ATV Trail Riding Tips
Whether you’re thinking about investing in an ATV or you just recently bought one, it’s important to learn how to navigate the trails. This is especially true for first-time riders. Schnelker Marine & Powersports has created this guide with all the trail riding tips you need! You’ll be happy to know that your quad will be easier to maneuver on designated trails because the path is more predictable and there won’t be too many challenging obstacles in your way. Read on for more! If you’re still shopping around, stop by our dealership to browse ATVs for sale near Fort Wayne, IN. You can find us in New Haven, near Auburn!
Prepare to Ride
Before you can unlock your ATV’s full potential, you’ll need to make sure you’re ready to ride. There are a few steps you can follow each time as you prepare for the trails. First, suit up in the right safety gear, including a protective helmet, boots, gloves, goggles, and durable riding clothes. Hopefully, you invested in these items when you were checking out ATVs for sale. If not, make sure you get them before your first ride. All of these items will protect you in the event of a crash.
You should also make sure you have the necessary tools available. You never know when you’ll need them. Some examples include a wrench that matches your four-wheeler bolt size, a knife, a flashlight, gas can, snacks, water, a map, compass, flat tire patch kit, and so on. You’re almost ready for the trails. Another key step in the preparation process is making sure your ATV is ready, too. Perform an inspection to confirm everything is functioning properly. If you come across an issue, address it before you depart. You don’t want to discover an issue when you’re out on the trails, after all.
Be Respectful
It’s more than likely that you won’t be the only one out enjoying the trails. Therefore, you need to be respectful of other riders in the area. You don’t want to be viewed as the arrogant rider zooming by at dangerous speeds and leaving others in the dust. Always follow the proper right of way when navigating oncoming traffic. If you happen upon harsh trail conditions, you should inform other riders that you pass on the way. If you notice someone pulled over, offer to help.
Share the Path
When dealing with other ATV riders on the trail, you want to make sure you leave enough space for them to brake, turn, and operate their quad. Be patient and remain alert so you can provide plenty of room to other riders. You should only pass others if you can do so safely and at reasonable speeds. Don’t forget to signal your approach when possible. As long as you’re considerate of others and mindful of their space, you should have a smooth and easy ride.
Check the Weather
This might seem like a no-brainer, but it’s worth mentioning. When you’re planning a day of trail riding on your ATV, you should pay attention to the weather forecast. You should avoid riding in poor conditions, like storms, heavy rains, lightning, and even triple-digit temperatures. The last thing you want to do is have to rush back to your trailer when it starts to pour rain. When you do such things in a hurry, it can often lead to accidents. You also don’t want to be a victim of heatstroke after spending the day riding in scorching hot weather.
We hope our guide to ATV trail riding has come in handy. If you have lingering questions or you’d like to take a look at our ATVs for sale in New Haven, IN, visit us at Schnelker Marine & Powersports! We’re also proud to serve Fort Wayne and Auburn.