Tips to Prepare For Spring ATV Riding
As the days get longer and flowers begin to bloom, the rain showers become more frequent. There are muddy trails just waiting to be explored! Whether you took it easy over the winter or have been riding your ATV all year, it’s important to prep your vehicle and yourself for the spring season.
Maintenance
One of the best ways to enjoy every ride is by keeping up with maintenance tasks. If you don’t already have a routine in place, these tasks are a great place to start!
Quick Inspection
Before anything else, you should give your ATV a quick visual inspection. Look for any indications of fluid leaks, water damage, loose chains, or worn tires. It’s also important to look underneath the ATV for any signs of damage.
Rubber components can be affected by colder temperatures, so check that your handlebars and hoses don’t have any cracking. If your tires looked low when you first looked at them, use a gauge to determine the pressure and fill them accordingly.
Take note of the overall condition to give yourself a reference point as you continue to use your vehicle and monitor its condition.
Check Fluids
If you haven’t changed the oil in your ATV, now is the time to do it.
You should check the levels before riding, especially if your vehicle has been sitting for some period of time. It’s also important to check your fuel system and determine if you should add a stabilizer.
Check the Battery
Even if your ATV starts up just fine, you should be routinely checking the battery for signs of corrosion. Keeping your battery clean can help extend its life and will allow you to check it more easily.
Consult a Professional
As you’ve inspected and completed at-home maintenance you may have noticed specific concerns or problems that need attention. Now is a good time to schedule an appointment with a professional. A trained mechanic can provide a more thorough inspection and make any complex repairs.
Planning
After you’ve tuned up your ATV it can be tempting to hit the trails right away. However, you should spend some time planning your outing first. Research the specific area you want to explore, check the weather, and determine what you’ll need to take with you.
If you anticipate spending a lot of time riding, it may be necessary to pack an extra can of fuel, drinking water, and meals.
Check Your Gear
Finally, take time to check your gear before hitting the trails. Make sure everything still fits properly and isn’t damaged. You should have a well-fitted jacket, shoes, helmet, and gloves.
The spring season is a favorite for many ATV riders and with the proper planning, maintenance, and gear you can really enjoy it. Our team at Cycles of Jacksonville is here to be a resource for you! Visit us in Jacksonville, FL, where we proudly serve St. Augustine and Orlando.