Imagine speeding along on an ATV, feeling the wind rushing past you, hearing the hum of the engine, and watching the beautiful scenery fly by. While the thrill of riding an ATV is why people love taking these vehicles out for a spin, using an ATV comes with certain risks, especially if you are new to riding.
Understanding how an ATV works, mastering riding techniques, and making safety a top priority are keys to successfully riding an ATV. We’ll take a look at the best beginner ATV riding tips so you can have fun with these vehicles in a safe way.
Safety Gear Essentials
Before you even put the key in the ignition, you need to understand how your ATV works. Each ATV model has unique characteristics. You’ll have to learn the weight, balance, and handling of your machine before you hop on.
Make sure you have a good understanding of the following parts of your ATV:
- Controls and Instrumentation
- Weight distribution and balance of the ATV
- Maintenance requirements
The next most important ATV riding tip is to equip yourself with the right gear to keep you safe. Wearing the correct attire can keep your risk of injury lower if there is ever an accident.
Helmet
You must be wearing a helmet before getting on your ATV. Make sure the helmet you choose is safety-approved by the Department of Transportation (DOT).
The helmet will protect your head in the event of a crash and also keep dirt and other debris out of your face. Full-face helmets can help keep your goggles firmly in place.
When you wear your helmet, make sure that it fits you correctly. It shouldn’t move or slip when you lean to one side or the other or bend down.
Skin Protection
When you’re riding around on your ATV, you’ll want to protect any exposed skin. On an ATV you can get bug bites, sunburns, rashes, and get hit by debris on your ride.
Put on a riding jacket that is durable enough to withstand bugs and other moisture. It should have good ventilation so you don’t overheat and so that any moisture that gets into it dries fast. Your jacket should fit you well and allow for several layers underneath in case it gets cold.
Next, put on a pair of strong gloves that can withstand the ruggedness of riding an ATV. They should allow your hands to move freely so you can safely drive your ATV. Your gloves should fit over your riding jacket so your entire arms remain covered.
Sturdy Boots
Wear a pair of riding boots that keep your feet dry and warm in cooler riding weather. Your pants should fit over your boots so your feet stay dry on your ride.
Pads and Guards
To add extra protection for your ride, strap on some pads and guards before you go. You can add knee and chest guards to your outfit to increase your safety.
Pre-Ride Preparation
Once you’ve put on the proper gear, you’ll have to inspect your ATV before you go for a ride. The terrain you’ll be driving on can be rough on your ATV, so it needs to be in good working condition before you set off on your trip. If you go without checking your ATV, you could break down part-way through your trip.
Here are some basic parts of your ATV to check before you go:
- Tire air pressure
- Tire or wheel damage
- Working brakes
- Operating control panel
- Ignition stop and start
- Headlights and taillights
- Signal lights
- Fuel level
- Oil level
- Lubricated chain
Once everything looks to be in good shape, you’ll be ready to get going.
Basic Riding Techniques
When you are ready to get on your ATV, having the right posture can help you manage the changes in the environment you’ll be riding on. Keep your head and eyes facing forward while you relax your shoulders. Your elbows should be slightly bent with your hands resting on the handlebars. Keep your feet on the footrests and your back comfortably straight.
If you need to turn on your ATV, do so by keeping your body’s weight on the outside foot peg. Lean away from the turn so you don’t tip your ATV over.
When moving your ATV forward with the throttle for the first time, go slowly. If you go too fast, you could pop your front end up or move forward too quickly.
Don’t stiffen up when you are driving your ATV over bumps or other tricky terrain. Your forearms may feel sore if you stiffen them during your ride.
Trail Safety and Etiquette
There are certain rules you need to follow when you’re out on the trail. This keeps everyone on the trail safe and helps ensure you have a fun and safe trip.
Trail Etiquette
The leader of your group will choose the trail you ride on, ensure no riders get left behind, and decide when and where to stop. A wireless communication system built into your helmet can help make communication easier between riders.
Hand Signals
One of the ATV safety techniques that riders use is to signal their group using hand signals. This helps people on the ATV signal how many people are on the trail behind them and where they are going.
Safety First
If you’re out on a ride, don’t forget to pack your first aid kit and repair tools. You should also review emergency procedures with your group before you get on the trail.
Follow These Essential Safety Tips When Riding an ATV
Taking these ATV riding tips into consideration will help boost your skills and give you the confidence you need to become a safer rider. Riding an ATV is an exhilarating way to spend an afternoon. Get familiar with your ATV, work on improving your ATV skills, and have fun!
If you are in the Tennessee area and are ready for the adventure of a lifetime, check out Gon Ridin’ Offroad. Our company uses experienced guides to lead everyone in your group safely on a stunning and action-packed ride. Contact us to book your trip today!