Can you ride an ATV in the snow? It’s a common question we get here at ATV Guidance, and it’s one that has a simple answer: yes, you can ride an ATV in the snow! However, there are a few things you should keep in mind if you’re planning on hitting the trails this winter. In this blog post, we’ll go over some of the basics of riding an ATV in the snow so that you can be prepared for your next adventure.
First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure that your ATV is properly outfitted for the conditions. This means equipping it with snow tires or chains, as well as making sure that the undercarriage is properly protected from the elements. You’ll also want to dress warmly and in layers, as being cold can be a major distraction when you’re trying to focus on the trail ahead. One of the main things you shouldn’t forget is gloves. Riding without gloves when it is cold is dreadful and your fingers will feel like numb sausages by the end. Save yourself some frostbite and wear gloves.
Once you’ve got your ATV and your gear ready to go, it’s important to take things slow at first. Snow can be unpredictable, and hidden obstacles can pop up out of nowhere. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when you’re first getting used to riding in these conditions. As you get more comfortable, you can start to pick up the pace a bit. Always stay away from ice. Ice is always unpredictable and although it sounds obvious, if you see black ice in the trail, avoid it!
Riding on frozen ponds or small lakes is really popular in the ATV community. This obviously can be extremely dangerous if you don’t think. First, look to see if others are riding on the ice, if there is others see if their ATV is bigger or smaller than yours. If it is bigger, you should be fine. Another scenario would be if there are no people. If there are no people then you probably should not ride on it. Overall, I do not recommend riding on ice. Those few minutes of sliding along the ice are not worth the potential risk of falling in. This could be life-threatening and also destroy your ATV. Two things you do not want.
Riding an ATV in the snow can be a great way to get outside and explore during the winter months. Just remember to dress warmly, take things slow at first, and outfit your ATV with proper tires or chains before hitting the trails. With a little preparation, you’ll be ready for anything that winter throws your way.
