If you’re new to ATV’s or quad bikes, there are a lot of things that you should learn before you go on an adventure, hit the dusty roads and muddy patches. It sure is fun as it lets you be flexible and lets you do a lot of things. However, you should know about a quad bike because it tends to be unstable and requires knowledge to ride one properly. This means that no matter your age, you have to practice and follow this beginner and safety tips if this is your first time.
1. Choosing Your First Quad Bike
This is where it all begins. Make sure that you choose the right bike suitable for your level. For starters, pick a simple machine. High-performance quad bike sounds like a lot of fun, but it may also require more experience to ride one successfully. Take little steps – one at a time. Choosing a more complicated bike for your experience level may not be the best thing right now, and you don’t want to lose control over your machine and get in an accident.
2. Read The User’s Manual
Yes – it’s that piece of paper that comes with the machine, and almost every single product you buy comes with it. Many people tend to discard those, but make sure that you read and check what’s indicated in the manual referring to safety, operation, and other things, in general, that could help you with riding your first quad bike.
3. Perform A Maintenance Check
This goes with any vehicle. Before going out, perform a maintenance check, especially if you’ve purchased a used quad bike. If you’re going to take it out, you need to make sure that the safety hazard lights are working; brakes are functioning, along with the speedometer. Doing this simple routine check before using it can help save you from all the troubles, not to mention, it can also help save your life.
Even if you’re not going off-road, it is still crucial that you inspect the parts and check your oil level gauge, fuel level, the type pressure, both front and back brakes, and steering.
4. Wear Safety Gears
Unlike other 4-wheeled vehicles, quad bikes don’t come with any seatbelts. Instead, you have to make sure that you’re equipped with the right safety gear. This is important and shouldn’t be skipped.
Some of the safety gears you need to prepare may include but are not limited to helmets, the right footwear, clothing, and gloves.
Your head is at most risk when riding a quad bike, and you need to make sure that your head is well-protected in case of fall. A helmet does this job. When choosing one, make sure that your helmet of choice perfectly fits your head without risking your vision. You need to be able to see clearly. A helmet with a tinted visor is a perfect choice as it lets you see even with the bright sunlight.
As for the clothing, you have to choose clothes that both cover your legs and arms completely. This prevents you from sunburn and functions as an extra layer of protection from cuts in the fall case. Your footwear needs to be ankle high and must have a comfortable fit. This is important because the last thing you’d want to happen is your shoe to fall off during your ride. For gloves, find ones that will give you a comfortable grip over fashion. Sure, there are also other designs but take into consideration comfort first before the design, especially if this is your first time riding.
5. Practice, Practice, Practice!
You may want to start biking on a less complicated road for beginners until you start to get the basics of the quad bike. For new riders, motorcycle and scooter on rent are the best options where one can practice till one develops basic riding skills. Some people may immediately learn the ins and outs; some may take longer. Regardless, make sure that you’re completely confident about operating the bike, turning it around, and using it before you go out with other vehicles or decide to go on muddy terrains and hillsides.
6. Learn The Right Posture And Riding Positions
This can help save you from the body and muscle aches. The wrong position may make it difficult for you to drive your bike, and at the same time, could significantly cause sore muscles even after one riding session.
7. Drive Safely
Lastly, no matter how practiced or experienced you think you may be, always drive safely. Take it slow, and adjust your speed slowly. Remember, you’re in for an adventure, but don’t forget to ride with care!