Increases Gear Ratio
This is because the larger diameter tire increases the final gear ratio (effectively gearing up the car) as well as the extra rubber and more aggressive tread pattern make them heavier and more difficult to rotate. The loss in peak rpm results in a loss of engine horsepower as the engine is not able to make its maximum horsepower at that lower rpm. This compounds the problem and amplifies the need to re-clutch so the engine can reach its maximum horsepower when the driver demands it.
Clutching a UTV is simply changing the shift characteristics of the clutches to allow the engine to perform at its best overall rpm and speed for the load that is being applied. Essentially we are changing the shift curve of the clutches by changing the weights, springs and helix to match the load of the car with the terrain it is running on and the horsepower of the engine. With these clutching changes, the UTV will gain back that peak rpm as well as become much more responsive.
Information you will want to have available when you order your clutch kit is riding elevation, tire size and style, terrain/surface you plan to ride such as dirt, sand, mud or rocks, riding style and added weight to the vehicle (including all occupants, their gear and accessories). Knowing this information allows the company you are working with to match the clutch kit specifications specifically to your riding preference and vehicle. At SLP, we have tailored our clutch kits to fit the most common applications, offering Trail, High Load and Sand Specific clutch kits with elevation splits at 0-4500 feet and 4500 feet and higher.
Upgrading your tires along with a clutch kit can make your UTV much more capable in the terrain you ride. The manufacturers have done their best to outfit these vehicles in stock form for the "average" customer and riding conditions.
But face it: we consumers are not average in any sense of the word, and therefore very few of us leave our vehicles stock. We add all kinds of accessories and ride in the craziest terrain still expecting our trusted UTV to perform flawlessly. Tires specifically designed for this terrain combined with the proper clutching will help your UTV perform to your high expectations.
(Mathews is part owner of Starting Line Products in Idaho Falls, ID. For more information, visit www.startinglineproducts.com.)
