Snow removal is a great excuse for buying a new ATV, but what size should it be for plowing snow? I set to find out. Let’s have a look at why size matters when it comes to plowing snow.
What size ATV do you need for plowing snow? Any mid to upper-size utility ATV will plow snow just fine. It’s recommended to stay in the 400-800cc range, not because of engine power but because of weight. The bike should weigh from 400 to 700 lbs or more.
So it’s the weight you are looking for, not engine power. If you use a machine below the recommended range, you may run into traction issues, and anything bigger will not give you any added benefits, just the added cost. Riders who buy the bigger machines generally have other uses in mind than snow plowing only.
There is no such thing as too much power, right?
Well, engine displacement and horsepower (hp) are not as important as you may think for the sole purpose of snow plowing.
Almost any ATV engine size will work fine for plowing snow, although I would recommend getting a 400cc or bigger.
Even smaller machines than this would probably have enough power to get the job done, but these are not recommended because of reasons I’ll go more into later in the article.
When plowing, you don’t need either speed or acceleration; at least not more than any 400cc should handle just fine. And you will be amazed by the amount of snow you are able to push, even with a moderately sized machine.
Depending on the locations you will be plowing, the bigger cc machines may actually, to some degree, be a disadvantage. Plowing in tight spaces around objects and getting close to buildings requires a lot of maneuverability.
The overall dimensions on a 1000cc ATV will generally be a lot bigger than on a more moderate 500cc bike. The nimbleness of the smaller-sized machines may be just what you need in these situations.
For the purpose of plowing snow, the power difference between the 700-800cc classes and up is marginal and will be of little to no practical importance.
All of these engine sizes have pretty amazing power at their disposal.
If you only plan on using the ATV for snow plowing in winter, there is really no need to buy an 800cc plus machine. A 500cc will be more than adequate.
But if you’re anything like most other ATV buyers, you have more uses in mind.
If some of these uses include heavy towing or the thrill of speedy trail riding, fulfilling these needs may end up being the deciding factor of what engine you buy and not how much power you actually need for the snow plowing.
Also, if the cost is of importance to your decision, not only will the purchase price of a larger machine be higher, you may also want to take into consideration the higher fuel consumption a bigger engine will require.
The only reason why buying a bigger cc machine may make sense is because a bigger engine usually means more weight.
Related: How Much Do ATVs Cost – Comparing Different Types
So we have established that almost any ATV has enough power for snow plowing.
What is actually much more important to the snow pushing capabilities of any ATV is how heavy it is. More weight will give you better traction and momentum.
The extra weight of the bigger ATVs also has the effect that it helps with keeping the bike stable. It will take that much more of an impact to knock it to either side.
You will find that you run out of traction because of low weight long before you run out of engine power.
It is not the only factor, but more weight will always give you better traction between your tires and the surface, in turn, allows you to push more snow.
This is also why a 250cc machine would cause problems even though the engine power could be adequate. They simply don’t have the weight you need to plow properly.
For small amounts of light and dry snow, just about any ATV will work just fine. But as soon as you take on the heavier wet snow, try cutting through drift or compact snowbanks on the side of the road; you will need a bit of momentum to get through.
And as you may remember from physics class, momentum is the product of mass (weight) and velocity (speed).
Ideally, the traction alone should be enough so you could just push anything with full control at low speeds like a bulldozer. But no ATV packs this kind of weight, so you will need to add some speed to the equation to build up the needed momentum.
With bigger weight, you will need less speed to break through the same amount of snow. Just remember that with bigger momentum comes a bigger risk of bending or breaking things.
A good tip is to push the snow further at the beginning of the season, so you have room for adding more behind this as the season continues. If the snow pile freeze hard, it will be almost impossible to move it with any weight ATV without a serious risk of breaking some things.
This is the easiest step you can do to achieve better traction and momentum. It will also help with maneuverability, especially when backing up hills.
The most basic solution is to strap down a couple of sandbags on your rear cargo rack. Make sure you don’t exceed the rated capacity of the rack.
The weight needs to be added in the rear to compensate and balance out the vehicle because of the added weight the plow adds to the front.
Ideally, the weight should be behind the rear axle, as this will take away some of the stress on the front axle.
So strap the bags as far back on the rack as you can; just make sure to remove them if you remove the plow itself.
If your welding skills are ok, you want to take it one step further; you can create a custom weight that installs on the hitch mount. Make sure you don’t exceed the rated downward capacity of the hitch. If you do a google search, you will find a lot of creative DIY solutions you can test out.
If you add too much weight to the rear, you may end up unloading the front so much that you get problems steering. If you jack up the rear spring as stiff as they go, you will be able to add more weight at the rear before you run into steering issues.
Having a good set of tires with relatively soft rubber, giving you a good grip, is probably even more important than putting chains on the quad. Next-to adding weight, this should be your best bet for improving the traction of your machine.
One of the oldest tricks in the book for achieving better traction in the snow (or anywhere) is to deflate the tires. But at the same time, you will make it a lot harder to steer your AVT, so I do not recommend this for plowing purposes.
Even if you have power steering on your quad, deflated tires will result in more wear and tear on the steering components.
This is a solution with both some pros and cons you need to take into consideration.
Pros:
Cons:
Screw-in tire studs are a great alternative to tire chains. They do not bite as hard, but they are much more forgiving.
These are cheap and will work well on hard-packed snow or ice. Be aware of the risk of scratching any hard surfaces.
Even tho no-one in their right mind would buy tracks only to plow snow; there is no denying that nothing can compete with tracks on an ATV when it comes to traction.
If you have them, you will be able to push snow like never before. Keep in mind they will reduce the machine’s maneuverability quite a bit, and you will also probably need a wider plow to keep it as wide as the machine itself.
It’s important to use the “optimal” plow blade width for your machine. A 400cc – 450cc should easily handle a 48″ plow. But to use a 60″, you may need something bigger. With a small machine on a too wide plow, you will just end up pushing more snow than the machine can handle.
Make sure you engage the 4×4 at all times when plowing. If your machine is equipped with a locking front diff, this will add further to your traction.
Some will feel they need to add weight to the plow blade itself.
Normally you should not need this as long as the blade angle is set correctly.
So make sure you check your settings before you start modifying or purchasing more gear.
If the blade is tilted too far back, it will not cut into the snow; just glide on top. If the blade is tilted too much forward will make the cut too aggressive, with the risk of digging into any bump with a brutal stop as a result.
If you do a lot of back blading snow away from building doors etc., some added weight to the blade may help to keep the blade down.
Keep in mind you need to make sure your winch is strong enough to handle the added weight.
As an alternative to adding weight to the blade, you can purchase a so-called „downforce kit“ for your blade. These kits basically consist of one or two hydraulic cylinders that keep constant downward pressure on the blade. I have not tested this myself, but the idea seems simple and effective.
A winch with 2500lb pulling power is a good size for plowing with an ATV.
Any winch in the 1500lb – 3500 lb range will work fine, but a 1500lb winch will be a bit weak for other winching operations.
It’s summertime, and the last thing you might be thinking about right now is snow. But if you’re thinking about buying an ATV, you might also be planning ahead for winter use. After all, all-terrain vehicles are made for just that, all-terrain. And millions of people contend with drifted driveways and impacted snow during the winter season.
Today’s ATVs come in a wide range of sizes and offer a host of capabilities – ideal for off-road and mudding fun. However, when it comes to snow plowing in the winter, there are a few suggestions worth considering. According to some of the industry professionals, ATV size may not matter as much as you’d think when it comes to pushing snow. So, just how big of an ATV do you need to blast through the snow with a plow?
Should we live stream a little ATV fun in the snow? pic.
— KEEM ? (@KEEMSTAR) April 18, 2020twitter.com/Nn8vh7Alnv
‘Tis the season for blazing trails, getting muddy, and zooming around on the ATV. But for many Americans, all-terrain vehicles are a must-have for more than just fun. Snowplowing during the winter months is a necessity too. So, buying an ATV now means understanding what you’ll need it to do for you later.
GoodMuddin.com says the best time to buy an ATV, regardless of how you plan to use it, is right now. May and June typically represent the time of year that next year’s models are released by manufacturers. Usually, manufacturers authorize great warranty offers and rebates too.
Put public safety first and never carry a loaded firearm in or on a vehicle, ATV or snow machine.
It’s an unsafe practice that should be avoided – it’s also the law!#HuntSmart #HuntSafe #OntarioHunters #DYK #FirearmSafety pic.
— Ontario Fish and Wildlife (@FishWildlifeON) March 12, 2020twitter.com/RTKi1uktVO
Buying an all-terrain vehicle may kind of feel like buying a car. There are plenty of styles, sizes, brands, and capabilities from which to choose. Generally, buyers look at the core differences in horsepower and engine size. You can find 400cc models, 800cc models, and monster 1000cc models.
A 400cc ATV will work great as a fun, backyard adventure ride. It will also, according to BootsATV.com, do just fine with plowing snow. But they also suggest there’s more to it than just size and ATV weight.
ATVs have been long used for fun and work for decades. And there are a host of reliable brands you’ve come to know and trust. Polaris, Arctic Cat, Suzuki, and Yamaha are just a few names that tend to have the most loyal customers. Knowing which will be best for your snow plowing job boils down to a few key features.
Safety first! Ontario Conservation Officers remind hunters: never carry a loaded firearm in or on a vehicle, ATV or snow machine.
— Ontario Fish and Wildlife (@FishWildlifeON) March 6, 2019It is an unsafe practice and is also against the law. pic.twitter.com/50WHRsRFk4
Related
If your ATV needs to be snow plow-ready, there are a few things to consider. The ideal size for a 48-inch or 60-inch plow would be a 500cc quad, according to industry enthusiasts like GoodMuddin.com. It might also be worth looking at a side-by-side ATV with a 500cc motor to bring more weight and push capability to your snow plowing projects.
Weight means better traction, which is why most will tell you to find an ATV that weighs 400 to 700 pounds. Having the right weight and not so much engine power will translate to better turning traction. And for the heavier, wetter snow you might face, it’s the weight that will provide the momentum your quad needs to get the job done.
If you only need your new ATV for snow pushing next winter, there’s no real need to get an 800cc or bigger.
The 500cc will work just fine. But you may have other requirements, including summer fun and work worth considering. Before you buy, know what you’ll need your ATV to do for you year-round. And get busy shopping because now is the perfect time to bring home a new quad, whatever you need it to do.
To paraphrase the old adage, there's no such thing as bad weather, just bad tires. There's a reason they're called all-terrain vehicles, and there's good reason to call them all-season vehicles. Built for all types of terrain, from mud to sand and rocks, ATVs and ATVs also conquer whatever winter has to offer. With a little preparation, your Can-Am SUV can be a master at handling deep snow and harsh winter conditions, and even keep you warm on cold days off-road. nine0007
In this article, we'll remind you why your ATV or ATV is an indispensable tool for clearing snow and other tasks in the winter, as well as a super fun companion for relaxing in cold weather.
Whether it's weekend trips with the family, hunting with friends or hard work on the farm, your ATV or ATV will bring you a lot of fun and rewards. So why not use your SUV all year round and enjoy it just as much in the winter? Your technique overcomes all kinds of deep sand and mud, and snow is no exception. An SUV can be extremely useful in the winter for light snow removal in your driveway, and when the neighbors see what you're up to, you can even become the most popular person in your neighborhood. Once the job is done, it quickly turns into fun as the snow-covered trails can turn your days into unforgettable adventures. The main thing is to prepare your car well and have the right equipment to help you enjoy the winter. Think about the extra time you can spend on your favorite ATV or ATV instead of letting it go dormant in your garage. nine0007
Shoveling snow is not everyone's favorite pastime.
But when you use the right tools, this job will certainly become much easier. It's also no secret that in the off-road world, she can actually be fun. We don't promise anything, but you can get neighbors to knock on your door, give you gifts, or promise favors in exchange for helping you clear the snow. nine0007
Connecting the plow to an ATV or ATV will help clear a large amount of snow much faster and easier than other methods, and the maneuverability of these vehicles allows them to get into hard-to-reach places where large snowblowers cannot go. With amazing traction and plenty of power, clearing even the deepest snow is a breeze. In fact, many people living in areas with harsher winters buy this technique specifically for this purpose. nine0007
Let's take a look at some of the specifications and accessories that will make it easier for you to clear snow on your SUV.
This is perhaps the most important feature.
Clearly, snow and ice are slippery and affect traction, making maneuvering difficult. There is nothing more frustrating than wheel spin in sticky snow from half a meter high due to traction problems, but with all-wheel drive this is not a problem. In fact, the deeper the snow where you live, the more important all-wheel drive is, which is a game-changer in the winter. nine0007
If you're going to clear a lot of snow, an ATV or ATV with plenty of torque is a must. As a general rule, the more power the engine has, the better, but that doesn't mean that a smaller, less powerful engine can't do the job. In fact, they can clear large volumes of snow, but it will take longer and they only need a few passes to get you a clean surface.
It's cold outside, so snow removal often involves pulling on all sorts of jackets, boots, gloves, etc. But what if you make it a little hotter? There are many options for off-road equipment for cold weather operation, such as a heated enclosed cab with a windshield anti-frost system like the Can-Am Traxter PRO ATV, and some ATVs have heated handlebars to keep your hands warm. Sounds comfortable? nine0007
The snow is heavy and clearing it can be a challenge for the machine. Many off-road vehicles have an increased risk of failure during extended snow removal, so you should consider utility models that can actually handle hours of snow removal without giving up. Luckily, Can-Am SUVs are engineered to perform, made from the finest materials, and proven to take on any challenge. People all over the world rely on them in tough everyday work situations. nine0007
If your ATV or ATV has these four features, you'll be ready to handle winter and clear snow with no problems!
So now that you know what to look for in a hard-working snow blower, let's look at how you should prepare for snow removal.
No one wants to repair their equipment in howling wind and snow. Before you go outside or before the temperature drops, make sure your SUV is winterized and in optimal operating condition.
Change the oil, check the wiring, and make sure all components in the ATV or ATV are clean and working properly. Double check tire pressure and tread condition for excessive wear. If your machine has a liquid-cooled engine, it is very important to check the coolant level, as snow removal requires a lot of effort from the engine and can cause it to heat up quickly. nine0007
It is very important to set the plow deep enough to clear the snow, but high enough not to scrape the surface under the snow. Scratching can not only damage paved surfaces, but also creates more work for your SUV, which invariably results in overloading it. The harvesting depth can be different for different surfaces and different depths of snow cover, so you should adjust the angle of the plow blade every time before harvesting. The correct blade angle depends on the type of roadway, the surface being cleared, and where you want the snow to collect. The correct angle of inclination means fewer passes, it will make cleaning easier and the surface cleaner.
nine0007
After clearing snow, it is important to remove all dirt and snow from the ATV or ATV and plow blade. If lumps of snow, ice and dirt are not removed while they are fresh, they may freeze and harden. A clean plow blade releases snow more easily and is essential for good performance. Not to mention the salt, which can very quickly damage plow and vehicle surfaces. Prevent corrosion and clean the plow and equipment after each use.
Remember that snow removal is a lot of work not only for you, but also for your car. This can be one of the toughest tasks you put on your ATV or ATV, and preparing it and then clearing it of snow will minimize the impact and extend the life of your vehicle. nine0007
It's time to stop thinking of your ATV or ATV as just a fun machine for fine weather. Winter provides a variety of recreational opportunities when you have an SUV ready for the cold weather challenge. In addition to making riding on snow feel light and joyful, snow makes everything new and fresh - even those old trails you've ridden countless times.
Winter is also a great opportunity to improve your off-road driving skills in slipperier conditions that are perfect for learning to drift, move on loose surfaces and more. Winter offers a unique cross-country skiing experience not to be missed, and if you do it safely, it can provide some unforgettable moments. nine0007
But you need to winterize your ATV or ATV, and in some areas it may be a problem if your ATV is not equipped with the right equipment. The track system for your SUV is a major upgrade that essentially transforms it into a whole new kind of vehicle and provides the traction and buoyancy your vehicle needs.
As we saw above, your ATV or ATV is likely already well equipped for winter use, and some upgrades can make it even better and more comfortable during the colder months. But there are SUVs already born with features that make them winter-ready, like the Can-Am Outlander North Edition, which comes with a windshield, heated grips and visor heater connector, a factory-installed winch, and an ultra-low gear that fits perfectly.
for snow removal. nine0007
Before heading out into the cold, it goes without saying that you need to put on warm clothes and protective equipment, but what else do you need to do to prepare your SUV for winter driving? In addition to regular maintenance, the following should be considered:
Moisture in the fuel tank or fuel lines is bad news for your machine. This is a common problem in cold weather as temperature fluctuations can cause water to form in the fuel tank in the form of condensation. The engine will not be able to start due to water or moisture in the fuel, and water may freeze in the fuel lines and block fuel from entering the engine, causing the engine to run hard or not start at all. A fuel stabilizer will prevent this problem by keeping the gasoline fresh and keeping the engine running smoothly. nine0007
Fresh spark plugs keep the engine running smoothly at idle and revive cold engines in winter.
While you don't need to change them every year, winter can be the right time, especially since you don't want surprises when temperatures drop.
After a few months of dusty summer driving, the air filter becomes clogged with debris - this is normal. When the snow on the trail rises into the air and is sucked into the engine, it turns into water, and water plus dust equals, you guessed it, mud. A clogged filter will choke your engine by cutting off the airflow it needs to run smoothly. Before the start of winter, a quick purge of the filter will save you a headache in the future. As with spark plugs, winter can also be a good time to change your filter if you haven't done it in a while. nine0007
The oil keeps your SUV running smoothly, and jerky pulling away and a drop in power is usually a sign that the oil needs topping up or changing. If you already change your oil regularly, if you check your oil level and change your oil filter regularly, then you're probably fine. Again, if you need an oil change reminder, make it part of your annual maintenance along with your spark plugs and air filter.
Now that your ATV or ATV is ready for the cold, remove the cover and get ready to ride.
Basic accessories for ATVs and ATVs in winter
Winter riding requires a little more gear and extra equipment than other seasons to keep you safe and warm while shoveling or trail riding. It is vital that you and your vehicle are protected in case something goes wrong, so proper preparation is the key to success. nine0007
Here are some essential accessories for you and your ATV or ATV to help you get the most out of your awesome winter rides.
As we said, a track kit can turn your ATV or ATV into a whole new type of vehicle. These kits replace your tires with a snowmobile-like track system for incredible performance in deep snow and rough terrain. Under these conditions, they will outperform any tire and can make the impossible possible. Usually, when you are on wheels, you avoid snow deeper than your SUV's ground clearance, as burrowing will cause you to get stuck, while the tracks give you the ability to "float" through deeper snow and handle winter conditions with ease.
The improved traction also makes hauling loads and clearing snow much easier, while the tracks can make it easier to transport on slippery roads, even on steep slopes. nine0007
Finding compatible track systems for your equipment can be tricky and installation can be challenging. But thankfully, Apache Track Kits, designed specifically for Can-Am SUVs, match the engine power, frame, and speedometer on your model, and work with the power steering system for perfect handling. Learn more about Apache Tracks for Can-Am ATVs and ATVs.
If you want to use your SUV to clear snow, a plow is a must. There are an endless number of options on the market, some of which are even equipped with a winch mechanism to raise the plow blade. It's important to take the time to find a compatible system, but Can-Am makes it easy with their ProMount plow system. It's the quickest and easiest way to start clearing snow and you'll be sure our plow is compatible with your vehicle. Learn more about Can-Am ATV and ATV ProMount plows. nine0007
Staying warm and comfortable is definitely one of the most important conditions for winter off-road riding. Choosing waterproof and windproof clothing is important, but there is equipment that can make your SUV a warm and cozy shelter from the cold. The cabin shell for your ATV is a great way to protect you and your passengers from the elements and allows you to spend whole days off-road even in the coldest months. Some Can-Am models, such as the Traxter Limited and Traxter PRO Limited, have a temperature control system that provides cab heating. nine0007
Other accessories can also be very useful if you want more comfort in cold weather. Some ATVs and ATVs have heated seats that can be your best friends on long, cold rides. If your hands are in need of love, Can-Am offers the option of installing a heated steering wheel on your ATV or heated grips on your ATV.
These accessories are as amazing as they sound and you will thank yourself every time you turn them on. nine0007
They make your day go a long way, and most heated grips and seats are relatively easy to install, fit a variety of models, and come with a wiring harness, making installation a one-step process. If you are outside in cold temperatures, they will help keep your fingers mobile and make your ride safer and more comfortable.
If you've never experienced the thrill of winter off-road riding, the proper preparation and extra equipment can turn your summer trails into a winter wonderland and snow removal into a job you secretly enjoy. There is a world of track kits, plows and accessories to turn your SUV into a versatile all-season machine. Perhaps you will leave their hibernation in the past. nine0007
ATVs and buggies are a special type of transport designed for active people of any age who prefer high speeds and extreme sports.
The ATV combines simplicity and the best qualities of a car, a motorcycle and a bicycle. However, its advantages are obvious:
This technique is usually referred to as a sports and entertainment class, but in fact, an ATV can have many more applications.
ATV500H (Al rims) STELS ATV
With the growing popularity of ATVs, there is a huge number of different models. How to choose the right one that will last a long time and with maximum benefit? nine0007
First you need to decide on the number of people who will ride the ATV. Two will be much more comfortable on a full-fledged two-seater model due to the elongated base. When choosing an ATV, you should take care of protection from possible hijackers. And, of course, often the choice is influenced by the budget of the buyer.
Determine what model of ATV you need, depending on your goals. There are the following types of ATVs: nine0007
For the final selection of a suitable model, it is necessary to pay attention to the ease of operation, dimensions, seat and, most importantly, technical characteristics:
ATV700 DINLI STELS ATV
The automatic transmission performs the function of shifting, and on ATVs this system works the same way as on cars.
The automatic transmission is most commonly found on utility and touring ATVs, allowing you to select between high and low gears.
Despite the fact that there are many modern high-quality models, it is necessary to choose the one that will best meet your requirements. However, no matter which model you choose, the ease of control and speed, combined with the amazing cross-country ability of an ATV, can give you an adrenaline rush and great pleasure from the trip. nine0007
Buggy is the embodiment of the best ideas taken from different types of motorcycles. This technique has the highest level of safety not only for its operator, but also for existing passengers:
In addition to this, the control process is so simple that anyone can quickly master this technique, regardless of age. In addition, you can travel by buggy not only in summer, as many people often mistakenly believe, but also in any other season.
nine0007
If you decide to choose a buggy as an outdoor activity, you need to consider the following point - riding a buggy should be extremely safe. This is what should be given the highest attention. Indeed, in the process of conquering impregnable landscapes, dizzying coups are possible, which should not harm the driver.
The protective cage and frame structure must be strong and able to protect the pilot while riding. The steel sheet located at the bottom of the car should prevent collisions and impacts on various obstacles. nine0007
ATV 110U IRBIS ATV
Existing models, despite some characteristics of a general type, differ in individual indicators. For example, if you take cross-country driving - the most important advantage of a buggy, then any model will cope with this task.
Another thing is riding around the city, not every buggy will conquer the paved road.
By the way, and rough terrain is different. It is worth considering this before purchasing a buggy. nine0007
This is mainly influenced by two indicators:
Gearbox operation mode (there must be a downshift mode)
Basic models are often equipped with standard type speed gearboxes. You will have to think about this in advance and decide whether to install a full automatic or mechanics, which only drivers with experience prefer to use.
Rubber quality (it should have good grip and low pressure) nine0007
A set of rubber is quite expensive, so you need to remember that it is not universal. If you drive off-road tires on asphalt, its coating will quickly wear off and deform. Rubber for the highway, on the contrary, is able to adequately behave on the road.
And, of course, you should be aware of all sorts of difficult situations that can happen on the road. You need to take care of purchasing a winch, which is not included in the basic package.
nine0007
SS250 HammerHead Buggy
In addition, you should think about the heart of the vehicle - about its engine, on which power depends. The buggies are capable of speeds up to 120 km/h thanks to their lightweight design. This is a fairly good indicator with a mass of 400 kilograms. For this, an engine power of 20-25l.s is sufficient. and volume up to 200 cm3.
The final step when choosing a ATV and buggy is to determine the brand of the vehicle manufacturer. In the network of stores "Udachnaya Tekhnika" you can buy goods only from the most reliable and high-quality brands: nine0007
ABM is a Russian brand that is a leader in the production and sale of bicycles and motorcycles. ATVs and buggies of this brand are distinguished by ease of use, compactness, maneuverability and light weight.
Futong is a quality and reliable brand that has stood the test of time.
