ATV Trail Riding Tips
Once you’ve finally invested in the four wheeler of your dreams, you’re probably going to want to be hitting the trails on a regular basis so you can chase your next adrenaline rush. If you’re new to riding trails, you’ll want to take the time to learn some important tips. We’ve put together a few pointers to help you prepare for your days spent out on the trails. At Bellevue Suzuki Kawasaki, we’ve got all your ATV needs covered. Visit us in Memphis, Tennessee near Jackson!
Ride Prep
Before you jump on your four wheeler and head for the trails, you need to make sure you’re properly prepared to ride. The first thing you should do is suit up with your helmet, goggles, boots, gloves, and riding clothes or outerwear. All of these items will protect you from the elements as well as if you fall off your ATV or worse, flip over. It’s also wise to bring a kit filled with essential tools you might need such as a wrench that fits your ATV’s bolt size, a knife, fire starter, flashlight, rain poncho, extra gas can, water, snacks, a map, 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 be safe than sorry.
Another thing you need to do before each trip is a pre-ride inspection. Take a look at your tires and see if there are any signs of damage. Make sure that control connections and cables are all in good working order. You should also inspect the chain for any links that might be worn down. In general, you should be looking for anything out of the ordinary with your four wheeler. If there is anything questionable, you should take it in for maintenance before riding.
Even if you’re the type to enjoy your solitude, it’s not a bad idea to find a riding buddy. It can be dangerous to ride the trails alone especially if something happens and you’re unable to call for help. It can also be much more fun to ride with a friend or even a group. You don’t want to risk your safety, so having a buddy or a group to explore trails with is in your best interest.
Trail Rules
There are rules when driving a car or riding a motorcycle and the same goes for ATVs. You might be tempted to let your feet dangle but they could easily get on your tires as you ride. You should always keep your feet secure on foot pegs or install nerf bars. As you’re riding, try to remember to use proper etiquette. You’ll probably encounter other riders on the trails, so yield to those in a passing group or riders who are headed uphill.
Adapting to the Trail
No matter what trail you choose, it’s never going to be straight and predictable. When you’re riding somewhere for the first time, you’ll need to continuously adapt to the trail as you go. 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. In the event that you encounter a wild or stray animal, you’ll want to be as non-threatening as possible. You should turn off your engine, remove your helmet, and avoid any sudden movements. ATV trails are meant to be a thrill and a result, they can pose a bit of a challenge. One of the most common challenges when adapting to a trail is tackling the ruts, which are inevitable. If you don’t handle them correctly, there’s a chance you could tip over. You should put both wheels on the edge of the rut and drive slowly as you follow the natural path of the rut. Try to keep both wheels on the edges as much as you can. Keep your ATV level when riding around curves. You can take the curves slow at first and adjust as you go.
Just like that, you’re an ATV trailing riding pro! If you need some new four wheeler gear before you hit your next trail, stop by Bellevue Suzuki Kawasaki in Memphis, Tennessee near Jackson today!