Before you head out to the trails on your UTV, you’ll need to prepare. A little preparation can go a long way when it comes to having a successful trip. That’s why we’ve created the following guide with tips for preparing for an upcoming ride in your side-by-side. Keep reading to learn more, and call Nielsen Enterprises if you have any questions or you want to see some powersports vehicles for sale. We are located in Lake Villa, Illinois and proudly serve those in Chicago, Illinois and Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Understanding Your Vehicle

Having a good understanding of your UTV is the best place to start when preparing for an off-road adventure. You’ll need to know how your vehicle handles. Practice driving your side-by-side until you feel comfortable with everything from turning to accelerating, to braking. You may want to consider taking a class to refine your skills and practice proper riding technique.

You should also know the dimensions of your UTV, such as the height, width, approach angle, and departure angle. This knowledge will help you prepare for tight areas. Don’t forget to make note of where the air intake and engine computer are found in your rig so you know how deep of water you can cross.

Preparing Your UTV

You can’t take your UTV immediately from your garage to the trails. Before your UTV ride, you’ll need to prepare the vehicle. This starts with a pre-ride inspection. This will help you catch any potential issues before you leave the house. Tires can incur damage after rides, so check on your rig’s tires and ensure the tread is sufficient and that the tires are inflated to the proper PSI level. Top off any fluids and fill up on gas. Test the steering and brakes. If you notice anything strange, bring your UTV to a mechanic and postpone the ride.

Pack and Plan

No trip is complete without supplies. Packing your UTV with the necessary gear and accessories is an essential part of preparations. Start with the essentials like a mini toolkit, a first aid kit, waterproof outerwear, a gallon of water, snacks, a flashlight, a knife, fire starter, a map, extra gas, and a flat tire kit.

Remember to be intentional with how you pack your supplies. You’ll want everything secure before you head out on your ride. There’s nothing worse than having items flying out of your UTV during your trip.

Are you ready to have a successful ride in your side-by-side? Contact Nielsen Enterprises in Lake Villa, Illinois today if you have any questions or want to buy a new off-road vehicle. From Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Chicago, Illinois, we can’t wait to get you the perfect powersports rig for your outdoor adventures!