Deciding To Ride Competitively

When shopping for a new Polaris ATV, you'll have all kinds of decisions to make about the machine and the gear that you'll wear while riding it. Here, you'll find a few tips that'll help you find the right machine and gear easily.

Automatic or Standard Shift

Do you know how to shift an ATV using a clutch? If not, it's probably best for you to stick with a machine equipped with an automatic transmission. Even if you are capable of shifting, you might want to consider an automatic if you're going to be sharing the machine or using it for big work jobs around your property. Some people just aren't built to be able to concentrate on where they're going, what they're doing and to be able to shift when needed.

Reverse is an Option

Some machines aren't equipped with reverse, but others are. If you don't want to, or aren't physically capable of pulling the machine backwards, you'll probably want to find a machine that is equipped with reverse. It'd be pretty bad if you got yourself wedged up against a tree in the middle of the woods and not be able to move it backwards enough to get yourself unstuck.

Buy a Helmet

You will need a helmet to ride safely. Even if you're just putting around the yard, a helmet should always be worn. The helmet that you choose must fit your head properly. When you put it on, you shouldn't be able to shift it side to side or up and down – it should fit firmly on your head – so much so that you don't feel that strapping it on is necessary – even though it is.

Note: If you plan to ride with passengers, make sure to pick up at least one extra helmet in the size appropriate for the passenger that you assume to be riding the most with.

Hauling Necessities

Will you be riding your ATV places other than your own property? If so, you'll need a way to haul it around. This can be done with a trailer or by loading it in the back of a truck. Loading it in a truck will require the use of ramps. Ramps can be dangerous if you don't use them properly, so if this is the option that you choose, talk with the salesperson to learn as much about safely using them as possible.

Your Polaris ATV can provide you with lots of fun and a durable work machine. Take your time to find the machine and the gear that you'll need to ride safely.