Automotive Blog

Some states require ATV riders to complete off road safety training before they ride. Others do not require any ATV training. Whether or not your state requires it, off road training is a wise move for any ATV rider just starting out in the sport. ATVs handle differently from other vehicles you may be familiar with, such as motorcycles or cars.

If you know how to properly handle your ATV, you will be less likely to get into dangerous situations that can result in injury or death. As your off road riding skills improve, so will your confidence. You will be ready for new challenges that put your off road skills to the test.

Most ATV training courses cover basic riding techniques such as using signals and controls, starting, shifting, braking, and turning. They also cover basic and advanced off road handling for emergency stops and swerving, hill riding, and riding over obstacles and various terrains.

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The Importance of Safe Winching Techniques

Any fearless offroader knows that the day will come when the mud and rocks conquer your quad, leaving you good and stuck. If you enjoy putting your quad or truck through the toughest muck and obstacles it can handle, you’re going to need a winch that’s powerful enough to get you out. You’re also going to need to know how to winch out safely.

If you’re looking to buy an ATV or recovery winch and put it to good use, it’s important to take the time to understand how to recover your vehicle without creating a dangerous situation for yourself and others. Don’t wait until you’re stuck to use your winch for the first time.

Getting Your Act Together

Before you get ready to winch out, make sure you have some basic equipment on hand. First you’re going to need a pair of heavy duty leather gloves. These will protect you from rope burn and from any burrs or slivers that can slice into your bare hands when you handle the winch rope. If you use a steel cable, you may also need a heavy coat or blanket you can throw over the line in case it snaps. A steel cable can whip through the air if it breaks under load, damaging anything in its path. Depending on the type of pull, you may also need a snatch block to guide the rope in a straight line onto the drum or to double the load capacity of your winch.

Continue reading ‘How to Winch Out – A Basic Guide For ATV and Recovery Winch Safety’ »