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RIDING YOUR ATV
RIDING IN COLD WEATHER
Pre-ride Inspection
Check that the throttle and all control levers move freely. Make sure that the footrests
are free of ice or snow.
Move the ATV forward and backward to check that the wheels roll freely. If you cannot
move the ATV, the tires may be frozen to the ground, or the brakes may be frozen to the
wheels. If the tires are frozen to the ground, pour warm water around them to melt the
ice. If the brakes are frozen, bring the ATV to a warmer area to thaw out the brakes.
After the engine has warmed up, check the brakes. Do this inspection on level ground
and do not exceed the walking speed. Be sure to check the operation of both front and
rear brakes. If the brakes do not work adequately, stop riding the ATV.
Bring the ATV to a warmer area to allow the brakes to thaw out. After the brakes thaw,
dry them by applying them several times before riding. If the brakes do not regain full
stopping power, ask your authorized service center to check them before you continue
riding your ATV.
Water that enters the brakes may freeze after you park your ATV. The frozen water can
prevent wheels from turning or the brakes from working. After riding through water,
mud, snow or slush, it is important to dry the brakes before parking the ATV. To dry
the brakes, apply them several times while riding slowly. Before your next ride, be
sure to do a Pre-ride inspection as described earlier in this section.
WARNING
Operating the ATV without a properly functioning brake system could be
hazardous.
Wet or frozen brakes will increase stopping distance. This will increase your
chance of having an accident.
Be sure to inspect the brakes before riding the vehicle in cold weather as
described above.
CAUTION
Using engine power to free up frozen wheels could damage your ATV.
Severe damage to the drive train may occur if you use engine power to free frozen
wheels.
Before riding, manually move the ATV forward and backward to make certain
that all wheels roll freely.
