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Choosing the correct 4x4 trail

With many options to choose from, the initiated driver may be tempted to attempt a 4×4 trail that could
appear inviting and manageable, but on which he could damage his vehicle irreparably, as well as suffer
serious personal injuries or even death.

These are all very compelling reasons to pay attention So, with that said, below is a brief breakdown of what each
to a particular 4×4 trail’s difficulty grading, and while no trail grading entails, as well as the types of vehicles that
grading can ever be absolute and perfectly definitive of could safely be used on them, but always observe the track
the conditions on that trail, a difficulty grading neverthe- owners’ guidelines on the subject of what is acceptable,
less offers some guidance on what could be expected on and what is not. Being out in the sticks does not mean you
that trail. With the exception of guided eco-trails in Parks can go off the track and start new 4×4 trails, nor does it
and Reserves, all South African 4×4 trail owners and mean you can dig the wheels down to donga depths just to
operators are required to make drivers aware of its grad- be the man who did it. Soil erosion is a big issue in Africa,
ing, which can only be a figure between one and five, or and a 4×4 trail owner or operator can be compelled to
a combination of two adjacent values, such as “Bainage repair environmental damage and/or put measures in place
4x4 trail has a grading of 3-5” to prevent it- or be shut down. Tread softly, because real
men do it without losing traction.

4×4 Trail Ratings

What the different trail ratings mean and remember to ensure that you stay within your skill level when
deciding on a 4×4 destination:
Grade 1: Grade 4:
Easy – Suitable for 4×4 novices or 4x2s with differential Difficult – Suitable for experienced drivers; low range
lock. and differential lock.

Grade 2: Grade 5:
Easy to Moderate – Suitable for 4x4s and all-wheel drive Extreme – Suitable for experts, not for solo trips; low
vehicles with traction control. range, high ground clearance, traction control or differ-
ential locks – Recovery back-up is essential.
Grade 3:
Moderate – Only suitable for vehicles with a low range
gearing.

The next issue of the Zululand Orange Magazine boasts a gripping article on the hardcore training that took place
on 3rd November 2019, at Bainage 4x4 trail in Zululand. To advertise in this space book fast! - daled@zululandorange.co.za
Zululand Orange (Pty) Ltd. 7