Some may think that riding an ATV is just as easy as taking your regular 4-wheel car for a ride. To think that, both have four wheels. How hard could it be?
Sadly, many beginner riders on ATVs tend to make the same mistakes that result in crashes, roll-overs and even injury all of which can be avoided with some instruction and know-how. So if you're looking at a fun family outing that includes renting ATVs or want to get into the sport, take advantage of the following points and avoid the same mistakes so many other first time ATV riders make.
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Get Nerf Bars
Nerf bars are gigantic foot pegs. Don’t just get the traditional foot pegs because you'll constantly slip off. Nerf bars allow you to stabilize your feet and get maximum control over the ATV so you don’t end up dragging your feet when you’re riding or end up your feet caught in the back tire resulting in serious injury.
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False Sense of Security
Never make the mistake of neglecting to wear proper protective equipment. Don't consider wearing jeans, t-shirt and sneakers as adequate protection when riding an ATV. Use helmet, goggles, gloves and riding boots at a minimum. And once you start riding on track or trails you should add a chest protector, neck brace, knee brace, etc.
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Throttle Control
Almost everybody tends to think a quad is merely a mini car that finally enables them to release all sorts of pent-up childhood inhibitions. And so they jab their thumb into the throttle and end up underneath the quad or manage to stay seated only to careen off course. So go slow and figure out how much "thumb" is too much and then get used to the speed and power an ATV delivers beforehand.
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Loading the ATV
Never, ever ride an ATV up a ramp into the back of a pick-up. If you want to know how to load an ATV check out this fine piece of quality information on Tips & Tricks: ATV Loading and Unloading Safety tips.
At the end of the day, riding an ATV the first time is treat it like you would anything that comes with a little danger. Careless behaviour endangers you and others but with common sense and a willingness to learn, you'll enjoy a lifetime of riding quads. And if you are in the market for an ATV ramp or loading ramps please send us an email through the contact page or call us at 1300 913 047 for a quote. It will only take a minute and will save you money.
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