Side-by-side vehicles unlock the potential for incredible adventures off the beaten path. Unfortunately, in recent years, they’ve created some serious issues.
Between the potential environmental effect and the noise these machines create, they attract a lot of attention. But are they ruining fun for others using the same areas?
Today, we’re looking at the dark side of side-by-side vehicles and the issues surrounding them.
Let’s hit the trail!
What Are Side-by-Side Vehicles?
A side-by-side, also called a utility task vehicle (UTV), is designed to handle rugged terrain. The name comes from the driver and passenger sitting “side by side.”
Their sturdy construction makes them an incredibly versatile piece of machinery. They’re helpful for various purposes, including trail riding, hunting, and farming.
Manufacturers build them with powerful engines, four-wheel drive, and smooth suspension systems. These features allow them to conquer mud, rocks, sand, and steep hills.
Owners test the limits of their UTVs in extremely rough conditions. Thankfully, roll cages, seatbelts, and doors are added to maximize safety.
They’ve become popular with adrenaline seekers despite the inherent risks and dangers. You’ll find recreational and professional riders conquering terrains for work and pleasure. Additionally, it’s common to see rental services in locations with trails, dunes, and alternative riding areas.
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Why Are Side-by-Side Vehicles So Popular?
The popularity of side-by-side vehicles has grown tremendously over the last decade. One of the primary reasons for this is the ease of driving them. In general, they’re not all that different from a standard automobile. Someone with even minimal training can operate them with little difficulty.
Many of the units are spacious and have seating capacities of two to six passengers. As a result, it’s easy to bring friends and family along with you for the journey. They’re a fantastic opportunity to create priceless and unforgettable memories together.
Another reason side-by-side vehicles are getting more popular is due to their versatility. Many come with space or compartments for carrying tools, gear, and necessary equipment. Most can easily haul several hundred pounds with little trouble, which means owners can use them for work and play.
The final factor for their trendiness is the price. In general, these machines are relatively easy on the budget.
Depending on the make, model, and features, they often start around $6,000. But you can spend up to $30,000 for a top-of-the-line UTV. If you want to save cash, consider buying used. You’ll often find older models with all the bells and whistles for a fraction of the price.
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The Problems With Side-by-Side Vehicles on Trails
Side-by-side vehicles are powerful and have remarkable capabilities. However, in the wrong hands, these qualities can cause big problems.
One of the most significant concerns deals with the destruction of land. Their larger and heavier bodies often lead to erosion and damage along routes. Over time, this can severely impact the natural environment.
Another major issue with UTVs is the noise they create. In some epic spots, loud exhausts and the roar of engines have replaced the tranquility of nature and silence. The ruckus ruins the experience, especially for hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians.
However, it’s unfair to paint all drivers with a broad brush. Many are responsible and respectful individuals who obey trail etiquette and do all they can to avoid causing complications. As with most groups, you’ll always get a few bad apples.
It’s also important to know that rude owners aren’t the only ones under fire. People also blame rental companies in popular tourist areas for the negative impacts. Unfortunately, they’ll rent side-by-side vehicles to anyone who meets a few minimum requirements and has a credit card. With almost zero training, renters get set loose to explore.
Whether owners or renters, inexperienced and uneducated drivers may be ruining the fun for everyone.
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Are Side-by-Side Vehicles to Blame for Trail Closures?
Recently, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) announced a series of backcountry closures outside of Moab, Utah. The changes would close 317 miles of unpaved routes, which is approximately a third of the dirt roads in the area.
Unfortunately, places like California’s Tahoe National Forest and Wisconsin’s Chequamegon Nicolet National Forest have experienced similar closures.
It may be easy to point fingers at side-by-side vehicles, but they’re not the only ones to blame. Irresponsible drivers of everything from dirt bikes to sports utility vehicles are also part of the dilemma.
Users hope these closures are temporary and that officials will reopen them once the land and environment heal. On the other hand, environmental groups and activists are crossing their fingers that they’re here for good. We’ll have to wait and see what BLM officials eventually decide.
Off-Road Etiquette Rules Everyone Should Follow
When piloting a side-by-side or any off-road vehicle, following the rules is critical. Awareness of proper etiquette and behavior can help everybody continue to enjoy the hobby.
For starters, make sure you stay on the trail. Venturing off and blazing a new path destroys the land and harms the environment. It’s these types of behaviors that result in officials shutting down areas.
Along those lines, it’s also helpful to follow the Leave No Trace principles. When it’s time to depart, ensure you take with you anything you brought into the wilderness. We’ve seen piles of trash in remote locations left behind by previous users. Again, this will ruffle feathers and force local authorities to take action.
One of the most critical pieces of etiquette is to respect others. You may have a right to use a particular area, but so do they. Reduce your speed and drive cautiously when you spot hikers, bikers, and horses. Doing so keeps noise and dust down so everyone can have a good time.
Overall, everybody must do their part. By simply cleaning up messes and treating the environment with respect, we’ll likely see fewer issues in the future.
More Than One Reason for Trail Closures
While users of side-by-side vehicles may be causing officials to close specific trails, they’re not the only ones to blame. However, the UTV community is under attack due to uneducated and inexperienced riders.
Unfortunately, these individuals typically don’t learn their lessons quickly. They’ll likely move on to damage new areas when other locations close. Things could become worse before they get better.
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