Teaching Kids How to Ride ATVs

All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) have been popular for over 30 years now with riders of all ages. One group that they appeal to greatly is children. Kids love high speeds and going through mud just as much as adults do. However, it’s important that they be taught how to safely ride an ATV with proper adult supervision at all times. Here are some of the steps you’ll want to take when it comes to readying your children to ride an ATV.

Gear Up

For riding an ATV, you’ll want to dress your children as you would dress for the task, with long sleeves, pants, riding gloves, and sturdy ankle boots that have the laces tucked in. Ensure that their clothing is not loose enough to catch on to any controls or obstacles that they pass, and tie up long hair out of the way. A well-fitting powersports helmet is needed: a motorcycle helmet or a motocross helmet for children will work nicely. Make sure that it fits snugly, but not too tight. If the helmet does not have a face mask, then invest in a pair of goggles for eye protection.

Get the Right ATV

Youth-sized ATVs with less powerful engines and slower speeds are built specifically for children to keep them safer as they ride. Don’t try to teach a child to ride on an adult-sized ATV. Purchase an ATV that fits your child’s height and weight now, knowing that you can sell it or trade it in later for a bigger model. You’ll want to take your child shopping and let them sit on several models to see which one allows them to easily reach all the controls.

Review the Controls

You’ll want to go over how each component of your child’s ATV works. Have them repeat what you say and point out where the throttle is, where the brakes are, and where the power switch is. Correct them until they are confident in their knowledge.

Ride Alongside Your Kids

Finally, when you head out to a local riding area, it’s imperative that you ride along with your children to monitor them. Give them pointers as you ride and first try out easy, flat paths. Point out obstacles in advance and advise them to watch out for pedestrians, animals, and other ATVs in their path. Don’t go jumping hills or coasting through the mud with your kids until they have put in practice on flat terrain.

We hope this guide proves helpful when it comes to teaching your kids to ride an ATV. If you’re looking to buy a quad, visit our dealership in Lake Villa, IL, to see our full stock of ATVs for sale. Nielsen Enterprises welcomes all those coming from Chicago, IL, and Milwaukee, WI.