Redditch4x4 is Affiliated with GLASS-UK.org

Redditch4x4 and its members have joined up with GLASS-UK.org to raise awareness of green lanes and the correct use of our beautiful countryside for many more years to come.

GLASS is the National User Group for those who enjoy using the Country’s network of ancient unsurfaced public roads and vehicular rights of way. They are a not for profit association dedicated to driving, protecting and researching our unique heritage of unsurfaced public highways. GLASS promote legal and responsible driving as a way of enjoying the countryside and campaign against irresponsible use.

Redditch4x4 like so many other 4x4 users do not want to be tarnished with the same brush as those who regularly spoil the few public roads and vehicular rights of way which are still offered to us. We are affiliated to GLASS to promote and keep alive the natural beauty that is our countryside, for what is hopefully many more years to come. Please feel free to contact our team regarding any Green Laning/GLASS topics.

Myth:

Recreational 4x4s cause 3 foot deep ruts.

Fact:

Most 4x4s use tyres that are less than 30" in diameter, so have a radius of 15" or less. Even the largest tyres in everyday use are generally no bigger than 35" diameter, so have a radius of 17.5". After taking account of the axles, differentials, brakes etc this gives most vehicles a ground clearance of around 4" to 8" and most are towards the lower figure. Therefore this is the deepest depth of rut a normal 4x4 could be expected to cause.
Major ruts are often caused by legitimate agricultural use. Some tractors can cause ruts 3' deep!
Many so called "ruts" are in fact caused by water run-off eroding existing channels in the surface. Yes these can be caused initially by vehicles (recreational or agricultural) or even cycle traffic or horse drawn vehicles. Lack of maintenance especially to drainage is often the reason they can get so bad.
Ruts can allow water to run off and cause vehicles to follow the same route, especially as many unsurfaced highways are fenced or walled. Whereas pocketing on open footpaths caused by horse or foot traffic can cause standing water that makes tracks waterlogged and encourages users to divert round, making the damage wider and wider. Anyone who has walked on the peat moors of northern England will have seen this effect.

Cited: GLASS-UK.Org on Friday 10th June 2011.