ATV Riding Tips for Beginners
Owning an all-terrain vehicle is a great way to elevate your off-roading game. It allows you to enjoy the beautiful outdoors and the thrilling adrenaline rushes you experience while blazing down rocky paths in your ATV. However, if you’re new to riding ATVs, you’ll need to learn how to ride them carefully to keep yourself and those around you safe while still having fun. We’ve gathered up some beginner ATV riding tips to help you ensure a smooth and safe ride. For all your ATV needs, you can always visit Big St. Charles Motorsports in St. Charles, Missouri.
Be Prepared
Before you head out, take the time to inspect your machine thoroughly to ensure it’s ready to go. Reading the owner’s manual is a great way to learn how your ATV operates and what you need to do for proper maintenance. Check the tire pressure and condition, airing them up to the recommended levels specified in your owner’s manual. Fill up the gas tank and make sure the oil is clean and topped off. Check lights and signals to make sure they function correctly.
Practice Makes Perfect
You’ll also want to take some time to practice riding your ATV in an empty field or other safe, open area. Find a flat area like a field to learn how to brake, reverse, turn and accelerate in your quad. You’ll want to go slowly at first and avoid riding recklessly or trying any tricks until you’ve gained some experience. Following a more experienced rider for your first few rides can help you stay safe and learn how to master the basics.
Wear Safety Gear
When you’re riding an ATV, it’s important that you wear some protective gear to keep yourself safe from potential hazards. A helmet is a must when riding any type of powersports vehicle. Motorcycle helmets with either a full-face mask or a pair of goggles will keep your head and eyes protected. Long sleeves and pants along with sturdy boots and gloves with good grip are also necessary.
You should carry a first aid kit, a repair kit for your ATV, snacks and plenty of water, a map and a compass or a GPS system, an emergency radio, your phone with charger and a flashlight. Being prepared for injuries or breakdowns is far better than having an emergency situation and no way to deal with it or call for help.
Follow the Rules of the Trail
When riding on a trail or in a public riding area, you’ll need to make sure you’re obeying all the posted rules. ATV trails are specifically designed to be easy to ride, providing you with a safe and direct route through an area. Don’t go off the trails, since this can do damage to the surrounding environment and leave you vulnerable to hitting unseen obstacles.
When you’re learning to ride your ATV, it’s best to start slow, be cautious, and take no undue risks. If you accelerate, it can be helpful to stand up a bit on your ATV to provide some more leverage, but make sure you don’t lock your joints so that you don’t shock them with the impacts of rough terrain.
We hope that these tips help you to master ATV riding and, with practice, you’ll become a pro in no time. At Big St. Charles Motorsports in St. Charles, MO, we offer a range of all-terrain vehicles for sale. We can help you find the ideal model for your riding style and budget. We proudly serve those in St. Louis and St. Peters, MO. Stop by and visit today!