ATV Rain Riding Safety
A little rain is no reason to cancel an ATV riding trip. Obviously, if you hear thunder it is not safe and you should seek shelter. However, if it is just a little rainfall and no lightning, all you need is the right riding technique and some gear to fully enjoy your trail ride. With this guide from Tracy Motorsports, you’ll be doing just that.
1. Invest in the Right Gear
If you are an experienced trail rider, you most likely already have clothes that you find comfortable to ride in and that you are willing to get dirty. However, rainy-day riding necessitates insulation to keep you comfortable under moist conditions. Some people use a one-piece rain suit, while others prefer lighter waterproof clothing like a separate jacket and riding pants. Fog-resistant goggles or face masks are recommended as well (waterproof if possible, of course). Waterproof boots are nice to have, and riding gloves with a good grip help you ride safer.
2. Take It Slow
If there is a lot of water on the ground, there is a chance that you will start to hydroplane, meaning that you will lose tire traction and start to slide around. Even with a more moderate amount of water, you will still be dealing with slick trails and reduced visibility. Take things slowly until you get a feel for how your quad handles in the rain. Once you figure that out, you can start to go a bit faster.
3. Watch For Areas of Low Traction
When rain mixes with oil, the result is an extremely slippery area. Watch for mud puddles as well, as they can sometimes be deeper than they appear. Give yourself more space to brake, and avoid hard turning. Obstacles that are hard to get over in dry conditions will be even harder to traverse in the rain, so avoid them if possible. If you are not confident in your ability to ride in the rain, stick to drier and flatter paths to stay safe.
4. Be Observant
Whether in rain or shine, good ATV riders keep themselves and others safe by staying aware of their environment. The reduced visibility and traction that comes with rain make awareness even more important. Stick to established paths and watch out for any animals, people, or obstacles in your way. Remember that the rain means you need more time to stop, so give yourself that time.
We here at Tracy Motorsports wish you an enjoyable and safe ATV ride, no matter where and when you hit the trail. For more information or to view our selection of ATV models, visit us at our dealership in Tracy, California. Feel free to visit our sister store East Bay Motorsports located in Hayward, CA. We are proud to serve central California, including nearby communities like Stockton and Modesto.