Polaris is one of the best-known names in the world of ATVs and SxS UTVs. Some people buy a Polaris to get more done at a demanding job, while others treat them as machines designed to maximize fun off-roading. Both of these are excellent uses of the Polaris lines, but in either case, riders need to prioritize safety. Read on to find some safety tips for taking a Polaris off-roading.
Get the Right Machine and Equip It Properly
Polaris makes a wide range of off-road vehicles (ORVs). From standard all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) to larger, more powerful, and more versatile side-by-side utility task vehicles (SxS UTVs), they’re all manufactured to the highest quality standards. However, choosing the right machine for a particular rider is an essential first step to ensuring safety.
The first thing to know is that UTVs are generally considered adult vehicles. They should be driven by people 16 and over who have valid driver’s licenses. Until they reach that age, kids can practice on youth-sized ATVs instead when they reach the appropriate age range. Just check the height requirements in each machine’s owner’s manual before buying to make sure the rider will be able to safely reach all of the controls.
Choosing the right machine for the rider and the job is an important first step. Equipping it properly for off-roading is the next one. Riders can click here to find roll cages for Polaris’s most popular machines along with plenty of other helpful accessories.
Wear Safety Gear
When off-roading on an ATV or UTV, proper safety gear is a must. Riders should always wear helmets and should note that in many places, it’s required by law. The helmet should be properly fitted to the rider and should meet US DOT safety standards. Full-face helmets are the best option for off-roading.
Other safety gear recommended for ATV riding includes sturdy boots that extend up above the ankles to protect riders’ feet from brush, rocks, and debris and riding gloves to protect against chafing and reduce the effect of the machine’s vibration. Riders should also wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts for extra protection and comfort. Specialized clothing is available that has added elbow, shoulder, knee, and chest protectors for those who want some extra security.
Inspect the ORV Before Every Ride
No matter how long someone has owned an ATV or UTV, they should still inspect the vehicle each time they head out on the trails. Making this a habit can reveal damaged components, fluids that need to be topped off, low tire pressure, and other minor issues. To avoid problems out on the trail, be sure to check:
- Tires for excessive wear and punctures
- Wheel and axle nuts for tightness
- Fasteners and bearings for wear
- Lights, switches, and gauges for proper operation
- Fuel, coolant, and lubrication levels
Riders should also give the other key components of their ORVs a quick once-over before heading out to identify other sources of potential problems. The machine’s owner’s manual should have a more in-depth pre-ride inspection checklist.
Learn to Ride Safely
Novice ATV and UTV riders should consider taking training courses to learn the ropes from a professional. Whether they opt to take this approach or to learn from a friend, older relative, or neighbor, they should practice basic techniques before tackling any extreme riding conditions. Learning how to ride safely on level, obstacle-free ground allows new riders to get a feel for the machines.
Stick to slow, steady riding on the first few trail rides. Beginner-level trails are most manageable for newcomers, and they offer plenty of opportunities for both fun and mastering the art of ATV and UTV riding.
Practice Trail Etiquette
Most people prefer to learn the ropes on private land where they’ll have trails to themselves. When switching over to public lands designated for ORV use, they’ll have to share the trails. Remember to be courteous and practice basic trail etiquette, such as:
- Yielding to descending traffic on hills.
- Announcing intent before passing.
- Slowing down while passing.
- Keeping to the right.
- Avoiding stopping side by side at the crest of hills or in corners of trails.
Riders should also be sure to check that the areas they want to visit are open to the public. Don’t assume that they are because there are tracks from other ORVs.
Tow Cargo Properly
ATVs and UTVs are both great for hauling cargo in difficult terrain but don’t try to load them down like they are pickup trucks. Turnovers due to overloading are common and can cause significant damage to ORVs, riders, and whatever they’re hauling. Before hitching up a trailer, make sure it’s rated for towing with the ORV, and check maximum weight capacities.
Distributing weight on a trailer or cargo rack is equally important. Everything should be distributed evenly to keep the load balanced, and the heaviest items should be at the bottom to keep the lowest possible center of gravity. Tie down cargo and use the engine to slow down instead of braking suddenly.
Be Careful on Steep Terrain
Anyone going off-roading in an ORV will eventually face some steep terrain. Getting up and down slopes safely requires following a few basic precautions. When driving uphill, slide forward and position the torso over the handlebars or front wheels of ATVs. In any ORV, shift into a lower gear before starting the climb and throttle up gently to maintain momentum. Follow the same tips in reverse when going downhill.
Take Safety Seriously
Although it’s easy for riders to get caught up in the fun and excitement of heading out on the trails, novices and more experienced off-roaders alike need to take safety seriously. Riders should gear up properly and check the machine carefully before every ride, stick to trails that are appropriate for their skill levels, and maintain proper trail etiquette no matter where they are riding. ORVs of all kinds are fun to ride, but they are powerful machines that can be dangerous if mishandled and it’s always better to play it safe.
