HOW TO DRIVE IN THE MUD WITH A SIDE-BY-SIDE

If you're a mud rider or adventure-seeker, you know that half the fun with mud riding is in embracing the mess: you see every splash of mud as a badge of honor.

For you, there's no greater thrill in off-roading than driving into — and through — deep bogs and thick mud on a side-by-side vehicle.

But you need more than just throttle: the difference between conquering and capitulating takes skill, preparation and the right gear. You will find in this guide what every rider must know about this kind of adventure.

Picking the Right Side-By-Side for Mud Riding

Preparation goes a long way before you go mudding. Because finding the right set-up for muddy and challenging terrain starts before you ever get in the driver's seat.

Thankfully, when it comes to mud riding, there is no better reliable provider than Can-Am. Our secret? The X mr packages. These models come equipped with features designed to dominate the mud, including:

Preparing Your Side-By-Side for Mud

There are a few essentials steps to take for success before you head into the mud on a side-by-side.

• Inspection: Spend some time on your tires, brakes, winch and tow points for signs of wear and tear. Also make sure that all fluid levels are at recommended levels.

• Choosing tires: Not all tires are created equal. Consider picking mud-specific models, or others with aggressive tread patterns, for better traction. Please note that mud-specific tires come equipped on the X mr package.

• Tire pressure: For optimal traction and flotation in the mud on your Can-Am SxS, there’s no need to lower your tire pressure. On our X mr models, the recommended tire pressure is already lower than on other models to deliver the performance you need. Reducing it further could increase the risk of the tire coming off the rim, which is never ideal.

Know Your Terrain and Capabilities

The answer to how to drive in the mud lies in knowing the terrain you ride across. Part of the thrill is to challenge yourself, but don't overplay your hand because you're not competing against anyone but you. Stay in your comfort zone, remain aware of your surroundings and read the mud you see: how deep is it? What texture is it made of? 

Your vehicle will respond differently whether you're diving into deep bogs or just riding across shallow slick mud. Depending on your experience, your skill level and the capabilities of your vehicle, it might be best to stick to sleek trails, easy pits and to avoid unknown puddles because you never what lies underneath.

Mud Riding Techniques

No two adventures are the same, but there are universal truths and techniques to enjoy yourself.

• Involved riding: Mud riding is anything but passive. Stay actively involved and constantly react to your environment.

• Steady does it: Going full throttle or slowing down too much will cause your wheels to dig in and generally complicate things for you.

• On the straight: Avoid unnecessary resistance by keeping your wheels straight.

• Back and forth: Whenever you're stuck, rock your side-by-side forward and backward gently to break free.

Safety Tips for Mud Adventures

These simple safety and recovery tips will help you make the most of every SxS mudding adventure:

• Pack a recovery kit: With essentials like tow straps, shackles, a shovel, and a winch remote, this kit is a must if and when you’re stuck. Nearby trees, other Can-Am vehicles, or large objects like rocks make great anchor points for your winch.

• Travel with a friend or family member: If you plan to drive deep into muddy trails or remote zones, go with someone experienced.

💡BRP recommends that mud should never exceed the height of the tires.

Post-Ride SxS Maintenance

The last thing you want to do at the end of any mud riding day is to keep working, but post-ride maintenance is essential to protect your vehicle. Follow these steps to keep your Can-Am ride in good condition ahead of your next outing.

• Cleaning: Wash off all the mud, because it can corrode parts and hide damage.

• Inspection: Re-lube moving parts and check them for water or debris.

• Clogging: Wear may build up in the brakes, CV boots and undercarriage.

💡For all other maintenance advice, refer to your operator's guide.

The Ultimate Mud Experience Is Just Ahead

You’ve now seen what it takes to handle the mud like a pro: from gearing up your SxS, inspecting and preparing before every ride, reading the terrain, and mastering essential mud-driving techniques, to maintaining your vehicle after every adventure.

Mud riding is one of the most exhilarating yet challenging off-road experiences out there. It pushes your control, awareness, and machine to their limits: but that’s exactly what makes it so rewarding.

If you’re ready to turn everything you’ve learned into action, check out the Can-Am lineup built for mud. With powerful X mr packages designed to dominate deep bogs and thick trails, your next muddy challenge is just a throttle away.