How to Get Your UTV Ready to Race!

As its popularity continues to grow, the UTV industry has become one of the most successful off-road vehicles to date. UTV vehicles are perfect for both beginner and experienced off-road enthusiast which is why the rise of UTV racing was guaranteed to happen. After all, competition is part of human nature! Before you decide to take your UTV out to the track for a race, you must make sure you have everything ready to race. Here is the ultimate guide on how to get your UTV race ready!

Required UTV Customizations:

In order for your UTV to be able to race, you must first make a few customizations to it. Before your UTV can enter a race, it must first pass a technical inspection. Not all racing events require the same inspection requirements so make sure you look into what is required for your race. If you are new to UTV racing, we recommend beginning with small dirt track races because they require fewer inspection requirements than desert/rock racing. If your vehicle does not pass inspection, it will automatically be disqualified from the race. Here are some common UTV customizations you will find on almost every tech inspection list on every track:

Roll Cage: factory cages will only be allowed if modified and tied into rear bumper/frame at two points.
Doors: doors must be mounted in a way to not be able to pop open during racing
Fire Extinguisher: a portable 2.5-pound fire extinguisher readily accessible to the driver
Ignition: Ignition switch and all-electric fuel pumps must be labeled and easily accessible from inside and outside the vehicle
Safety Nets: approved safety nets are mandatory on all vehicles
Safety Harness: four-point for Sportsman classes and five-point racing harness for everyone else.
Number Plates: Vehicles must display correct vehicle number in the correct size and color
Scoring Transponder: Transponders are often available for purchase or rental at the track with a deposit.

What Class Will You Be In?

The class you participate in will depend on your age, riding skill level, the size of your vehicle, type, and modifications. Classes vary from event to event so make sure you check what class best fits your style of riding. If you a beginner to UTV racing, we recommend you try a Sportsman or Production class because they will give you a better idea of what skill level you are at. There are so many UTV classes you can choose, from short-course to desert. Here is a list of the classes available for UTVs at each racing events.

Popular UTV Racing Classes:

Pro Unlimited
Pro Production
Pro Stock 1000
Turbo Stock 1000
Production 1000
Production 1000 Stock
Production 900
Production 700
Production Open Single Seat
Production 600
Women’s

Required Race Gear:

Just like any other off-road race, UTV racing requires specific race gear to keep you safe during the race. It is important to invest in gear that will help keep you cool and comfortable but still maintain the protection you need when racing. You need to wear something that is light and breathable yet offers a good amount of protection from cuts, scrapes, and road rash. Here is a list of gear that is required to wear for a UTV race.

Race Gear Needed:

Helmet: must be Snell or DOT approved
Fire Suit: One-piece fire suit is mandatory. The suit must meet SFI Spec 3-2A/5 requiremenT. The suit must cover the neck to the ankles as well as down the arms to the wrists
Goggles
Gloves
Pants
Long-Sleeve Shirt
Off-Road Shoes/Boots: must go over the ankles and meet SFI Spec 3.3/5
Fire Retardant Socks
Chest Protector (not required but is recommended)

Travel Set-Up:

Participating in a UTV race can turn into an all-day event so it is important that you are prepared to stay at the track for long hours. Set up a canopy in your pit area to provide shade from the sun. Bring all the necessary materials you think you will need not only for yourself but for your vehicle as well. Here is a list of must-have items to bring to any UTV race:

Spare Parts: axles (1 each), wheel/tires, front a-arms, control arms, rotors, rear hub, air filter, coolant, fuel. You never know when your vehicle will break down.
Cleaning Supplies: SC1, WD40, pressure washer, scraper to clean mud off the tires, and a car detailing kit. You want to clean your UTV after each track session to show off your sponsors and knock excess dirt/weight off the vehicle.
A nitrogen tank or air compressor to dial in the air pressure in your UTV tires
Flashlight/shop light
Plenty of tools
Food
Chairs

How to Sign Up:

All UTV races have different methods of signing up so make sure that you check the sign-up process for the race you want to participate in. All of the paperwork must be filled out in person so make sure you arrive at the race a couple of hours early. Entry forms and releases must be signed in person by the racer (if you are under 18 years old, a parent/guardian must sign for you). Once you sign up, you will need to go through technical inspection with your fire suits, helmets, gloves, and footwear. If your UTV passes the inspection, you will be all set ready to race.

Insider Tip: Race fee will depend on the race you are participating in.

Conclusion:

UTVs have become the vehicles to have in the off-road racing scene. Off-Road enthusiasts of all skill levels can race a UTV in their own class and enjoy the thrill UTV races have to offer. Get your UTV prepped and keep a look-out for any UTV races near you! You will be riding in no time!

Related:
- 5 Reasons to Buy a UTV

- Finding the Best High-Performance UTV

- Must-Have UTV Customizations