Riding on Different Types of Terrain

Trails

• Use caution when riding from sunny to shaded areas on a trail. Your eyes may not adjust quickly enough to see rocks or ruts in the shade.
• Ride within your limits. Avoid trails that are beyond the capabilities of your machine or your skill level. One difficult section on an otherwise easy trail makes it beyond your limits.
• For maximum safety, keep your headlight on so that oncoming riders can see you easily.

Mud and Water

Riding through rivers, streams, lakes, and wetlands is illegal, causes environmental damage, and hurts fish and wildlife. The only waters you can operate through legally are puddles on trails and water hazards or mud pits at designated ATV parks. Remember the following when crossing water hazards or puddles.

• Determine the depth of the water before you cross.
• Keep your feet firmly on the footrests, which may become slippery.
• Drive through the water at a slow, steady speed so that you can spot and avoid submerged obstacles and slippery rocks.
• Stay alert for obstacles above the water.
• Do not drive into water that is deeper than the maximum depth specified in your owner's manual.
• Remember to stay on designated trails and other authorized riding areas.
• Test your brakes once you're on dry land.
• If you have four-wheel drive, make certain that it's engaged in low gear.

Riding in extremely muddy conditions can cause severe trail damage and maintenance issues. Always check with local authorities for spring trail opening dates and emergency trail closures.

Snow

• Before you head out in winter, change your transmission fluid to a lighter weight. If your ATV is water cooled, you'll need to check the antifreeze level. Consult your owner's manual for other cold-weather requirements.
• Ride only on firm snow or groomed trails. Riding on soft snow can damage the terrain.
• Check with local law enforcement to find out if ATVs are allowed on snowmobile trails.
• Check local weather forecasts, and monitor weather changes.
• Dress warmly to offset the wind chill created by your motion.
• Watch for snow drifts. They may cause an accident or cause you to get stuck.

Ice

Ice is as hard as pavement and requires extreme caution. Spins are common, and fast stops are impossible.

• Equipping your tires with chains can improve traction and stopping.
• Use slow speeds. To stop, let up on the throttle and allow the machine to coast to a stop.
• Don't go onto lakes or rivers unless you know the ice conditions. There should be at least eight inches of clear ice.
• Stay away from areas where streams are flowing in or out of the ice, which weakens the area.
• As a rule, it's best to stay off frozen rivers and lakes.