People primarily want an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) to go off-road and experience the freedom of riding beyond asphalt driveways. It’s a thrilling experience that isn’t as formal or rigid as following standard traffic laws. While navigating a forest or mountain trail seems like an exciting idea, that doesn’t mean you no longer have any rules to follow.
Understanding the Rules of Riding in the Wild
Bringing your ATV in a public riding area doesn’t mean that you can recklessly drive your quad with no consequences or restrictions. Although these places aren’t as strict as roadways, it’s important to stick to the rules and regulations of the trail to avoid causing inconveniences or getting into accidents.
Before you head into the great outdoors, here are five rules you need to remember:
- Stick with a Partner
Riding solo is a dangerous way to get stuck in the wild. Even if you’re in broad daylight, it can be difficult to reach you if you’re injured or unable to ride your way back to meet the land manager. It’s important to ride with a partner, so you have fewer chances of getting into sticky situations outdoors.
- Know the Area’s Boundaries
It’s easy to get carried away when riding your ATV, especially if borders aren’t clear and you’re driving without supervision. Although there should be enough space to enjoy the freedom of riding your ATV, there are area restrictions you need to consider. Some areas nearby may be private property, which can unintentionally make you a trespasser if you drive too far. On the other hand, riding areas can be around dense forests that aren’t part of the trail. Instead of carelessly heading in too deep, remember to coordinate with the area’s land manager to identify any off-limits areas you need to be wary of.
- Bring a Map or GPS device
Although you can trust your smartphone to navigate in and out of the city, some areas close to nature have spotty cell signals. It will be risky to depend solely on your cellphone if you need to contact help for an emergency. It’s best to bring a GPS device or a trusty map to know your exact location to safely navigate without getting lost.
- Check the Weather Before Heading Out
While ATVs are generally durable, they’re not impervious to harsh weather conditions. Encountering rain or snowfall can make it trickier to drive, especially if you’re not on asphalt roads. The risks of riding outdoors will also be greater since maneuvering your vehicle will have added difficulties. Remember that it’s best to ride in fair weather as much as you can. If it’s unavoidable, don’t forget to bring extra outdoor essentials like your tool kit, first aid, and layered clothing when necessary.
- Watch Your Fuel Usage
Although minor ATV repairs are fixable with your tool kit, no amount of tinkering will help you with an empty fuel tank. Whether you’re using an electric or gas-powered quad, remember to watch your fuel usage and know your limits while driving. It’s best to start heading back when you’re halfway through your fuel.
Conclusion
Whether you’re driving a car on the road or an ATV in the wild, it’s important to observe all safety regulations. It’s a rule that applies even if you’re not under supervision, especially in public riding areas. Before you head into the wild, it’s vital to ensure that your quad is capable enough to withstand the terrain you’ll follow. This will prevent you from encountering performance issues while driving.
Your ATV needs to be strong enough to fit your specific driving needs. At Tribal Motorsports, we offer a wide selection of products that can fit any occasion. Purchase the right ATV for your ride into the wild with us today!