7 Tips for Riding an ATV on Different Types of Terrain

More than 5.5 million people own ATVs in America based on recent reports from the powersports industry. That number has been growing for decades, and it’s sure to continue to surge in the years to come. These vehicles are extremely popular among people who love off-roading and the great outdoors. Businesses are also making more use of them for jobs that require them to venture off the beaten path.

Whether you enjoy hunting, pioneer camping, exploring in the woods, or barreling across open fields, an ATV may be the perfect toy for you. These vehicles are helpful for a wide range of jobs as well. One of the best features of ATVs is that they’re designed to cover a broad range of surfaces and riding conditions. They can go almost anywhere you want to take them, which essentially gives you access to an entire world of new tasks and adventures.

Of course, having a vehicle that can handle a wide range of challenges is only part of the picture. It’s important that you’re able to handle that vehicle as well. While you’re considering buying a can am salt lake city or any other type of all-terrain vehicle, the following seven tips for riding on different types of terrain can help keep you safe and ensure you get the most out of your ATV.

1) Dirt Trails

First, let’s talk about riding an ATV on dirt trails because that’s where most people get started. Dirt trails are usually a little smoother and easier to navigate than other places to ride. They also offer better grip for an ATV’s tires than mud, snow, and other challenges. They’re still fun, though.

On dirt trails, try to keep a steady speed when possible. It’s important to keep your weight balanced as well. Keep your arms relaxed and slightly bent, and don’t jerk the throttle or brakes. Remember that if you hit a patch of gravel or loose dirt, the ATV may slide right out from under you. With that being the case, pay attention to your surroundings, and try to look ahead rather than keeping your eyes on the path directly in front of you.

2) Mud

Mud is one of the most exciting types of terrain to ride an ATV on. It’s also one of the trickiest. Maybe that’s why it’s so much fun, right? When you’re riding on mud, be careful about giving your ATV too much throttle. If you do, its wheels will just spin in place, and you may end up having to drag it out of a sticky situation. Not giving it enough throttle can have the same effect.

Try to keep a steady momentum when you’re riding through mud, and don’t slow down or stop in the middle of it. Use a lower gear to give the ATV enough power to get through the mud without spinning or getting stuck. Leaning back slightly to shift your weight to the back wheels can make the front of the ATV lighter, which helps it crawl the mud instead of just marring up in it. If you get stuck, rock the ATV back and forth instead of trying to get out at full speed.

3) Sand

Sand is particularly challenging. Besides being “coarse and rough and irritating” as Anakin Skywalker pointed out, it’s loose, so it shifts under an ATV’s tires. That means it’s easy to sink into and get stuck in. When that happens, getting your ATV out could be a problem.

It’s best to keep up your speed when riding on sand. Slowing down may allow your tires to sink into it. Be careful about making sharp turns too quickly as well because that can cause you to flip. Running wider tires or letting a small amount of air out of normal ones can help you get better traction on sand.

4) Rocky Terrain

Then, there’s rocky terrain. It’s rough on you and the ATV, and it can be dangerous. When you’re riding on rocky ground, prioritize caution over speed. As is the case with mud, it’s best to use lower gears when riding on rocks. That gives you more power and control. You may need to stand up slightly so you’ll be able to shift your weight along with the terrain.

If you come across large rocks, don’t try to crawl them straight on. Instead, approach them at an angle so your tires can power over them more easily. Taking your time and exercising caution on rocky terrain can help keep you safe while also protecting your ATV.

5) Hills

Hills are also common choices for ATV riders. They’re both fun and challenging. Keep in mind that they can also be risky, though. A couple of the main hazards of tackling hills on an ATV are flipping over and losing control.

If you’re riding uphill, lean forward a bit to keep the ATV balanced, and give it steady throttle. Remember that stopping halfway through a hill can make it more difficult to get started again or even leave you sliding back down in some cases. If your ATV seems to have trouble climbing straight up, you may want to approach the hill at an angle.

When going downhill, leaning back a little and keeping the ATV in a low gear can help you stay in control. Apply the brakes gently and evenly when you need to. Never apply only the front brakes, though. That can cause you to flip forward.

6) Water

There may be times when you need to cross big puddles or small streams. Although ATVs are built to handle all types of conditions, it’s important to go slowly and steadily in water. Avoid water deep water because it can stall your engine or even carry you away. Besides that, there could be hidden obstacles beneath the surface.

7) Ice and Snow

Finally, there are ice and snow. They’re the most dangerous conditions to ride in, and going slowly on either is recommended. Equip your ATV with tires that are specifically designed for winter riding too. On snow and ice, you definitely need to take things slowly. That applies to both riding and turning. Pay close attention to your surroundings, and remember that snow can hide obstacles like rocks, roots, and tree stumps.

Staying Safe on Your ATV

ATVs are designed to take you through a range of riding conditions. Whether you’re using them for work or fun, they give you plenty of freedom. You need to take care of yourself and the ATV while riding, though. Keeping these seven tips in mind while you’re riding can help you do just that without taking away from the fun of an adventure or keeping you from getting a job done.