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ATVs in the Outdoors
Ten years ago a hunter on an
all-terrain vehicle (ATV) might have drawn an odd
stare or even a glare, but today these off-road
machines are common place helping outdoorsmen
reach remote areas and favorite hunting spots.
ATVs and Side-by-Side (SxS)
vehicles help hunters pursue a wide variety of
game while hauling gear and riders deep into deer
camps and duck blinds alike. When the hunt is
done, these modern-day pack mules can carry out
game and gear over tough terrain in almost any
weather conditions.
But just like unloading your gun
before crossing a fence or never aiming at
something you don’t intend to shoot, there are
some basic safety lessons to be learned before
mounting an ATV or getting into a SxS vehicle.
ATV SAFETY
There are many things to consider
when talking ATV safety. One of the best ways to
learn is through an ATV safety course, like the
one taught by Specialty Vehicle Institute of
America (SVIA), a not-for-profit trade association
whose primary goal is to promote the safe and
responsible use of ATVs. The SVIA class (www.atvsafety.org
/ 800-887-2887) will show you basic riding
techniques as well as teach you about the proper
riding gear and the difference between vehicle
types and sizes. You might not think you need to
strap on your helmet for every outing, but you’d
be wrong. Safety should always come first. Proper
riding gear always includes:
- Helmet (with a Department Of
Transportation, or “DOT,” approved sticker)
- Eye protection
- Gloves (consider weather
conditions, comfort and protection)
- Long pants and long sleeves
- Over-the-ankle boots (for
support and protection)
CHOOSING YOUR VEHICLE
The proper gear is a good
start, and picking the right ATV or SxS vehicle
is another important step. Today’s ATVs range in
size, from entry level ATVs with 50-125cc
engines up to “big bore” machines with 700cc
motors. Be sure to try different levels (within
your age range) and consider where and how you
plan to ride. While you might think you need the
biggest ATV on the market, there’s a good chance
you can cover most terrain on a range of
vehicles. Check with a local dealership or find
a Yamaha demo ride (www.YamahaDemos.com
) to see which fits you best.
Another question to ask
yourself these days: One seat or two? This has
become an increasingly important consideration
the past few years as Yamaha’s Rhino SxS vehicle
has opened up another option for exploring the
outdoors.
Traditional ATVs that you ride
like a motorcycle are specifically designed for
a single rider only. You should never allow a
passenger on a traditional ATV. The newer SxS
vehicles, such as a Rhino, are designed
specifically for both driver and passenger with
an automotive-type cab and operating functions
(bucket seats, safety belts, steering wheel and
foot peddles for throttle and braking).
ATVs are “rider active
vehicles” which means you participate in the
proper operation of the machine by moving around
and shifting your weight, depending on the
circumstances and terrain. These movements are
best learned under the supervision of an
experienced rider.
SxS vehicles are very off-road
capable, and the automotive-like cab can be
confidence inspiring, but drivers should always
ride within their experience level and take
particular care in off-road situations.
Just as engine sizes and
styles vary greatly among ATV and SxS vehicles,
so do the prices. A mid-size ATV, like Yamaha’s
Grizzly 350 Auto 4x4 starts at just over $5,000
while the Grizzle 700 FI with electric power
steering (EPS) retails for approximately $8,500.
A Rhino 700 FI SxS costs approximately $10,500
while a Rhino 450 is closer to $8,300.
No matter which ATV or SxS you
decide is right for you save some budget for
your hunting accessories. Yamaha offers a wide
range of parts and accessories for each of the
utility machines, including more than 100 for
the Rhino. You might start with a gun boot and
gear bag and once your riding skills increase
you might consider a winch kit or a windshield.
RESPONSIBLE RIDING WHILE
HUNTING
Once you are up to speed on
proper riding techniques and safety gear, you
are ready to insert this experience into your
hunting trip. Many hunting leases do not allow
pick up trucks, so an ATV could be your only
option other than a long walk. And ATVs can be a
necessary tool for many people including people
who are physically disabled or elderly. Yamaha’s
Rhino with the passenger seat has opened up
hunting to many people who would have never – or
could no longer – hunt otherwise.
Responsible riding and ethical
hunting will help guarantee you get the most out
of your outdoor experience while taking care of
the outdoors and promoting a positive image so
we can all continue to enjoy these sports in the
future. Always learn and follow the hunting laws
and restrictions in your area, and consider some
of these tip for responsible riding while
hunting:
- Always unload and properly
store your firearm before operating your ATV
or SxS vehicle. And NEVER hunt from your
vehicle.
- Learn and follow riding
regulations including sound levels, safety
gear requirements, age limits and safety
course recommendations and requirements.
- Watch for and be
considerate of others in the area including
private property owners and other hunters.
- When on public land, use
up-to-date trail maps to assure you only ride
in permitted areas and on designated open
trails.
- Inspect and clean your
vehicle to remove seeds, weeds and other
vegetation and prevent the transfer of
non-native invasive species to other areas.
- Follow your vehicle
manufacturer’s recommended maintenance
schedule and regularly check for any fluid
leaks or problems that might negatively impact
the environment or your vehicle’s performance.
- Set a positive example,
especially when riding with younger or less
experienced riders.
Taking an ATV or SxS hunting
can be both extremely helpful and a lot of
fun. Even if you never take a shot, your ride
out and back can be a blast. To learn more,
check out Yamaha’s Outdoors Tip of the Week
online at:
www.yamaha-motor.com/outdoor/events/newspage.aspx.
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