Your first consideration should be the age and size of the rider. If you are buying an ATV for a youth or small adult, you will want to go with a smaller model for the best riding comfort. An average sized adult should do fine with a larger model. If you are buying an ATV for someone else, it is best to take him or her along to make sure the ATV you pick is suited to their size, its better to make sure its right than to surprise them with an ATV that is too big or too small and not comfortable for them.

The second consideration when buying an ATV is your purpose. Do you need an ATV to help haul things around your property, to carry game in form the woods while hunting, or other work purposes? Are you planning to ride your ATV for fun or even try your hand at ATV racing? ATV's vary in sizes, styles, and accessories so you will want to be sure you get one with all the features you need.

If you want an ATV for work purposes, you will want to get a strong heavy ATV that is suitable for hauling or carrying large loads. You can get ATV's that have built in racks for carrying equipment or game and that come with a hitch to hook up a wagon or trailer. If you are purchasing an ATV for fun, you will probably not need all those features and would do well with a simpler model. If you are thinking about racing with your ATV, you will want to get one that is light, powerful, and designed for racing.

You should also get the proper tires for your ATV when you purchase it. If you are planning to ride in hilly, rough, and muddy terrain, you will want to get mud tires with deep tread that will help you to navigate this harsh terrain. If you are going to ride around flat ground or on trails, stock tires will suffice. If you will be racing, you should get specially designed racing tires as well.

You should also consider price and get an ATV that you can afford. You do not have to pay full price at a dealership, if you research what you need you can probably find it used in your area. If you want a warranty or service after the sale, you should consider buying from a dealership but always compare prices and know how much the model you want should cost.

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Regardless of why someone is using a trail, it is important to remember that all trail users are responsible for watching and listening for others. This should result in those who use trails actively looking and listening for others, as opposed to merely reacting when someone or something comes their way. This approach will go a long way towards preventing the accidents and misunderstandings that can take place on the trails.

It is generally accepted that traveling on the right side of the trail removes indecision about the proper side on which to pass. If you need to pass on the left for one reason or another, always ask for and get permission before you do so. Make sure that you are able to slow down significantly and use caution at all curves and junctions. While riding an ATV is not the time that you want to experience a surprise! Surprises are never safe – regardless of what type of vehicle you happen to be riding!

If you should encounter a horse while you are riding your ATV, always yield to the horse and rider. Go out of your way to make sure that the horse has seen and heard you. In addition, you will want to give the horse adequate room to pass you on the trail. Remember that motorized recreation vehicles, such as ATVs, can usually be heard coming, and the horse rider may be well out of the way. If not, be courteous, and shut off your motor. Then allow the rider to get a safe distance beyond you before you start it back up again. If you happen to notice that a horse is becoming edgy, nervous, or agitated, always turn off your engine. Then ask the rider what you can do to make the situation better for him and the horse.

Unfortunately, the great majority of responsible riders have had their reputation negatively affected by those who do not follow the rules of the trails and who do not take the necessary time to be courteous. Simple courtesy and respect for others and their property will discourage riders of ATVs from riding on non-designated trails, or from using other's private land without permission. This type of responsible thinking will also prevent riders from driving their ATV under the influence of alcohol or drugs. A number of accidents happen each year because of this unfortunate behavior.

If you are planning riding your ATV on a trail designed for ATV use, keep in mind that there is always a good chance that you may encounter someone who is using the trail for a purpose other than the driving of ATVs. In these situations, it is best to give others the respect that you desire from them. Be active in your effort to hear and see other who is on your trails. When you do encounter them, always yield.

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If the most important accessory for an ATV driver is the helmet, what do you think is the most important accessory of your ATV? My answer? The ATV winch.

Here I will be covering the conditions an ATV winch can be most useful, the aspects of an ATV winch and some techniques in using an ATV winch. After that, you decide for yourself if it is useful or not.

ATV winch is used not only for extracting trapped ATVs; it can be used for lowering your ATV down a treacherous ravine or going up a steep slope. Or you could use it to extract another stranded ATV if there are no suitable anchors nearby. Or you could pull some heavy equipment, or tow another vehicle or clear your trail. There are dozens of use for winches especially on ATVs.

Here's a primer example on an ATV use.

Extracting an ATV with an ATV winch

Put on gloves. This is important since wire ropes have barbs after a couple of use. Disengage the clutch and free the hook. Attach the hook strap. Remember to always use a hook strap, hooks create a tremendous pull, and you might skewer your hand if you're not careful. Pull the wire towards the anchor point. On selecting an anchor point, always choose a natural anchor. And it must be strong enough to withstand the pull. Most likely candidate should be a tree. Secure the choker around your anchor and attach the clevis shackle to the two ends of the choker and the hook loop. Now lock the clutch and connect the remote control. Put the wire rope under tension. It is wiser to create a considerable slack by free spooling the winch drum at the start of your winching operation. Once the rope is under tension, stand clear and check everything. That would include your anchor, your ATV, the connections and the surroundings. Also it is a safe procedure to lay something heavy midway over the wire rope, should the wire rope snap loose the object would bear the rope down.

If you are now confident with this operation, you will find that other situations aren't as much different with this one. As long as you know the basics and most importantly, the safety measures, then you're off to a pretty good start.

Some ATV Winch essentials

Winches are invaluable in situations when your ATV is stalled because they ran on batteries. So, pay close attention to the battery load before going outback. ATV winch accessories include the choker chain, tree trunk protector and the recovery strap. If you think that you will be damaging the anchor tree so much with the choker chain, then use the tree protector. Optimally, tree protectors are used for trees, but if you have boulders as anchors, you should use the chokers. Recovery straps are not advisable to use in most winching operations. Since they are stretchable, they are used to 'snatch' hard stuck vehicles.

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Many places have ATV's to rent, and if you go with this option you can still enjoy the outdoors on an ATV without having to haul yours along for the trip. If you do decide to rent, follow these tips to make the most of your experience.

Renting an ATV is not cheap, but compare the hassle of lugging yours plus the cost of extra gas to cover the weight of your ATV during the haul, and it may be worth it to you. The other downside of renting an ATV is that it may take some getting used to before you are comfortable with the rented ATV. You may not find one available to rent that is exactly like yours and you may not enjoy the ride as much. If you are not too picky, you will probably be too busy enjoying your trip to notice the difference, so consider renting if riding a different ATV for a day or so does not seem like a big deal.

If you are renting, try to pick an ATV that is close to the model of the ATV you are used to riding. This will make it easier for you to adjust to the new ATV and make riding easier and more enjoyable. If you cannot find a similar model, at least make sure that the weight and engine size of the rented ATV is the same as yours.

Before you agree to rent, you should make sure the ATV you choose is in safe working order. Chances are if you own your own ATV you know how to inspect one for safety. Make sure everything is in good working order and there is no damage that can potentially cause injury.

The best way to decide if an ATV that you will be renting is safe and comfortable is to take it for a quick test drive. Part of the safety inspection should be the tires. Check for proper inflation and make sure they are suitable for the type of terrain you will be riding on. If you are insure what the trails are like where you will be riding, as someone at the rental shop too make sure the ATV you rent is compatible with the trails you will be riding.

Just like renting a car, you should always read the find print and understand the details of your rental agreement. Know if you are responsible for gas and make sure there will be no hidden charges when you are done renting. Some ATV rental places will have optional insurance, others will not and this is something you will have to consider as well.

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If you research the ATV before you buy it and know what to look for, you can find a perfectly safe and operable ATV for a fraction of the price of a new one. This is great for beginners who want to test the waters before they invest in a brand new machine, or for people who want to experience the fun of ATV riding but do not want to pay a premium. Some people like to tinker with their ATV's and customize them. Buying a used ATV is perfect for this as you can find many used parts to create a one of a kind ATV.

The downside to buying a used ATV is that you may not always know what you are getting. This is especially true if you but a used ATV online. You cannot inspect the ATV before you purchase it and have to rely solely on the description provided. You can find good deals online but you have to be sure to ask the right questions and get important information. If you want to buy the best used ATV you can, you should follow these tips.

The safest bet in used ATV's are models made within the last few years. It is possible to find an older model that is in great condition, but if you are new to ATV's or have not done extensive research it is best to stick to models that were made fairly recently. Recent models will have less miles and will have the least amount of wear overall compared to older models. They also require less maintenance than older models.

Unless you know a lot about the inner workings of ATV's, it is best to buy a used ATV from a company or shop that employs mechanics and has experience selling and repairing ATV's. You can find great used ATV's form private sellers, but you have to be sure that you know what to look for to determine quality. If you do not know much about repairing ATV's, you are better off purchasing from someone who does.

Buying a used ATV from a company or shop will also usually provide you with some added peace of mind in the form of a limited warranty or return policy. If you are going to buy from a private seller, make sure they have a good rating if they are an inline seller or they have references if they are a local seller.

No matter where you buy your used ATV, make sure you do some research on prices and know what to expect to pay. You should also know what to look for and how to identify an ATV that has been well taken care of as opposed to one that has been neglected and will require work.

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There are many different types of ATV tire, some designed for rough and muddy terrain, some designed for snow, some designed for flat ground, and some for racing. The purpose of your ATV should dictate which tire you use and while some tire types will suffice for a few different applications, others are a bad fit.

If your ATV is for enjoyment and you ride in fields and similar terrain for most of the time, the stock tires that came with your ATV will work just fine. It is not until you get into very rough or muddy terrain that you should consider getting different tires. Likewise, if you are going to try your hand at racing, stock tires are not your best choice. If you use your ATV for enjoyment but often find yourself trying to traverse hilly, wet or muddy terrain, you ATV might benefit from a change in tires especially if its performance is suffering.

If you are going to use your ATV in a variety of rough terrain, you should look into mud tires. You should be warned, however, that not all mud tires perform well on regular ground so you should consider just how much time you spend traversing tough terrain and how much time you send tearing around the field or dirt track. Mud tires come with different tread depths, the deeper the tread the better your tires will hold up against rough terrain. You local ATV dealership will be able to suggest which tire type is best for you or you can get advice from other ATV owners. You should make sure that the tires you purchase are the right size for your rims otherwise they can pose a safety threat.

If you mainly drive your ATV on flat ground then standard tires will probably be best for you. Just like cars tires, ATV tires come in a variety of heights and the best height for you is dependent on your driving style. Some tire styles increase the likely hood that your ATV will flip and make it harder to take corners fast. Tall tires will provider you with a gentler ride and give you more ground clearance. Short tires are more stable, however, and make steering easier.

If you do not want to change tires, pick one with an average tread that will perform well on a variety of conditions. If you plan to ride on a variety of terrains that will require different tire types, you may want to invest in a second set. Do not, however, think that you need specialized racing or mud tires unless you frequently drive in muddy terrain or race with your ATV.

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Large ATV's take a lot of strength to control and usually have more powerful engines that allow them to go much faster then youth ATV's. Children should have the opportunity to hone their driving skills on a smaller, slower ATV before they graduated to an adult sized ATV when they are older, stronger, and more experienced. ATV's can be a source of great fun and a worthwhile hobby for children.

They should always be supervised when riding and wear appropriate safety gear. Many places required minors to wear helmets by law and prohibit them from riding adult sized ATV's. Even if this is not a requirement in your area, it is still a good idea and will keep your child safe while pursuing their ATV hobby.

Children and pre-teens (ages 6-12) should ride an ATV with an engine size of 70cc or smaller. There are larger models for teenagers, and while age should be a factor in which ATV you choose for your child, other things such as maturity, size, and strength should also be taken into consideration. A smaller child who is 16 should still ride a smaller ATV, and while this may not be optimal for them, it is imperative for their safety. Your child should only drive an ATV that they can comfortable handle.

When buying an ATV for your child, you should make sure it is the correct fit for them. Your child should be able to reach the ground with their feet, without standing on their tiptoes. They should be able to comfortable reach the handle bars without having to overextend their arms. Their arms should be slightly bent as they have a firm grip on the handle bars. They should also be able to reach the ground with their feet and have their legs slightly bent. Getting your child an ATV they can comfortably control is important and will help to keep them safe.

As well as age and size, your child's maturity level also plays an important part in what type of ATV you buy them. You will have to consider if your child can shift gears or would do better with an automatic transmission.

If you want to retain control over your child's ATV, whether you think their driving skills need some work or they will have problems following rules, you can consider getting an ATV with a remote switch to turn off the ATV of your child gets into trouble.

Buying an ATV for your child is not a decision to be taken lightly. You should make sure your child knows that an ATV is not a toy and can be dangerous. Make sure they ride an appropriate sized ATV and always wear protective gear.

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ATV's serve many purposes, most of which can be aided by the right ATV accessories. The purpose of your ATV will determine which accessories are right for you. Safety equipment is essential for all riders, ramps will come in handy for most riders, and hitches, wenches and racks are a must for those who use their ATV's for work purposes.

Every ATV owner should have safety equipment. Safety gear is an essential accessory and can prevent serious injuries. All riders should wear goggles, helmets, and gloves as well as rugged pants and a jacket to protect against abrasions. Many states require minors to wear safety equipment and even if your does not, no one should ever ride without proper safety accessories. Safety accessories for your ATV include bumpers and heavy duty covers.

If you ever travel with your ATV an indispensable accessory is a ramp. A ramp will make loading and unloading your ATV from your truck or trailer easy and safe. Do not be tempted to use some old 2×4's as a ramp as they will be likely to break under the weight of your ATV and are not safe. Another crucial accessory for your ATV during transport is tie down straps. Make sure you buy heavy duty straps that will secure the weight of your ATV to your truck or trailer. If you travel often, you should think about buying a trailer made specifically for your ATV as it is a safer way to transport your ATV than in the back of your truck.

If you ruse your ATV for work purposes or just want to have the ability to tow things if the need arises, a hitch is an important ATV accessory. You can pull virtually anything with your ATV if it has a hitch from other ATV's to wagons and carts. This can prove very useful if you do a lot of yard work or have heavy things to transport around your property. Winches are also useful accessories to have whether you do work with your ATV or not. With a winch you can pull your ATV easily out of the mud or pull other stuck ATV's.

Some ATV accessories improve the look of your ATV including ground kits and custom made body parts. If you want to make your ATV unique and customize it to your liking, these accessories are a good way to do it. Make sure whatever accessory you buy is compatible with your ATV and that you can actually use it.

Most casual riders can go without some of the utilitarian accessories and others can benefit from them greatly. Even if you don't get a lot of extras with your ATV, make sure you have safety equipment and always ride safely.

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Do some hunting? Why not attach your ATV with gun mounting. Slinging (and un-slinging) just takes time, now wouldn't it? Try the Kolpin® Quick-release Gun Boot Mounting Bracket. It's on $44.99 but the handiness of the accessory is worth every penny. Secure your hunting rifle with the Kolpin® Quick-release Gun Boot Mounting Bracket and head for the Big Game trail. You'll never know when you'll spot the perfect game and you might just let it get away while your still un-slinging your rifle.

Item Name: Kolpin® Quick-release Gun Boot IV ATV Mounting Bracket

Get it at: http://www.cabelas.com

Phone Orders: 1-800-237-4444

Every now and then your ATV needs a little help. Whether be it a fallen log blocking your way, or an especially sticky quagmire or even tough jobs around your farm, make sure your ATV's up the task with Cabela's Trail Tamer™ Superwinch. This 12 volt DC powered ATV winch boasts in/out power, free spooling clutch and remote mounted rocker switch for versatility and reliability. The Trail Tamer™ is available with four kinds of motor power. Prices range from $199.99 – $329.99.

Item Name: Cabela's Trail Tamer™ ATV Winches by Superwinch

Get it at: http://www.cabelas.com

Phone Orders: 1-800-237-4444

Do you fancy a safari with your ATV? One problem though. ATVs are not known for comfortable sitting, and frankly, a rocking chair is too preposterous to bring along. For this fancy, the Tamarack™ Titan Series™ Deluxe Lounger™ is your best complement among the ATV accessories available. This Lounger also functions as a giant stylish storage box. The storage is watertight and dust resistant to protect your gear from the elements and extremities of the condition. Be assured that your sandwich and your pocketbook will survive the trip for you to enjoy an afternoon break viewing the majesty of the lions and its pride. The Tamarack Deluxe Lounger also comes with tail and brake lights and neoprene padded handgrips.

Item Name: Tamarack™ Titan Series™ Deluxe Lounger™

Get it at: http://www.atvpartsdepot.com

Phone Orders: 1-800-945-1850

Are you hooked up with ATV off road racing? Do you enjoy thrill rides with your ATV?

This sport pumps so much adrenaline that after every ride, you always get parched. The best compliment for you among the ATV accessories would be the ATV Cooler Pack. Now you can enjoy a bottle of COLD Gatorade after every event. Or just hang around with friends with a couple of beers. Or sip Semillon Chardonnay with your girlfriend. The ATV Small Utility/Cooler Pack fits all standard ATVs. The dimensions are small, 18"L * 9.5"W * 8" H, so you have much room to spare for your other equipment. Prices range from $32.95 – $37.35.

Item Name: Wolf ATV Small Utility/Cooler Pack

Get it at: http://www.truckaddons.com

Phone Orders: 1-800-388-8637 / 1-859-231-8120

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While there aren't many differences between a motorcycle helmet and an ATV helmet, there are a few and they may make a big difference. Likewise, there are differences between ATV helmets that are designed for different purposes such as off-roading and racing. ATV helmets generally have more ventilation and cover more of the face. While these features add some extra elements of safety, they add more to comfort which can make a big difference if you spend a lot of time on your ATV. ATV helmets are also generally made to be more secure as ATV riding can be more bumpy and aggressive than other types of vehicles that require helmets.

The amount of padding and how well a helmet fits are two of the most important aspects to picking the safest helmet for you. Price and brand often go hand in hand with these aspects of quality but this is not always the case. The primary purpose of padding is to give the helmet a snug fit that keeps it in place without moving. If the helmet that you purchase does not fit correctly, it will provide the best level of protection. Make sure the helmet sits on your head correctly and that it does not pinch at the neck. Whichever helmet you choose, make sure it is Dot certified. You can find plenty of safe helmets that fit correctly and are safe that are not name brand or exorbitantly expensive.

You should also try on helmets before you purchase one. You need to make sure that it has the correct amount of padding to make it fit snugly. Put the helmet on and move your head in all directions to make sure it will fit correctly no matter which way you move. A comfortable helmet is more effective because you will more likely to wear it and will not get tired of the uncomfortable feeling of an improper fit.

Most stores will have a return policy and it is a good idea to make sure you can return or exchange your helmet if you find that it is not comfortable for an extended period. It is also important to find a helmet that does not move around while wearing it and that is stays in the safest position no matter which way you move.

If you are purchasing a helmet for a child, make sure you choose one that is the right size and have your child try it on for comfort before you buy it. Choosing a helmet that fits correctly and that is DOT certified are the most important factors to consider when purchasing an ATV helmet.

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The best place to start if you have never purchased an ATV before would be at a local dealership. You may not be able to afford one off the showroom floor, but you can still go look and pick the dealer's brain for information. At the dealership you can 'test' the different classes of ATVs. Sit on a few to see how they fit, each ATV will be different and you might find that some are more comfortable than others. Even though you are trying newer models, there really won't be too much of a difference between them and the older versions.

After getting all the information you can from the dealership, you will have some idea of what make and model you will be looking for in a used ATV. While you're at the dealership also check to see if they have a bulletin board for other ATV resources. Sometimes if you contact a club or other organization they may be able to put you in touch with people who have ATV's to sell. Classified ads and specialized classified magazines like you see for cars or motorcycles will also be a valuable resource. And of course the number one source for finding used vehicles is the internet. Places like eBay will no doubt have a lot to offer, the only problem with that is, unless the seller is in your area, you have no way to view the ATV up close.

When you find the ATV you want to purchase, definitely go to check it out personally. When you see the ATV for the first time, make note of the condition of the plastic on the fenders. The overall outward appearance of the ATV will give you a pretty good clue as to how hard the previous owner treated the vehicle. If the fenders or other plastic parts are cracked and ruined you can bet that you're going to have to replace them and replacement parts and accessories are expensive. You have to decide how much you are willing to invest in refurbishing the ATV if parts do need replacing. Check the condition of the seat for any rips or tears. Again, a ripped seat isn't a big deal and is totally replaceable, but do you want to spend the extra money to do that?

The next part of the inspection will take some work. You will want to lift the front end of the ATV up to inspect the undercarriage. With the ATV lifted, closely inspect the frame for any damage. Make sure there are no cracks or dents in the frame or any of the connecting welds Note any areas that might have rust and check them for cracks too. Check the handlebars for any loose play and do the same to each wheel. Loose wheels could indicate worn wheel bearings or damaged ball joints. Oil, breaks and the air filter and air box should also be checked. Ask the owner if they have any records regarding oil changes and maintenance. Some owners might have an owner's manual that they can pass on to you. Take the ATV for a test drive too if you can to see how it handles.

Lastly, if a title is required in your state ask the owner if they have the title and if it is clear. Most states require a bill of sale with the VIN (vehicle identification number) on it. Whether your state requires a bill of sale or not, it is always a good idea to have one to protect both you and the former owner incase a dispute crops up. Be aware that in most cases you are buying the ATV "as is", which means the previous owner is not responsible for any problems you might find with the vehicle after you have purchased it and brought it home.

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Mechanically the difference between a two stroke and four stroke lies in how often the spark plugs fire. In a two stroke, it fires once with every revolution of the cam, while a four stroke only fires the plugs every other revolution of the cam. With everything being equal, a two stroke will have twice as many combustions as a four stroke, which causes it to produce much more energy with the same size engine. While this may make a two stroke sound like an obvious choice, there are several drawbacks to the design and performance characteristics of two stroke ATV engines.

The extra energy and heat produced by a two stroke requires oil to be added to the gas to keep the engine properly lubricated. Because oil is put in the combustion chamber, two stroke engines smoke a lot, which is the reason for the imminent ban on them. One side effect of the impressive power that two stroke engines produce is that the top end of the engine must be rebuilt somewhat frequently, depending on how hard the engine is pushed. Although the rebuild is not terribly expensive, it must be done periodically to avoid rebuilding the entire engine.

For many riders the constant maintenance is worth the performance they get out of their two stroke engine, but the accessibility of this power may be prohibitive for some riders, riding styles, and terrain. In order to tap into the power of a two stroke engine, you have to keep the throttle close to wide open to stay in the power band. Although some models are better than others, some stock two strokes lack real power on the low or midrange. In the hands of an experienced rider, a two stroke is an amazing machine, but in certain scenarios, you can lose all your power by making a necessary up shift or slowing down without a hard down shift. However, their explosive power makes two strokes the engine of choice for many racers, especially in racing disciplines that require frequent jumps and quick acceleration out of turns, such as Motocross.

As far as typically maintenance, most four stroke quads require relatively little attention. Spark plugs and oil changes are always necessary, but you do not need to rebuild the engine on a regular basis. However, many riders complain of the high cost of rebuilding four stroke engines when necessary, but a four stroke engine should hold up longer than a two stroke if it is rode properly. If you keep a four stroke high in the rpm range all the time, you are asking for trouble. Although four strokes do not possess the characteristic break-away acceleration of a two stroke engine, they have access to power through a larger rpm range, which eliminates the need to have the throttle wide open all the time. Access to power in the low and midrange allows for a much more leisurely riding experience, or the ability to dive into deep mud and come out the other side. Because a four stroke has power on the low end, it has a much easier time freeing itself from deep mud, while a two stroke is usually doomed if it comes to a stop in mud. Four strokes, in many cases, have a higher top speed than two strokes, but will take much longer to get to their top speed. Four strokes have improved a lot over the years, with some many dominant racing quads being propelled by four stroke engines. However, the Honda 250R, a classic two-stroke quad, is still taking podium spots over ten years after it began production.

For the most part, two stroke engines are better suited for light sport quads and four strokes, which produce most of their power on the low end, are more suited for heavier quads made for mud, rocks, and work applications. The debate between two stroke and four stroke engines is not likely to end soon, but production of two stroke engines may. If you prefer high speed, airborne, adrenaline heavy riding and you don't mind spending some time turning a wrench, you may want to get your hand on a two stroke quad while you still can.

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According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission in the U.S., out of ten people hospitalized every year as a result of ATV misuse, four patients are under the age 16. In fact last 1993 the Department of Health estimates 50 people were seriously wounded from utility ATV related accidents, without including accidents unrelated to agriculture.

Why are there so many ATV related accidents? Because aside from using the ATV as a utility vehicle, most ATVs serve another purpose too which is recreation. And ATV misuse is the prime factor for all these accidents. But quite contrarily though, sport ATVs has lesser number of accidents since most ATV drivers are professionals who play by the rules.

Don't add to the accident percentage. Use your common sense and have fun responsibly. Wear the right ATV gears for safety.

Wearing the right ATV Gear

Body Protection

Normally a full complement of body protection is worn especially if you are racing with ATVs. A set of ATV gear should include a helmet, goggles, body suit, gloves and boots. And since racing with ATVs are done in rough terrain, and most of these terrains are treacherous especially if you are not careful, it would never hurt to have every bit of protection you can get. Even loose earth flying around can get to an unprotected eye and blind you if you are not wary enough.

While there are ATV suits available on the market, long sleeve jacket and long tight pants are suffice for body protection. Just don't wear fabrics that easily snags with lying debris. Don't forget to wear gloves and boots. Also, it wouldn't hurt if you wear shin guards or padded clothing.

Head Protection

This is the most important safety ATV gear, not only in ATV but in other sports as well since the helmet prevents fatal head injuries. It is imperative too that the helmets used should at least be designed for ATV use since it would include a proper face protection. These face protectors aside from protection against vehicle crashes can also protect your face from flying debris, which is bound to happen a lot especially if you are racing with ATVs.

Eye Protection

Most ATV helmets have eye protection afforded by the face helmets. But if in case eye protections aren't available, you can also opt to wear a pair of goggles or glasses with hard lenses. And make sure the lenses are extra hard or they will shatter if hit by a loose stone.

Here's a useful link to the site that offers the best ATV gear

RidgeGear.com

Phone Orders: (800)515-1380

http://www.ridegear.com

RidgeGear.com caters to the needs of all terrain enthusiasts. From dirt bikes to watercrafts to snowmobiles, they have it all. Most importantly, they have a section dedicated to ATV gears. They even offer deck upgrades for your ATV.

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And let's not forget the trails for the ATV crowd. In Las Vegas there are two major areas where the locals go to ride. The first one is about a half hour outside of Las Vegas at the north end of the strip just past Nellis Air Force Base. There are two ways you can reach the Nellis Dunes. You can either follow Las Vegas Boulevard (aka The Las Vegas Strip) to the north and past the Las Vegas Speedway until you get to the end of it or you can take the I-15 to the Apex exit and turn right. You can't miss the Dunes on this lonely stretch of road. If you came off the I-15 the Dunes will be immediately on your left, in fact, you will be able to see them from the exit ramp. Every weekend there are trailers and RVs parked up on the Dunes. You can watch kids and adults riding the trails on ATV's and dirt bikes from the road.

If you follow the Boulevard south as far as it will go, you will find yourself paralleling the I-15 going towards California. This stretch of road will take you to the Jean Dry Lake Beds. The area here is also wide open desert with plenty of space for ATV trail riding and should take only twenty to thirty minutes from the Strip.

Venturing outside of Las Vegas you can find another ATV hotspot, the El Dorado Dry Lake Valley Area. Take US 95 or the Boulder Highway south towards Searchlight. Seven miles after the Railroad Pass Casino before you reach Searchlight you'll find the trails. And finally off of US 93 is the Logandale Trails System.

An inexperienced rider or first time visitor to Las Vegas might want to consider hiring a trail guide. Most of these trails are unmarked and difficult to follow if you aren't familiar with the area. A guide will also be able to help you over the rougher patches of trail. All ATV outfitters in Las Vegas offer training on the ATV to make sure that you understand how to operate the vehicle. Off road vehicles in Nevada are usually don't require registration, license or titles to drive, but drivers under the age of 15 require adult supervision and everyone needs to wear a helmet. Headlights are also required to be on from dusk to dawn. Another safety precaution is having a brightly colored flag attached to your ATV while riding the trails so that other riders can see you. Do not ride your ATV on the roads or highways either; trailer your vehicle to the site and stick to the trails. Above all else, do not operate your ATV or any other motorized vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

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How do you go about finding a helmet that fits properly? How tight is too tight? How loose is too loose? Are all helmets the same? Starting with the last question, not all helmets are the same. You want to get a helmet specifically designed for use on a vehicle like an ATV or a dirt bike. You don't want to get a helmet that someone might use on a regular street motorcycle. Most ATV helmets cover your head completely and have a face guard that extends over the mouth. When you first put the helmet on it might feel tight because of all the padding inside. If you can slip the helmet over your head without it feeling snug, then you know that it's too big. Try shaking your head side to side and going through as many movements as you can to see if the helmet shifts or slides when you move. Also try to decide how heavy the helmet feels. Does it feel cumbersome? Do you think you would be able to wear it for longer than 15 minutes without getting tired of it?

The second thing to look for is how easily the helmet comes off. If you're in an accident or get thrown from your ATV, you don't want your headgear to go flying off in one direction and you in another, which totally defeats the purpose of having a helmet. Now that you've got the helmet on, adjust the chinstrap and cinch it tight under your chin. Grab the helmet from the back and try to take it off by pushing it to the front. Does the helmet slip down over your eyes and come off? Now try moving the helmet side to side. If you can feel your skin shifting with the helmet and the foam padding then you know you have a good, solid fit.

Women have one more thing to consider when they go to look for a helmet. The way a woman wears her hair on the trail will make a big difference in what size helmet she gets. If she has short hair that won't need to be braided or tied up, then there's no problem. If every time she goes riding she French braids her hair or tucks it up under the helmet, then she might need to go with a larger size than she would if she didn't put her hair up. The hair takes up extra space and if you don't account for that your helmet won't be the right size.

Children's helmets are another issue. So many parents are very money minded when it comes to getting clothing and gear for their kids that they might be tempted to get a helmet a size larger for the child to "grow into". Unfortunately you can't cut corners when it comes to buying a helmet. It has to fit snuggly with no exceptions. As mentioned before, a helmet that is too large is as dangerous as having no helmet at all.

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The first step is to head for the trails with someone who has experience with an ATV. Actually ride an ATV so that you can decide if you are really interested in getting one. Once you are certain that you like it, go pick out your vehicle. As of this second, it's not a law but it is recommended that people of certain sizes use ATVs of certain sizes. For example, if you have a son and he weighs 85 pounds, do not try to find an 800 or 900 cc machine for you to stick him on. Try putting him on a 440 or 600 cc machine. This is more in line with something he can handle. Also, make sure that you are fitted to the right machine.

It is usually not recommended that beginners buy brand new machines. As you end up becoming more familiar with the sport, you will talk with people who have different models, and you may end up finding yourself in constant pursuit of the "next best thing." After you have your first machine, definitely take a safety course. Courses are usually broken up into three or four weeks, with them lasting two and a half hours a night once a week. Consider these to be well worth your time and your money. Some courses even end with the instructor taking the class out on to trails. Courses are not mandatory – but they will most likely be one day!

Next, you should take the time necessary to sit down at night and read your owner's manual. Keep in mind that each ATV is different, so if there are labels or parts you don't know, the only real answers you will ever find will be in the manuals. Oh yeah…when you go out on the trail, make sure that you carry the owner's manual with you. If you have bought a used machine from a neighbor or someone else, you can get a copy of the owner's manual by taking the serial number off the machine and going to a dealer.

The next thing that you are going to want to do is to get out on to a trail and practice. That really is the only way that you are going to learn how to drive an ATV. Of course, you will always want to make sure that you have permission from whoever owns the land! In the beginning, be sure that you do what you must to ensure that you are riding sensibly. Ride with experienced people. As with other sports, you only get better by riding with people who are better than you. So ride with people who have a fair amount of experience. In addition, no matter how confident you are, when beginning, make sure that you always ride under the supervision of someone who can guide you. In other words, never, ever ride alone!

If you follow these simple steps, you will be able to enjoy all of the fun and the excitement that makes up driving an ATV. As with other things, it will take some time before you, as a beginner, are able to do it by yourself. Take the time to receive training on how to do it, and dive headlong into the owner's manual. Once you feel ready to hit the trails, practice driving your ATV. Remember to have an experienced driver with you. Following these steps will ensure your safety and will guarantee that you have a good time.

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Wait! If you're off to buy an ATV for racing first let me tell you that is no easy task. Unless if you are really sure of the model you're going to buy then by all means go ahead. This review isn't for you anyway.

In order to be competitive in ATV racing, you must know what you want. Different ATV offers different things, and all can enable you to dominate. So it is imperative to learn what you can about your machine before heading for the tracks.

Ok then, let's get started with some of the most popular ATV racing in the market.

Yamaha Raptor

Price: $4704.63 (price may vary)

The Good: Nothing compares the Yamaha Raptor in ATV racing. With its unique power delivery featuring a liquid cooled 4-stroke single 5 valve DOHC, this 2WD racer can tear up lanes and trails yet handles like a Porsche. Like its predecessor, the Banshee, this 439cc baby can also climb up dunes rather easily.

The Bad: Since this ATV is rather small, large riders will have some difficulty in seating. Also the Yamaha Raptor may overwhelm beginners by its speed.

My Say: Optimum for racing. Light weight awesome speed = winner.

Honda TRX400EX

Price: $4445 (price may vary)

The Good: It seems Honda couldn't stop making excellent heavy duty machines. The Honda TRX400EX is no exception. This air-cooled dry-sump single cylinder 4-stroke engine is a powerhouse. It can climb up anything, has the power of a cart horse and fast enough, too, to blush any ATV machines. Try this all around monster machine, upgrade it to your liking and you'll know what I'm raving about

The Bad: The only thing that this machine really needs is a liquid cooling system. Did I say this is very upgradeable?

My Say: Can be used for utility or trail, but also performs well on racing. It is a true all around vehicle.

Kawasaki Prairie 700 4×4

Price: $7000 (price may vary)

The Good: The liquid cooled 4-stroke engine with V-twin SOHC and 4 valve cylinder provides enough power for racing against snow, mud or sand while keeping up with other quads. The ability to switch in and out of 4×4 or 2×4 gives it superb handling.

The Bad: The tires needs replacements, making you commit an aftermarket.

Yamaha Banshee

Price: 6399.75

The Good: No one could ever forget the Banshee in 1987 and it had retained its popularity over the years. With its unique power delivery, the liquid cooled 2-stroked twin reed valve is capable of tearing sand dunes and race tracks way ahead of the competition. With some aftermarket mods, this ATV racing baby can become invincible in races.

The Bad: The Banshee utilizes a 2-stroke engine which as we know needs a lot of maintenance. It also breaks down quite frequently.

My Say: 2-stroke engine is always fast but needs a LOT of maintenance if you want to remain competitive. Performs best on straight lanes and sand dunes.

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To drive an ATVsafely, one needs to be strong, skilled, and, most important, mature. This is why children who are younger than 16 years of age should never operate an ATV. Adults must not forget that it also takes strength and stamina to be a passenger. A rider who is sitting behind the driver must be able to hold on tight for a long period. Often, they must hold on while the ATV goes over very bumpy ground at a high speed. The rule of thumb is that any child who is younger than six years old should never be allowed to ride as a passenger on an ATV.

It is probably not surprising to discover that head injuries are one of the causes of both death and serious injury on ATVs. These serious injuries usually occur when ATVers crash, fall, or overturn while moving. It should be remembered that children can also be injured if they are towed by an ATV during winter months while they are on a sled, tube, tire, or other device that is being pulled by an ATV. In Canada, statistics show that four children younger than 16 years of age die in recreational vehicle related accidents each year.

So, the question becomes: how can ATVs be used safely so that they are enjoyed by each and every member of the family who is old enough to do so? If your family happens to own an ATV, be sure that no one under the age of 16 is ever allowed to drive it. Again, it is tremendously important that you never allow any children younger than six years of age to ride as passengers. If you are a parent who owns and operates an ATV, consider following these rules to be an excellent opportunity to model the type of safe behavior you want your children to display.

Before you head out on your ATV adventure, be sure to be careful when fueling the ATV. Burns are possible, and you want to avoid them. Be sure to use the proper lifting methods when loading ATVs on and off trailers. This will help you prevent strains and crush injuries. Make sure that you check the weather forecast before you go out. It is probably not a good idea to venture out if a major storm is brewing. Also, make sure that you check the condition of the trails. Depending on how mountainous the area in which you will be ATVing is, you may want to assess whether there is danger of an accident. In the winter, always be sure to avoid ATVing on ice if you are not 100% certain that the ice is very thick.

You should also be able to identify the signs of hypothermia if you are ATVing in the wintertime, and know what to do if it does occur. Make sure that you always travel with the right equipment. You will want to have well-insulated protective clothing, such as goggles, waterproof suits and gloves, and rubber-bottomed boots. Of course, you need to make sure that everyone who will be riding is wearing a helmet approved for ATVing. Another thing you can do to ensure the safety of you and your family is to attach brightly colored antenna flags to your ATV. You will definitely want to do this if you are driving in a particularly hilly area.

Of course, the most important thing you can do to ensure your family's safety is to drive carefully. Use wisdom and caution. If you have followed the preceding guidelines, you will find that ATVing is a very exciting sport that can be enjoyed by members of your entire family.

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Want to know the secret to a long and happy ATV trail excursion? It's replacing all those sodas and juice bottles with clear and cool water. Though many ATV drivers swear by sports drinks, they might deliver too much sugar into your system. Though sports and energy drinks are coveted by athletes who are exerting tremendous amounts of energy, you're better off imbibing clear, pure and unflavored H2O.

What better food stuff than a handful of trail mix to go along with your thirst-quenching bottle of water? Before you start munching on the various trail mixes available on the market, take heed. Many of those so-called "healthy" snacks are loaded with trans-fats, unnecessary sodium, and far too much sugar. Instead of trying to sort through all the supermarket options, why not make your own? In a large plastic bag, throw in a cupful of a high fiber cereal, a half a cupful of nuts, a half a cupful of unsweetened dried fruits (such as cranberries, apricots, or raisins), and, if you must have something sweet, a modest sprinkling of semi-sweet baking chocolate chips. Shake the bag and share with your ATV trail buddies.

Though many of the energy bars on the market are woefully lacking in basic nutrition, there are some which are hearty enough to eat as a meal substitute. If you're going to be out on your ATV all day, you can replace lunch with one of these power-packed energy bars. Just make sure that your choice has at least 250-350 calories and a whopping dose of fiber. Watch out for energy bars that are all carbohydrates; try to find one that balances carbs with protein. Try to avoid any that are made by popular candy makers because they usually contain way too high a proportion of sweetener.

One of the most underappreciated fruits is the lovely yellow banana, a tropical delight that packs a nutritional punch. Though a medium banana is only about 100 calories, it is loaded with potassium and has reputedly therapeutic benefits. If you can stow a few of these edible golden treasures in a place where they won't get squashed during your ATV trail excursion, you'll be able to benefit from their natural wealth of nourishment.

Never forget that the more planning you put into your ATV exploration, the more you'll get out of the experience. That includes the type, amount, and quality of foods you bring with you on your next ATV journey.

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I couldn't believe it when I first saw it too: An ATV video game? There's absolutely no way a gaming machine could emulate the exact spirit of an ATV sport. At first I was too decisive, being overly critical to a game I was sure couldn't imitate the experience of a real ATV ride. But then I found out, after a few obscene curses and frustrated pounding on the keyboard (I bought a PC version of MX vs. ATV Unleashed), that it really was a satisfying experience. Just like any other video games especially in the sports genre, ATV video games are meant to be enjoyed as it is -a video game and not as a substitute to an actual ATV sport.

Realism is the principal thing video games have been trying to improve. As technology makes its advance, ATV video games also takes a step closer in perfecting realism. And it is evident that the quality of today's video games is a far cry from games of the past.

ATV video game titles do carry the exhilarations of an ATV sport, albeit in a quite different manner. Some ATV video games even made it in the higher tier of video game rankings. If you're not still convinced, try these definite examples of an ATV video game. A word of caution, these games are highly addictive that you might find yourself up in the middle of the night for a 'just one more lap'.

MX vs ATV Unleashed for the PC

Publisher: THQ
Developer: Rainbow Studios

MX vs ATV Unleashed may be the best realistic off terrain video game at the moment. Superior graphics, great sound and an even more intense gameplay gives any player enough adrenaline pumped action to keep him engaged for quite a time. There's simply a lot to do in MX vs. ATV Unleashed: freestyle mode, free ride, one on one challenges, and individual racing events. But the best feature may be the online game mode where you can play with friends and show off your well-practiced stunts in free mode.

Responsive controls, excellent in-game physics, well detailed and creative outdoor tracks made this ATV video game title a sure winner.

ATV Offroad 3 on Playstation 2

Publisher: SCEA
Developer: Climax

Though it somewhat fails in the graphics department, this 2004 ATV video game still enjoys a considerable amount of success with regards to its game tilt and fun factor. The success by large comes from the immediate accessibility of the game and the variety of customization options. The game also manages to follow the thrills of the ATV sport with various modes of play. Like for instance the single player mode that is good for beginning players. This option allows a practice mode where you can hone you ATV skills and the championship mode if you want more challenge than blazing the tracks on your own. There's also an option of online play where you can pit your ATV skills against other players.

ATV Offroad 3 is a nice transition of an ATV game to a Playstation 2 console. Though there are slight shortcomings with this title, the game still manages to maintain the familiar feel of an ATV sport.

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