense.
If you are like me you have a lot invested in your ATV so why not use it year round. Make sure you have the proper accessories for the task and have some fun while ATV snow riding. To get more use out of your ATV in the winter put it to work with an ATV Plow and save yourself some grief and a sore back.
[...] expected to be in the 50′s in town I headed towards Rampart Range this last Saturday for a ATV snow ride. I met up with five others at 9:00am at the staging area next to the old Spurcewood Inn. Now the [...]
[...] and you have a lot of dust forcing you to gasp for every breath, Not Healthy. In the winter on a snow ride keeping your face warm without fogging your goggles can really be a challenge. All of the above is [...]
[...] Good times, good people, good weather and a good ride even though we did not log very many miles an ATV snow ride is still a great way to start the new [...]
[...] Even though it was a short ride it was still fun riding the Red Elephant. This is probably the last ATV snow ride of the season but some of those snow drifts may be there for a couple more weeks. Hopefully someone [...]