ATV Maintenance Tips for the Winter

ATVs are built to handle anything and everything on the trail, but cold weather can throw a whole new set of challenges into the mix. However, that doesn’t mean you have to stop riding during the winter. By following this winter ride guide from Road Track & Trail, you can enjoy a winter ATV ride without risk to yourself or your machine. 

Review Your Owner’s Manual

The first step you should take any time you perform maintenance or modifications to your ATV is to check the owner’s manual. The manual will contain valuable information about getting your ATV ready to ride in cold weather. 

Prepare for the Cold

Riding in cold and snow is different from riding in sand or mud. Before you hit the trail, there are some necessary steps to take to prepare your machine to face the weather. 

Fluids

While your vehicle’s fluids probably won’t freeze, cold weather does make fluids more viscous or resistant to flowing as they should. This significantly hampers their ability to function as intended, so you will need to switch to the winter equivalent. As a side note, even if you are not planning to ride your ATV in the winter, you should change your fluids to the winter version if you are not storing your vehicle in a temperature-controlled environment.

Fuel

Under winter conditions, condensation often forms inside containers like jugs or cans. This can lead to water getting inside your engine when refueling, so check to make sure your fuel is good to go before you start refueling.

The Battery

Undercharged batteries can be damaged by cold weather, so keep your batteries charged whenever possible. 

Tires And Tracks

Getting traction on snow and ice can be very difficult. We recommend that you purchase snow tires or snow chains, as your regular tires most likely won’t be up to the task of navigating winter conditions. If you really want to go the extra mile, some models are compatible with snow tracks for even more traction in the winter. 

Covers

Some aftermarket parts can help make your winter riding experience more enjoyable. For example, many winter ATV riders choose to install a face shield to protect themselves against wind and sleet. 

Once you’ve made all the necessary adjustments and put on your warmest jacket, you are ready for a winter ATV ride! For more information or to view ATV models, visit Road Track & Trail at our dealership in Big Bend, Wisconsin. We are proud to serve the Wisconsin area, including Milwaukee and Waukesha.