Four Wheeler Safety Tips
Four wheelers can be a lot of fun, but like any powersport vehicles, they can also present hazards to anyone who doesn’t take safety seriously. From rider error, to dangerous weather conditions, to mechanical problems that leave you stranded far from your base, there are some serious hazards that you should consider if you’re going to ride an ATV.
This short guide will teach you the basics of riding an ATV safely. Read on to learn more, and if you’re still looking for the perfect ATV, stop by Joe’s Cycle Shop. Our location near Memphis, Tennessee proudly serves the areas of Humboldt and Jackson, Tennessee, as well as Corinth, Oxford, and Olive Branch, Mississippi.
Invest in Good Equipment
Safe four-wheel riding requires that the rider sets his- or herself up for success, and one of the best ways to do that is to invest in decent equipment. Good equipment will help to keep you comfortable and focused on riding and it will also protect you if you get in an accident.
Start with finding a good helmet that fits you correctly. It’s best to invest in a full face helmet when riding a four-wheeler because a full face helmet will provide the most protection. Many helmets that are designed for ATV riding use goggles or a shatter-resistant face mask to protect the rider’s eyes.
A chest protector is another helpful piece of equipment for any ATV rider. It will protect your sternum from traumatic impact. Some solid riding boots can help give you firm footing if your ATV gets stuck and you need to push it to safety. Finally, nothing beats quality riding gloves for keeping the hands warm, dry, and protected from debris.
Keep Your ATV in Top Riding Shape
Riding on a poorly maintained ATV is quite dangerous in and of itself, so if you value your safety, it’s important to keep yours in top riding form. Make sure to keep your ATV on a regular maintenance schedule, which should include regular trips to the repair shop. In addition to those trips to the repair shop, make sure you keep the engine fluids at the correct levels and make sure the wheels are properly inflated. If the brakes are making any excessive noise or are causing the ATV to shake or vibrate, make sure to have them checked out by a specialist.
Learn the Area Before Taking it Full Speed
There are many things you’ll learn about an ATV with riding in terms of how to take corners, how much time to give yourself for braking, and how to ride on various types of terrain. But one of the most important and broadly accurate things you’ll want to know is that it’s important to familiarize yourself with a location before taking it at full speed. If you’re riding on a new trail, take it at half speed or less and familiarize yourself with the trail conditions. When riding on a dune, make sure to give yourself some time riding at a reduced speed to get a sense for how the sand feels. This warm-up period will help you to hone in your own sense for how riding should feel.
Stay Healthy
When you aren’t feeling your best, you won’t ride your best either. It’s important to get enough sleep before a day of riding. Always make sure to keep your blood sugar up by eating before you ride and then snacking throughout the day. Staying on top of your hydration is also key, especially during warm weather. If you’re new to ATV riding, you might not realize how physical it is and how easy it is to burn through water. Finally, make sure to stay away from the use of drugs and alcohol when you ride. Not only is it illegal to operate a motor vehicle while intoxicated, but it’s also just incredibly dangerous.
If you’re looking for the perfect four-wheeler or the best quality riding equipment, stop by Joe’s Cycle Shop and check our ATVs for sale. We’re located near Memphis and we proudly serve the areas of Humboldt, and Jackson, Tennessee, as well as Corinth, Oxford, and Olive Branch, Mississippi.
