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Choosing The Right Gear For Your ATV Rides
Madison "The Machine" Davis : May 19, 2022 12:00:00 AM
The right gear makes riding an ATV safe and convenient. If you’ve never owned an ATV before, it’s hard to know exactly what to buy. We put together this guide to make the process faster and easier for you. That way, you can focus on what needs your attention most—the ride you’re planning on taking later.
Choosing The Best Gear For Your ATV Rides
What Type of Gear Do I Need the Most?
So, what type of gear should you own? Are there items that you can do without? What’s the most essential? How can you afford a lot of gear at once?
The entire purchasing process is unique to the individual. You’ll learn very quickly what gear is worth the money. For example, a well-fitting helmet is a must-have for all riders. Did you know head and neck injuries account for over 29% of ATV-related injuries? So don’t be dense, make sure you are protecting your head. Here are a few recommendations for quality helmets:
- Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS Dirt Helmet
- Fly Racing Kinetic Thrive Helmet
- Fly Racing Formula
- Bell Moto-9 Flex
- Troy Lee Designs SE4
- Fox Racing V3
In addition to a helmet, make sure you get some good goggles, boots, gloves, back and neck guards, and knee and elbow guards. Riding an ATV gives you even less protection than a UTV, you are fully exposed to all the elements, so it’s crucial that you have on the proper gear to protect yourself. Having extra padding in your gear can be the difference between a bruise and a break.
There are plenty of brands out there that make great quality gear specific to your off-road riding needs. Some of our favorites are:
- Fox Racing
- Thor MX
- FLY Racing
- Answer Racing
- Bell Racing
- Oakley
- Fast House
- Klim
Having nice gear won’t just protect you, it’s also a way to show off your personality. The brands, colors, and styles of gear that you select say a lot about who you are as a rider. Have fun with it!
Additional Gear To Bring On Your ATV
Having protective clothing and headgear is a major factor that will keep you safe and successful on your ATV ride, but there are a few more things to consider bringing.
Tool Kit
This one is self-explanatory, but you never know what could happen as you travel on unfamiliar terrain. A wrong move can cost you a lot. Pack a few simple items that could help revive your UTV if an accident happens, you’ll be thankful you did.
Air Pump and Tire Patch Kit
Getting a flat tire or having an air leak will really ruin your fun, especially if you’ve ridden to the ‘middle of nowhere’. A tire patch kit and air pump can save you a long walk back to your base.
Winch
If you or a riding buddy has ever gotten their ATV stuck then you know a winch can be the difference between continuing on your ride or having to call it quits.
Extra Gas Tank
It’s easy to get lost in the moment when you take your ATV out on a ride and consequently losing track of how much gas you have left in the tank. Pack an extra gallon or two of gas.
The right gear makes for a more comfortable ride and protects against accidents as you travel on unfamiliar terrain. The wrong move can cost you a lot. Having peace of mind knowing you’ve taken the precautions to protect yourself and your vehicle from harm and loss is imperative.
When you’re shopping around take your time and look at reviews given by customers and websites such as Consumer Reports, too. That way, you have a very good idea of what you’re getting when you choose a specific brand.
Have a Safe and Enjoyable Adventure on Your ATV
ATV gear makes it possible for you to stay safe while riding your ATV.
Invest in pieces that are durable and long-lasting. That way, you don’t replace your ATV gear prematurely. In doing so, you can easily enjoy rides on your ATV without fear of getting harmed in the process. Protecting yourself from danger should be your number one priority.