Off-Road Basics—Before You Ride

Getting To Know Your Off-Road Vehicle (ORV)

An ORV is not a toy. It’s a vehicle built primarily for offroad recreation. ORVs can provide hours of safe, enjoyable off-road riding. But ORVs also can be dangerous if you don’t understand your vehicle or know proper riding procedures.

• Because there are different types of ORVs and each has its own handling characteristics, it’s important for you to study your owner’s manual and learn how to operate your particular vehicle. For example, most ORVs have front and rear brakes, but some have linked brakes. You need to know the correct braking techniques for your vehicle.
• ORVs also use different transmissions, shifting mechanisms, throttle mechanisms, starting mechanisms, cooling systems, and axle designs.
• Controls and their locations differ from one model to another. Learn to find each control without looking at it.

When operating an ORV, remember these facts.

• ORVs are designed primarily for off-road use.
• Operating an ORV on paved surfaces can be hazardous because of handling issues.
• Riding on paved roads is a leading cause of ORV-related fatalities.
• Only carry a passenger if your machine is designed by the manufacturer to carry another person; most are not.