<<Back to home

It’s always Safety First when we build our ATVs.
And, we hope, when you ride them.

ATV CHECKLIST

  • Check the oil level daily using the dipstick or the oil level indicator on the front crankcase cover.
  • Check condition of tyres and ensure correct inflation pressure.
  • Check coolant level where applicable.
  • Check for fuel/oil/water/brake fluid leaks.
  • Check brake fluid level and brake lever tension – there should be no more than 25/30mm free play on the front brake lever*, and no more than 15/20mm on the rear brake lever*.
  • Check steering for unobstructed lock to lock movement.
  • Check all exposed parts are free from dirt and debris.
  • Check wheel axle nuts are secure.
  • Check emergency stop switch is operating.
  • Check operation of all lights.

Wherever possible perform these safety checks before riding, and ensure your ATV is serviced regularly by your local authorised Honda dealer.

RIDER CHECKLIST

  • Wear protective clothing – never ride without a helmet, gloves and goggles. Make sure you always wear sturdy boots with ankle protectors, a long-sleeved shirt and long trousers.
  • Inspect your ATV before riding it (see left).
  • Always carry a survival kit, first aid box and ideally a mobile phone with you.
  • Have a riding strategy – plan your journey, never ride routes beyond your capability and be prepared to adapt to different types of terrain.
  • Always ride with your head up, back straight and both feet on the footrests.
  • Be aware of risks – scan the terrain for potential danger or hidden obstacles, and never ride past your limit of visibility.
  • Use appropriate speeds at all times – if you do need to make a quick stop, apply both brakes evenly and keep your feet on the footrests.
  • Never carry passengers, and do not overload the vehicle or attempt to tow items beyond the designated guidelines.

To ensure you really do Ride Right, we would encourage you to attend a training course. Speak to your dealer who will be able to recommend the right course for you, based on your ATV use and your current ability.

So, you've got your dream ATV.
Where are you allowed to ride it?
What are the racing options?
How can you get more out of your ATV?
Honda and QUAD Magazine have put together a ride guide to get you out there, and more importantly, enjoying it.

QUADCROSS

Multi-lap short-circuit racing – the fourwheel ATV version of motocross. Up to 30 riders line up to race for 15–30 minutes on a motocross track of one to two miles in length. When the start gate drops, the race is on, with everyone racing into the first turn. The ultimate action-packed, heart-pumping thrill for ATV adrenaline junkies. Fitness is the key, but you have to have the machine – and Honda has THE machine in the shape of the Sportrax 450R.

ENDURO

Long distance events of two to three hours or more. Enduro, Hare and Hound, Endurance, Motoduro and Quaduro are all similar long distance events where the key is to last the distance! Events can be multiple laps of a circuit of three miles or more and they take place on mountains, hills, valleys and beaches. Pace yourself and plan your race. Great fun and maximum riding time. Events offer classes for a wide variety of machines and riding abilities. Owners of Sportrax 450R/ER, 400EX, 250EX and even Fourtrax and Rincon models can claim their place on the podium.

OVAL RACING

Grass tracks and speedway events are growing in popularity. Short races and maximum action are the order of the day.

ATV RIDING CENTRES

There are a growing number of ATV riding centres around the country offering noncompetitive riding areas where ATV owners can take their own machines. Rules on speed regulation and access areas vary from venue to venue, but these facilites are ideal places to learn to ride and improve riding skills for all levels.

SAFETY AND TRAINING

Read the owner’s manual and the warning notices attached to your Honda ATV. Always wear the correct safety clothing and equipment and follow the rules.

Every ATV owner is advised to take approved training. Information on basic and advanced training courses is available from EASI – telephone 01903 816286.

MORE INFO?

If you’re interested in competing or finding out about riding areas, then a good first stop is to check the Quad Event Calendar and Where to Ride download at www.quad.tv This is updated every week. Look for an event or riding area close to you and go along and find out more from the organisers or participants.

*Consult your owner’s manual for model-specific tolerances.