Useful ATV riding tips for kids…and beginners

It's true when they say that you don't need to be a master in ATV riding in order to enjoy riding it without getting yourself tied up in a knot! Use these useful tips to help your kids (and you!) enjoy ATV riding even more.

Now, remember, this should be done BEFORE the actual ride itself. Teach your kids the basic ATV riding skills and they should do fine.

First of all, they should get a feel of their ATV by just practicing around on it. The better they know their ATV, the better they will be at mastering it. So, take the ATV out and let your kids take it out for a spin in the park or yard. When you're comfortable with your ATV, you will be in a better position to take appropriate action when riding on the trail.

There couldn't be a worse time to start showing off – especially not on a terrain you're not familiar with! No wheelies please! Understand your skill level and even if your friends are trying to impress others, don't go beyond what you normally do on a terrain. Be safe and at all times, be in complete control!

Hand signals are important especially when riding in a group. Parents should teach their kids all the important hand signals so that they can guide the group better without having to stop, slow-down (can cause collision) or shout on top of your lungs. But only the leader or people who are experienced should use the hand signals, kids should keep BOTH their hands on the bars. It's easy to lose control when one of both hands is off the bars.

One of the ways to avoid collision is to look ahead…as in 15 feet ahead. Observe any obstruction and things you should avoid. And it would be useful if you never did travel alone. This way, even if you lose your way, there are two heads to think of a way out. Your kids should also use this buddy system. In case of an ATV breakdown, there's another ATV that works and both kids can get back to safety together on the ATV that still works.

Simple ATV riding techniques should be taught to kids too…like leaning toward a turn. If you're turning left, lean left. If turning right, lean right. If the body is in an upright position, it's easy to lose control of the ATV. Kids ATVs have smaller engines, therefore, it is a little bit more difficult for them to get over a difficult obstacle. Teach your kids to keep the momentum (and speed) at a reasonably high level before going over the obstacle and focus.