Riding a UTV (Utility Terrain Vehicle) can be intimidating for first-timers, but with the right skills and a little practice, you’ll be zooming around in no time. Our guide covers everything from what to wear to the ins and outs of turning.
MUST READ: 10 Things You Should Know Before Driving Off-Road
Before getting into the detail, it’s worth noting that a UTV isn’t the best vehicle for traveling long distances on normal roads. If you need your UTV shipping any distance, it’s worth looking at https://www.shiply.com/us/utv-shipping.
1) Safety first.
Before you jump into your first UTV, ensure it’s the right vehicle for you and that the power steering, brakes, etc. work properly. Also, be sure all of your equipment is up to date.
2) Don’t worry about speed limits.
The easy way to tell if you’re too fast is when your vehicle starts to “squeal.” Besides, you’ll be able to push it once you learn the riding basics. Instead, start slow and work your way up to the real pace.
3) Start with low-speed maneuvering.
Start small, and work up to pulling wheelies. Also, keep in mind your driving abilities. If you’re a novice, start with low-speed maneuvers, such as going around obstacles and negotiating through mudbanks. Once you have this down pat, move on to higher speed control.
4) Keep your eyes peeled for hazards.
UTVs can reach speeds of over 40 mph, so you’ll need to be aware of what’s around you at all times. Also, keep in mind that the outside temperature will affect your engine and tires.
5) Always wear a helmet and safety gear.
You don’t want to put yourself at risk by not wearing protective gear when you ride your UTV.
6) Watch for road users.
Most bumps and holes in the road are caused by items such as loose gravel, large rocks, and potholes. This could cause your vehicle to tip over if you’re not careful.
7) Always wear high-visibility clothing at night.
If you’ve ever ridden in the dark on your UTV, you know how difficult it is to see road users and obstacles.
8) Driving at night is for adept riders.
If you’d like to ride your UTV in the dark, you’ll need to be an expert rider. Both the headlights and taillights emit light, so you must turn both on before every ride. Also, remember to turn off all unnecessary lights (like your rear-view mirror) so that you can see further ahead.
9) Find out what kind of wheels your vehicle has.
For starters, you should know what type of wheels you have. The three most common types are pneumatic tires, solid rubber, or steel. The tires are the key to a safe ride, so if you want to be sure your UTV will hold up to hard use and high-speed driving, get the best ones you can afford.
10) Know how to start your UTV.
Before taking off-road terrain, you’ll need to know how to start and drive your UTV.
The most important tip is slowly building up and becoming an adept rider. Once you master the basic skills and are confident on the road, moving to the trails is time.
