We’d be willing to bet more than a few of us may have received new motorized toys and/or accessories for Christmas. Most of us, new or not, are just yearning to get back out there because it’s winter and we just can’t yet. Either way, we all need to be reminded of just a few topics to keep us safe in the New Year.
New ATV purchasers need to take advantage of the absolutely free ATV RiderCourse that the manufacturers provide to anyone who purchases a new ATV. Free training may be available on a used ATV too. Call the ATV Safety Institute (ASI) at (800) 887-2887 to see if yours qualifies. Most manufacturers even provide cash or merchandise incentives to new ATV buyers for completing the free class.
The RiderCourse begins with an online E-Course followed by 3 hours of hands-on riding instruction on a closed course with nationally licensed instructors. It’s well worth your time, especially if you have little or no experience riding. As an instructor myself, I’ve heard many people say that even though they had been riding for years, they learned something new when taking the RiderCourse. The cost for those who didn’t purchase a new ATV is $150 for adults and $55 for children under 16. The E-Course portion is free to anyone and can be taken at any time.
Of course, children taking the RiderCourse must adhere to the manufacturer’s age guidelines. Simply look on the machine for a label, usually prominently displayed on the fender. The label will give you an age that is recommended for that machine. ATVs are rated for ages 6, 10, 12 and 14 based on the top speed and other characteristics of the machine. Age 16 and up can ride any adult machine. All riders must wear all safety gear including a DOT approved helmet, eye protection, gloves, long pants, long sleeved shirt and over the ankle, sturdy boots when taking the RiderCourse.
The ATV Safety Institute (ASI) provides the nationally recognized curriculum, and you can schedule RiderCourses through their website at www.atvsafety.org or by calling 1-800-887-2887. To receive free training, have the VIN of the machine handy! Depending upon the manufacturer, you can get free training for up to 3 additional family members and the instructor may have loaner machines for the training. The ASI also has brochures detailing safety tips and guides for adults and children. Their “Parents and Youngsters” booklet even has a readiness checklist with questions to discuss with your child to see if they’re mentally ready to learn to ride! All are free!
If you use a side by side for off-roading adventures, be aware that all occupants must wear standard safety gear of helmets, eye protection, gloves, boots, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt.
All occupants must also have and wear a seat belt. All SxS’s have a driver age requirement of 16 years old with a valid driver’s license.
The Recreational OHV Association (ROHVA) has a Basic Driver Course curriculum that we highly recommend. An E-Course is followed by 3 hours of hands-on training with a licensed instructor and registration can be completed at www.rohva.org or call 800)267-2751. The cost of this course is set by the Provider, and you can use the website above to contact your local Instructor.
We highly recommend that all occupants of the SxS must utilize the “flat feet/flat back” method of determining whether they are physically large enough to ride. Place the person inside the SxS with their back flat against the seat back. Are their feet flat on the floorboard? If their back is flat and their feet are flat, and they can reach the handholds from this position, they’re good to go. If not, the seat belts and other safety features of the machine may not protect them fully!
Dirt and adventure bike riders need all the safety gear too and the safety training curriculum for them is provided by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) and is called DirtBike School.
They can be found at https://msf-usa.org/start-your-ride/dirtbike-school or by calling (800) 446-9227.
When you’re out there on that amazing trail, playing it safe and enjoying your day with friends and family, don’t forget to Tread Lightly! Travel responsibly- stay on that designated trail! Respect the rights of others-don’t use private lands without permission, don’t disturb campers, etc. Educate yourself – use trail maps, call before you haul! Avoid sensitive areas- don’t ride through that little pond that’s just off the trail or go around the mud puddle in the trail. And finally Do your part! Follow these simple common-sense guidelines to help keep the trails open to everyone. Learn more about Tread Lightly at www.treadlightly.org
So, let’s all get out there and ride/drive as soon and as often as we can, remembering to keep it safe out there in 2024!
