5 Things To Know Before Riding an ATV

Riding an ATV can be fun but also dangerous. An ATV accident can be fatal, like in other vehicles. With its growing popularity, precautions and guidelines have been set to avoid accidents. Following these guidelines can go a long way to ensure safety and the best riding experience.

Planning according to the guidelines helps maintain the excellent condition of your bike. You will also avoid scenarios where you become stranded in your long rides. Being stranded kills the fun, and on top of that, gives you something to worry about in your trip.

Here are the five things to know before riding an ATV

1. Training

For a beginner, you should seek proper training to ensure your safety. It also gives you a legal right to ride the ATV, as the law may need of you. It equips you with basic riding skills and information on how to operate the ATV safely.

After going through the training, practicing can also instill the skills for the long term. Seeking advice from experienced riders can also help you improve your skills. They can also give you insight on how to start an ATV dealership or pursue a riding career.

2. Pre-ride Inspection

According to ATV safety, a pre-ride inspection can take 10 to 15 minutes of your time. It goes a long way to ensure that you are not stranded during your rides. It also ensures that your all-terrain vehicle is in good shape before and after the ride.

There should be a checklist in the manual of your ATV to ensure proper inspection. The checklist gives you common parts and systems to check. The standard checklist is the T-Cloc checklist that is an acronym. The checklist stands for:

• T- wheels and tires

• C- cables and controls

• L- electric and lights

• O- fuel and oil

• C- chassis and chain/shaft

• Tires and wheels

Always make sure that your ATV has the manufacturer's recommended tires. They will ensure uniformity and avoid confusion when using your checklist.

Always check your tire pressure. It ranges from 2 psi to10 psi. The manual will have the recommended tire pressure, best for your vehicle. Make sure your tire pressure resonates with the one in the manual.

Check for punctured tires and any air leakages. Looking for cuts in your tires can be an excellent way to establish punctures. Fix them before going out for a ride. Make sure your axle nuts are tightly fixed with the required pins. Tightening them will avoid losing control, which may cause injuries.

Controls and Cables

Make sure your controls can move smoothly within the required range. You should adjust your throttle limiter according to your size or age.

Lights and Electrics

Be sure to check your headlights and rear lights. When riding in the dark, the lights will be your guide through the darkness. Switch the ATV on and off to test the ignition button. If working correctly, check the kill engine button.

Oil and Fuel

Always make sure to have a full tank before any ride. A full tank will ensure you are not stranded due to a lack of fuel. Check your oil level using the dipstick and establish if any leakages that may be present.

Chain and Driveshaft

It would be best if you oiled the chain with grease. The slack should also correspond to the manual's guidelines. If your ATV has a driveshaft instead, check signs of leaking oil. You should also fasten the parts of the vehicle in case any of them are loose.

Protective Gear

When riding, make sure that you use all the protective gear required for safety. The helmet is very crucial as it minimizes impact on head injuries in case of an accident. The goggles can also protect you from wind and other particles that can enter your eye. Wearing long-sleeved tops and trousers is also advised.

Carrying Capacity

The average ATV designs carry one person. If you go against this guideline, you might put your life in danger in the process. Carrying passengers makes your control as a rider harder – this might result in unintended accidents.

Drug and Alcohol Influence

Before riding your ATV, you should avoid using any drugs that may impair your judgment. Drugs influence can make you lose control of the ATV while riding. In addition, it can cause you injury or the pedestrian on the scene. The law also deems you punishable because of riding under the influence.

Riding the ATV is exciting to many people. Taking part in riding the ATV is fun when with friends and family. However, observing the guidelines will indeed help keep you safe.