Beginner's Guide to Off-Roading with Polaris ATVs

Are you ready to experience the thrill of off-roading? 

All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) offer an exciting way to explore the great outdoors, and Polaris is a leader in the field. Not only do they have one of the largest offroading communities, but their ATVs are also known for their durability and performance.

At Goat’s Trail, we’re big fans of Polaris products – and we want to help you get started with off-roading safely and confidently. Whether you’re a complete beginner or just looking to brush up on your skills, this guide is for you.

Getting Started: Choosing Your First ATV

For beginners, Polaris offers several excellent options:

Polaris Outlaw 70 EFI: Designed for younger riders, this youth model is a great way to introduce kids to off-roading safely. The Outlaw comes with a safety tether and flag, as well as online training resources – plus a parent-adjustable speed limiter to help keep things moving at a safe speed.

Polaris Sportsman 450 H.O.: This entry-level model provides a balance of power and ease of use, perfect for newcomers. With a 33 horsepower engine and 48” width, this gives you plenty of power with a good balance – perfect for learning the ropes.

Polaris Sportsman 570: A step up from the 450, this model offers more power while still being manageable for beginners. A 44-horsepower engine gives you a bit more power behind the wheel, but the size is still manageable for new riders.

Essential Safety Gear

Before hitting the trails, make sure you have the following safety gear – as you neve know what can happen on the unpredictable terrain:

• DOT-approved helmet
• Goggles or face shield
• Long-sleeved shirt and long pants
• Over-the-ankle boots
• Gloves
• Chest protector (recommended)

Having this gear isn’t just about looking the part – it’s about keeping yourself safe. And with the powerful machines like those in the Polaris Sportsman lineup, safety should always be a top priority.

Basic Riding Techniques

Once you have a ride and some gear, it’s time to learn your way around a Polaris Sportsman. 

Proper Positioning

Sit with your feet on the footrests, knees bent, and arms slightly bent while gripping the handlebars. You’ll want to keep your weight evenly distributed and center your body over the machine for balance. It’s important to stay relaxed and avoid stiffening up, as this can make it more difficult to handle the vehicle.

Throttle Control

Practice smooth acceleration and deceleration. Avoid sudden throttle changes, as this can cause the vehicle to jerk and potentially lose control. Use your right thumb to operate the throttle and keep a firm grip on the handlebars.

Braking

Use both the front and rear brakes together for maximum stopping power. Squeeze the brake levers gradually rather than slamming them, which can also cause loss of control. Remember to release the throttle while braking.

Turning

To make a turn, shift your weight slightly in the direction you want to go and apply gentle pressure to the handlebar on that side. Avoid jerking or making sudden turns, as these can destabilize the vehicle.

Climbing Hills

Shift your weight forward and maintain a steady throttle. If you can't make it up, back down slowly using your brakes. Avoid leaning too far back, as this can cause the front wheel to lift and lose traction.

Descending Hills

Shift your weight slightly backward and use gentle pressure on the front brake. Keep your feet on the footrests and avoid dragging them on the ground, which can lead to loss of control.

Obstacles

Use your body weight to absorb shocks when going over bumps or obstacles. Keep your arms bent and knees loose for maximum flexibility. Maintain a steady speed when crossing larger obstacles, such as logs or rocks.

Trail Selection for Beginners

One of the biggest risks that new riders face is knowing what level of trail is appropriate for their skill level. It's important to start off on easy, well-maintained trails and gradually work your way up to more challenging terrain as you gain experience and confidence.

Start with easier trails:

• Look for wide, well-maintained trails with gentle slopes.
• Avoid rocky, deeply rutted, or muddy trails until you gain more experience.
• Check local ATV clubs or forest service websites for trail difficulty ratings.

When you’re ready to move up, look for:

• Narrower trails with steeper inclines and declines.
• Obstacles like logs, rocks, and water crossings.
• More technical terrain, such as tight turns and switchbacks.

Remember to always ride within your ability level and never push yourself beyond what you feel comfortable with. Take breaks when needed and practice on less challenging trails before attempting more difficult ones. Building up your skills gradually will not only make you a better rider but also reduce the risk of accidents or injury.

Don’t Forget To Respect the Environment

As an off-road enthusiast, it's crucial to protect the environments we enjoy:

• Stay on designated trails to prevent erosion and protect wildlife habitats.
• Pack out what you pack in – leave no trace.
• Be mindful of noise levels, especially near residential areas.
• Respect wildlife by keeping your distance and not feeding animals.

Keeping the trails clean and preserving the natural beauty is key for helping future generations enjoy the same experiences. So, make sure to follow all rules and regulations set by the trail managers and always be respectful of the environment.

Look The Part

Ready to start your off-road adventure? Visit your local Polaris dealer to find the perfect ATV for your needs. And don't forget to gear up properly – at Goats Trail Apparel, we offer a wide range of off-road gear and accessories to keep you safe and comfortable on the trails. 

From rugged riding boots to durable jerseys, we've got everything you need to make your off-road experience unforgettable. Visit our website today and get ready to hit the trails with confidence!