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Customize Your Off-Road Vehicle
In these times when we're all being defined
by numbers and crunched into conformity, we
still want something that expresses our own
style. Something that says, "This is me."
For some time, an underworld of car customization
has existed. But today, it's not just low-riders
and hotdoggers who want to make a personal statement.
With the popularity of shows such as "American
Chopper" and "Pimp My Ride,"
orders for custom cars and bikes have skyrocketed.
Now, ATV and utility vehicle owners are just
as eager to spruce up their rides. They are
beginning to appreciate their sturdy off-road
vehicles - more often associated with hunting
and farming - and are dreaming up ways to make
them unique. Each becomes a signature piece,
reflecting the taste and style of the owner.
The trend, spearheaded by celebrities and sports
stars, now is becoming more mainstream, according
to Polaris, a leading manufacturer of ATVs and
utility vehicles. The Southwest, especially
California and Arizona, seems to be the hub
of this new fad.
Here are some of the hottest ways to customize
your ride:
* Flames: Since the 1950s, painted flames scorching
the front and sides of hot rods have meant speed.
Today, this classic design still leads the pack.
* Chrome: The luxurious Packards and Cords
of the 1930s
were loaded with shine and sparkle. Grills,
doors - everything that could gleam, did gleam.
Even now, chrome says high style.
* Color-keyed rims: They would have loved this
in the 1960s. Bright primaries, strong earth
tones, simple neutrals -choose a color and your
ride is instantly one of a kind.
* Sound systems: Install one in the bed or
roof. Whether your music of choice is golden
oldies or heavy metal, everything will sound
better. And on those camping trips when you're
deprived of your usual comforts, you can still
enjoy quality sound.
New Utility Vehicles Are Popular, Practical
One of the most popular pieces of outdoor power
equipment these days is the utility vehicle.
From hunters to handymen, everyone seems to
be using them.
Why? The current crop of utility vehicles is
practical, powerful and versatile-a far cry
from their "golf cart with an attitude"
predecessors. So what should you look for in
a utility vehicle?
"Take the time to really figure out how
you will use a utility vehicle and what type
of terrain you will encounter," advises
Jerry Sandy, product manager for Husqvarna's
HUV utility vehicle line. "Decide up front
what accessories and features are required for
the types of tasks you plan to accomplish."
Home & Garden-For jobs like brush clearing
or hauling supplies to the garden, says Sandy,
a compact utility vehicle may fit the bill.
Larger tasks such as clearing snow, on the other
hand, require a more powerful unit, four-wheel
drive and accessories such as a snowplow attachment,
tire chains and a cab enclosure.
Property Management-For farmers, ranchers and
timber owners, key factors include engine durability,
payload capacity and traction for rough terrain.
A smooth suspension maximizes comfort when traveling
extended distances. Accessories such as windshields,
heaters, electric winches and trailer hitches
are also important.
Hunting & Fishing-Outdoorsmen will want
a utility vehicle that functions well in remote
areas, so consider features such as certified
rollover protection, four-wheel drive and locking
differentials. A wide wheelbase and low center
of gravity provide stability in rough conditions,
and accessory items such as winches, hood racks,
heavy-duty bumpers, and aggressive tires can
be helpful
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