One of the great things about ATVs is they permit access to some of the most remote parts of the world. In order to get back into the bush, the go-everywhere machine still needs outfitting with a couple of modifications and accessories that extend range and improve a few functions. As it happens, some of these mods can be beneficial whether you are exploring untouched Amazon jungle in Bolivia or just out for a long ride on your local trail system.
Increased Fuel Capacity
The starting point to get your ATV ready to travel is adding an auxiliary fuel system. The bare-bones starting point is to spend $10 down at your local dealership and buy a 2- or 5-gallon plastic can and strap it to your machine's rack. Choose a can with a tight seal. I prefer the square ones because you can tie them down so they don't move with two straps.
The next step up is to use a rack system with your plastic cans. Several manufacturers offer these, either a stand-alone rack or as part of a larger plastic gear carrier. Montana Jack's offers a unique rack that allows you to carry two 5-gallon cans and retain the space on your accessory rack.
Auxiliary tanks are next. Kolpin makes 3.25-gallon flat tanks that are great for serious trips because they allow you to strap gear on top of them. You can stack two of these together and have 6.5 gallons of capacity.
You can also mount auxiliary tanks that feed right into your fuel system. Acerbis offers a plastic 1.6-gallon tank and Cajun tanks (which are long and flat) that can mount to your rack and tie into your fuel system. The Bolivians custom build aluminum 5-gallon tanks that mount under the rear rack. These are super-slick units, and a smart fabricator could build one for you as well.
Gear and Goodies
On long trips, keeping your gear dry is key, particularly if you are camping out. Soft luggage lined with heavy-duty garbage bags is an economical option. Kolpin also offers a line of waterproof soft luggage. Storage boxes are great, particularly the high-quality boxes with rubber seals. You can also strap waterproof bags onto the racks. These can be found at outdoor stores, and they have roll-up ends that seal tightly and are completely waterproof.
Finally, if you are going out for a long trip, there are a number of accessories that make life a little easier. A Global Positioning System is a great addition because it will track your progress in the woods. Remember, a GPS unit is no substitute for a good map. CycoActive RAM mounts are sturdy units custom fit to GPS units that have a number of different mounting options. CycoActive also has map cases that strap to your handlebar and make accessing your map quick and easy.
A survival kit is an important tool to carry in the backcountry, and making a good one has been covered in past issues of ATV Rider. Make one up and keep it with you. Sometime in your life, it will come in handy.
A good tool kit is a must for travel. You can make one up with the basics: wrenches, a couple of spark plugs, a tire-repair kit, zip-ties, duct tape and a length of sturdy wire will get you started. Or you can order one from a company like CruzTools.
Finally, a winch and a recovery kit with items like a tow strap and small shovel are key accessories for long-distance riders. Of course, if you get stuck, having some help to dig out that 600-plus-pound machine is priceless.