Yerf-Dog 31700, Owner'S Manual, Page: 9 / 16

9
manual.
1. Before starting the engine, the operator should be seated on the vehicle.
2. Do not start the engine before checking to make sure the throttle assembly is in the idle position.
Warning – Each time prior to starting the engine, check throttle assembly to ensure that when the hand
throttle (right-hand side) is twisted all the way backward the assembly is working smoothly and returns
forward to idle when released. Do not operate if hand throttle and engine throttle linkage fail to return to
idle.
3. To start a cold engine, pump the engine primer “3” times. If the engine is hot, priming may not be
necessary to restart the engine.
4. Switch the on/off switch to the “ON” position and pull recoil starter rope sharply. See Tecumseh engine
owner’s manual. Do not flood the engine by continuously pulling the starter rope. If engine does not
start after two or three pulls of the starter rope, wait a few minutes then repeat the above procedures.
OPERATIONAL SAFETY TIPS
RIDING MANEUVERS
.
New riders tend to have more trouble turning than more experienced riders do. The best way to learn to
make smooth, safe turns is to practice. Defer increased speeds until you are confident of your proficiency
and are intimately familiar with the terrain.
Your body must be in the right position in order for you to properly control your vehicle. Keep your body fairly
erect. This enables you to use your arms to steer the vehicle rather than to hold yourself up.
Sit close enough to the handlebars so you can reach them with your arms bent slightly. This allows you to
turn the bike without having to stretch your arms.
Hold the hand grips firmly so you won’t lose your grip if you hit a bump and the vehicle bounces.
Start with your wrists down. This prevents you from using too much throttle.
Keep your head up and your eyes on where you want to be after a turn or swerve.
Keep your feet firmly on the foot pegs. A firm footing helps you maintain balance. Don’t drag your feet on
the ground. You could be injured or lose control if your foot catches on something. Hold your knees in. This
helps you keep your balance when you turn.
Reduce speed before a turn using the throttle and if necessary, applying the brakes. Then turn the handle-
bars into the direction of the turn, and lean with the vehicle into the direction of the turn. Use the throttle to
maintain posture throughout the turn. Accelerate slightly coming out of the turn to help keep your balance.
If swerving to avoid obstacles, begin the swerve with a small, quick turn to get away from the hazard, and
then make another quick turn in the opposite direction to correct your balance and direction.
If the front wheels tend to skid in mud, or sand, you may be able to improve control by releasing the throttle
and allowing the vehicle to coast through the turn.
If the rear wheel inadvertently skid sideways, correct your slide by steering in the direction of the skid, if you
have room to perform this maneuver safely. Avoid braking or accelerating until you have control.
To avoid skids while traveling on slippery terrain, the rider must exercise a high degree of caution. Turning
maneuvers on slippery terrain are more hazardous than those performed under full traction and must be