ATV Trail Riding Tips
Once you’ve finally invested in the ATV of your dreams, you’ll probably want to hit the trails on a regular basis so you can chase that adrenaline rush. If you’re new to riding a quad, you’ll want to take the time to learn some basic safety rules and good riding practices. We’ve put together a few pointers so you can have maximum fun without being a hazard to yourself or others on the trails.
Ride Prep
Before you hop on your quad and head for the trails, you need to make sure that you’re properly prepared to ride. The first thing you should do is gear up with your helmet, goggles, boots, gloves, and riding clothes. These will protect you from the elements and help reduce the likelihood of injury if you fall off your ATV or worse, flip over. It’s also wise to bring a toolkit with a wrench, knife, fire starter, flashlight, an extra gas can, water, snacks, compass, GPS, and a flat tire patch kit. You never know what can happen when you’re out on the trail and it’s better to take necessary precautions than to be caught unprepared.
Another important thing you need to do before each trip is to perform a pre-ride inspection. Check your ATV’s tires and see if there are any signs of damage. You should also examine the chain for any links that might be worn down. In general, you should be looking for anything out of the ordinary with your quad. If there is anything that needs to be addressed, you should take your four-wheeler for repairs.
Riding Buddy
It can be dangerous to ride the trails alone, especially if you’re a beginner. It can also be much more fun to ride with a buddy or even a group. You don’t want to risk your safety, so having a friend or a group along with you to explore the trails is in your best interest.
Adapting to the Trail
No matter what trail you choose, you’ll need to continuously adapt to the terrain. Adjust your speed according to your environment. For example, if you’re passing homes or campgrounds, lower your speed and be conscious of your noise level.
One of the most common challenges faced when riding an ATV on a trail is handling the ruts, which are inevitable. If you don’t tackle them correctly, there’s a chance you could tip over. Try to keep both wheels of your quad on the edges of the ruts as much as you can and adjust as you go.
By following these ATV riding tips, you’ll become a pro in no time! If you’re in the market for an ATV to take out on the trails, visit Sky Powersports Cocoa to see the quads we have got in stock. We are conveniently located in Cocoa, FL, and we welcome all those in Palm Shore and East Orlando.