Official Wisconsin ATV Safety Course Link to Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

Riding Uphill

Climbing hills can be dangerous if you don't follow the proper procedures as described in your owner's manual. You could lose control of your ATV, or it could overturn. In general, you should:

  • Use good judgment. If the hill looks too steep, it probably is.
  • Start the climb by shifting into a lower gear. Speed up to maintain momentum.
  • Move up on the seat and lean forward, or stand and position your torso over the front wheels.
  • Keep your weight uphill and your feet on the footrests.
  • If you can't see what's over the crest of a hill, slow down until you can.

If your engine begins to “lug” or sounds as if it might stall, you need to shift into a lower gear.

  • Keep your weight forward.
  • Shift quickly while briefly releasing the throttle, which will prevent the front wheels from lifting up.

If you don't have enough power to reach the top of the hill but still have enough momentum and room to turn around safely:

  • Keep your weight uphill.
  • Make a U-turn before you lose speed.
  • Head downhill in a lower gear, keeping your weight to the upside.
Proper Uphill Riding Position

Proper Uphill Riding Position

REMEMBER–Use extreme caution: Each year, ATV operators are seriously injured or killed attempting to climb hills that are too steep.

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Official ATV online course for Wisconsin ATV riders last modified: July 29, 2010
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