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Winter ATV Riding Checklist: Basic Upkeep, Winch, Modifications

Dec. 14 2021 Blogs By Louisiana Power Sports

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There are numerous benefits of ATVs and UTVs for their owners, and one is their ability to provide entertainment throughout the year. These powersports items can operate even on snow, ice and mud -- however, it's important that if you're riding on these kinds of conditions during this upcoming winter season, you're prepared with the proper safety and care elements.

At Louisiana Power Sports, we're proud to offer not only a wide range of brand new ATVs for sale, but also to provide our clients with important safety and upkeep information for any of our vehicles. In this two-part blog series, we'll go over a number of winter ATV/UTV riding tips and themes to keep in mind, ensuring that you remain safe and that your vehicle stays in great shape.

Basic Checks

There are a few areas you'll need to be maintaining through the winter if you'll be continuing to ride your ATV, including:

  • Battery charge: Cold weather can make batteries lose power more quickly, so be sure to check the charge on your ATV's battery at least monthly during winter months.
  • Fuel levels: To avoid freezing of fuel lines and creating other problems for your ATV (or UTV), you'll want to keep the gas tank filled to around 3/4 of its capacity.
  • Coolant levels: Keep your ATV/UTV's coolant filled, making sure to use a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water. We also recommend you bring it into Louisiana Power Sports for a full winterization once the temperature drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Tire pressure: It's especially important to keep your ATV/UTV tires at the correct pressure for winter riding, as low pressure can cause them to break through ice and become lodged in snow.

Keep a Winch Handy

For ATV and UTV owners, a winch refers to a device that's used to pull an object from a stationary location (such as pulling your ATV out of mud). For most 4-wheelers, having a winch is definitely recommended -- and in the event of winter weather conditions, it can be essential. Louisiana Power Sports recommends equipping both your front and rear with winches; we also advise that you always have a recovery strap and tree saver on hand (in case you need to pull someone out of a bad spot).

Consider Modifications

Depending on how often you ride during winter and the precise conditions you're riding in, modifications to your ATV/UTV can be helpful. If you're one who operates in areas with significant snowfall, having power steering can help ease maneuverability and reduce the risk of accidents. On the other hand, if you're mostly operating on hard surfaces or trails during winter months, then a lower gear ration will be a safer option.

For more on how to prepare and maintain your ATV or UTV during the winter if you ride regularly during this season, or to learn about any of our powersports vehicles for sale, speak to the team at Louisiana Power Sports today.