UTV Towing Tips

When you own a utility terrain vehicle, also known as a UTV or side-by-side, you’ll need to have a way to transport it to where you wish to go off-road riding. This typically means loading up your UTV into a trailer that’s hitched to your SUV or truck and hauling it to your ultimate destination. This guide will help you to safely tow your UTV wherever you want to go.

Be Prepared

The first step to successful towing is ensuring a good match between your cargo, your trailer, and your tow vehicle. Check that everything is operating well within capacity, and that your hitching mechanism is working properly. You should also take the time to test your lights, signals, and brakes before each ride.

Make sure you have all these essential gear items to secure your trail and cargo. Ratcheting straps are especially ideal for large cargo like your UTV. You can add additional hook points to your trailer using D-rings, which can take the pressure off your straps and prevent breakage. Breakaway chains and safety chains are great accessories to have, providing backup in the event of hitch failure.

Hitch Up and Load

Attaching your trailer first makes loading your UTV easier, so begin by engaging the hitch. Position the trailer tongue above the ball hitch, then back up your tow vehicle until the latch is directly beneath the trailer tongue. Lower the tongue onto the ball joint and secure it in place, then crisscross the tow chains under the tongue and attach them to your tow vehicle. Now you can hook up your brakes and lights if necessary.

Make sure you have plenty of space to maneuver before lowering your ramp to begin loading. Bring your UTV up the ramp in a straight line and strap it down as securely as possible, centering your load over the front axle. It’s always good practice to place 60% of your total load toward the front of the trailer. Too much weight in the back of your trailer can throw your whole rig off balance and even lead to hitch failure.

Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance, especially if it’s your first time towing. Having a spotter to help with maneuvering can make all the difference.

Drive Safely

Now that your trailer is loaded up and ready for the road, it’s time to employ some safe driving techniques to get your UTV from point A to point B. Taking it slow is your top priority. Trailer tires are not designed for high speeds, so stick to speeds under 60 mph. Prepare for slow stopping by giving other vehicles plenty of space.

Pay close attention to your mirrors to maximize your range of vision and compensate for blind spots. Avoid passing other vehicles when possible, and give corners a wide berth. Above all else, have patience! All these precautions may cost you time, but that’s nothing compared to the cost of having an accident when you’re hauling expensive equipment.