Division I - Safety
21
Previous Main TOC Section TOC Next
Prevention
1. Tires And Wheels
Correct tire pressure is crucial. Consult
the General Maintenance section of this
Operator’s Manual for tire pressure
guidelines. Incorrect tire pressure can
cause poor handling, instability, and a
loss of ATV control.
While checking the tire pressure, inspect
the tread and sidewalls of the tires for
cracks, cuts, or other damage that could
indicate they need to be replaced.
2. Controls and Cables
With the engine running and brake
applied, check all transmission posi-
tions: forward, neutral, and reverse.
A. Brakes
Squeeze your hand brake lever. If it feels
soft or “squishy,” it could be low on fluid or
have a leak — refer to the General Mainte-
nance section of this Operator’s Manual for
instructions. Don’t use the ATV until the
brakes are operating normally.
Test the brake lever lock and see if it locks
the hand brake lever into position; then
disengage it to release the brake. Be sure
the rear foot brake near the footrest is
working; your brakes could fail during a
ride if they’re not maintained.
B. Throttle
The throttle should have a free, smooth
range of motion. If it seems to “stick” at
any point, refer to the General Mainte-
nance section of this Operator’s Manual
for instructions. Driving your ATV with a
sticking throttle can turn your leisurely
ride into an unwelcome accident. Don’t
drive your ATV if the throttle sticks.
3. Lights and Electric
Turn the hi-beam and lo-beam on and off
to make sure they work. At the same
time, verify the taillight and brakelight
work. Also, check the status/warning
indicators (reverse, neutral, and hi-lo
beam) on the LCD when you start the
ATV. Don’t drive the ATV unless all sys-
tems are working. Check the ignition
switch and engine stop switch.
4. Oil and Fuel
Start with a full tank of fuel before every
ride, and while you’re at it, top off the oil.
Don’t forget to check for fluid leaks
around the ATV. Watch the overheat
lamp to ensure the engine coolant level is
adequate.
Check:
1. Tire pressure
2. Tire surface (tread and sidewalls)
Check:
1. Forward
2. Neutral
3. Reverse
Check:
1. Hand brake lever
2. Rear foot brake
3. Brake lever lock
Check:
1. Free, smooth range of motion
Check:
1. Hi-beam
2. Lo-beam
3. Taillight/brakelight
4. Status/warning indicators
5. Ignition switch
6. Engine stop switch
Check:
1. Fuel
2. Oil
3. Fluid leaks