How to Get Into ATV Racing
Riding All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) is a very common form of recreation. The vehicles range in size and structure, from two-wheeled to four-wheeled, and have been growing in popularity through the years. ATV racing has come from that growth and can be a great workout and some have even turned it into a full-time career. There are many things to consider before entering into this sport. ATV racing can be quite expensive and it also takes a lot of time and dedication to compete in the leagues whether it is on the local, regional or national level.
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Things You'll Need
- ATV
- Neft bars
- Kill switch
- Helmet
- Boots
- Goggles
- Gloves
- Chest, shoulder and rib protection
- ATVA Card
Instructions
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You'll need to purchase your ATV. Research the size that works best for you and if you want to purchase new or used. There are many options for you either way but consider your budget and the amount of time that you have to spend working on the machine. Either way, make sure that you have the required neft bars and kill switch on the machine. Also take into consideration the amount of maintenance that the vehicle will require after each race or practice session.
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Protect yourself. ATV racing is physically demanding on your body, having the proper safety equipment is essential to your safety. You will need a helmet that has the appropriate rating, boots, goggles and gloves. Some racers also wear chest, shoulder and rib protection as well.
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Before you can enter any race, you will need to log some time practicing on your ATV. Most cities have tracks with open sessions for novices. Take time to learn how to handle your ATV in various turns and terrains that you might encounter during a race.
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ATV races are organized by sanctioning bodies that are either local or national. These sanctioning bodies will require that you are a member of the All Terrain Vehicle Association and can provide proof of membership.
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Once you are prepared, enter a race at the novice level. The leagues are structured in an incremental fashion so that you race against people that are at the same skill level as yourself. Moving through the ranks will improve your racing and growth in the sport. After you have mastered the amateur ranks then you can move onto the professional level. Like all motorsports, obtaining and promoting sponsors to help offset the cost of racing is very common in ATV circuits.
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Tips & Warnings
Log in plenty of practice time before entering a race so that you are extremely comfortable on your ATV. Ask for help if you have questions on maintenance or how to best navigate a track.
ATV racing can be very dangerous. Always stay within your limits.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Jeremy Lockhart, www.sxc.hu
