Quick Stops and Swerving
Chapter 7
13
Applying a good riding strategy will decrease the likelihood of having
to make a quick stop. Scan and identify potential hazards several sec-
onds ahead in your path of travel. Practice quick stops in a flat open area
so you can get used to how your ATV responds to your input. Be espe-
cially careful on excessively rough, slippery or loose terrain.
This is a more advanced riding skill. Remember, do not exceed your
capabilities.
Stopping Quickly
Because nature is constantly changing, you must be prepared to stop
quickly, slow down or swerve to avoid obstacles, such as fallen trees or
washouts across your trail. An animal may dart out in front of you, or you
may meet another rider as you round a bend. Never ride faster than your
visibility allows.
A quick stop could be necessary at any time, so remember:
•
Ride within your ability.
•
Use both brakes when stopping. Although the front brake (in the for-
ward direction) does provide the majority of stopping power.
•
Slow your ATV when cresting a hill or going through a turn.
•
Never ride past your limit of visibility.
•
If you accidentally lock the wheels, release the brakes momentarily
and reapply the brakes more gradually.
•
Keep your feet on the footrests.
Swerving
You should be able to make emergency swerves to avoid unexpected
hazards when riding. Follow these guidelines to help prevent mishaps:
•
Keep your feet on the footrests.
•
Look in the direction of the swerve
•
Shift weight to the inside of the turn.
•
DO NOT brake while swerving - brake AFTER swerving and only after
the ATV is travelling in a straight line.
•
A short burst of throttle will help the ATV to turn.
Chapter 7 - Quiz
1. Using a good riding strategy will decrease the chances of having to
stop quickly.
True
False
2. Making a quick stop or performing a swerving manoeuvre is easier
at faster speeds than slow speeds.
True
False
3. You should never ride faster than your visibility allows.
True
False
4. The sudden appearance of an animal during a trail ride may require
a rider to perform an emergency manoeuvre.
True
False
5. A quick stop in a straight line requires more skill than making a quick
stop in a turn.
True
False
6. You should not brake and swerve at the same time.
True
False
7. When swerving, you should look in the direction of the swerve.
True
False
8. Braking and swerving at the same time could result in a spill.
True
False
9. Stopping quickly or swerving are considered more advanced riding
manoeuvres.
True
False
10.Your feet should be kept on the footrests during an emergency
manoeuvre.
True
False
