Wednesday, July 23, 2008

6 Types of Quality New and Used Dune Buggies


Do you want to buy a dune buggy? One of the first steps in buying anything is to determine what your options are. We can find several types of dune buggies on the market, but they generally fall into three types, based on where you can drive them:
1) in the sand
2) in the dirt
3) on the street.

Thus, you should choose a particular buggy, based on where you will drive it most of the time. Are some dune buggies literally ALL terrain vehicles? Yes, but you should remember the saying, “Jack of all trades, master of none.” A dune buggy that is designed for a particular terrain will generally perform better on that surface type. Here are some of the most common types of dune buggies: Baja Bug This vehicle is not technically a dune buggy, but could be included in the category. They are basically an old Volkswagen Bug, with the following adjustments · Fiberglass fenders and hood · Raised suspension ·

Improved shocks · Bigger tires You can drive a Baja Bug either on the street or in the dirt. While this vehicle can provide a barrel of fun, it is not ideal for steep hill-climbing or ultra-fast off-roading. However, keep in mind that these vehicles can provide hours of thrills, while costing only a fraction of a new or used dune buggy’s price tag. Fiberglass Buggy Fiberglass Buggies are also referred to as “clones,” due to worldwide companies’ attempts to duplicate the first “Meyers Manx” fiberglass dune buggy.

These buggies are available in an array of sizes and shapes. This type of dune buggy sports a fiberglass body that is bolted onto a Volkswagen Bug chassis (frame). The chassis has been shortened. These vehicle bodies were quite popular in the 1970s, and in fact, are still being produced! Drivers operate some Fiberglass Buggies strictly on streets, while some are designed for sand and sand dunes. Still other models are manufactured for more all-purpose off-road usage. Because their bodies are somewhat delicate, you must use extra care when operating these models off-road.

Flintstone Buggy These dune buggies often have rusted-out floors. Typically they are constructed on a Volkswagen Bug chassis and are constructed with inferior materials and methods. For instance, they often include broken seatbelts, roll cages constructed from plumbing pipe, and raggedy truck tires. Military Buggy The military uses sand buggies, due to their ability to operate on rough terrains. Desert Patrol Vehicles (DPVs) are the buggies that the US military uses. Manufacturers produce DPVs exclusively for the military. Off-Road Buggy typically, you would drive this type of buggy on bumpier terrain or solid surfaces. The reinforced frames of these buggies help to safeguard the riders if they experience impact or rolling. Most Off-Road Buggies feature tread on the front tires, and front brakes as well. With this type of vehicle, it is important to have excellent suspension and shocks, to drive through ruts on the ground and over huge rocks.

The Off-Road Buggy weighs roughly 1200-1500 pounds. Sand Rail Buggy This type of dune buggy is lighter than a typical model and features paddle tires, which increase its mobility. Their front tires are smooth, but lack brakes. The Sand Rail’s engine is generally very powerful, making them fast as lighting. Also, the role cage is minimalistic. This safeguards the riders in the case that the dune buggy tumbles down the soft sand dune. The vehicle’s weight ranges from 800-1000 pounds. Tube-Framed Buggy This type of buggy includes a “tube frame” that is easy to build and is quite durable.

Though the frame can bend or break, it is very easy to repair. Steel tubing is preferred over pipe, as the latter is sturdier and contains a uniform wall thickness. Different features of dune buggies vary from one type to another. The engine size of this type of buggy varies, based on factors such as the strength of the frame, suspension, and performance requirements. Basically, smaller engines are used for lightweight buggies, while huger engines are used in buggies for professional racing. Also, dune buggies can be operated by using either manual or automatic transmissions. Engine power, application and personal preference are all factors that determine which one is ideal.

About the Author

Hamm Morgan is an experienced Financial Adviser and motor sports enthusiast who has written a number of informative articles on the topic of Get more information regarding dune buggies for sale.

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