! WARNING
Indicates a potential hazard that could
result in a serious injury or death.
16
1616
16
Prevention
3. LIGHTS AND ELECTRIC
Turn the hi-beam and lo-beam on and off
to make sure they work. At the same
time, check that the taillight, brakelight,
turn signals, and hazard lights work.
Also, check the status/warning indica-
tors (reverse, neutral, hi-lo beam, turn,
and hazard) on the handlebars when you
start the ATV. Don’t drive the ATV
unless all systems are working. Check
the ignition switch.
4. OIL AND FUEL
Start with a full tank of gas 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 indi-
cator to ensure the engine coolant level is
adequate.
5. CHASSIS
Grass and leaves can gum-up your sus-
pension and shocks. Clear and clean the
suspension arms, shock springs, and
fenders. Check smoothness by turning
the handlebar full-left and full-right.
Check that there is no binding, restric-
tions, free-play, or looseness in steering
components.
6. MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS
Inspect your air filter. Look for debris or
damage that may indicate you need to
replace it. A clogged filter can stop an
engine. Check your battery terminals for
corrosion. Also, be sure to tighten any
loose parts, nuts, or bolts.
You need to prepare for the unexpected.
Emergencies and accidents are traumatic
enough, but they’re even worse when
you’re not prepared for them. At the min-
imum during every ATV ride, you should
have the following items on board:
• Tools
• Water
• Identification
• First Aid Kit
• Cellular Phone
• Maps/GPS
• Emergency Kit with Flashlight and
First Aid Kit
Tools
Routine maintenance will generally elim-
inate the need for emergency repairs.
Riding on rough terrain could cause loos-
ening of nuts, bolts, and fasteners. Espe-
cially on long rides, carrying the right
tools can prevent an inconvenience from
becoming a crisis.