Riding your ATV can be a great deal of fun. Your off-roading experience through different terrains can be a wonderful adventure as long as you and your vehicle are up to the task. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, the following tips will help you conquer any terrain be it mountain trails, deserts, or the woods:
1. Muddy areas - You should take special care within these areas especially if you are a rookie rider. Even though ATVs have the big wheels and tread to handle such trails, it can be a bit tricky. You can really never know how deep a hole is so take care when you come upon such spots. Make sure you have tow straps or a good shovel to free you if you get stuck.
2. Rocky trails - The ability to navigate over rocks is a good way to test your driving prowess. Your ATV has a lot of power, however, you should try to avoid large rocks if you can. Stirring up small rocks and pebbles can be just as problematic on trails. Make sure you have on the proper safety gear to ensure you don't get hit with debris. And always look out for tumbling rocks or boulders.
3. Desert areas - Whether you're riding on rolling sand dunes or straightaways, deserts also post potential risk hazards. If your ATV has enough power, you can get anywhere you need to go. But you need to be aware of all the dust your ATV can kick up. Do your best to avoid rocky conditions and be aware of zones and off limit postings. It is also advisable to wear the proper gear to shield your face and eyes from dust, rocks, and pebbles.
4. Mountains and Hills - Hilly and mountainous terrain will give you a lot of heart-throbbing action on your ATV. Most ATVs can traverse any rough terrain, but never take hilly trails for granted. Dangerous shifts can come about in a moments notice. This can result in a dangerous roll-over. Take it easy. Understand how to incline and decline correctly. This is especially important if you are carrying several people on your ride. Make sure you ride at a steady pace without sudden jerks. Sudden sharp turn can also be hazardous. Keep it in low gear if you can.
5. Forest Trails - Now these areas will definitely test your visibility. Thick forests and woodsy areas have a lot of hanging objects like branches and downed trees. They can also get pretty narrow at time. Always be aware of your surroundings if you are on a forest trail. You have to be ready if you need to make a sudden stop or have to navigate around an object or an animal. No one want to have a collision with a tree. This is one of the most dangerous accidents that can happen while on an ATV.
6. Snow and Ice - Riding an ATV during the winter months can be a blast. Most machines have very little problems with riding through wintery conditions. However, there is an issue of control. Always make sure have the proper tires on your ATV for better traction. Just like cars, ATVs can lose control and slide. As usual, be sure to have on the proper head gear, goggles and dress warmly. Also, riding in the snow and riding on ice are two different things. Ice may not be able to handle the weight of your ATV. This is important to know if you find yourself on a frozen lake. Always be aware of your surroundings.
7. Paved Ground - In most states, off-roading is prohibited on paved areas. Of course you will need to check your local laws to know for sure. The bottom line is that ATVs are not designed for these types of surfaces for the following reasons:
- Unlike cars, ATVs have no rear differential and solid rear axles that interferes with turning on concrete and asphalt.
- The ATV low tire pressure interferes with speed on asphalt and concrete.
- ATVs are considered "rider active" which means the rider's body is situated in a position that prevents them from handling the vehicle on prohibited surfaces. This leaves the operator vulnerable and unable to use the proper controls when faced with rollovers and striking other objects.
ATV off-roading can be a lot of fun on any terrain. If you take advantage of certain tips, you should have no problem navigating mountains, deserts, or forests. Be safe and follow the rules.