Are you ready to become a quad rider? If so, ensure always to practice ATV safety. To learn more, check out the tips gathered in this post by Synthetic Motorsports in Perry.
Spring is back! If you're an outdoor enthusiast, this might be your favorite time of the year to go out and explore the nearest trails. That being the case, why not get into ATV riding? After all, these vehicles are designed to run over gravel, rocks, sand, mud, and other rough terrains. As such, ATVs are popular for those who seek adventures off the road.
Although ATVs are a lot of fun to ride, they are powerful machines that can be dangerous if not operated right. So much so that, according to CPSC's latest report, 1,566 fatal ATV incidents occurred between 2016 and 2018. Given such alarming figures, it's imperative to practice ATV safety. To that end, pay full attention to the tips listed below.
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ATV Safety Tips for New Racers
Take an ATV Safety Course
Completing an ATV safety course is crucial to becoming a skilled and safe rider. Most rider's ed programs break down into two parts: a classroom portion and hands-on training. During the introductory classes, you will learn the fundamentals of quad safety. As for the second part, you'll be taken to a training area to practice under supervision.
After completing the course, you'll have the knowledge and skills to operate a quad safely. Moreover, you'll gain the confidence to enjoy ATV riding to its fullest!
Choose the Right ATV
Choosing the right ATV can improve your safety and overall riding experience. To find the best quad, look for online reviews and feedback from other riders. Likewise, test-ride your top picks before making a purchase. That way, you'll better understand how it feels to ride each option and which works best for you.
Additionally, go for a quad with an engine size that you can handle. A smaller engine, such as a 250cc, may be more appropriate for you as a beginner. Also, opt for quads with advanced safety features such as a throttle limiter or a speed governor.
Wear Protective Gear
When riding, it is impossible to anticipate if you will fall off the quad, if a bug will get in your eye, or if a branch will scratch you. What you can do, though, is prepare yourself to prevent injuries. To that end, gear up from head to toe with the right safety equipment.
Always wear a snug-fitted helmet to protect your head. Get goggles or a face shield to protect your eyes, gloves, boots, and body armor. You can also wear reflective gear to ride under low-visibility conditions. Remember, each piece of equipment must be comfortable and fit you well.
Keeping your ATV in perfect working order is crucial to improving your riding safety. Check the owner's manual to learn about your quad's maintenance needs. Likewise, have your ATV serviced by a certified mechanic or authorized dealer. Failure to do so could result in poor performance and less durability. Remember that if you take good care of your quad, your quad will take care of you on the trails.
Ride in Safe Areas
ATVs are designed to operate on the roughest, harshest terrains. Still, certain areas may be unsafe or restricted for riding them. These include public roads, steep hills, cliffs, bodies of water, and crowded spaces. With that in mind, be sure to check local laws and regulations regarding ATV use. And more importantly, learn about the quad's operational limitations. That way, you'll ensure safe and responsible riding.
Don't Drink and Ride
Lastly, avoid alcohol consumption whenever you plan to take a quad ride. Even if it's just one drink, alcohol can impair your focus, visibility, and reaction times. That is why the risk of losing control over the ATV is much higher if you have been drinking. To avoid such danger, prioritize safety and never drink and ride.