Read on to find out everything you need to know about ATVing as a beginner.

• What is an ATV?
• Which ATV model to purchase?
• How to educate yourself on ATV riding?
• What gear do you need to ride an ATV?
• 4 essential tips for ATVing

What is an ATV?

Let’s start by explaining the difference between UTVs and ATVs since many people confuse them.

UTV (Utility Task Vehicle) is built with a lot of storage, allowing to seat passengers side by side. In contrast, an ATV is smaller since it is designed for single riders. 

ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle), also known as a four-wheeler, is a recreational vehicle used to drive different terrain types. It comes in various sizes and models and is used throughout the year. Unlike other types of vehicles, ATVs are designed with handlebars instead of steering wheels for controlling the direction of the vehicle.

 Which ATV model to purchase?

Start with a simple model.

As a beginner, you are unsure which model to purchase and what features would correspond to your needs. While there are various models and sizes of ATV, we recommend starting with a simple model.

We suggest you try Can-Am as it is a machine that is simple and easy to ride. Trying an uncomplicated model will allow you to get familiar with your new ride and get professional at riding. Make sure you choose the right size ATV to feel comfortable while riding.

How to educate yourself on ATV riding?

Like any new product you purchase for the first time, you should educate yourself on the new ride’s specific features. One way to learn about your new ride’s particular features is to read the owner’s manual before riding and take a safety course before starting. Riding your ATV or any vehicle for the first time might be dangerous. Ensure that you enroll in a safety course and be aware of your ATV’s different features and functionality. Also, have someone experienced to give you a crash course on ATVing. These tips may be common sense, but they will help you a lot!

What gear do you need to ride an ATV?

Just like riding a motorcycle, you need the right gear to protect you, and these may or may not be required by law, depending on your local policy. Having the right equipment will help you prevent many accidents or injuries. Depending on the season, you would wear different gear. For example, we recommend that you wear a heated vest to keep you warm and help in winter. We also recommend wearing waterproof clothing to protect from all-weather situations.

Wear the right gear

Although you might not need gear explicitly designed for ATV riders, you should have all the essentials ready before riding. This can include the jacket, gloves, riding boots and riding pants to provide you with adequate protection. Learn more in our blog post on ATV FAQs.

When you decide to shop for ATV riding gear, you must ensure that the clothing is durable and waterproof. For example, if you were to purchase a jacket, make sure that it is impervious to protect you from bad weather. Also, when purchasing riding boots, look for a durable material and boots with a secure grip so that it doesn’t bother you while riding. 

Invest in a good helmet when riding an ATV 

Now that you’ve picked your gears, it is time to finalize your purchase with a helmet! It is an essential gear because it protects the most vulnerable part of your body in case of a rollover. Therefore, to prevent serious injuries, we recommend that you invest in a good helmet. Make sure you choose the right size to provide you comfort and security at the same time.

 4 essential tips for ATVing?

1- Stay off the paved roads. 

ATV is designed for “off-highway” use. Avoid riding on the street to avoid getting hit by a vehicle. Ensure you have the proper registration and license before riding an ATV. Furthermore, wear the right gear, make sure you have a helmet, a toolkit, and goggles to protect your eyes from dirt, rocks, branches or anything that could come in your way.

Everyone needs a toolkit when they are on the road, and if anything happens in the way, you will be equipped. It could be a simple one with essential tools like a trail map, a multifunctional screwdriver or even an air pump. Besides, it is necessary to have first aid. Nothing is worse than a cut in an adventure; it will slow you down! 

2- Inspect your ATV before riding. 

You would be surprised at how many riders check their ATV before riding, which can include the following: tire pressure, brakes, accelerator, oil level, and fuel. Inspecting your vehicle is crucial before any ride. You do not want to be stranded in your journey.

3- Keep both feet on the footpegs at all times. 

Sometimes, we all want to have fun; however, hanging a leg outside your ATV is more dangerous than pleasant; it can cause imbalance and rollover. To ensure your safety, you must keep both feet on the footpegs at all times. Besides, the footing area is where the clutch and gear shifts are located, so you must be ready to shift gears if necessary.  

4- Don’t attempt any wheelies when you start riding an ATV.

 When you begin your ATV journey, focus on learning how to balance and control it before performing a trick. A wheelie can easily result in the ATV flipping over onto you if you lose control, leading to a severe injury. Start step by step and master the art of riding an ATV, then the world is yours! You can perform as many tricks as you want and seize the adventure so that one day you can become a professional rider!                                                                                                                                                                     

Let’s Get Riding!

Finally, practice makes perfect. ATV is fun when you have the right skills and the right gear.  Enjoy your ATV journey, and let us know what your favourite ATV is as a beginner?