Safe ATV Riding

There's no denying that riding an ATV is a lot of fun. Even if you're using yours for work, there's just something exciting about a vehicle that can take you basically anywhere you want to go and can take you there as fast you can handle. But riding an ATV can also be a dangerous activity if you don't use your head. Without the proper planning, the right gear, and a little bit of common sense, you could find yourself in serious trouble. Here at Cycles Of Jacksonville, we want our customers to have fun, and part of having fun when it comes to motorsports is staying out of the hospital. We've created this short guide to help first time and inexperienced riders keep safe while they ride. If you're looking for a new ATV from a trusted dealer in Jacksonville, near St. Augustine and Orlando, Florida, stop by Cycles Of Jacksonville.

Plan Ahead

Experienced riders know that planning is crucial to rider safety. For example, checking the weather forecast before you head out only takes a few minutes, but the difference between riding on a sunny day and getting stuck five miles away from your vehicle in a hail storm is massive. There are other important elements to planning, too, including choosing your route and choosing when you're going to ride. If you're going to a popular riding spot, you might be best served by going early in the morning before the crowds arrive. Make sure you have sufficient supplies of fuel, water, and food, too.

Gearing Up

The riding gear you choose is extremely important. The most important choice you'll make is what type of helmet to choose. Not all helmets are created equal, and a bicycle or normal motorcycle helmet won't provide the protection and performance you need. Try to find a helmet made specifically for motorsports, as these tend to combine light weight, excellent protection, ventilation, and have room for the rider to choose their own eyewear. Your helmet also needs to fit correctly, meaning no sliding or movement and a chin strap that secures tightly under the chin. In addition to wearing a good helmet, you'll want some solid riding boots. If your ATV gets stuck in the mud or water, you'll want a more sturdy base than what normal shoes offer. Riding pants are helpful, too, as they will protect your legs from engine heat as well as dust and debris. Finally, make sure you wear some gloves with shielding for the knuckles and fingers. This will protect your hands from branches and other debris.

Common Sense Riding Tips

The question of where "the line" is faces all motorsports enthusiasts. Fast straightaways and hard cornering on rough terrain are simultaneously what make riding an ATV most dangerous and most fun. Finding this line is something that comes with experience, but there are a few harder rules that you can follow as you ride. First of all, always ride with a partner. If something happens to you or your ATV, your partner will be able to help you get back to your starting place. Always try to stay on established trails. Riding off trails can damage wildlife and destroy wilderness areas. Just like in a car, you should never drink and ride. In fact, taking any mind-altering substance prior to riding is a bad idea. Even many medications can affect your motor skills and make a crash more likely. Riding an ATV doesn't have to be dangerous if you use common sense and prepare correctly. Hopefully this guide gave you a few ideas about how to ride safely. If you need riding gear, service for your ATV, or are looking for a new ATV, stop by Cycles Of Jacksonville. Located in Jacksonville, Florida, we proudly serve St. Augustine and Orlando, Florida. Our experienced staff can help new riders get set up with everything they need.