Snowmobile tracks are essential for riding enthusiasts who enjoy exploring on and off trails. Quality tracks provide many benefits that enhance the overall snowmobiling experience. So, they have specialized equipment such as reinforced rubber and aggressive tread patterns that improve traction in deep snow and icy conditions.
These features make these tracks better for snowmobiling, ensuring they last for years with minimal wear. However, one’s riding style, riding conditions, and maintenance practices can lower the durability of the tracks. A malfunctioning track that compromises safety or does not meet one’s riding style needs to be replaced.
When the replacement time comes, one should carefully evaluate their options to ensure they choose the ideal track that best suits their riding needs and conditions. Here are ten key takeaways when replacing a snowmobile track.
Correct Machine Size
Snowmobile tracks come in different sizes, and some may not be compatible with some models or riding terrains. This variation makes it crucial to choose the right size for optimal performance. One should consider the available options for the track models they are considering and their riding style, terrain type, and snow conditions to ensure they pick the best fit for their snowmobiling needs.
With this knowledge, one can use the track dimension information in the owner’s manual to select the appropriate track size and ensure it fits and performs efficiently. However, one may not know the width, length, or lug height of their current track, making it hard to choose a suitable replacement.
Buyers may not know the track size that can provide the best performance for their riding conditions, further adding to the challenge. However, riders can visit a reputable dealership like karl malone motorsports, where they can find many track options and seek expert advice. The dealerships have knowledgeable staff that can provide insights into track specifications and help pick the right fit for their snowmobile.
Riding Style
Different terrains demand different riding skills to enhance performance and safety. So, riders must adapt to specific conditions since each environment presents unique challenges requiring special skills or equipment. For instance, riders should choose a snowmobile track that aligns with their riding style and the specific conditions they might encounter.
The right track option ensures optimal performance and enjoyment on the trails. Tracks with lower lugs might be ideal for riders on groomed trails, providing smoother rides and improved fuel efficiency.
On the other hand, off-trail riders should get tracks with taller lugs to ensure they get better grip and enhanced traction in deep snow and rugged terrain. A good grip ensures a confident and controlled ride that allows riders to easily navigate tough conditions, improving overall safety and enjoyment on the trails.
Lug Design
The design and shape of the lugs can affect a track’s traction and performance. Deeper, more aggressive lugs provide better bite in soft snow, while flatter lugs can improve stability on hard-packed surfaces. Those who ride on icy or hard-packed snow can get better rides if they choose tracks with sharper lugs. Therefore, riders should consider a track with larger lugs to prevent the machine from sinking when riding in areas with soft snow.
Track Type
Safety should be a top priority when choosing a snowmobile track. Selecting the right track can improve handling, stability, and overall performance in various riding conditions. Studded tracks offer enhanced traction and can improve braking and control, making them the best option for those riding in hard-packed snow areas. However, they can cause excessive surface wear and may not be suitable for all environments.
Riders should consider their specific conditions before making a choice. Alternatively, they can consider a non-studded track and install studs based on the rider’s needs. This flexibility allows riders to adjust their setup for various terrains, ensuring optimal traction and safety in different conditions.
Durability
Snowmobile tracks have an expected lifespan, but some may last longer depending on the material and construction quality. Therefore, riders should prioritize tracks made from materials that resist tearing, cracking, and wear for riding in different conditions. Additionally, those who ride in rugged conditions or areas with rocks, tree stumps, or debris should consider buying tracks with additional layers of rubber and fabric. These modifications provide extra protection and improve the machine’s durability.
Track System Performance
The track system can still develop issues despite replacing the snowmobile track. Therefore, riders should inspect and replace worn-out track system parts when replacing tracks. They should inspect the track clips, drive sprockets, hyrax, and other areas to get professional maintenance services when they notice a problem. Ensuring these components are in good shape keeps the track in pristine condition and extends the useful life of the snowmobile.
Proper Tension
Proper track tension is essential for smooth operation and optimal traction. If the track is too loose, it can slip on the drive sprockets, reducing efficiency and causing damage. If it’s too tight, it can lead to premature wear on the suspension and drive components.
After replacing the track, riders should follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for adjusting the track tension. This will ensure optimal performance, prolong the life of the components, and provide a safer riding experience.
Suspension System
A truck’s suspension system influences its behavior when riding in different conditions. If the rider chooses a wide track, the suspension system should be able to handle the added width and provide optimal stability, control, and comfort during rides. If the suspension is inadequate, the truck’s weight can add more strain to the system, potentially leading to low performance, increased wear, and a less comfortable riding experience.
Therefore, riders should ensure the suspension system is compatible with the track. They should also set the suspension setting to match their riding style to ensure they can control their snowmobile tracks when riding.
Installation Complexity
Improper installation of snowmobile tracks can lead to problems that can compromise safety when riding or reduce its longevity. Therefore, riders should always hire a competent mechanic for installation. They can skillfully remove and fix different parts and ensure the tracks are correctly aligned and tensioned. This precision improves performance and minimizes the risk of future issues.
Cost of Replacement
The amount the rider will spend when replacing their snowmobile track depends on the type, size, and quality they choose. They may have to set a bigger budget for a high-performance or specialized track. Their budget may also be higher if they replace worn-out parts when replacing their tracks. Riders should invest in a high-quality track that suits their riding style and durable parts to keep their machine performing optimally for years.
Replacing a snowmobile track is crucial to keep the machine performing at its best. If riders hire a professional to replace the worn-out parts, they will enjoy a safe ride and maintain their snowmobile in good shape. These tips can help riders make informed decisions and enhance the snowmobiling experience.
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