ROVs, Minimum Trail Impact
Over the past few years a majority of the powersports industry has been in decline. The Utility Terrain Vehicle (UTV) or side-by-side, or now Recreational Off-Highway Vehicles (ROV) market has grown and remained consistent. That being said, there are plenty more drivers out there who must be conscious about the lands they’re using. Our friends at Tread Lightly! have come up with some ways to minimize your impact with these popular outdoor vehicles.
- Travel only in areas open to ROVs. Not doing this may land you a ticket anyways.
- It’s not acceptable to drive ROVs wider than 50 inches on most designated all-terrain vehicle (ATV) trails. Be safe and courteous your fellow trail riders.
- Cross streams only at designated fording points or where the trail crosses the stream. Cross slowly at a 90 degree angle. Remember, you’re not only sharing the wilderness with trail riders but with the Earth and all of it’s inhabitants. Be sure to not disrupt the natural environment.
- Do not carry passengers in the bed of the ROV. Too bumpy of a ride anyhow.
- Buddy up with two or three drivers. Driving solo can leave you vulnerable if you have an accident or breakdown. Designate meeting areas in case of separation. This is just good sense for any extended outdoor adventure.
- When winching, always inspect your equipment, use the right winch for the situation, find a good secure anchor, and never winch with less than five wraps of wire rope around the drum. When using a tree as an anchor, use a wide strap to avoid damage to the trunk of the tree.
- Obtain a map of your destination and determine which areas are open to ROVs.
- Make sure you and each passenger in the vehicle wears a seat belt.
- Make sure your ROV is mechanically up to task. Be prepared with appropriate tools, supplies, spares and oil spill kit for trail side repairs and cleanup. Smart.
- Before and after a trip, wash your ROV (try Bike Magik from Biokleen) and support vehicle to reduce the spread of invasive species. Maintaining often makes it easier to clean the next time as well. This is also most important when traveling across county or states lines.
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