EQUIPMENT AND TECHNOLOGY FOCUS
introduced a variety of new features — including heated and air-conditioned cabs — to keep operators comfortable , even in challenging environments .
“ Durability is essential , as UTVs often are put to work in harsh and rugged conditions ,” said Anderson .
Photo courtesy of Kioti
Photo courtesy of Kubota
Photo courtesy of Polaris
“ With this in mind , manufacturers are upgrading older models with newer components and ensuring that these new models are designed to withstand all types of jobs for sports field maintenance .”
To cater to the growing needs of different customers , providing equipment with a variety of capabilities – terrain capability , cargo capability , and passenger capability – is also increasingly important , Anderson added .
“ Throughout our commercial portfolio , comfort , ergonomics , and in-cab comforts for work UTVs are being requested more because the UTVs are used more often and for longer periods of time ,” said Snidarich .
According to Snidarich , safety , productivity , and overall total cost of ownership are always top of mind with facilities , grounds and sports field managers , and they need UTVs that contribute in those ways . Reducing accidents and injuries , avoiding mishaps , and enhancing situational awareness are key to improving safety .
He added that it is important to ask the right questions up front to identify the right utility vehicle for your needs ( see sidebar for sample questions ).
Said Anderson , “ It is important for managers to determine their needs and how they will use a UTV . Think about key factors such as the power source , how much you plan to haul , type of terrain , machine speed , number of passengers , and the jobs you intend to complete . By determining these needs , you ’ ll be able to narrow down your options to find the machine for you . Additionally , this will help identify any attachments you need to tackle a variety of different jobs head-on .”
Hicks added that your dealer is the best resource for finding the right UTV to fit your needs .
“ You can research various utility vehicles online ; but , at the end of the day , nothing can replace the one-on-one , personal advice you will receive from a trusted dealer ,” he said . When speaking with your dealer , come prepared with
QUESTIONS TO ASK IF YOU ’ RE BUYING A UTV
Will my UTV be operated indoors , outdoors , on road or off ?
Do I need to haul more than two people ?
If I expand to a crew UTV for more passenger seating , am I losing cargo bed space ?
What is the towing , payload and bed capacity ( can it fit a pallet )? What fuel will I have on site ? Do I have access to electricity for charging ?
Are the key components engineered to withstand the tough duty cycle of daily use ( heavy-duty , longer-lasting tires ; puncture-resistant seats ; durable brakes and driveline )?
Is there a speed limiter and / or speed calibration ?
Is there a back-up alarm , horn and parking brake ?
Is the cab fully sealed to protect from weather and dust ?
Is there an engine braking system that eliminates acceleration when going downhill ?
Are there operator alarms to alert me before I overuse my UTV , possibly causing damage ?
How quickly can I perform the common maintenance checks – do I have to empty my cargo to check the oil ?
Are the tires all the same size so I can stock one spare vs . multiple ?
— Sidebar provided by Polaris sportsfieldmanagementonline . com June 2021 | SportsField Management
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