Riding an ATV (or ATV) can be a fun and exciting way to explore the great outdoors. However, ATVs are powerful machines that you must learn to drive safely and properly before you start off-roading. Make sure you have the proper safety gear, choose an appropriate vehicle to drive, and don't try any tricks when you're just starting out. As you learn to drive, you should choose an open space to practice speeding up, shifting gears, and cornering properly. To better prepare yourself, you can take a formal ATV driving course.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Drive an ATV Safely
Step 1. Choose an appropriate ATV for you to start driving
A sporty quad is a good vehicle for an adult capable of reaching the handlebars and shifting gears on the footrest. A youth ATV is more appropriate for a younger person just starting out as it is lighter and lower. You can also choose a general-purpose quad if you plan to use it for work purposes and need to learn how to ride it.
- Try to sit on an ATV to make sure you are comfortable and can reach all the handles and gears.
- Using an ATV that is too large, powerful, or too difficult for you to handle could lead to an accident.
Step 2. Wear protective gear when driving
ATVs are powerful machines that can seriously injure you if you are in an accident. To better protect yourself, you must wear the right gear. Before mounting the vehicle, you should put on boots, gloves, safety glasses, and a helmet.
- Wearing protective gear will reduce the chances of injury, especially if you are new to driving.
- Make sure your helmet and gear fit and allow you to see properly.
- You can get protective gear for ATVs at motorcycle supply stores, sports stores, and online.
Step 3. Use nerf bars while learning to ride
These are large footrests that fit the ATV to expand the shoe area, making it easier for you to keep your balance, especially if you're just starting out. When choosing your quad, you should choose one that has these bars or install them so that you can learn to drive more safely.
- You can find nerf bars at sports stores, outdoor stores, motorcycle supply stores, and online.
- These bars also make learning easier so you can turn, use the clutch, and change gears.
Step 4. Keep both feet on the footrests at all times
Your feet should always be in the support area of the ATV to ensure your safety. The support area is where the clutch and gearshift are located, so it is important that you are ready to change gears if necessary. You could also hook your foot or leg when riding if any part of your body hangs from the ATV.
If one leg dangles off the ATV, this can also destabilize your weight, which can cause the vehicle to tip over or fall over
Step 5. Do not drive on paved roads to avoid being hit by another vehicle
ATVs are designed for off-road riding, so driving them on a street or paved road is really bad for your tires. Also, another passing vehicle could hit you by accident. You only need to drive on paved roads as you cross them to get to the other side.
In many places, it is also illegal to drive an ATV on paved roads
Step 6. Don't try to do a wheelie if you are just starting out on an ATV
A wheelie involves leaning your weight back to lift the front wheels off the ground, which can easily cause the ATV to roll over on you. If you are just starting to ride the vehicle, don't be tempted to perform a trick that could seriously injure you.
Warning:
The weight of an ATV landing on you can cause broken bones, paralysis and even death.
Method 2 of 2: Learn to Ride
Step 1. Check local laws regarding the use of ATVs before riding one
Some locations may have designated areas for you to legally drive your vehicle. Also, you will likely need a special license and proof of insurance to ride an ATV. Look online for local regulations on driving these vehicles.
You can check your local government website for a list of the rules regarding quadricycles
Step 2. Drive in an open area without any obstacles at first
You should choose a large, flat and open space that is free of any hazards or obstacles you may encounter to practice with your ATV. The controls will take a while to get used to, so avoid steep terrain or an area that has many vehicles or objects that you would need to navigate between.
An empty field or a large backyard could work as a suitable practice area
Step 3. Turn the key and press the start button to start the ATV
Put the key in the ignition and turn it to the home position. Then press the start button, which is usually located on the right side of the handlebar. When starting the engine, you should let it run for about a minute to warm up.
If you drive in cold weather conditions, you should let the engine run for 5 minutes so it can warm up before driving
Step 4. Pull the clutch handle to place the engine in neutral
On the left handlebar, there is a lever known as a clutch. Pulling the clutch puts the engine in neutral, allowing you to change gears as you increase speed. To start moving, you must engage the clutch with your left hand so that you can start the engine.
- While you are in neutral gear, the ATV will continue to move, but you will not be able to add any speed.
- You must put the engine in first gear for the vehicle to start moving.
Step 5. Use your left foot to lift the shift lever and shift into higher gears
With the clutch engaged, use your left foot to change gears by lifting the lever located on the left footrest. Then release the clutch to start the engine so you can keep moving. As you increase your speed, you should shift into higher gears.
Practice driving. Then slowly increase your speed and practice shifting into higher gears and getting used to driving
Fact:
If your ATV has an automatic transmission, then you don't have to worry about changing gears. All you have to do is work to gradually increase your speed for a more comfortable ride.
Step 6. Shift into lower gears as you slow down the ATV
As you slow down, you also need to downshift again. Hold the clutch with your left hand and press down on the gearshift with your left foot. Then release the clutch. You'll feel the stick click downward as you slow down.
Downshift one gear at a time to let the engine adapt to the lower gears and speeds
Step 7. Begin braking with your right hand and gradually add your left hand
The brakes on an ATV are controlled by levers on the right and left of the handlebars. The lever on the right controls the rear brakes, while the lever on the left controls the front brakes. You should always start braking the rear wheels first by squeezing the right lever, and add additional stopping power by slowly squeezing the left lever.
- If you squeeze both brakes at the same time, you can fall on the handlebars.
- Squeezing the left handle to brake the front wheels will only cause the ATV to tip over.
Step 8. Bend over in turns to prevent the ATV from tipping over
You must move your weight in the direction you are turning to distribute it and prevent the ATV from tipping over. If you turn left, you must lean to the left side of the vehicle. If you are going to turn right, you must lean to the right. Work to get used to distributing your weight and being able to turn the vehicle at higher speeds.
Getting out of the seat can help you lean more if you are going to take a more difficult turn
Step 9. Take an ATV driving course for formal training
The best way to ensure that you are properly equipped to begin riding an ATV is to take a course with an experienced driver who can show you the ins and outs of this vehicle. Look for classes in your area that you can sign up for online for formal instruction.
- Check with your ATV dealer to see if they can provide instructions or recommend a course.
- You will likely need to take a certification course in order for you to legally drive your ATV.