Riding Your ATV in Cold Weather

While there’s certainly a fair share of people who view ATV riding as a sport that’s only meant to be enjoyed in warm weather, others are determined to get full use of their quad all year long. A little bit of cold shouldn’t deter you from enjoying your four-wheeler to the fullest. We want to make sure you know how to go about riding your ATV in the winter. We’ve gathered some important tips below.

Keep Warm

The top-most priority you’ll need to focus on when you prepare to ride your ATV in the winter is keeping warm. After all, temperatures can dip pretty low and you want to be as warm as possible. The best way to prevent feeling cold while you ride is to layer up. When you wear layers, you ensure you’ll be warm in even the coldest temperatures. Plus, you’ll be able to easily remove layers as you ride if it gets too warm out.

You can choose items that are designed to keep you worn, like a pair of insulated gloves, for example. You should also add a pair of thick wool socks to your riding outfit. Remember, your hands and feet are more prone to frostbite than your other body parts. If you think you’ll be out riding in snow or rain, be sure that your outermost layer is waterproof. When you get all wet as you ride, you’ll feel colder quicker and become more prone to hypothermia. You might want to consider investing in a heated jacket or gloves. You can also bring heat packs with you that’ll warm you up on the trails.

Inspect Your ATV

Next, you need to inspect your ATV and ensure it’s ready to ride. You should do this regularly anyway, but it should be considered mandatory when you’re winter riding. The last thing you want to deal with is a breakdown in the freezing cold as you wait for a tow. You might consider investing in wider tires with strong treads as this will better support the base and prevent skidding. Check your fluid levels and invest in an oil that can withstand the cold. Add antifreeze to the fuel to prevent your tank from rupturing and condensation from forming.

If you’re in need of parts or service before you hit the trails, be sure to visit Nielsen Enterprises in Lake Villa, IL. You’ll find our dealership conveniently located near Chicago, IL, and Milwaukee, WI.