Your all-terrain vehicle is just that — a vehicle capable of handling all different types of terrain. No doubt you’ve taken it through shallow creeks, dry lake beds, sandy dunes, muddy trails and rocky paths. But what about snow? Even though the temperatures have fallen, bringing along with them some frozen precipitation, that doesn’t mean you have to store your ATV until spring. There are a number of year-round riding trails in addition to off-roading opportunities that become a brand-new challenge when the snow flies. However, it helps to be prepared for winter four wheeler riding so you can do it safely and without incident.
Because ATVing in the snow presents such unique challenges, Bright PowerSports has created this guide to help you master it. Pay us a visit at our Lincoln Park dealership for more winter ATV tips!
Sure, your ATV is tough, but that doesn’t mean it’s completely impervious to the effects of extreme temperatures. Your engine fluids are particularly vulnerable to the cold. Coolant is prone to freeze, especially if water has been added to it, so you should drain the coolant you used during summer and make sure that the fluid you replace it with is good to go for below-freezing temperatures. Always check coolant before starting your engine in winter and never start it if the coolant has frozen. If your gasoline has frozen up, then you shouldn’t even be outside because this only happens at around -40°C/F.
Outfitting your ATV with a few key features can help to protect you from the cold and manage the snowfall as well. A snow plow attachment can ensure that you don’t get stuck in drifts by giving you an easy way to move snow out of your way to create a path. Swapping out your normal tires for snow tires or even tracks may be practical in your area; talk with us at Bright PowerSports to see what options are available.
Gauntlets, which are shields you attach to the handlebars of your four wheeler, will keep wind and snow from hitting your hands directly so they stay drier in gloves. Finally, a windshield can block some of the bitter winds and precipitation that would otherwise hit you directly, offering a little more protection from the cold as you ride.
Not only will you need to prep your ATV, but you’ll have to upgrade your own riding gear to keep yourself warm and dry while riding in the winter. Your standard helmet should always be worn, but a thin cap underneath it can help insulate you. While usually a motocross helmet with goggles is preferred for summer riding, you may actually appreciate the full face shield and warmth provided by a motorcycle helmet during winter.
Make sure your gloves are insulated and carry hand warmers in your pockets in case your fingers start to feel numb. Snow pants may be more practical than your average jeans, and thermal underwear will help you stay warm. Layer up both top and bottom to keep yourself warm and insulated against the cold. A waterproof but lightweight outer layer will keep you dry without overheating you while you ride your four wheeler.
You should adjust your riding style when riding in snow. You likely won’t be able to go as fast as you would in a dry lake bed at the peak of summer, so slow down! Look over a map of a given riding area to see what types of obstacles may be present beneath the snow. You won’t want to ride over a partially-frozen pond, for example, since you could fall in. But if you don’t know it’s there, you won’t know to avoid it. Watch for shiny patches of ice that could cause you to spin out or roll over, and carry some rock salt in case you need it for traction.
More standard ATV safety rules still apply here, too. Stay sober as you ride because being intoxicated reduces your focus and slows your reaction time. Alcohol also draws blood away from your extremities, making you more vulnerable to the cold. Pack water and snacks to keep yourself hydrated and energized, using a Thermos to prevent liquids from freezing. Ride during daylight hours and don’t go out in white-out conditions or if very high winds are on the forecast. If you do start to feel drowsy from the cold or feel parts of your body go numb, it’s time to stop riding and head indoors as soon as possible.
We hope these tips help you to have a fun and successful winter ride in your ATV! The snow doesn’t have to stop you from riding your quad if you prepare yourself for it. If you’re still in search of the perfect ATV, come visit Bright PowerSports in Lincoln Park, Michigan, serving the Detroit area. We carry a great selection of new and used ATVs and our staff will be happy to help you narrow down your choices. We also proudly serve Wayne County, Oakland County, Livingston County and Macomb, MI.
