Hi,
I'm a complete newbie to ATV/UTVs but want one in large part to plow a short, steep driveway. Considiern a Zforce 800, but is that able to get up a snow-covered, maybe 40 - 45 degree, asphalt incline? And is it likely to be able to handle a controlled decent down the same slope while pushing up to 18 inches of snow?
For reference, this is in the northeast where snow can be heavy or light. Right now I don't go up it at all if there is snow cover, I've slid back down in both 4wd and awd suvs and have to shovel by hand with cramp-ons for traction.
Any info would be appreciated.

[2015 Z Force 800 53/Trail EPS]

No vehicle that I know of can ascend a snow and ice-covered 45 degree smooth incline...especially pushing something. Maybe with tracks...maybe. So no. Now if by chance it was more like 38 or less degrees, then there is a chance. And sense it will be working mostly, best think about a utility machine like a UForce or Ranger, not a sport machine like a ZForce or RzR.

Even tracks aren't perfect in deep stuff:

https://youtu.be/aZc6Y4CLhTA

https://youtu.be/lwA-Phjjje4

Thanks for the info! I'm not entirely sure of the grade, but it's steep. I wouldn't plan to plow uphill but might need to get up the hill on top of the snow first.

Good point on the sport vs. utility. I'd like to be able to take it on trails but that's secondary. I can see the body differences and assume there is a different suspension; what are some other basic considerations/differences when considering Uforce vs Zforce?

[2015 Z Force 800 53/Trail EPS]

Thanks for the info! I'm not entirely sure of the grade, but it's steep. I wouldn't plan to plow uphill but might need to get up the hill on top of the snow first.

Good point on the sport vs. utility. I'd like to be able to take it on trails but that's secondary. I can see the body differences and assume there is a different suspension; what are some other basic considerations/differences when considering Uforce vs Zforce?

A bit like any other manufacturer between their working and playing machines...gear ratios, suspension and travel, loading and towing abilities...ect. Many do use the Z's for plowing and they are good as it..it's just not what they were intended for. However I'll bet if you could plow-down most of it and with good radial tires and chains, you might be impressed. In low range the Z and U 800s...and 1000s have impressive torque.

Is this a straight shot or are there corners & turns?

If you are pushing snow & need the ability to turn & maintain traction Visco Lok is something you should consider. Can Am is the only manufacture I'm aware of that uses Visco Lok.