Beginning To Ride

The instructions given here for turning, riding uphill and downhill, and traversing a slope apply specifically to ATVs. For information on operating other types of OHVs, refer to your owner’s manual and ask an experienced operator to help you.

Turning

Consult your owner’s manual for the proper technique to turn your ATV. At low to moderate speeds, you should:

• Move your body weight forward, and lean in the direction of the turn
• Turn the handlebars while looking where you are turning.
• If your ATV starts to tip while turning, either lean your body farther into the turn while gradually reducing speed or straighten your handlebars if possible.
• Increase your speed slightly as you come out of the turn.

How the Type of Rear Axle on Your ATV Affects a Turn

The type of rear axle on your ATV, as noted in the owner’s manual, affects where you should position your body during a turn. The rear axle may be either of two types.

• Solid Axle: The wheels on both the inside and outside of a turn rotate at the same speed, even though the wheels on the outside of the turn cover more distance.
• Differential Axle: The outside wheel rotates faster than the inside wheel, resulting in an easier and smoother turn.

Solid Axle or Locked Differential