Can-Am DS 250 2023 Series, Operator'S Manual

Page: 45 / 172

Safety Information 43
down and do not "gun" the throttle. This will only result in spinning of the tires and
possibly in an over steering slide of the vehicle. Avoid hard braking. This will pos-
sibly result in a straight line slide of the vehicle. Again, the best advice is to safely
reduce speed in anticipation of a maneuver so to give yourself time and distance
to regain total vehicle control before it spins out of your control.
As you drive your ATV over a loose snow covered surface, snow dust will be
picked up in the wake turbulence of the moving vehicle and transported to con-
tact and accumulate or melt on some exposed components including rotating
parts like brake discs. Water, snow or ice may affect the response time of the
brake system of your ATV. Even when not required to reduce vehicle speed ap-
ply brakes frequently to prevent ice or snow accumulation and to dry brake pads
and discs. While doing so in low risk driving situations you will test for grip level
and keep yourself alerted to how the vehicle reacts to your control inputs. Always
keep brake pedal, footrests, floor boards, brake and throttle levers free of snow
and ice. Frequently wipe snow off seat, hand grips, headlights, taillights and
reflectors.
The depth of the snow cover may hide rocks, tree stumps or other objects and if
it is wet may totally impede the driveability as the vehicle becomes bogged down
or completely looses traction in slushy snow. Look far ahead and always be
watchful of any visible clues that might indicate the presence of such obstacles.
In doubt steer clear. Avoid driving on any frozen body of water before checking
that the ice will safely support the ATV, its riders and its load of cargo. Remember
that a given thickness of ice may be sufficient to support a snowmobile but not an
ATV of an identical weight because of the smaller load bearing surface of the four
tire contact patches as compared to that of a snowmobile track and skis.
To maximize comfort and avoid frostbite, always wear clothing and ATV protec-
tive equipment appropriate for the weather conditions you will be exposed to dur-
ing your ride.
At the end of each ride it is a good practice to clean the vehicle body and all mov-
ing components (brakes, steering components, drivelines, controls, radiator fan
etc.) from any snow or ice accumulations. Wet snow will turn to ice during the
shut down period and become more difficult to remove at the next pre-ride
inspection.
Riding in snow may reduce the brakes stopping capability. Safely reduce speed
and allow greater distance for braking. Snow projection may cause ice build up
or snow accumulation on brake components and controls. Apply brakes fre-
quently to prevent ice or snow accumulation.
R Riid diin ng g o on n S Sa an nd d
Riding on sand, sand dunes or on snow is another unique experience, but there
are some basic precautions that should be observed. Wet, deep or fine sand/
snow may create a loss of traction and cause the vehicle to slide, drop off or be-
come “bogged” down. If this occurs look for a firmer base. Again, the best advice
is to slow down and be watchful of the conditions.
When riding in sand dunes it is advisable to equip the vehicle with an antenna
type safety flag. This will help make your location more visible to others over the
next sand dune. Proceed carefully should you see another safety flag ahead.
RIDING THE VEHICLE