So you finally own a UTV, and you’re looking forward to your new off-road adventures, right? Well, first, you got to learn some things before hitting the open outdoors on your new SxS.
With that in mind, let’s introduce you to the wonderful world of off-road adventures and prepare you for all the fun and challenges that come along with such an activity. Take notes if you deem it necessary. But most importantly, don’t forget to have fun!
Always Bring Backup Gear
You need to stay hydrated and protected from the elements, more so than your UTV, so don’t forget your water bottle, helmet, protective eyewear, over-the-ankle boots, long shirt, long pants, and an appropriate jacket.
Furthermore, your UTV needs some spare parts, such as spark plugs, handy. Do take note that we recommend purchasing from recognized 3rd party parts manufacturers. As an example, if you can get high-quality Can-Am Maverick parts or search for other parts depending on your make and model.
Get the Right Wheels and Tires
Not all wheels and tires are created equal. The fact of the matter is that you’re going to have to research whether your default OEM tires can handle, let’s say, extra muddy terrain. Think about it this way: the thing that makes direct contact with the ground must do it correctly.
There’s a big reason why tires have such varying patterns, depths, bolt sizes, and so forth. Do your research, and read this handy tire guide.
Familiarize Yourself With the Controls
Sure, the driving rules over the world might be the same. However, not all UTVs have the same button and switch layout. Therefore, you need to take your precious time to get to know where each important thing is located before starting your journey.
Why come to a point where you have no idea what to do, when instead, you can opt to learn how your UTV functions and how to best control it in any scenario?
Perform Regular Maintenance
Like it or not, your UTV needs more maintenance than your average car since it has to tackle some really difficult trails. Check all the fluids as often as necessary, look for cracks and leaks, fix loosened bolts, make sure everything that needs cleaning gets cleaned properly, and so forth.
Read the Owner’s Manual
As much as we hate to remind you of every minute thing, there’s nothing that can overstate the importance of acknowledging the information found in the owner’s manual. Make sure to cover all the essential information so that you won’t find yourself in a situation where you have no idea what to do.
Money Is for Safety, Not for Looks
If you have enough money set aside to purchase aftermarket parts and accessories for your UTV, then you should cover safety before anything else. We know that a set of new lights is quite attractive and may inevitably for you to get money out of your pocket.
However, it is important to know that there are a lot of accessories meant to make your ride safer. And you should focus on those before you spend your money on a new sound system, for instance.
Follow the Trail Etiquette Just as You Follow the Road Etiquette
Finally, our main advice is to be kind to others on the trail and practice safety above all else. With that said, ride on the right side of the trail at all times, be courteous to other adventurers, and don’t go overboard with your speed. You never know when you’ll end up planted on a tree.
The Bottom Line
At the end of the day, if we were going to sum up what we wanted to tell you, we’d tell you to follow your safety instincts and learn your vehicle inside and out. If you have any other tips that you think we’ve missed, please leave us a comment below with your thoughts on the matter.
