ATV Trail Riding Tips

With a little proactivity, you can take your ATV ride from good to great. Riding in the backwoods is a unique, unpredictable situation. You'll want to equip yourself for all emergencies and hazards so that you can enjoy a safe and fun ride. We rounded up the top tips for trail riding on a four wheeler below. If you need any quad maintenance or are looking to buy, visit Crossroad Powersports. We are located in Upper Darby near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Before Your Quad Ride

A successful four wheeler trail ride starts with the choices you make before the trip. First, what you wear. You want to dress as if you expect to crash your 4 wheeler. That way, you will be protected if worst comes to worst. You'll need a well-fitting and crash tested helmet, goggles to protect your eyes, comfortable boots, sturdy gloves, and outerwear to protect from the elements.

Second, what you pack. You don't want to load up your ATV with anything and everything you could possibly need. But you do want to bring along emergency supplies for the different issues you could encounter on your ride. Pack along a wrench fitting your four wheeler's bolts size, a knife, flashlight, fire starter, rain poncho, extra gas can, water, snacks, map, compass, GPS, and a flat tire patch kit.

Third, how you prepare your quad. It's important to conduct a pre-ride inspection of your 4 wheeler before you hit the road. This lets you catch any issues in the convenience of your home (and near a mechanic) rather than in the backwoods somewhere. Check your ATV thoroughly such as scoping out the tires, control connections, cables, chain, and so on. If you notice anything concerning, take it in for an inspection.

Follow the Trail Rules

While the backwoods may not be as strict as the highway in terms of traffic laws, it's by no means a free for all. It's important to abide by the rules of the trail - they exist to keep you and your four wheeler safe.

Start by sticking to the established trail. Venture beyond this and you could encounter unforeseen hazards that cause unnecessary damage to your quad. The trail is built that way for a reason after all.

Next, use proper form when riding your 4 wheeler. Engage your proper posture as it'll make it easier to stay in control of your ATV. Yield to any other motorists who are in the passing group or those going uphill. Stay alert and courteous as you drive.

Adapt to the Trail

When you cruise down a highway on a car, you pretty much know what to expect from the road. It tends to be flat, well-lit, and predictable. It's a different world when you cruise around nature on a 4 wheeler. You'll need to continually adapt to your given surroundings.

For example, be aware of the noise your quad makes. You may love that loud rumble, but those you pass in houses or campgrounds may not. Adjust your speed (and, in turn, your noise) as a courtesy. If you come up to an animal, try to be as non-threatening as possible. Turn the engine off, take off your helmet, and don't have sudden movements. As you ride, stay aware of those around you and adapt accordingly.

For all your 4 wheeler needs, visit Crossroad Powersports. We offer a range of new and used quads for sale if you are looking to buy. We also operate a parts replacement and service department to repair your four wheeler. We proudly serve those in Upper Darby and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania as well as Wilmington, Delaware and Deptford Township, New Jersey.