An ATV is an excellent hobby, and a great way to bond with friends and family. Whether you ride for fun or sport, ATVs are a nice way to spend your free time.
Preparing To Ride
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Choose an ATV. Some brands include Polaris, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha, Arctic Cat, Can-Am and Honda.
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Choose a size. ATVs come in all shapes and sizes, and size is often measured by engine’s displacement. A good starter size is 200cc.
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Buy proper safety equipment. Get a helmet, goggles, boots, and gloves. Though expensive, you’ll be happy you got them if you wipe out.
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Take a safety course. These courses will teach you how to safely ride an ATV.
Your first ride
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Start the ATV. The ATV starts either by a pull cord or by turning a key and pushing the starter button.
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Disengage the parking brake. This is usually done by shifting from park to another gear, or depressing the rear brake.
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Put the ATV in drive. An ATV with an automatic transmission is highly recommended. To put the ATV in gear, you’ll usually be moving a lever forward.
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Slowly press the throttle. This is done by pushing a thumb lever forward, or twisting the right hand grip.
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Drive slowly along flat ground. Don’t go over 20 mph.
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Pick up speed. Once you feel confident start driving faster and along bumpier terrain.
Ending the ride
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Press the brakes to slow down. By pulling the brake levers on the handlebars and/or pressing the foot pedal.
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Put the ATV in neutral when you come to a stop. This will prevent you from accidentally accelerating away as you dismount.
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Dismount the ATV. This is easy, just swing your leg over the seat and step off.
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Remove the key from the ignition. Pull the key out to prevent theft.
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Set the parking brake. This is detailed in the owner’s manual.
Tips
- An ATV is a tough machine, so don’t worry about wrecking it.
- For most ATVs, you won’t need to mix the fuels.
- The first 10 hours should be used for break in if it’s a new ATV.
- Attending a training course can help ease fears and teach you to ride safely.
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