Etiquette Tips For Group ATV Rides

Making Four-Wheeling a Team Effort

Group ATV rides are thrilling. The camaraderie, the bonding, it’s like a secret club of ATV enthusiasts who just understand each other. But if you’re inexperienced, or you have not been out on many group rides, you should understand some of the unspoken rules about how to get along, how to be courteous and respectful, and how to ensure you aren’t left in the dust the next time a group trip comes up.

ATV riding does not have to be a solo sport. Adding friends or family to your rides as a group can make it an thrilling experience. It is not, however, as simple as just loading up your ATV’s and hitting the trails.

This article will equip you with a list of tips and proper etiquette habits to ensure the best possible group ride.

Have a Game Plan

When planning a group ride, having a ride plan is an essential part of ensuring things go smoothly. Take the time to work out the details. From destination to breaks, preparing for the unexpected, and having extra supplies on hand, proper planning will ensure that your ride is enjoyable.

Choose Trails Suitable for Your Least Experienced Driver

Chances are, you may have a more inexperienced rider in your pack. Ensure that when you are planning your ride, that you consider the skill of the least experienced member of your group to ensure that everyone remains safe throughout and that you are not sending an inexperienced rider into unchartered territory.

Use Hand Signals

With so much beauty and fun surrounding you, it might be easy to get distracted. Safety is number one, and this means using hand signals. If you’re trail riding and things get rough, the rider behind you may not notice a signal light flashing. Ensure you provide plenty of notice of a change in direction or pace.

Avoid Following Too Closely

Following too closely falls into a similar category as using hand signals, in that a rider can be easily distracted by surroundings or the ride itself. Following too closely could lead to a disaster. Being out in the wild, which is often the case, can also lead to animals coming out of nowhere, creating a chain reaction of brakes being applied. If you’re following too closely, the last thing you want is to fly off of your bike and/or slam into one of your buddies, risking serious injury.

Beware of Dust

The dust you’re kicking back while riding in a group can seriously impact the rider behind you. Be aware of it as this can impact their visibility tremendously and cause safety issues. Masks are also recommended if you’re riding in seriously dusty terrain. Using a dust mask can make breathing a whole lot easier.

Group Formation

Group formation consists of lead, middle, and tail riders all riding in single file. The tail may change on longer rides.

The tail counts the riders. The lead sets the route and maintains a comfortable speed for the group.

Always communicate when changing paces, dropping off, or if you have to stop. Keep your lights on at all times. Keep an eye on the ATV behind you. This is important to keep your group together. Leave enough braking space between you and the bike ahead.

Stick to The Trails

ATV terrain can be unpredictable. It is also easy to go off track and get lost. Stick to what you know. Stick to what you’ve planned. Know your trail. Know your destination.

Point Out Hazards

If you see an upcoming hazard, be sure to point it out to those behind you. Giving them warning can prevent an accident. It can also cause injury if an obstacle ahead poses the thread of a rider losing control or taking something too fast.

Go Easy on the Brakes

Like being behind someone on a highway who consistently applies brakes for little to no good reason, the same goes for an ATV group ride. Be aware of the reasons why you’re applying brakes. Be aware of what your co-riders are seeing and experiencing as they follow your lead. A ride filled with constant unnecessary braking can be a serious downer and dangerous.

Let Other Drivers Know How Many are in Your Group

Before you plan an entire group trip with the individuals you want to include, be courteous in your approach with those you have invited. Ensure that everyone knows who is coming and try to break the ice a bit before embarking on your group journey.

A Thrilling Group Hobby

ATV group rides can be an incredible experience. There are a whole lot of people out there who are as much a fanatic as you might be. Many do not know how or where to start when it comes to group rides. That’s why it’s important to plan everything. Know your group and their skill level.

There is nothing like hitting the trails on the perfect summer day. Be sure to be safe at all times. The last thing a group of ATV enthusiasts wants is for things to go downhill when you’re out there.

Your local motorsport dealer can be a great source for setting you up with other riders looking to establish a group, or at the very least, providing you information on how you might connect with other enthusiasts.