ATVs and Side-by-Sides require a skill set different from driving a car or truck. They may share the same four wheel chassis but the required skills vary as much as the terrain as they are ridden on. ATVs and Side-by-Sides are not toys – they demand specific skills and protective gear. Before you turn the key and start the motor, make sure you have taken a training course and have the proper gear and supplies. It’s a good idea to let others know where you’re going and when you plan to return.

ATVs use a combination of hand and foot controls. The handlebars and straddled seat mean you can use your body weight to guide the direction and performance of the machine. You may hear the term “body english.” Body english are movements made to influence the momentum of the machine. You can apply body english by shifting your weight to the inside of a machine in a corner or to the uphill side when traversing across the side of a hill. If you weigh 80 kg and your machine weighs 250 kg your body weight location can make a huge difference.

Side-by-Sides are more car/truck like. They weigh more and because you are strapped into the seat, they don’t rely on the movement of your body weight to operate. However drivers do require knowledge of how to deal with obstacles and difficult terrain. The best way to acquire the necessary skills to safely operate an ATV or a Side-by-Side is to take training from a certified program. Following your buddies or learning by trial and error just doesn’t cut it. Take a course!