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 Post subject: Trail Ratings Information
PostPosted: Mon May 12, 2008 12:15 am 
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Joined: Tue May 06, 2008 6:04 pm
Posts: 316
Trail Ratings, we have added trail ratings to the main Website Runs/Events section for those who are new to the area or 4 wheeling this will help you understand the signs and maybe decide on the trail you would like to run. Trails can also be rated on number systems; 1-5 and 1-10 with 5 being the most difficult on a 1-5 scale, and 10 being the most difficult on a 1-10 scale. Keep in mind that trails change, a good rainy winter can turn a moderate trail into a difficult trail, so it's always best to be prepared. Trail ratings are really not standardized, but do give a general rating of the trail. For those rated with symbols it goes like this:

Easy = Green
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Moderate = Blue
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Difficult = Black Diamond
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Extreme = Multiple Black Diamonds
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.
.
Hope this helps.


Level 1: 4-wheel drive only needed occasionally. Relaxing ride with few tough spots. Any 4-wheel drive Sport Utility or Pickup with a low range and minimum 7.5" ground clearance can do these trails. Obstacles may include some deep sand, shallow water crossings, small to medium rocks, mud, and semi-steep hills and descents.

Level 2: 4-wheel drive needed a lot. Stock vehicles and tires OK. An SUV with larger stock tires, limited slip, and a transfer case ratio of 2.5 or above fares better here. Some SUV's will be seriously challenged here. 50/50 locked transfer case needed.

Level 3: Aggressive tires needed. Rear locker recommended. A rig with independent front suspension will be seriously challenged, maxed out or broken on some of these trails. Rigs with solid front axles articulate better and have better wheel travel. They are also less prone to breakage. Limited slips, and sway-bar disconnects, are also recommended. Driving skill really starts to matter a great deal here.

Level 4: Rear locker needed. Front locker recommended. Winch recommended. High challenge! Aggressive tires of at least 31", a rear locker, winch, and 2-4" of lift needed. Your experience should include: steep hill-climbing, traversing ledges and steps, crossing mud holes, winching, log crossings, driving through deep water, large rocks, etc. Good spotters and trail guides can help you get through. Spare parts, tools, and recovery equipment are needed here. Run these trails with club members and experienced folks. Damage and broken parts can definitely happen here.

Level 5: You didn't bring enough! Nobody gets on these trails without 33"+ tires, locker front and rear, a winch, lots of experience, and a total disregard for the mechanical or cosmetic condition of their vehicle. NO EXCEPTIONS. Bring spare parts. We're not kidding!


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