How to Start Riding an ATV

Riding an ATV, or all terrain vehicle, is a lot of fun. But for safety's sake, you can't just get on one and start riding it. You need to know how to safely operate the ATV. Knowing how to ride safely makes your ride even more enjoyable.

Things You'll Need

• Helmet
• Safety goggles
• Gloves

Instructions

1. Choose an ATV. It should fit your size. If you get one that's too big, you can have trouble controlling the ATV while you are riding it. One that is too small can be uncomfortable to ride.

2. Learn about the parts of your ATV and how to ride it safely. Most ATV shops offer safety courses. Enroll in one. The classes not teach you about riding your ATV but about how to care for one.

3. Put on your safety gear. Make sure everything fits properly. In addition to safety gear, it's best if you wear long pants and long sleeves.

4. Sit on your ATV. Make sure the clutch is in neutral and that the parking brake is set. Turn on the ignition.

5. Hold the brake on with one hand while you let off the parking brake with the other. Put the ATV in first gear. Give the ATV a little bit of gas to start the ATV in motion.

6. Shift gears when the ATV gets to the proper RPM. Be careful about going too fast when you start. Drive the ATV in a flat, open area until you get a feel for the machine.

7. Slow the ATV, apply the brakes and downshift to stop the ATV. Before you get off the ATV, make sure the ATV is in neutral and that the parking brake is set.

Tips & Warnings

• Each ATV operates differently. Read the owner's manual for your ATV.