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Ultimate Checklist Before You Ride Your ATV

Feb. 16 2022 atv By Dunfords of Havelock

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7 Things You Need To Pay Attention To Before Going On An Adventure

Did you know that even the hardest-ridden ATV can have a lifespan of around 20 years? When you make a new vehicle purchase, it can be tempting to get out on the road as fast as possible. But did you know a few checks can help prolong its life and keep you safe?

When riding, safety should always be paramount.

Before starting on your brand new ATV, there are a few items to take care of. These will ensure you get the most from your ride and manage to stay safe.

  • Tighten Wheel Lugs
  • Air in Tires
  • Check The Oil
  • Check Coolant Level
  • The Air Filter
  • Are The Brakes OK?
  • Adjust According To Height 

These should not only keep you safe but help prolong the longevity of your new ATV. Some may need to be done more regularly than others.

New ATV Checklist  

You must do a pre-ride inspection before every journey. If you have just got your ATV, don't assume it will be ready to go right off the showroom floor. The ATV maintenance tips below should help you to stay safe.

Tighten Wheel Lugs  

Wheel lugs are in place to hold the wheel to the body of the vehicle. You will need to remove them whenever you change a tire. If they come loose while riding it can have disastrous consequences.

There are between 4 to 8 lugs on an ATV depending on the model. Each has a recommended tightening pattern. However, if you ensure the lugs are on tightly you can ride safely then check them at your first stop.

Ideally, you should stop and give the lugs a check every 20 miles. However, most people find this ATV safety tip restrictive. If you feel a wobble or pull in your steering then pull over and inspect the wheel lugs immediately.

Air in Tires  

Checking the air in your tires is standard ATV maintenance and should be done before every ride. The manufacturer will have supplied a recommended tire pressure in the owner's manual. If your pressure is not correct it could cause loss of control and cause damage to the tires and vehicle.

When checking the PSI in your tires, you need to get a low-pressure gauge. A standard automotive tire gauge will not be accurate enough to use on a small vehicle such as an ATV.

Check The Oil  

To check the oil correctly in your ATV it needs to be warm. Start the ATV for five minutes without using the throttle then shut it down. After a few minutes, you can begin.

Remove the dipstick and wipe away the oil with a cloth. Place the dipstick back in and take it out to see the oil level. The level should lie between the two marks on the dipstick.

Running an engine without oil can be disastrous. Parts will knock against each other without lubrication. You may find the engine begins to smoke and it can be irreparably damaged.

Check Coolant Level  

Coolant levels can drop quickly for several reasons. Its job is to maintain the system and also lubricate seals and internal components. When riding in extreme heat or cold, it will keep your system temperate.

Check the level each time you add fuel to the ATV. If you notice any discolouration in the fluid or debris in it, then you may need to flush the system. Don't forget to check the radiator cap as well, as this is responsible for pressurizing the system and optimizing the cooling.

The Air Filter  

Your owner's manual will contain the manufacturer's recommendations on how often your filter should be changed. If you don't have it, then around 50 hours of use is a rough guess for how regularly it should be cleaned or switched.

Most ATVs have foam filters, though some are paper. Foam filters can be cleaned with water then placed back in the ATV. Paper ones need to be replaced so it may help to keep a spare in your ATV tool kit.

If you have a foam one and clear it out, don't wring it as this can tear the foam and stop it from working efficiently. Let it air dry and replace it. Don't forget to clean the air filter box as well.

Are the Brakes OK?  

The brakes on your ATV should be easy to check. Start with a small, slow drive in a safe location. Brake, then when you are sure they are operating build up the speed and try more sudden and harsh braking.

If your ATV has disc brakes they can not be adjusted. Check the fluid level in the brakes or see if the pads are worn down. When you suspect they are not functioning then take them to a professional to get it checked over.

Should you have drum brakes you can make adjustments, improving and customizing the brakes to your liking. You should still check the brake fluid and pads before any off road riding.

Adjust According To Height  

The height of your body on the ATV is determined by the shocks. Too high and you will have a higher centre of gravity with too much spring. This could cause you to come off the vehicle.

When it is too low, you will be in for a bumpy, uncomfortable ride. You can then begin setting the ride height by using the threaded collar or snail cam on the shocks.

Your owner's manual will recommend the ratio this should be between. Your adjustments should be the same in all four corners.  

The Takeaway  

These points on the ATV safety checklist may take some time. In rare cases, they may even prevent you from taking a ride as you may need to visit a mechanic. However, safety should always come first.

Your first stop for ATV maintenance and sales should be Dunfords of Havelock. We have all the outdoor vehicles and equipment you could need as well as parts and servicing. Contact us here to schedule your next ATV check so we can get you safely back on the trails.