A Midwest Winter Ride
The first snowflakes started to fall, and I couldn’t help but give a half smile. Out here in the Midwest, winter doesn’t stop us from getting out on the trails. If anything, it adds a little thrill — like nature daring us to keep riding. And trust me, I’m always up for the challenge but I like to feel my face and hands at the same time.
Last December, the temperature had barely crept above freezing, but my buddies and I were itching to take the side-by-sides out. The ground was a frozen patchwork of white and brown, and the wind was doing its best to try and slice through our jackets. But there’s something about the crunch of snow under tires and the sting of cold air on your face that makes you feel alive. “Why do I live where the air hurts my face?” This is why. There is something about riding in the snow-to be the first to put tire tracks in the white clouds in front of me.
I hopped into my sxs settling in the cold cab with flashbacks of last year when I had Hot Hands stuffed in my pockets. Ahhh, but not this year. This year I installed a 3Star UTV full cab enclosure for my CFMoto ZForce 950, and let me tell you, it was it was a game-changer. The doors shut tight, and the scratch resistant windshield kept that icy wind where it belonged — outside.
A Cozy Cabin on Wheels
Before we took off, I flicked on the Inferno cab heater I had also added to my rig. Within minutes, it turned from an icebox to a cozy cab. I leaned back in my PRP seats, which felt surprisingly warm for once, and gave a nod to my friend, Blake. He was already regretting not upgrading his Segway Villian with the same setup. He said his face and fingers were already half-frozen, and we hadn’t even left the driveway.
"Should’ve listened to me, " I smirked. He just rolled his eyes and revved his engine.
The Frosty Trail Awaits
We hit the trails just as the sun started to dip low, casting a golden glow over the snow-dusted trees. The ride was smooth, the enclosures keeping the wind and stray branches at bay. I watched the glow of 5150 Whips bobbing ahead — their vibrant LED lights cutting through the early evening mist.
A few miles in, we stopped to take it all in - the world was quiet, except for the ticking of cooling engines and the soft whisper of snow falling around us. I felt that familiar rush — the one that comes from knowing you’ve got everything you need to tackle whatever the trail throws at you.
Preparedness is Freedom
Out here, winter isn’t something to avoid; it’s something to embrace. But having the right gear makes all the difference. My 3 Star UTV cab enclosure and Inferno heater didn’t just keep me warm — they let me focus on the ride, the adventure, and the memories we were making.
So, if you’re gearing up for the cold, don’t skimp on winter prep. Treat your sxs (and yourself) to the upgrades that keep you going strong. Because when you’re warm and your machine is ready, there’s nothing stopping you from enjoying those frosty, beautiful trails.
And maybe, just maybe, you’ll convince your buddy to do the same before his poor nose freezes off.
Gear Mentioned:
3 Star UTV Full Cab Enclosures: Perfect for keeping wind, snow, and rain out of your cab. Check out the enclosure for the CFMoto 950 Sport here.
3 Star UTV Scratch resistant windshield: with vent options! For a cheaper option try our General Purpose windshields here.
Inferno Heaters: Stay warm and toasty even on the coldest rides.
PRP Seats: Comfortable, durable seats designed for rugged adventures.
5150 Whips: Bright, durable LED whips for maximum visibility.
Get out there, stay warm, and ride on! 3 Star UTV carries most brands!
