Polaris RZR Snow Tracks
Sep 28th 2022
If you live in the northern latitudes, it can be nearly impossible to ride your side-by-side during the wintertime. But instead of being limited to lower elevations or having to wait until after Memorial Day to ride, you can equip your rig with some aftermarket accessories so that it handles better on snow and ice. Tire chains can work in some instances, but for deep powder, you’re going to need a set of Polaris RZR snow tracks. While it might not be as fast as a snowmobile, a tracked-out Razor will take you almost anywhere you want to go. So if you’re considering snow tracks for your Polaris RZR, RZR 4, or RZR Turbo, here are some thoughts to get you going!
Types Of Polaris RZR Snow Tracks
There are a variety of snow track options available for side-by-sides, but not every track setup is designed to fit the Polaris RZR. The Backcountry snow track kits by Apache, for instance, are made for Can-Am UTVs, and require different mounts and a few other modifications to work on a Razor.
For easy out-of-the-box fitment, Camso, Kimpex, Mattracks and Track System Canada are all made to fit the Polaris RZR. Each snow track system has its advantages, but the crowd favorite for the RZR are Camso 4s1 tracks. Although they might get a little bogged down in several feet of snow with no base, even a turbocharged sled would struggle in such conditions. Whether you’re using your rig to plow snow or simply traversing groomed trails in the comfort of your heated cabin, there’s a lot to love about a Polaris RZR on tracks!
What Is The Top Speed Of A Polaris RZR On Tracks?
Most track systems reduce the top speed of the vehicle they're attached to by around 50%, so whatever the top speed is on wheels, you’ll be able to go about half that on tracks. One caveat, however, is that these speeds can only be achieved on hard-pack, and the deeper the snow is that you encounter, the slower your top speeds will be.
With the factory governor, you can get around 40MPH +/- 5MPH in an RZR Turbo S on tracks. With a regular Polaris RZR XP on Camso tracks, your top speed will be roughly 35-40MPH. In deep snow, however, don’t expect to go any quicker than 7MPH – any faster and you’ll run the risk of throwing rods and pistons.
Can You Ride A Polaris RZR With Snow Tracks On Snowmobile Trails?
Depending on where you are, it might be illegal to ride a UTV on winter trails that are maintained for snowmobiles. In places like Maine, you can’t run sled trails with tires, so snow tracks are a must. Tracked-out Razors are allowed on ORV routes, double-track trails, and seasonal roads in states like Michigan when it's snowy, but in places like Wisconsin, there are 50” max width restrictions on trails during the winter time. In some states, you’re only allowed to ride on frozen waterways or private property with permission in a UTV on tracks. In others, you can legally ride a tracked-out UTV on designated snowmobile trails without a problem. It all depends on where you ride, so make sure to look up the local ordinances before you embark on your frozen expedition!
Do You Run Your Razor In High With Tracks Installed?
If you’re hill climbing, you should drop to low gear when riding an RZR with tracks installed. Otherwise, you’re fine to ride in high gear -- so long as you keep an eye on the engine heat when riding for extended periods of time. For smaller Razors like the 800, it might feel a little underpowered with tracks installed. So like you would with bulky aftermarket tires, you might want to install a clutch kit before running snow tracks!
Are Polaris RZR Snow Tracks Right For You?
Like with anything related to side-by-sides, you have to adjust your Polaris RZR snow tracks properly for them to function as they're meant to without failure. A good set of aggressive tires can often get you where you’re going, but you can also get studded snow tires or tire chains for your buggy if need be. Snow tracks do require a bit of maintenance, and when they fail, you’ll need another rig on tracks to rescue you.
Track kits like the ones by Mattracks are great for not only snow, but mud and muskeg as well. Camso tracks, on the other hand, are designed to be used exclusively on snow. You’ll never get an RZR on tracks to be as capable or nimble as a snowmobile, but as far as comfort is concerned, the warm and cozy cabin of an RZR on tracks can’t be beat!